What do rescue dogs, York Peppermint Patties, Buffalo Bills football, mentorship, and AI infrastructure have in common?

This week on Powered by Authenticity, quite a bit.

Emily is joined by Kathy Kirchner, Senior Vice President ofService Assurance at Zayo, for a conversation about leadership, telecommunications, AI infrastructure, and the people working behind the scenes to keep the digital world connected.

Kathy shares her journey from growing up on a farm in Montana to leading large-scale service assurance organizations supporting critical network infrastructure across North America. She also reflects on returning from retirement after realizing she still had more to contribute during one of the most transformative periods in technology history.

Topics include service assurance, customer experience, AI infrastructure, fiber networks, change management, operational resilience, leadership, career growth in technology, cross-functional collaboration, and returning from retirement with renewed purpose.

Plus: mentorship, football rivalries, rescue dogs, favorite snacks, and the conversations that make great careers — and great podcasts — memorable.

Kathy reminds us that behind every outage prevented, every network maintained, and every AI innovation are teams of people dedicated to making it all work.

Whether you're a technology leader, early in your career, or simply interested in the people powering the systems we rely on every day, this conversation offers valuable insights on leadership, resilience, and the importance of embracing the full support ecosystem behind every success.

Thank you, Kathy, for such an engaging, informative and fun conversation.

Links Mentioned in the episode:

KathyKirchner | LinkedIn

International NetworkConnectivity Services & Fiber Solutions | Zayo

Kathy’s Bio:

Kathy Kirchner has built a career in telecom by learning the business from multiple angles: operations, engineering, customer care, logistics, sales, service assurance, and the messy middle where all of those functions have to work together. She is publicly described as Senior Vice President of Service Assurance at Zayo, leading work tied to service quality, operational resilience, AI adoption, automation, and customer experience across one of North America’s largest fiber networks. Earlier career stops span Sprint, independent telcos, cable operators, Comcast, startups, and network operations leadership. She’s here to talk about leading through complexity, building accountability across teams, and turning operational chaos into progress.

Enhancing the human experience starts with putting peoplefirst.

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily sits downwith Chris Hallberg, CEO of GoExpand, and founder of The Business Sergeant. Chris is a veteran, entrepreneur, and leadership coach who believes organizations perform best when leaders empower others to lead.

Together, they explore leadership that scales, teams thatexecute, and why the strongest organizations are built on trust, accountability, and clear ownership.

Drawing from military experience and years of coachingleadership teams through EOS, Chris shares practical lessons on empowering middle managers, defining roles, and creating businesses that grow beyond the founder.

The conversation also turns to a challenge that extends farbeyond the workplace. Every day, an estimated 22 veterans lose their lives to suicide. Chris shares why creating opportunities, building community, and removing the stigma around asking for help remain central to the mission of TheBusiness Sergeant and the work still ahead of us.

Because great organizations aren't built by one person.

They're built by people who know how to build other people.

Thank you, Chris, for such a great conversation. I appreciated the authentic, transparent conversation!

About Chris:

Chris Hallberg is a military veteran, entrepreneur,leadership coach, and founder of GoExpand. Known as The Business Sergeant, he helps organizations turn execution challenges into competitive advantages through practical leadership, accountability, and business operating systems.

After serving in the military, Chris built and successfullyexited multiple companies, including an energy-efficiency business that was sold during the Great Recession. He later became one of the earliest EOS Implementers, coaching more than 100 leadership teams through multi-year growthjourneys and helping organizations improve execution, culture, and employee engagement.

Chris is also the founder of Business Sergeant, a leadershipplatform and veteran community dedicated to helping military veterans transition into civilian leadership roles while connecting businesses with exceptional leadership talent. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as a Top 10 Global Leadership & Management Expert, Chris is known for translatingmilitary leadership principles into practical strategies that help entrepreneurs and leadership teams build stronger, more disciplined organizations.

Links to Chris:

Chris Hallberg |LinkedIn

GoExpand: Smarter Meetings,Better Collaboration

Chris Hallberg |EOS Implementer | EOS Worldwide

What does it take to build a career by recognizing opportunities before everyone else?

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily sits down with Christina Duvall, President of Renegade Talent Management and CelebExperts. Christina shares the experiences that shaped her leadership journey, from becoming the youngest Vice President in company history at 22 to leading one of the industry's premier talent management firms by age 26.

Together, they explore what it means to lead with authenticity, why sales is one of the most valuable skills anyone can develop, and how making decisions often matter more than waiting for certainty. Christina also shares her perspective on representing elite athletes, creators, and chefs while helping them build brands that create long-term impact.

The conversation also dives into the rapid growth of women's sports, the evolution of NIL, and the responsibility that comes with helping athletes navigate opportunities while protecting their future. Christina offers thoughtful insights into leadership, mentorship, and why saying "no" can sometimes be the most powerful decision you make. 

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, content creator, or someone looking to grow your career, this episode is filled with practical lessons on leadership, opportunity, and building a career with intention.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

Thank you, Christina, for such a great conversation. This was by far one of my favorite episodes.

Links discussed within the episode:

Christina Duvall | LinkedIn

A Digital Talent MGMT & marketing agency. - A Digital Marketing Agency

Top Celebrity Booking & Consulting Agency | Celeb Experts

Polished grit. Refreshingly spicy. Casually iconic.

That's Buffalo for you.

In this episode, I sit down with Patrick Kaler, President & CEO of Visit Buffalo, to explore the story behind Buffalo's evolution and why the city continues to earn recognition as one of America's most reimagined cities.

While many people know Visit Buffalo for helping attract visitors to the region, this conversation reveals a much bigger story. Tourism is a powerful economic driver for Western New York, supporting thousands of jobs, fueling local businesses, and creating opportunities for continued growth across our community. As Patrick shares, every visitor who chooses Buffalo contributes to the momentum shaping the region's future.

We also discuss the thinking behind Visit Buffalo's recent rebrand and the story behind the "That's Buffalo for You" campaign—one that captures the resilience, pride, and character that make this city unlike any other. From welcoming Great Lakes cruises and major sporting events to championing Buffalo's growing reputation on a national stage, Patrick shares how Visit Buffalo is helping tell the story of a city that continues to surprise, inspire, and attract visitors from around the world.

From economic growth and tourism to architecture, waterfront development, and the spirit of the City of Good Neighbors, this conversation is a celebration of a city that continues to honor its roots while building an exciting future.

Because while Buffalo continues to grow and evolve, its greatest strength remains unchanged: the people who proudly call it home.

That's Buffalo for you.

Thank you, Patrick, for such a great conversation. Truly value your time and breadth of discussion on all aspects of Buffalo!!

Links to Patrick and Visit Buffalo:

Patrick Kaler, CTA | LinkedIn

That's Buffalo for You - Visit Buffalo

Great Lakes & Thousand Islands Cruise | Lakes Ontario and Erie

2026 NHL Draft: Round 1 - 06/26/26 | KeyBank Center - keybankcenter.com

About Patrick:

Patrick Kaler brings nearly three decades of travel and tourism experience to his role as President and CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara, which he joined in January 2014. In that role, he oversees the destination marketing organization, the Buffalo Convention Center, and the Buffalo Sports Commission.

Before coming to Buffalo, Patrick served as President and CEO of Visit Loudoun and held a senior leadership role at the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board, where he oversaw international offices in Australia, China, Europe, Japan, South Korea, and Latin America. His work there spanned major travel trade, airline sales, and marketing initiatives on both domestic and international fronts.

Earlier in his career, Patrick served as President & CEO of the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority, Tahoe Douglas Visitors Authority, and Lake Tahoe Gaming Alliance, as well as Executive Director of the Great Lakes of North America and the Galena/Jo Daviess County Convention and Visitors Bureau. He also served as General Manager at Keeshin Destination Chicago and as Director of Sales and Marketing at the Champaign-Urbana Convention and Visitors Bureau. Beyond his DMO work, he has served as an adjunct faculty member, lecturer, and speaker at the University of Illinois, UCLA, and Lake Tahoe Community College, and has presented at tourism industry conferences nationwide.

Patrick holds a Master of Science in Tourism from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and a Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration from Western Illinois University. He currently serves on the U.S. Travel Association's Board of Advisors and previously served as Chairman of both the U.S. Travel Association Destinations Council Advisory Board and the New York State Destination Marketing Organizations. He also serves on the New York State Hospitality and Tourism Association's board and was named Tourism Executive of the Year in 2018.

In the community, Patrick is involved with the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, Frank Lloyd Wright's Darwin Martin House, Explore Buffalo, Buffalo Civic Auto Ramps, Buffalo State University's School of Hospitality Advisory Council, and the City of Buffalo Arts Commission. He is a proud 2014 graduate of Leadership Buffalo.

Behind every fundraising goal is a story, and behind every story are the people who help make it possible.

In this follow-up conversation, Russell Hill reflects on reaching his fundraising goal for the American Lung Association's Fight for Air Climb and the incredible support that helped make it happen. What began as a personal mission to honor his daughter became a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose.

Russell shares the gratitude, emotion, and joy he experienced as friends, family, supporters, and members of the Western New York community rallied behind his mission. From acts of generosity to words of encouragement, he witnessed firsthand the impact that kindness, connection, and community can have on a person and a cause.

Together, we discuss resilience, the importance of turning pain into purpose, and the ripple effect that occurs when people choose to show up for one another. Russell's reflections offer a heartfelt reminder that while milestones are worth celebrating, the true impact is often found in the relationships we build, the lives we touch, and the people who walk alongside us on the journey.

Thank you to everyone who supported the Fight for Air Climb and the American Lung Association's mission. The funds raised will continue to make a difference for individuals and families throughout Western New York.

Because sometimes the most meaningful victories are not measured by the dollars raised or the goals achieved, but by the people who come together to make them possible.

Links:

Instagram - Russell Hill

Instagram - American Lung Association

Fight for Air Climb: Buffalo Group | Facebook

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily sits down with Sergeant Justin Collins of the Rochester Police Department for a conversation that goes far beyond policing. With more than two decades of experience in law enforcement, Sergeant Collins shares not only his journey in public safety, but also his passion for mentoring and developing the next generation of leaders entering the workforce.

A major focus of the conversation centers around the importance of investing in young people early through explorer programs, teen academies, and intentional mentorship opportunities that expose students to meaningful career paths while helping them build confidence, leadership skills, discipline, and purpose. Sergeant Collins speaks candidly about the changing landscape of recruitment, the importance of authentic connection with younger generations, and why workforce development has become one of the most important responsibilities facing public safety organizations today.

The discussion also dives into the emotional realities of law enforcement, staffing shortages impacting departments across the country, leadership under pressure, and the humanity behind the badge. Sergeant Collins offers an honest perspective on the challenges officers face daily while also sharing why he continues to believe so deeply in the profession and the opportunity it provides to positively impact others.

Throughout the episode, one thing becomes incredibly clear: the work Sergeant Collins is doing is about far more than filling positions. It is about creating pathways, building trust, and helping young people discover purpose through service and leadership.

And because this is Powered by Authenticity, the conversation also includes a spirited discussion around Rochester’s wing scene and why food continues to be one of life’s greatest connectors.

This episode is thoughtful, heartfelt, and filled with important perspectives around mentorship, leadership, and the people who continue to dedicate their lives to helping others.

Thank you Sergeant Collins for such a great conversation. You truly are a ‘beacon of hope’ for so many in the community.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincollins22/

https://www.cityofrochester.gov/

https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/department-recreation-and-human-services-drhs/workforce-development

This is a very special episode of Powered by Authenticity as we take our listeners inside the Women in Tech of Western New York conference in downtown Buffalo. Throughout the day, we had the opportunity to connect with some of the most inspiring trailblazers, leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers helping shape the future of Western New York. From mentorship and leadership to innovation, technology, and authentic connection, the energy throughout the event was incredible.

The episode begins with conversations around mentorship and career growth featuring Isabell Trevino, IT Project Manager at AAA Western and Central New York, and Susan Was, Chief People Officer at AAA Western and Central New York. Isabell shares her journey of moving from Texas to Buffalo after graduate school and how mentorship helped shape her path into technology and project management. Susan reflects on the importance of recognizing people for their potential, not simply their resumes, emphasizing that communication, adaptability, organization, and relationship-building are often the true drivers of long-term success.

Emily also sits down with Morgan Hardy, CEO of Leadership Buffalo, to discuss leadership development, civic engagement, and how organizations are adapting to support the next generation of leaders in a rapidly evolving workforce.

One of the most powerful parts of this episode happens outside the studio walls as Emily heads onto the event floor to speak directly with attendees experiencing Women in Tech WNY in real time. These conversations capture the excitement, encouragement, networking, mentorship, and support happening organically throughout the day.

From entrepreneurs and founders to students, nonprofit leaders, and technology professionals, conversations throughout the event centered around innovation, career growth, authentic leadership, and the importance of women supporting one another in technology spaces.

Throughout the day, one message remained clear: authentic connection still matters.

Thank you to Women in Tech Western New York, TechBuffalo, M&T Bank, Seneca One, and all the guests, attendees, volunteers, and organizers who helped make this incredible day possible.

Be on the lookout for additional conversations from this event!

Links to our guests and sponsors:

Isabell Trevino, MBA | LinkedIn

Susan Was | LinkedIn

Morgan (Williams-Bryant) Hardy | LinkedIn

Kelly Nagel | LinkedIn

Lynne Thornton | LinkedIn

Melissa Garrido | LinkedIn

TechBuffalo: Posts | LinkedIn

Women in Tech WNY: Posts | LinkedIn

M&T Bank: Overview | LinkedIn

Seneca One: Overview | LinkedIn

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We recently had the opportunity to speak with the American Lung Association to talk about the upcoming Fight for Air Climb. While there, I had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Erika VanDette. Erika is part of Team Roswell and shares her story of ‘why she climbs’ each year. Hearing how she is raising funds for lung health awareness in memory of her mother is something that resonated deeply with me.

Erika – thank you for taking time to share your ‘why’ and for the amazing work you are doing in support of the American Lung Association. You are an inspiration to so many of us!

Please consider donating to Erika’s fundraising efforts:

Fight For Air Climb - Buffalo: Team Roswell - American Lung Association

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We recently had the opportunity to speak with the American Lung Association to talk about the upcoming Fight for Air Climb. While there, I had the distinct pleasure of speaking with Russell Hill. Russell shared his ‘why’ behind climbing at this event each year. Turning the loss of his daughter into purpose by raising funds for lung health awareness through the American Lung Association is so inspirational.

Russell – thank you for being open and sharing your ‘why’ …your story is going to be so impactful to so many. I hope you’ll join us again at the show. I’d love to speak more about your journey!

Please consider donating to Russell’s fundraising efforts:

Fight For Air Climb - Buffalo: Mr. Russell Hill - American Lung Association

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In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I’m joined by Kaeli Kleinbach LaFrance, the driving force behind Batavia’s very first Restaurant Week — happening April 27 through May 2.

We sat down to talk about what it really takes to bring something like this to life, from coordinating local restaurants to building excitement across the community. Kaeli shares how this event came together, the incredible lineup of participating restaurants, and what this means not just for the food scene, but for Batavia as a whole.

We also get into the bigger picture — the impact Restaurant Week can have on the local economy, how it introduces people to new businesses, and why events like this create lasting momentum well beyond a single week.

One of my favorite parts of this conversation was hearing about the collaboration between local restaurant owners. It’s not about competition — it’s about coming together to create something bigger for the community.

Here on the podcast, we always say food is a great connector. And with Batavia Restaurant Week, that connection goes even further — bringing people together, supporting local businesses, and creating a shared experience across the community.

And if you’re not local to Batavia, this is your reminder to think about what something like this could look like in your own community. The impact is real — and it starts with people willing to bring others to the table.

Thank you, Kaeli, for joining us on the podcast and sharing the exciting details of Batavia’s first restaurant week.

Below are details regarding the event and local restaurants:

Batavia Restaurant Week | What to do in Batavia, NY

Home - Roman's

Alex's Place | Fine Dining Steakhouse | Ribs & Seafood

Center Street Smokehouse - western new york, Batavia, NY

Fortunes Restaurant - Fine Dining | Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, NY

34 Rush Restaurant - Sports Bar | Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, NY

O'Lacy's Irish Pub

Eli Fish Brewing Company | Brewery | 109 Main St, Batavia, NY 14020

Home - Bourbon & Burger Co. - Burger Joint in Batavia, NY

Bar Olo

EDEN Café & Bakeshop

Sunny's - Batavia, NY

Everybody Eats

The Coffee Press

Matty's Pizza - Pizza Passion in Batavia New York

Batavia's Original - Batavia, NY

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