From North Dakota to Norway to NJ | Fitness, Nutrition & the Mind with Sarah Hansson of FitSarah

This episode of LocalBizCast is the kind that changes how you think about health.

Dr. Pete sits down with FitSarah founder Sarah Hansson—a personal trainer who is so much more than a trainer. Sarah’s story is global, gritty, and deeply intentional, and her approach to health blends movement, nutrition, and mindset in a way few people truly master.

Sarah grew up in a small town in North Dakota, then made a bold leap to Norway, where she spent 14 years and opened the first and second Curves franchises in the country. That’s where she began training people—especially women—and learning how confidence, strength, and consistency can change lives.

When she returned to the U.S., Sarah opened her own private gym in Ramsey, NJ, and everything leveled up.

One specific client pushed her to go deeper—not just into workouts, but into nutrition. While not a nutritionist by title, Sarah immersed herself in the science, designed her own meal plans, and helped that client achieve remarkable results. That moment became a new pillar of her work—and a defining part of her brand.

In this episode, we dive into:

• Why nutrition is often the missing link in fitness results

• How Sarah programs workouts intentionally—the “why,” not just the “what”

• Timing, exercise selection, and adapting training to the individual

• The mental side of health, discipline, and long-term change

• What it really takes to help people sustain results, not just chase them

And then there’s the part most people don’t know…

Sarah has competed in fitness competitions, qualified for nationals, and from 2013–2016 was the oldest fitness model signed to Wilhelmina Models NYC—rewriting the rules on age, strength, and what’s possible. She also speaks three languages, bringing a global lens to how she coaches and connects.

Sarah’s mission is simple and powerful: keep finding new people to help, meet them where they are, and guide them toward a stronger, healthier life—physically and mentally.

If you’re into:

• Smart, intentional fitness

• Nutrition that actually works

• Women’s strength and longevity

• Mental resilience and discipline

• Real-world coaching, not gimmicks

…this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Listen now to hear Sarah Hansson’s incredible journey and how FitSarah is helping people transform their health from the inside out.

👉 Like, follow, and subscribe to LocalBizCast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major platforms so we can keep bringing you conversations that matter.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Building a Brand That Keeps the World Moving | Michael Delevante, CEO of Rodo

This episode of LocalBizCast is a breakthrough moment.

Dr. Pete sits down with Michael Delevante, CEO of Rodo, a next-generation fitness brand built around one simple but powerful idea: help people move more, feel better, and keep doing what they love—longer.

Rodo isn’t just another fitness product company. It’s a movement brand, and Michael is one of the most thoughtful, passionate leaders we’ve had on the show.

Originally from Clifton, NJ, Michael graduated from NYU Stern School of Business and built his career in consumer products, including formative years at OXO, where design, usability, and obsessive attention to detail aren’t optional—they’re the standard. That’s also where he first met Nick Reynolds, a mechanical engineer who would later become the founder of Rodo.

Years later, their paths crossed again. What started as belief in an idea turned into investment, leadership, and a shared mission—Michael stepped in as CEO, helping transform Rodo from concept to brand with serious momentum.

In this episode, we unpack:

• Michael’s journey from OXO to startup CEO

• How Rodo was built with real people and real movement in mind

• Why fitness tools must integrate seamlessly into daily life

• The thinking, testing, and refinement behind Rodo’s 2-in-1 roller

• Material science, innovative silicone, dirt-resistant design, and smart engineering

• Why details matter—from how the balls attach to how it feels in your hands

• What it takes to build products that are easy to use and hard to stop using

This isn’t hype. It’s intentional design, thoughtful leadership, and genuine care for the end user.

Michael’s passion for Rodo, his team, and the community they’re building comes through loud and clear—and he even teases what’s next: two new product concepts launching this year, with several more already in development.

If you’re into:

• Fitness and recovery

• Product design and innovation

• Entrepreneurship and brand building

• Consumer products done right

• Or simply staying active so you can live better

…this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Listen to Michael Delevante’s story now and hear how Rodo is redefining movement, recovery, and everyday fitness.

👉 Please like, follow, and subscribe to LocalBizCast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major platforms. It helps us grow the show and bring on even bigger conversations like this one.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Building The Healing Hub: Modern Therapy, Real Conversations & Mental Health in a Digital World with Chelsea Hayet, LCSW

In this powerful and insightful episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Chelsea Hayet, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and the founder of The Healing Hub, to explore her journey from high-intensity clinical work to building a thriving, fully virtual private practice.

Chelsea began her career in intensive outpatient and high-risk treatment settings, working daily with addiction, suicide ideation, and self-harm. While deeply meaningful, the emotional toll of that work was heavy. All along, she carried a dream—to open her own private practice, one that allowed for deeper connection, balance, and long-term impact.

In December 2024, Chelsea finally took the leap. She started The Healing Hub part-time, and within just a few months, demand and momentum allowed her to transition fully into private practice. Today, she works primarily with adults in their 20s to 40s, especially those navigating major life transitions—new careers, relationships, marriages, identity shifts, and the anxiety that often comes with them.

This episode dives into why anxiety and depression are more prevalent than ever, and how technology, constant connectivity, and social media have reshaped how people cope (and avoid). Chelsea explains how she helps clients build healthy coping mechanisms, reduce avoidance behaviors, and regain a sense of control—without judgment.

She also pulls back the curtain on the business side of therapy: how she built The Healing Hub, how she navigated the leap from employee to entrepreneur, and how partnering with her sister on social media helped grow a modern, accessible, all-virtual therapy practice that meets people where they are—literally in their own homes.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Chelsea’s transition from intensive outpatient care to private practice

• Why mental health challenges are rising in young adults

• How social media and devices impact anxiety and emotional regulation

• The importance of coping skills vs. avoidance

• Building a therapy practice from scratch in a digital world

• Why virtual therapy is changing access to mental health care

Chelsea speaks with clarity, compassion, and authenticity—and her passion for helping people live healthier, more grounded lives is felt in every minute of this conversation.

🎧 Listen to this episode if you’re navigating change, feeling overwhelmed, curious about modern therapy, or thinking about building a purpose-driven business of your own.

👉 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, follow, and subscribe to LocalBizCast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major platforms. It helps us continue sharing meaningful conversations with incredible local professionals.And get it OK whatever get into your head I need to get out of bed

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

From Furniture Builds to Full Home Inspections: Adam Tate of Advisory Home Inspection

In this episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Adam Tate, owner of Advisory Home Inspection, to talk about an unconventional—but incredibly logical—path into the home inspection world.

Adam didn’t start out inspecting homes. He started by building them—one piece of furniture at a time.

Through his furniture assembly business, Adam spent years inside homes putting together IKEA, Wayfair, and Amazon furniture, gaining firsthand exposure to how houses are actually put together (and sometimes… put together poorly). That hands-on experience sparked his interest in home systems, structures, and construction—and ultimately led him to pursue home inspection certification.

Adam took the courses, completed the training, and began working with a large home inspection company, where he learned the ropes at scale. Eventually, he took the leap and launched Advisory Home Inspection, bringing a detailed, methodical, and practical approach to buyers and homeowners across the region.

Today, Adam inspects everything from small condos and townhomes to massive 10,000+ sq ft homes. He explains what really goes into a quality inspection—and why they can range from 90 minutes to well over three hours, depending on the size, age, and complexity of the property.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How furniture assembly led to a career in home inspection

• What the home inspection process actually looks like

• Why experience inside homes matters just as much as certifications

• What buyers and sellers should expect during an inspection

• The biggest misconceptions people have about home inspectors

• Why Adam decided to build his own business instead of staying with a large firm

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, real estate professional, homeowner, or someone considering a career pivot, this episode offers practical insight into an often misunderstood but critical part of the home-buying process.

Listen to Adam’s story, learn what really happens during a home inspection, and why having the right inspector can make all the difference.

If you enjoyed this episode, please like, follow, and subscribe to LocalBizCast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major platforms—it helps us grow and continue sharing stories from incredible local business owners.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Designing Homes, Not Just Rooms: The Journey of LA Home with Lindsay Altieri

In this episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Lindsay Altieri, the creative force behind LA Home, to unpack her inspiring path from New York’s Garment Center to building a thriving interior design business of her own.

Lindsay is originally from Tenafly, NJ and studied Business and Communication at Arizona State University before returning to New York to work in NYC. After stepping away from the workforce for six years to raise her children, she re-entered the business world in 2011—this time through her family’s furniture and retail store in Ridgewood, NJ. What started as helping in the store quickly evolved into something bigger.

Clients began asking for more than furniture. They wanted vision. They wanted guidance. They wanted someone who could see the whole space.

That’s where Lindsay’s design niche was born.

Over the years, her interior design work grew organically through the store—until it became clear it deserved its own spotlight. In 2022, LA Home officially launched, and the business has been taking off ever since.

In this episode, Lindsay breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions in interior design:
you don’t need to be doing major construction to hire a designer.

Sometimes, a room can be completely transformed with:

• New paint

• Updated lighting

• Thoughtful furniture placement

• Fresh art, textures, and flooring

She also explains why, when you are tackling a larger project, working with a designer who has trusted vendor and contractor relationships is a massive advantage—saving time, money, and frustration.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Lindsay’s early career in NYC’s Garment Center

• Taking time off to raise a family—and reentering the workforce with purpose

• Growing a design business organically from a retail furniture store

• Launching LA Home and scaling a passion into a thriving brand

• How designers add value to both small refreshes and major renovations

• Why thoughtful design is about function, flow, and feeling—not just aesthetics

This conversation is packed with insight for homeowners, creatives, and entrepreneurs alike—and Lindsay’s passion for design shines through every story.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

From Sales to Spray Tans & Self-Care: The High-Energy Rise of Bronze Aire with Lauren Pacailler

In this vibrant episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Lauren Pacailler, the powerhouse owner of Bronze Aire, a boutique spray tan + wellness studio that’s rapidly becoming a Bergen County favorite.

Lauren just celebrated one year in business, and she’s not slowing down. What started as a spray tan studio in Cresskill, NJ has already expanded—adding red light therapy, becoming a brand ambassador for EllieMD, and evolving into a full wellness experience.

Her story is as fun as her personality.Lauren grew up in Cliffside Park, bounced around New Jersey, and eventually landed in Westwood. Before entrepreneurship, she was selling wine—yes, wine—and dominating in sales. A brief stint in Saddle River introduced her to the right people at the right time… and suddenly, the opportunity to launch Bronze Aire was right in front of her.

She took it. And she ran with it.

Lauren brings an energy that fills a room. She loves people, loves networking, and genuinely cares about the confidence boost she gives her clients—from weekly spray-tan regulars to sorority girls, wedding parties, and anyone preparing for a big moment.

What makes her stand out?She doesn’t just spray you and send you out the door. She educates you on how to prep, how to maintain your tan, and how to get the most out of every service. The experience is personal, polished, and tailored.

In this episode, Lauren shares:

• How she transitioned from wine sales to beauty & wellness

• The story behind launching Bronze Aire—and celebrating year one

• Why customer education is her secret sauce for retention

• How red light therapy fits into her expanding studio vision

• What it means to build a brand rooted in energy, passion, and connection

• The future of Bronze Aire (spoiler: she’s just getting started)

If you’re into entrepreneurship, wellness, beauty, or simply love hearing from business owners who built their dream from scratch, this episode will hook you.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

From Hollywood Special Effects to Bergen County’s Go-To Faux Artist

In this episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Jill Hayden, a wildly talented artist and co-founder of Faux Time Design, whose creative journey is as unexpected as it is inspiring.

Jill started her career in Hollywood special effects, working on projects like Waterworld—yes, that Waterworld. But after experiencing one too many California earthquakes, she packed her bags and headed back to New Jersey. She spent a few years teaching… until maternity leave, a paintbrush, and a conversation with a friend lit the spark that changed everything.

Together they launched Faux Time Design—literally painting out of a garage. Their very first job? A $200 mural in a nursery school. Jill was thrilled to split the money. Her business partner wasn’t—because that $200 became the seed that launched a now-thriving company known for its stunning faux finishes and masterful artistry.

Today, Jill is a true magician with surfaces.
Walls, ceilings, columns, chairs—if it exists, she can transform it.
Wood, stone, marble, metal, textures—there is no pattern she can’t replicate and no technique she won’t master.

Her combination of imagination, technical skill, problem-solving, and pure artistic grit has made her one of the most sought-after faux finish artists in the region. And her story? It’s honest, creative, and full of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives so many of our guests.

In this episode, Jill shares:

• What working in movie special effects taught her about creativity

• How a $200 nursery mural turned into a thriving business

• The artistry and science behind faux finishing

• Why no project intimidates her—and how she “figures it out” every time

• The joy of building something from scratch while raising a family

• What makes Faux Time Design the go-to choice for homeowners and designers

Whether you're a homeowner dreaming up your next project, an artist looking for inspiration, or an entrepreneur starting from your own version of a garage, Jill’s story is going to resonate.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

From Russia to the Courtroom—The Remarkable Journey of a Powerhouse Personal Injury Attorney

In this inspiring episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Kate Carballo, one of the most dynamic and brilliant attorneys you’ll ever meet. Now a rising named partner at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, Kate’s story is one of courage, grit, and unstoppable ambition.

Kate moved to Brooklyn from Russia at just 12 years old, speaking no English—and taught herself the language by listening to Whitney Houston cassette tapes. From there, she carved out a remarkable path fueled by resilience and determination. After studying at George Washington University with dreams of entering politics, a chance encounter—literally knocking on the door of the U.S. District Attorney’s Office—changed her life forever. She offered to work for free, and within weeks was shadowing attorneys in court. That was the moment she knew: she was destined to practice law.

After earning her law degree, Kate honed her courtroom skills at a Central New Jersey firm, then built her business acumen and network at a prominent Teaneck practice. Now, as a key force at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, she’s known for her fierce advocacy, deep empathy, and ability to navigate even the toughest personal injury cases with integrity and intelligence.

In this episode:

• How a young immigrant turned cassette tapes into confidence and a career in law

• The defining moments that shaped Kate’s legal journey and leadership style

• What sets her apart as a personal injury attorney—and why she gives clients her all

• Lessons in perseverance, professionalism, and the power of saying “yes” to opportunity

• How she’s paving the way for the next generation of women in law

Kate’s story isn’t just about success—it’s about transformation, heart, and the courage to keep going no matter what. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or someone chasing their next big goal, this episode will remind you what’s possible when passion meets purpose.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Turning Creativity into Coastal Charm with MCM Designs

In this inspiring and lighthearted episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Meaghan Mallon, the creative force behind MCM Designs, to talk about how a teacher with a love for the beach turned a pandemic side hustle into a growing handmade brand.

What started as a fun passion project during COVID quickly blossomed into a thriving small business that captures the essence of coastal living. Meaghan designs and handcrafts everything from 4-foot wooden whales and engraved charcuterie boards to custom wreaths, ornaments, doormats, and resin art—each piece made with care, creativity, and a touch of beachy nostalgia.

With roots in New Jersey, Meaghan has already expanded into multiple Jersey Shore boutiques and can be found at farmers markets and craft fairs across the state. Now, she’s setting her sights on Bergen County, eager to bring her coastal creations inland while continuing to inspire others to chase their creative dreams.

In this episode:

• How Meaghan turned a quarantine hobby into a business that brings joy to others

• The behind-the-scenes process of designing coastal-inspired décor

• How she balances teaching, motherhood, and entrepreneurship

• Lessons from craft fairs, collaborations, and growing a handmade brand

• Why supporting small, local artisans matters more than ever

Meaghan’s story is a testament to following your passion, taking chances, and finding happiness in the creative process. Whether you’re a maker, a dreamer, or someone looking for the perfect gift with heart, this episode will leave you smiling and inspired.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business Leaders

Dr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Keith Droz: Preserving Memories in the Digital Age with While U Were Out Productions

In this fascinating episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Keith Droz, founder of While U Were Out Productions, to talk about how a lifelong passion for technology, creativity, and nostalgia turned into a thriving local business.

Keith—musician, engineer, and entrepreneur—shares his journey from growing up in Rutherford, NJ to working as an IT engineer, always embracing his “computer geek” roots. But when he started digitizing his own family’s old photos, VHS tapes, and 8mm reels, he realized something powerful: these weren’t just videos—they were people’s memories, and they deserved to be preserved with care.

That spark led to While U Were Out Productions, a company that digitizes and restores legacy media—everything from damaged photos to Super 8 film—using Keith’s unique blend of technical skill and artistic precision. His wife encouraged him to take the leap into business, and today he’s helping families and businesses alike keep their stories alive.

In this episode:

• How Keith combined engineering expertise with creativity to launch his business

• The delicate art and science of restoring damaged photos and vintage film

• Why trust, transparency, and hand-delivery set his company apart

• The emotional side of preserving family history and why memories matter

• The importance of passion, patience, and purpose when turning a hobby into a business

Keith’s story is a reminder that innovation isn’t always about new tech—it’s about finding new ways to preserve what’s timeless. Whether you’re a fellow entrepreneur, a nostalgic storyteller, or someone sitting on a box of old tapes in the attic, this episode will inspire you to bring those memories back to life.