In this powerful and moving episode of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Jennifer Boulanger - author, educator, and longtime community advocate to talk about her memoir A Song for Olaf and the story behind it. Jennifer shares the journey of writing about her brother, Olaf, whose life and death during the early years of the HIV/AIDS pandemic shaped her understanding of love, grief, advocacy, and service. What begins as a sibling love story quickly opens into a much larger conversation about stigma, resilience, and the importance of remembering moments in history we can’t afford to repeat.

Jennifer takes us behind the scenes of caring for her brother, the fear and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS in the 80s and 90s, and how the COVID pandemic ultimately became the catalyst for finally writing the book. With honesty and grace, she reflects on grief as something that never fully disappears and how purpose, writing, and community service can transform loss into action. This conversation balances heartbreak with hope, reminding us that empathy, early testing, and access to care quite literally save lives.

Beyond the book, we explore Jennifer’s decades of work in education, refugee resettlement, and women’s advocacy, including her involvement with the Center for Refugee Services and the Whitney’s Legacy Foundation. At its core, this episode is about being a good human, showing up for others, telling the hard stories, and choosing compassion even when it’s uncomfortable. 

We Cover:
• The story behind A Song for Olaf and honoring a brother lost to HIV/AIDS
• Life during the early AIDS epidemic and the lasting impact of stigma and fear
• Why grief never really ends—and how purpose helps us carry it
• The importance of early testing, treatment access, and continued advocacy
• Jennifer’s work in education, refugee support, and women’s health initiatives

This episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.
(https://www.instagram.com/vaultcapitalpartners)

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:00) - Why This Story Had to Be Written
(3:45) - Growing Up with Olaf
(5:15) - Music, Teaching, and Olaf’s Creative Spirit
(7:55) - HIV/AIDS in the 80s & 90s
(9:00) - Diagnosis, Illness, and Caregiving
(9:45) - Writing About Love, Illness, and History
(11:45) - Grief That Never Fully Leaves
(13:50) - What's Next?
(15:15) - Early Testing & Modern Treatments
(16:30) - Advocacy & Education
(19:00) - Impact of Book
(21:00) - Background in Education
(23:00) - You Don't Know the Effect You're Having
(25:20) - The Writing Process
(28:15) - Community Work & The Center
(32:45) - Whitney's Legacy
(36:30) - Rapid Fire Questions


---
Jennifer's Links:
Website - https://jenniferboulanger.info
Amazon Book - https://www.amazon.com/Song-Olaf-Sibling-HIV-AIDS-Pandemic-ebook/dp/B0DYR9J2KP
IG - https://www.instagram.com/a.song.for.olaf
FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573940342465

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Mike Curran, founder of Wrapology, to talk cars, creativity, and what it really looks like to build a passion-first business in Central New York. What started as Mike wrapping his own car turned into a decade-long journey building one of the most recognizable automotive wrap brands in the region—known for bold color changes, meticulous detail, and serious craftsmanship.

Mike opens up about choosing to stay small and focused, why he only does wraps (and nothing else), and how moving his shop to Utica was a conscious decision to invest back into the city he calls home. We get into the realities of running a niche business in Upstate NY, the challenges of finding the right market, and how personal branding, merch, and social media helped Wrapology become more than just a service—it became a lifestyle brand.

From wrapping Lamborghinis and Ferraris to working on national commercial projects, movie promotions, and touring installs across the country, Mike breaks down the artistry, pressure, and pride behind every job. The episode also dives into what’s next: scaling through education, launching a wrap training course, and building something that can impact the industry far beyond Utica. 

We Discuss:
• How Wrapology started—and why passion came before profit
• The difference between wrapping and painting (and why wraps just make sense)
• Building a lifestyle brand through social media, merch, and consistency
• Wrapping high-end cars, national commercial work, and insane attention to detail
• What’s next for Wrapology, including a wrap education platform and course launch

This episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.
(https://www.instagram.com/vaultcapitalpartners)

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Introduction
(1:00) - Eat Sleep Breathe Cars
(2:00) - What is a Car Wrap?
(4:00) - Moving Business to Utica
(5:30) - Wrapping vs. Painting
(7:00) - Biggest Obstacles
(9:30) - Personal Branding & Social Media
(12:00) - Most Difficult Job
(13:50) - Self Taught & Learning Through Doing
(15:15) - Working on the Road
(16:30) - Using Technology
(19:00) - Traveling Billboards
(21:45) - What's Next? Online Course
(24:45) - Lead with Your Best
(26:35) - Rapid Fire Questions


---
Mike Curran's Links:
Wrappology IG - https://www.instagram.com/wrappology
Personal IG - https://www.instagram.com/mikeecurran
FB - https://www.facebook.com/wrapologyinc
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@wrapology3408

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Ray Durso—President & CEO of the Genesis Group, community connector, regional ambassador, and one of the most recognizable champions of Central New York. Ray shares the origin story of the Genesis Group, how it grew from a handful of leaders meeting twice a week into a region-wide, volunteer-driven organization, and why bringing people together across county lines is more important than ever.

We talk about what community leadership really looks like day to day, how meaningful events (not just more events) create real impact, and why education, healthcare, first responders, and small businesses all sit at the heart of a thriving region. Ray also opens up about his personal philosophy—choosing positivity every morning, leading with faith, and never giving up on making a difference, even when the work gets hard.

From career days that introduce thousands of students to real-world opportunities, to honoring teachers and first responders, to reminding young professionals why the Mohawk Valley is a special place to build a life—this conversation is a masterclass in optimism, connection, and community pride. 

We Cover:
• How the Genesis Group was founded and why regional collaboration matters
• What success really looks like for community organizations
• Why first responders, teachers, and students deserve to be celebrated
• How small businesses can support each other through shared challenges
• Why the Mohawk Valley offers a quality of life you can’t find just anywhere

This one is full of heart, perspective, and real talk about what it takes to build a stronger Central New York—together.

🏛️ Upcoming: 26th Annual Regional Legislative Forum Breakfast
Ray also previews the 26th Annual Regional Legislative Forum Breakfast, the Genesis Group’s first major event of the year and one of the most anticipated gatherings in the region. The breakfast brings together leaders, elected officials, business owners, and community members from across Oneida, Herkimer, Madison, and Otsego Counties for a powerful morning of dialogue, collaboration, and regional vision.

This episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.
(https://www.instagram.com/vaultcapitalpartners)

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Introduction
(1:15) - Starting with Genesis
(4:00) - Original Core Group Meetings
(5:30) - Day to Day Role & Educating
(7:15) - What Does Success Look Like?
(9:20) - Events to Look Forward to
(11:30) - Appreciating First Responders
(14:25) - Working with Schools
(18:15) - Herkimer County Wide Event
(19:45) - Ray's Optimistic Philosophy
(22:50) - Challenges & Avoiding Controversy
(25:15) - Respecting Time
(26:00) - Small Business Needs & Chamber Alliance
(29:10) - Improve the Quality of Your Questions
(30:20) - Connecting with Ray
(32:55) - Opinion Pieces
(34:45) - Keeping Young Professionals Here
(39:15) - Rapid Fire Questions


---
Ray Durso's Links
Website - https://thegenesisgroup.org
Genesis FB - https://www.facebook.com/TheGenesisGroupMV
This Week in the MV - https://wibx950.com/radio-on-demand

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Doneilous King - lifelong Utica resident, DEIB strategist, senior counselor at SUNY Poly, community builder, DJ, and founder of We Inspire Consulting. From growing up in Cornhill to becoming one of the city’s most impactful connectors, Doneilous shares a powerful, honest look at how poverty, family, faith, sports, and service shaped the man he is today. This was his first-ever podcast appearance, and he doesn’t hold back.

We talk about the importance of access, mentorship, and being the “connective tissue” that keeps communities strong. Doneilous breaks down his work with students through the Educational Opportunity Program, why sports are one of the greatest teachers of life, and how losing, grit, and discipline matter more than talent alone. His perspective on youth development, leadership, and opportunity is both grounded and inspiring - especially for anyone who grew up with limited resources but big dreams.

The conversation also dives into the creative side of his journey - from becoming a DJ during the pandemic to launching Brown Sugar, a packed R&B sing-along experience, and Network & Chill, a monthly event designed to put people in rooms together who normally wouldn’t cross paths. At its core, this episode is about service, abundance, and proving that you don’t have to leave Utica to build a meaningful, impactful life. 

In this episode, we talk about:
• Growing up in Cornhill and how poverty helped shape purpose, grit, and drive
• Why sports teach life lessons you can’t learn in a classroom
• Building social capital, mentorship, and being someone others can reach
• The story behind Brown Sugar and Network & Chill—and why community matters
• Why doing what you love first is the key to long-term success and fulfillment

This one is thoughtful, motivating, and full of real-life perspective—especially for anyone trying to figure out how to serve others while building something meaningful right where they are.

This is episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.
(https://www.instagram.com/vaultcapitalpartners)

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Doneilous Introduction
(1:00) - Early Life & Service Focus
(1:55) - Experiences & Developing Grit
(3:40) - Fatherhood & Social Capital
(4:45) - Role at SUNY Poly & EOP Program
(5:45) - Who Not How & Connections
(8:10) - Sports as a Teacher
(10:35) - What's Changed & Lessons in Losing
(12:30) - Specializing in One Sport
(14:30) - Basketball Enrichment Programs & DKBA
(16:15) - Staying Home & Connective Tissue
(18:15) - Vision For the Future
(20:20) - Being a Creator & Providing Joy
(21:45) - Becoming a DJ
(26:45) - Brown Sugar + Network & Chill
(29:30) - Community Servant & Inspiring Others
(30:30) - Next Chapter & We Inspire Consulting
(32:25) - Ideal Clients & Advice
(34:15) - Brianna Keisel Story
(36:00) - Abundance Mindset
(37:45) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Doneilous King's Links
Personal FB - https://www.facebook.com/Doneilous
Events FB - https://www.facebook.com/p/D-King-Events-100088006012383
Network FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095365847055
Personal IG - https://www.instagram.com/doneilousking
Events IG - https://www.instagram.com/dking.events

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Ryan Miller—director of MVCC’s Thincubator, founder of Rust Belt Startup, podcaster, connector, and one of the quiet forces behind entrepreneurship and creative momentum in the Mohawk Valley. Ryan walks us through his unconventional path, from growing up in New York Mills and backpacking through Europe to music, startups, and eventually becoming someone who helps other people figure out what’s next—often before they even realize they need help.

We talk candidly about what entrepreneurship really looks like, why asking “is this a good idea?” is the wrong question, and how testing, relationships, and problem-solving matter far more than perfect plans. Ryan shares how Thincubator actually works, who it’s for, and why he believes small, culturally significant businesses—not unicorn tech startups—may be the key to long-term growth in the Mohawk Valley.

This conversation is equal parts practical and philosophical, touching on community, personal branding, proximity, creativity, and why you don’t need to leave Utica to build something meaningful. If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or like you’re sitting on an idea you don’t know how to start, this episode will hit home. 

In this episode, we talk about:
• What the Thincubator actually does — and who should be using it
• Why relationships matter more than résumés in business and life
• How Ryan uses podcasting to build meaningful connections
• Why solving real problems beats chasing “easy” business ideas
• How the Mohawk Valley can become one of the best places in the country to start a small business

Thoughtful, honest, and full of perspective—this one is a must-listen for creatives, founders, and anyone trying to build a better future right where they are.

This is episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.
(https://www.instagram.com/vaultcapitalpartners)

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Ryan's Introduction
(1:15) - Life Long Mohawk Valley Resident
(2:00) - Backpacking Europe & Ithaca College
(3:50) - Bands, Kitchens & Startups
(5:00) - Starting at Thinc
(7:00) - Common Questions
(9:05) - Thincubator Overview & SBDC
(11:15) - Professional Vibe & Networking
(13:00) - Relationships > Resumes
(16:15) - Coffee & Connections
(18:15) - Founders Seeking Flexibility
(20:15) - Starting a Company
(22:30) - Rust Belt Startup Podcast
(25:25) - Common Denominator Success Habits
(28:00) - Building Your Brand Online
(29:00) - Quality Throughout Customer Journey
(30:05) - Smaller Market & Identifying White Space
(32:30) - What Does Success Look Like Here?
(33:15) - Opportunities in CNY & Cultural Significance
(35:00) - Building From the Bottom
(36:45) - Best First Step
(39:30) - Engineered Serendipity
(43:25) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Ryan's Links
RBS Website - https://rustbeltstartup.com
Thinc Website - https://thincubator.co
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thincubator
Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rust-belt-startup/id1375151705
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryancmiller315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rustbeltstartup

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode, we sit down with Adam Vanderhoof, founder of Oneida News and one of Central New York’s most genuine local storytellers. Adam takes us all the way back to the beginning — from filming in his parents’ basement to building a hyper-local video series that now racks up hundreds of thousands (and even millions) of views. What started as a passion for storytelling turned into a powerful platform focused on something we don’t get nearly enough of: positive local news.

Adam opens up about leaving Oneida for Washington, D.C., why the pull of community brought him back home, and how that return reignited his mission to highlight the people, businesses, and stories that make the area special. We talk about why positivity matters more than ever, how Oneida News operates more like a “Netflix-style” seasonal series than a traditional news outlet, and why Adam has zero interest in monetizing the platform — choosing instead to give back to the community whenever possible.

From veterans’ stories that bring real perspective, to local restaurants, food trucks, and everyday people quietly making a difference, this conversation is a reminder that some of the most powerful stories are happening right around the corner — if you’re willing to slow down and tell them the right way. 

In this episode, we cover:
• How Oneida News started in 2012 — and why Adam chose to focus exclusively on positive local stories
• The challenges and rewards of staying hyper-local in a world driven by national headlines and negativity
• Why veterans’ stories have become some of the most meaningful episodes Adam has ever filmed
• The evolution of content creation — from kitchen-table interviews to polished, high-impact storytelling
• Advice for young creatives who want to start creating now, even without money, gear, or experience

This one is full of heart, perspective, and a whole lot of love for Central New York.

This is episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.
(https://www.instagram.com/vaultcapitalpartners)

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & Starting in Storytelling
(1:45) - Moving Back Home From DC
(3:45) - Start of Oneida News
(5:30) - Focusing on Positive Stories
(7:00) - Seasons of the Show
(10:15) - Memorable Stories
(12:25) - Evolution of Production
(14:45) - What's Changed?
(16:30) - Navigating Politics & Positivity
(19:00) - Common Traits of Guests
(21:50) - Focus on Oneida vs. Expanding
(24:30) - Great Spots in Oneida
(27:10) - Creating Community
(29:15) - Loving What You're Doing
(30:15) - Advice For Young Creatives
(33:15) - Belief in the Next Generation
(36:00) - Attracting an Audience
(37:30) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Adam's Links
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/OneidaNewsCNY
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OneidaNews
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/oneida.news

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode we sit down in the brand-new Impact X Marketing Studio with Brad Waters, Morgan Mielnicki, and Emily Broomfield to pull back the curtain on the creative force behind some of the best digital content coming out of the region. From podcast production and photo shoots to short-form video strategy, this team isn’t just keeping up, they’re setting the pace.

If you’re a business owner, content creator, or someone who’s been toying with launching your brand online, this one’s a must-listen. We dig into why social media presence is now more important than Google, how to overcome being camera-shy, and why starting somewhere is better than waiting for perfect. We also get real about AI, the rise of personal branding, and why this Utica-based studio might just be the creative secret weapon the Mohawk Valley didn’t know it needed.

In this episode:
• How Impact X grew out of The Sentinel and built a full-service marketing studio from the ground up
• Why being relatable beats being polished when it comes to social media
• Advice for business owners who hate being on camera
• The shift from company brands to personal brands—and what that means for you
• The team’s take on AI, authenticity, and what it means to create "real" content today

This is episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.


---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & Meet the Team
(1:05) - What is Impact X Marketing?
(3:00) - The Space
(4:20) - Social Media Today
(5:15) - Social Search
(7:20) - Everyone Can Be an Influencer
(10:10) - Something is Better Than Nothing
(11:20) - Everyone Wants a Specialist
(12:50) - Building an Audience
(14:20) - Working with Clients
(16:55) - Podcasting & Professional Setting
(19:15) - Team & Services
(21:00) - Brand Breakaway
(22:05) - Long Term Vision
(24:00) - Thoughts on AI
(28:30) - Human First Motivations
(31:30) - Elevating Central NY
(33:50) - Creating a Unique Space
(36:20) - Travel & Home Base
(37:45) - Working with Local Colleges

---
Impact X & Team Links
Website - https://www.impactxmarketing.com
Impact X IG - https://www.instagram.com/impactx.marketing
Morgan - https://www.instagram.com/morganmielnicki
Emily - https://www.instagram.com/globetrotting.emma
Sentinel IG - https://www.instagram.com/ur_sentinel

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

What does a tourism professional actually do—and why should you care? In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Calero, President of Oneida County Tourism, to talk about what it really means to promote a region like Central New York. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about hotels and highways—it’s about stories, small towns, hidden gems, and reminding people why this place still matters.

Sarah shares how she accidentally stumbled into tourism, what it’s like marketing your hometown to locals and outsiders, and why she’s so passionate about getting people to explore the places right in their backyard. This one’s packed with local charm, fresh perspective, and a whole lot of heart.

Episode Highlights:
• How she ended up in tourism by accident—and why it instantly clicked
• The moment her NYC friends thought the night sky was a planetarium
• Why Sylvan Beach has more charm than people give it credit for
• What “agritourism” really means (and why it’s growing fast)
• Why golf isn’t just a hobby for her—it’s part of how she experiences and connects with the region

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & Meet Sarah
(0:45) - Starting Career in Tourism
(3:30) - What Sarah Loves About Oneida County
(6:10) - Bringing Young People Home
(9:30) - Role & Mission of Oneida County Tourism
(12:30) - Working with Turning Stone
(14:20) - Rebranding
(20:30) - Agritourism & Changing Travel Habits
(23:45) - Buying Local Meats & Health Focus
(26:10) - Love For Golf
(27:45) - Birthday Party Story & Meeting Husband
(29:40) - So Many Great Courses
(32:25) - Something For Everyone
(34:00) - Becoming a Parent
(37:40) - Leadership & Imposter Syndrome
(41:25) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Sarah Caleros Links
Website - https://www.oneidacountytourism.com
FB - https://www.facebook.com/oneidacountyny
IG - https://www.instagram.com/visitoneidacounty
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@visitoneidacounty
Personal IG - https://www.instagram.com/sarahcalero13

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

What happens when a full-grown man goes to Santa School... multiple times? You get Steve Nunno, a professionally trained Santa with a heart the size of the North Pole and a mission to bring real magic to families across Central New York. In this episode, we sit down with the man behind Santa’s Magical Visits to talk about storytelling, community, and what it really takes to create unforgettable holiday experiences.

Steve opens up about how a moment at Roswell Park changed everything, why his Santa character focuses on kindness over the naughty/nice list, and how his team of moose, reindeer, elves (and a talking Christmas tree) are turning local holiday events into something straight out of a Hallmark movie. This isn’t your average mall Santa story — it’s about creativity, compassion, and building something that matters.

Highlights from the episode:
• How one powerful moment with a child in hospice inspired a new mission
• The wild world of Santa School — and why Steve keeps going back
• Meet “Wannabe the Moose” and the rest of the North Pole crew
• Why kindness is more important than “being good”
• What to expect at this year’s Hotel Utica Santa event (hint: real reindeer)

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & Becoming Santa
(2:30) - Going to Santa School
(4:00) - Attention to Detail
(6:00) - Managing Emotions
(8:30) - Adapting to Children
(9:30) - Santa & the North Pole Pals
(12:30) - Type of Events
(13:55) - Example Locations
(19:55) - Not Focusing on Naught or Nice
(22:30) - Signature Event in Utica on November 29th
(27:30) - What's Next?
(29:10) - Sponsors & Getting Involved
(36:00) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Steve Nunno's Links
Website - https://santasmagicalvisits.com/
FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580902788001

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

Javon Pratt returns to the podcast for a real conversation about growth, focus, and staying true to your vision. Since his first episode, he’s opened Westie’s, a small pizza spot with a simple goal: make great food, stay creative, and build something that lasts. In this episode, he talks about what it’s been like to run two concepts at once, what he’s learned about leadership, and why he’s not in a rush to do anything that doesn’t feel right.

We also get into his experience at the NYC Wine & Food Festival, the challenges of managing customer expectations, and how his priorities have shifted in this next chapter. It’s honest, reflective, and packed with insight for anyone figuring out how to grow without burning out.

In this episode:
• How Westie’s came to life — and why it’s intentionally different from Roosters
• What it’s like to be invited to cook alongside some of the best in NYC
• The mindset shift that comes with building a team and stepping back
• Why structure and boundaries matter more the second time around
• What Javon is learning about patience, pressure, and playing the long game

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro
(0:55) - The Past 18 Months & New Location
(2:55) - What's Changed?
(5:05) - Opening Westie's & Being Different
(6:35) - Focus on Pizza
(8:05) - Wednesday Through Friday
(9:05) - Riches in the Niches
(11:00) - Unique Pie & Science of Dough
(12:45) - Decision to Not Offer Wings
(13:45) - Simplicity of Rooster's
(15:55) - Recent Trip to NYC
(20:00) - Gratitude & Confidence
(22:20) - Culture & Employees
(26:05) - Advice to Younger Self
(27:45) - Goals For Next Few Years
(30:55) - Perspective Drives Performance
(33:20) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Javon Pratt's Links
Rooster's Website - https://uticasmashburgers.com
Rooster's IG - https://www.instagram.com/roosters315
Rooster's FB - https://www.facebook.com/Roosters315
Westie's FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579599244302

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org