Upstate Impact

This week on Upstate Impact features Jackie Lodge, President and GM of Renewal by Andersen of CNY.From starting in the business at 16 to becoming the youngest GM in Renewal by Andersen history, Jackie shares real stories, leadership lessons, and what it actually takes to earn respect and build a high-performing team.A lot of value in this one if you’re trying to grow in your career or lead at a higher level.Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Tori Kroll of Blue Sky Therapy joins Upstate Impact to share her story, break down common misconceptions around therapy, and offer simple, practical tips you can apply in your own life.A real conversation that brings clarity to mental health and what it actually looks like day to day.Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about ⁠Blue Sky Therapy

Alex Gonzalez, owner of Margaritas Mexican Cantina and Inka’s, joins Upstate Impact to share his story and what it really takes to build and run successful restaurants.We talk about how he got his start, how he approaches business day to day, and some valuable insight for anyone looking to get into the restaurant world or build something of their own.A great conversation with a lot of real perspective for business owners and entrepreneurs.Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Craig Kowadla joins Upstate Impact to share how he helped build Brooklyn Pickle into one of the most well known sandwich brands in Syracuse.From getting started to growing into 8 locations, we get into what’s driven their success and how they’ve kept the quality and experience people keep coming back for.Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

We’re joined by Dylan Donahue, founder of Platform Lacrosse, who’s building something special for athletes at every level, from 5 year olds just getting started to high level players and professionals looking to sharpen their game.Dylan shares how he’s created an environment where anyone has the opportunity to develop their skills, build confidence, and truly grow within the sport, while staying committed to teaching discipline, fundamentals, and the right mindset.We also dive into what it looks like balancing family life while building an entrepreneurial venture, and the intentional approach it takes to grow both.Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠⁠Learn more about Platform Lacrosse

Joe “Coach Joe” Stray joins Upstate Impact for a conversation on his approach to the sport and why boxing can be transformative for both kids and adults.We talk mindset, discipline, confidence, and how the right training environment can shape more than just athletic ability. Whether you’re stepping into a gym for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills, Coach Joe shares insight on how boxing builds strength inside and out. 🎙️💥Connect with Coach Joe: Website , FacebookFollow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠⁠

This week on Upstate Impact, we’re joined by John Vavalo, CEO of Central Processors NY.John breaks down how he’s built and scaled multiple brands in a highly regulated manufacturing space, sharing insight on operations, compliance, distribution, and what it takes to grow in one of New York’s fastest-moving industries.If you’re into entrepreneurship and emerging markets, this one’s worth the listen.Learn more about CPNYFollow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠This podcast is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠⁠

🎧🔥 This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with TheKandiGod to talk about his journey into the EDM scene, discovering Kandi culture, and how that community completely changed the way he experiences music.He breaks down what Kandi culture really is, why it’s rooted in connection, positivity, and self-expression, and how he fell in love with the energy behind it. From there, we get into the grind behind the scenes and how he works nonstop to bring shows and events to Syracuse so people can experience that same vibe right here at home.Artist by night. Accountant by day. 💼➡️🎶A real look at passion, discipline, and building culture locally.Connect with TheKandiGod on InstagramFollow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠This episode is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Dr. Sam Lombardi, founder of Primal Chiropractic, a family-centered practice focused on nervous system-based chiropractic care and whole-body wellness.Dr. Sam discusses how chiropractic care goes far beyond neck and back pain, and how it can play a role in helping people live healthier, more balanced lives. We also talk specifically about pediatric chiropractic care and how supporting kids early can help set them up with a strong foundation for long-term health. Learn about this and much more!Learn more about Primal Chiropractic and follow on Instagram.Follow Upstate Impact on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠This episode is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Eric Devendorf, former Syracuse basketball star, professional basketball player, coach, and mentor who continues to train athletes and give back to the community. 🏀Eric shares his journey from high school basketball to leadership beyond the game, touching on discipline, mentorship, and the importance of investing in people and the community.Learn more about Eric's ED23 FoundationFollow Upstate Impact on ⁠Instagram⁠This episode is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY⁠

This week on Upstate Impact, we're sitting down with Ryan Woodruff, CEO at Clear Path for Veterans, to talk about his journey, leadership, and the powerful work being done, including how giving back, service, and the community support can truly change lives. A meaningful conversation worth tuning into!Learn more about Clear Path for VeteransFollow on Instagram or connect on FacebookThis episode is sponsored by ⁠⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY

On this episode of Upstate Impact, we sit down with Ashlee Fiorini, founder of Pulse Lagree Fitness, to talk about how discovering Lagree completely changed her path and gave her the confidence to turn a passion into a real business.💬 Ashlee shares what made her believe in the method enough to bring it to Syracuse, how she's building a studio set to open in early 2026, and how Pulse has already grown to over 70 members before the doors have even opened. 🔥 An inspiring conversation about betting on yourself, building community early, and creating something you believe in from the ground up.Check out the Pulse websiteFollow Pulse on InstagramEpisode sponsored by ⁠⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Kelly Landau, the inspiring founder behind Synple, a brand built on making wellness, beauty, and self-care feel approachable, elevated, and, yes, simple. ✨💬 Kelly shares tips for small businesses, how she got started, and what really goes on behind the scenes at Synple to make it what it is today. Her small boutique in the Village of Camillus has grown into something special, with people purchasing her products from around the globe. From the early days of building Synple to the community she’s created around it, Kelly talks about entrepreneurship, balance, and staying true to your purpose.🔥 Tune in for a great conversation.Check out the shop!Follow Synple on Instagram

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Kristen Cuthbert, the visionary designer behind Kristen Cuthbert Design, known for transforming everyday spaces into intentional, elevated, and deeply personal environments. ✨🏡🎨From home interiors to boutique commercial spaces, she talks about turning inspiration into impact, and how thoughtful design can truly change the way people live, feel, and gather.🎙️ Don’t miss this conversation about creativity, purpose, and bringing spaces to life with heart and vision.Check out Kristen's website!Follow Kristen on InstagramEpisode sponsored by ⁠Renewal by Andersen CNY

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Bob Shattell, founder of Salt City Prospects, a coach who turned his passion for hockey into a program that’s changing the game for young athletes. 🏒🔥✨After years behind the bench, Bob saw an opportunity to help players in Central New York gain the exposure, development, and guidance they needed to reach the next level, and today, his program is making an impact well beyond the region.Learn more about Salt City ProspectsFollow on SCP on InstagramStay updated with Oswego StateEpisode sponsored by Renewal by Andersen CNY

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with DJ Lenny MvdHitz, the creative force behind some of Central New York’s biggest events! 🎧🔥✨Jasper shares how his passion for music grew into a full-scale entertainment brand known for its energy, connection, and unforgettable experiences. From local venues to large celebrations, he talks about turning passion into purpose and the power of music to bring people together.🎙️ Don’t miss this conversation about creativity, community, and making an impact behind the decks and beyond.Connect with DJ Lenny MvdHitz on Instagram

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Rob Zaccaria, co-founder of the Noble Cellar and Associate Broker at Acropolis Realty Group!Rob shares how his Central New York roots and diverse career in real estate and hospitality fuel his passion for creating spaces that bring people together.Don’t miss this interesting conversation about Rob's experiences, building community, and the story behind the Noble Cellar.Connect with RobCheck out the Noble CellarFollow Upstate Impact on Instagram

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Mark DeAngelis Jr., co-owner of Mark Antony Homes!Mark shares how his family’s company has been building custom homes in Central New York since 1988—crafting dream homes that blend quality, sustainability, and timeless design. With a reputation for integrity and community commitment, Mark discusses how their team helps families bring their visions to life while giving back to the region they call home.Don’t miss this thoughtful conversation about legacy, innovation, and the lasting impact of building with heart.Check out Mark Antony Homes

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Andrew Lunetta, founder of A Tiny Home for Good!Andrew shares how his vision grew into a nonprofit that builds safe, affordable housing for men and women coming out of homelessness—pairing dignified homes with long-term support to ensure stability.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about compassion, community, and the power of building hope one home at a time.Learn more about A Tiny Home for GoodFollow on InstagramConnect with Andrew on LinkedIn

This week on Upstate Impact, we sit down with Pat Fleming, creator of the viral social media series Another Day Another Diner!Pat shares how his love of diners grew into a storytelling project with over 1.5 million views—spotlighting hidden gems across New York and helping small-town economies thrive.Don’t miss this fun and inspiring conversation about community, storytelling, and the power of local diners.Check out Pat's Instagram

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with the Mayor of Solvay, Derek Baichi.This conversation explores Derek's campaign experience and his passion for building a better community.Learn more about Derek on FacebookConnect with Derek on LinkedInToday’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels. Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/forms/schedule-a-consultation

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Tim Beauvais!This conversation explores Tim's love of sports, his intro to mortgage banking, and his desire to help others achieve home ownership.Connect with Tim on ⁠LinkedIn⁠!Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels. Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/forms/schedule-a-consultation

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Mary M. Thompson!This conversation explores everything you need to know when considering building a home, as well as the exciting changes coming to Central New York!Connect with Mary on LinkedIn!Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels. Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/forms/schedule-a-consultation

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Anthony Tringale!This conversation explores the Anthony's love for good food, what it takes to run a successful restaurant, and how the Eat Local NY Instagram was created.Check out Eat Local NY on Instagram!Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels. Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service:⁠⁠⁠https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/forms/schedule-a-consultation

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Brandon Triche!This conversation explores Brandon's love of baseketball, his upbringing in the sport, and playing at Syracuse University.Check out ⁠⁠Brandon on Instagram!Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels. Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service:⁠⁠https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/forms/schedule-a-consultation

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Chris Bily!This conversation explores Chris's love of design, his venture into the restaurant scene, and the behind the scenes in hospitality.Check out ⁠XO TACOFollow Original GrainToday’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels. Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service:⁠https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/forms/schedule-a-consultation

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Patrick Rohe!This conversation explores how Patrick got into economics, Rockbridge Investment Management, and what it means to save early. Luke and Patrick also discuss Patrick growing up on a farm, and how your money when invested properly can help you reach your long term goals!Check out Rockbridge Investment Management!Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn!Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels. Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service:https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/forms/schedule-a-consultation

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Mike O'Leary!This conversation dives deep into music, and what it means to be a DJ. Luke and Mike discuss their experiences being in command of the aux, and how Mike started the Sunday Cleaning series.Luke and Mike also explore what makes good music great, and so much more!Check out Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeo_leary/Watch Sunday Cleaning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReJZxDtABjMToday’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels. Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service:https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/forms/schedule-a-consultation

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Joe Pompo!This conversation explores the journey of innovation in lacrosse training, focusing on the development of a smart lacrosse ball and the integration of technology in sports. Luke and Joe discuss their experiences with entrepreneurship, the importance of mindset, networking, and the potential economic growth in Syracuse due to technological advancements. Luke and Joe also explore future innovations in smart sports technology and the potential for expansion beyond sports, emphasizing the need for community-focused solutions.Take a look at the GETREPS Instagram!Connect with Joe on LinkedIn!Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels.Click this ⁠link⁠ to schedule your free quote today!Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service.

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Tracy Dando!Tracy is a multifaceted individual with a passion for mental health advocacy and community support. As the Founder & CEO of Safe Space Organization and co-founder of Root to Rise Retreats, Tracy has dedicated herself to creating safe and empowering spaces for individuals on their journey to recovery and self-discovery. With a background in special education and certification as an Eating Disorder Recovery Coach from The Carolyn Costin Institute, Tracy brings a unique perspective to her work, drawing from her own experience of recovery and perseverance.Recently, Tracy achieved a significant milestone by delivering her first Tedx Talk at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ. During this episode Luke and Tracy talk about Tracy's story, the day to day of Safe Space and supporting kids' emotional and psychological health.Be sure to visit the Safe Space website!Connect with Tracy on LinkedIn!Today’s episode of Upstate Impact is brought to you by Renewal by Andersen of CNY.Summer’s here—and it’s the perfect time to upgrade your windows. With Renewal by Andersen’s exclusive Fibrex® material and expert installation, you’ll get a cooler, more energy-efficient home that looks as good as it feels.Click this link to schedule your free quote today!Renewal by Andersen—Superior Products. Exceptional Service.

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with John Mossotti, owner of Elite Personal Fitness, to talk about the importance of showing up, staying consistent, and just getting started. Whether you're new to the gym or looking to reset your routine, John shares practical advice, mindset tips, and real encouragement to help you build long-term success.

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Shellie Rizza, owner and founder of SaltCity Holistic Health, to talk about her mission to help Central New Yorkers live healthier, more balanced lives. Shellie shares her approach to wellness, the mindset that drives her work, and practical advice anyone can use to feel their best.

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Margaret Dietz, founder and Creative Director of M. Dietz Creative, to talk about all things branding and creativity. Margaret shares how she discovered her passion, what drives her process, and how she finds true joy in helping entrepreneurs discover and own their brand.

Luke sits down with Steve Case, founder and owner of Acropolis Realty Group, to talk about how his dream of becoming a real estate developer became a reality. Steve shares his early ambitions, how he got started, what drives his work today, and the projects that are helping shape the future of Syracuse.

Luke sits down with Brook Bregman, Coordinator of CNY Pickleball, to talk about her journey into the sport and what inspired her to help grow the game locally. Brook shares why pickleball is exploding in Central New York and across the country, and how community, accessibility, and fun are fueling its momentum.

In this episode of Upstate Impact, Luke sits down with Michaela Kawryga, owner of The Emerson, Soul Society, and GlamSquadSyr, to talk about her entrepreneurial journey, the power of intuition, and how staying flexible has helped her grow three successful ventures. From managing a team to balancing life and business, this episode is packed with real talk, valuable lessons, and major inspiration.

Luke sits down with Adam Mazzoni, owner of Sweet on Chocolate, to hear the story of his early entrepreneurial journey and what ultimately led him to the chocolate business. Adam opens up about the challenges he faced in the beginning, how he overcame them, and the philosophy that guides both his business and his life today.

Luke sits down with Mike Greene, owner of Harvey’s Garden in downtown Syracuse, to discuss his journey as an entrepreneur, what he’s learned along the way, and how he's using hospitality to build community and create memorable experiences.

Luke sits down with Scott Gasparini, VP of Gasparini Landscaping, to discuss transforming outdoor spaces, tackling new construction and renovations, and the do’s and don’ts of hiring contractors.