Episode 174:

In this episode, we welcome Todd Robbins, a proud Schuyler native, physical therapist, and wellness advocate, who shares his unique journey from growing up on a dairy farm in Central New York to running a successful physical therapy practice in Pennsylvania. Todd’s approach to health and longevity is rooted in practical, actionable steps that make a lasting impact.

Tune in to hear about:

• Todd’s upbringing on a 160-year-old family dairy farm and the life lessons he learned from hard work and perseverance.
• His transition to physical therapy, how the field has evolved over 20+ years, and his focus on extending not just lifespan but healthspan.
• The benefits of unconventional wellness practices like rucking, grounding, and cold plunges—and how to incorporate them into daily life.
• His passion for helping patients prevent injuries, improve movement, and maintain independence as they age.
• Simple tips to stay healthy during the holiday season, from portion control to hydration and stress reduction.

Join us for an engaging conversation packed with insights, humor, and Todd’s practical advice for living a healthier, more fulfilling life!

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Scott's Intro
(1:05) - Show Start
(2:15) - Growing Up on a Dairy Farm
(4:50) - Farm Hours
(6:05) - Physical Therapy Career
(7:20) - Biggest Changes
(9:00) - Overuse Injuries
(10:35) - Why CNY is Special
(13:00) - Benefits of Getting Outdoors
(15:05) - Barefoot Concept
(16:45) - Wim Hof Breathing
(19:20) - Pushing the Limits
(20:30) - Rucking
(24:25) - Longevity & Healthspan
(27:30) - Tips For the Holiday Season
(28:00) - Portion Control
(30:30) - You Can't Outrun Your Mouth
(33:10) - Routine For Families
(33:40) - Hydration
(35:00) - Stress & Meditation
(36:50) - Recapping Recommendations
(37:25) - Building Momentum
(39:10) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Todd's Links:
IG - https://www.instagram.com/robbinsrehabeast
Website -

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

Episode 173:

In this episode, we chat with Jeff from Utica DIY Shows, a grassroots organizer bringing music, community, and creativity together in Central New York. Jeff shares the inspiration behind his all-ages events, his mission to create an inclusive space for local and touring bands, and details about the upcoming holiday Toy Drive event. This conversation dives into the importance of music, community, and giving back.

Tune in to hear about:

• The origins of Utica DIY Shows and how Jeff is reviving the local music scene with affordable, all-ages events.
• Details about the December 14 Toy Drive event at the Uptown Theatre, featuring live music from local and regional bands, with proceeds and toys benefiting ICAN for distribution across Central New York.
• How Jeff balances affordability, supporting bands, and creating a welcoming space for younger audiences.
• The impact of live music on community connections and why fostering creativity among local youth is so important.

Don't miss this inspiring conversation about the power of music and community this holiday season!

Featuring Live Music From:
Inertia (Buffalo Tech-Death)
4th and Goal (Syracuse Hardcore)
Darbi Crash (Utica Hardcore)

Doors @ 6 / Tunes @ 6:30
$10 w/ toy donation - $15 w/ no donation
All Ages Welcome

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Starting the Toy Drive Event
(1:45) - Show Information & Lineup
(3:45) - Affordable All Ages Event
(6:20) - What You Can Expect
(11:25) - Absence of Music
(14:00) - Utica DIY Shows
(15:30) - How to Connect

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Utica DIY Shows Links:
IG - https://www.instagram.com/uticadiyshows


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

Episode 172 - Listen as Scott and Kelly recap their last week and preview the weekend ahead in CNY.

Thursday December 12th
• The Plant Stand Grand Opening

Friday December 13th
• Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll
• A Creepy Christmas
• Quiet Riot at the Stanley
• Beers & Bouquets
• Old Forge Snodeo

Saturday December 14th
• 4th Annual Merry Chicksmas Holiday Market
• Winter Zoobilie
• Old Forge Snodeo

Sunday December 15th
•
•

Reoccurring
• Adirondack Railroad Polar Express
• Lights on the Lake

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
LLL Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com/home

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The Love Living Local Podcast is shining a spotlight on the people, places, & events that make Central NY an amazing place to live. Hosted by Scott & Kelly Grates.

Episode 171:

In this episode, we chat with Matt St. Croix, the driving force behind the Downtown Classic and a key figure in Central New York’s sports community. Matt takes us behind the scenes of this exciting high school basketball showcase, sharing the inspiration behind the event, its growth, and its impact on local athletes and communities. The event returns to the Nexus Center 12/27-12/30.

Listen in to learn about:

• The Downtown Classic, its origins, and what makes it a unique experience for players and fans alike.
• How the event has grown to include 50 teams from across New York State, creating unforgettable memories for high school athletes.
• The importance of fostering community through sports, including initiatives like youth jamborees and boy-girl varsity doubleheaders.
• The role of local businesses and sponsors in supporting events that strengthen the fabric of the community.
• Matt's vision for making the Downtown Classic a staple event that people look forward to every winter.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the power of sports to bring people together and elevate a community!

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Scott's Intro
(0:50) - Show Start
(1:30) - Inspiration For the Downtown Classic
(3:00) - What to Expect This Year
(5:00) - Teams
(6:30) - Downtown Classic Team
(7:30) - Referees
(8:45) - Youth Jamboree
(10:15) - CNY Savage Update
(11:00) - Impact on Local Youth
(12:30) - Ladies Night
(14:00) - Different Voices
(15:50) - Downtown Growth & Sports as a Catalyst
(18:40) - Tickets to the Event
(19:20) - Proctor vs. UAS Game
(20:05) - Vision Moving Forward
(22:15) - What Should We Do in Utica?
(22:55) - Focus on Social Media & Working With Josh Graz
(24:45) - Local Sponsors
(27:30) - Rapid Fire Questions


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Downtown Classic Links:
IG - https://www.instagram.com/downtownclassicutica
CNY Savage FB - https://www.facebook.com/cny.savage
Website - https://www.downtownclassicutica.com
Tickets - Coming Soon


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

Episode 170 - Listen as Scott and Kelly recap their last week and preview the weekend ahead in CNY.


Friday December 5th
•

Saturday December 6th
•

Sunday December 7th
•
•

 
Reoccurring
• Adirondack Railroad Polar Express
• Lights on the Lake

Recap Shout Outs
•
•


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
LLL Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com/home

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The Love Living Local Podcast is shining a spotlight on the people, places, & events that make Central NY an amazing place to live. Hosted by Scott & Kelly Grates.

Episode 169:

In this episode, we talk with Izzy Terzioski, a Central Valley Academy senior and standout athlete. Izzy is a natural leader, who shares her journey through sports, academics, and balancing it all with a positive mindset. Izzy’s focus, determination, and love for her community shine as she prepares for her final high school basketball season and looks ahead to college.

Tune in to hear about:

• Izzy’s transition from playing multiple sports for fun to pursuing basketball as her college goal.
• How she balances a rigorous schedule of academics, sports, and social life with strong time management skills.
• The importance of leadership and being a role model for younger athletes in her community.
• Her thoughts on the mental and physical aspects of sports, and how she stays focused under pressure.
• Izzy’s personal goals for the season, including leading her team to a section title and leaving a legacy at CVA.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with an incredible young athlete making waves on and off the court!

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Scott's Intro
(1:10) - Show Start
(1:40) - Growing Up Playing Sports
(3:10) - Switching Focus to Basketball
(4:50) - AAU & Offseason Workouts
(7:15) - School & Future Studies
(8:30) - College Recruiting Process
(10:15) - Memorable HS Basketball Moments
(10:55) - Biggest Venue
(11:25) - Physicality in Girls Sports
(13:30) - Leadership & Setting An Example
(14:20) - Advice to Younger Athletes
(16:10) - Mental Aspect of Sports
(16:40) - Balance & Time Management
(17:40) - Central NY Community
(18:55) - Clothes & Shoes
(19:55) - Advice to Younger Self
(20:55) - Goals & Expectations
(21:40) - Impact
(22:10) - This Year's Team
(23:25) - Locking In
(24:35) - Rapid Fire Questions


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Izzy's Links:
IG - https://www.instagram.com/i.terzioski
Stats - https://highschoolsports.syracuse.com/player/isabella-terzioski/girlsbasketball/season/2024-2025


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

Episode 168 - Listen as Scott and Kelly recap their last week and preview the weekend ahead in CNY.


Friday November 29th
• Frankfort vs. Pembroke - 12:00 PM
• Ilion Little Theater: The Christmas Express - 7:30 PM
• Clinton Shoppers’ Stroll - 10:00 AM Stores Open
• Clinton Holiday Parade - 7:00 PM

Saturday November 30th
• 5K Jingle Jog in Village of Clinton - 8:00 AM
• Bluey Chistmas Paint Party at E98 Art Studio - 2:00 PM
• Ilion Little Theater: The Christmas Express - 7:30 PM
• Ilion Little Theater: The Christmas Express - 7:30 PM
• Syracuse Wine & Chocolate Festival - 1:00 PM
• Christmas Cupcake Decorating at Cakery Cafe
• Syracuse vs. Miami - 3:00 PM

Sunday December 1st
•
•

Wednesday December 4th
• The Lion King at Landmark Theater - 7:30 PM
 
Reoccurring
• Adirondack Railroad Polar Express
• Lights on the Lake

Recap Shout Outs
• Chanatry's
• Anthony Amodio Catering
• Five Points Pop Up
• Hall of Frames
• Nail Creek
• Top O' the Morning
• Gerber's
• Valley Cinemas


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
LLL Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com/home

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The Love Living Local Podcast is shining a spotlight on the people, places, & events that make Central NY an amazing place to live. Hosted by Scott & Kelly Grates.

Episode 167:

In this episode, we sit down with Steve McMurray, VP and General Manager of WKTV, to explore his journey in broadcast journalism, his love for Central New York, and his passion for community service. From his days as a Syracuse University student dreaming of a career in sports broadcasting to becoming the face of one of the region's most trusted news stations, Steve shares incredible insights into the evolution of local media and the importance of staying grounded in his hometown.

Tune in to hear about:

• Steve’s career path from intern to VP and GM of WKTV, including the challenges and triumphs along the way.
• How growing up in Frankfort shaped Steve’s deep connection to his community and his commitment to service.
• The unique struggles and rewards of leading a local news station in the digital age.
• Memorable moments from covering local stories, from 9/11 to regional wins like saving jobs at Rome Lab.
• Steve’s thoughts on the future of news and how WKTV is adapting to meet the needs of a changing audience.

This episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the world of local media and the man who has dedicated his career to keeping his community informed and inspired.

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Intro
(1:40) - Show Start
(2:25) - Sports and Newhouse
(3:45) - Becoming a Steelers Fan
(5:25) - Time at WUTR
(7:50) - Starting at WKTV
(13:00) - Evolving Role at WKTV
(16:10) - Managing & Selling
(17:00) - Core Group at WKTV & Staying Local
(19:50) - Meeting Wife
(24:15) - Fire Department & Community
(28:40) - Frankfort & Nicknames
(30:00) - The Good & Bad of Social Media
(35:45) - Advice For Aspiring Broadcasters
(36:15) - Content Creation & Digital
(39:15) - Future of Traditional Media
(41:00) - Weather & Neighborhood News
(45:00) - Changing Business & Adapting
(51:50) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Steve McMurray's Links:
Website - https://www.wktv.com/contact/meet-the-team/steve-mcmurray/article_11f1d11c-724a-11ec-9285-67df8fcadd48.html
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SteveMcMurrayWKTV
WKTV Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wktv2


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

Episode 166 - Listen as Scott and Kelly recap their last week and preview the weekend ahead in CNY.


Friday November 22nd
• Yellow Brick Joel: The Face To Face Tribute at The Stanley - 8:00 PM
• Steve Trevino at Turning Stone - 8:00 PM
• Our Common Roots at Tramontane Cafe - 7:00 PM

Saturday November 23rd
• Believe Magical Christmas Festival with NHFD - 12:00 PM
• Holiday Night Market at Grow Brewing Co. - 5:00 PM
• Public House Pop Up at Five Points - 11:00 AM

Sunday November 24th
• Public House Pop Up at Five Points - 11:00 AM
• DeadTime Stories w/ Summit Park Rangers at Copper City - 2:00 PM

Reoccurring
• Adirondack Railroad Polar Express
• Lights on the Lake

Recap Shout Outs
• Frankfort Sectional Championship
• Rooster's
• The Brass Tack
• SJF College Visit
• The Black Stallion
• Salvatore's
• 3Zero Creative
• Swifty's
• Double Day Cafe


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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
LLL Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com/home

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The Love Living Local Podcast is shining a spotlight on the people, places, & events that make Central NY an amazing place to live. Hosted by Scott & Kelly Grates.

Episode 165:

In this episode, we chat with Bert Doolen, owner of Doolen's Oil, who has been keepin' the 315 warm since 1972!

Bert shares his journey of unexpectedly stepping into the family business, the lessons he’s carried forward from his father, and the realities of working in an industry that keeps homes warm and cozy through harsh winters.

This episode dives into the grit, humor, and community spirit that drive small-town businesses like Doolen’s Oil.

Listen to hear about:

• How Bert transitioned from avoiding the family business to proudly running it for over two decades.
• The behind-the-scenes challenges of delivering heating oil during snowy Central New York winters.
• Bert’s commitment to exceptional customer service and the generational relationships he’s built with his clients.
• The joys and struggles of working with family and balancing personal life with the demands of a 24/7 business.
• Bert’s insider tips on the best hidden food gems in Central New York!

Get a glimpse into the life of a true local business hero and the values that make small-town enterprises thrive!

Show Markers:
(0:00) - Intro
(1:15) - Show Start & Taking Over the Business
(2:00) - Lessons From Dad & Family Business
(4:10) - Day in the Life
(6:45) - Customer Service Focus
(7:55) - Pros & Cons of Running a Business
(10:20) - Automatic Customers
(11:45) - Future Plans & Local Small Operations
(13:55) -  Requirements & Regulations
(15:10) - Unexpected Delivery Experiences
(16:15) - Five Unknown Lunch Spots in the 315
(22:00) - Number 1 Secret Spot
(25:00) - Other Restaurant Shout Outs
(27:20) - Contacting Doolen's Oil
(28:35) - Rapid Fire Questions


Doolen's Oil Links:
FB - https://www.facebook.com/p/Doolens-Oil-100071143099609
Phone Number - 3157325547

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - [email protected]
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com