Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles

Let us know your thoughts!!

Dr. Ashanthi Gajaweera of Healthspan Neurology joins our Two Pickles Tamara MacDuff and Sid Ragona to unpack proactive brain health—from dementia prevention and menopause brain fog to data‑driven habits that build long‑term cognitive resilience.

https://www.healthspanneurology.com/

00:32 — Why Brain Health Matters Now

A fresh look at proactive cognitive care and why early action changes everything.

06:06 — Who Benefits Most From Prevention‑Focused Neurology

The patient profiles and patterns Dr. Asante sees in her micropractice.

13:05 — Is Dementia Actually Increasing?

Sorting out perception vs. reality and what the data reveals.

20:50 — Genetics vs. Lifestyle in Alzheimer’s Risk

How modifiable factors stack up against inherited ones.

27:53 — Daily Habits That Protect the Brain

Sleep, inflammation, movement, and the small levers with big impact.

34:16 — Communicating the Value of Preventive Care

The challenge of marketing something people don’t feel yet.

37:34 — Inside a Data‑Driven Prevention Plan

Genetics, imaging, labs, cognitive testing, and what “measuring what matters” looks like.

43:25 — Menopause, Hormones & Brain Fog

Why women experience cognitive shifts and how sleep disruption plays a role.

50:23 — Strength Training as Brain Medicine

Muscle mass, metabolism, and resilience across the lifespan.

54:58 — Key Takeaways & What Listeners Can Do Next

Practical steps for building long‑term brain health.

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

In this episode of Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles we welcome Mike DiCataldo of NYRA Trophies & Awards and discuss meaningful ways to show appreciation through awards.

https://nyratrophy.com/

Hosted by Tamara MacDuff (pickle#1) and Sid Ragona Ph.D (pickle#2) of Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles. Western NY SCORE's podcast.

Show Notes:

• 01:51 Meet Mike and NYRA
• 02:37 Family Business Origins
• 05:47 Marketing and Networking Lessons
• 06:51 In Shop Consultation Process
• 14:52 Meaning Behind Recognition
• 17:36 Shadow Boxes Explained
• 20:43 Storytelling Awards and Custom Items
• 24:22 Mentors and Learning the Trade
• 29:08 Buy Local Vs Internet
• 29:59 Three Business Rules
• 32:17 Perfection And Craft
• 33:33 Stories Behind Awards
• 35:57 Networking Through Customers
• 45:58 Where To Find The Shop

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

On this episode of Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles, Our hosts Tamara McDuff and Sid Ragona welcome Alan Lamparella, founder of Tasklight Business Advisory, who helps business owners implement operational team structures and business operating systems (including his flexible “BOS Up” approach) to align teams and sustain growth.

https://tasklightadvisory.com/

Show Notes:

• 04:00 Systems for Solopreneurs
• 06:45 When Growth Gets Stuck
• 10:26 Getting Team Buy In
• 11:35 How to Reach Alan
• 13:39 Leadership Influences
• 15:39 Founder Challenges and Emotions
• 27:38 Learning Culture and Meetings
• 29:37 Meetings That Work
• 31:57 Career Leap And Growth
• 34:47 Workshops And Speaking
• 44:49 When Founders Need Help
• 48:21 Becoming The CEO
• 52:13 Closing Thoughts And Contact

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

In this episode, Our Two Pickles; Tamara McDuff and Sid Ragona talk with Dr. Fred Claus, founder of Husky Logic and expert in cybersecurity, about why small and micro businesses are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals and how to protect your business.

https://huskylogic.com/

• 01:33 Why Small Businesses Targeted
• 09:22 Starting Husky Logic
• 12:12 Keeping Up With Tech
• 14:11 Prevention Versus Break Fix
• 18:08 Education And Outreach
• 25:21 Micro Business Security Basics
• 29:57 Who Fred Helps
• 30:35 Cyber Insurance Basics
• 31:37 Security Requirements Checklist
• 34:04 Why Every Business Is Exposed
• 37:18 Mentors and Support Network
• 48:51 Reframing Sales as Solutions
• 53:12 How to Contact Fred

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

Tamara McDuff and Sid Ragona interview James Bunn, founder of First Player Video Game Truck in Rochester.  The first of its kind.

https://www.1stplayervideogametruck.com/

• 01:12 Meet the Game Truck
• 02:43 From Machinist to Gamer Dad
• 05:18 Learning the Ropes
• 16:19 Building and Booking Buzz
• 19:32 Marketing Lessons and Podcasts
• 22:42 Kids Parties and Word of Mouth
• 26:43 Expanding Beyond the Truck
• 29:19 Gaming for Seniors
• 32:28 Listening, Adapting & Staying Driven

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

In this episode of 'Rethinking Business: Success Sauce and Two Pickles,' hosts Tamara McDuff and Sid Ragona welcome Dr. Cory Coleman to discuss an innovative approach to women's health. Dr. Cory introduces 'Recalibrelle,' a nutritional supplement designed specifically for women on hormonal birth control, addressing the nutrient depletion they face. 

https://recalibrelle.com/

Hosted by Tamara MacDuff (pickle#1) and Sid Ragona Ph.D (pickle#2) of Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles. Western NY SCORE's podcast.

00:30 Introduction and Host Welcome
01:05 Introducing Dr. Cory Coleman and Women's Health
02:03 The Nutritional Gap in Women's Health
05:47 Dr. Cory's Journey and Business Beginnings
13:43 Challenges and Solutions in Women's Nutrition
21:34 Marketing Strategies and Community Building
31:41 Understanding Nutrient Depletion
32:58 The Importance of Specific Supplements
35:24 Product Launch Timeline
37:33 Marketing and Empathy
39:45 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
43:42 Scaling and Social Media Strategy
49:35 Special Discount for Listeners
52:14 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Interested in supporting our show? Please click below.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1735426/supporters/new

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

In this episode of Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles we welcome Scott Fitzgerald, President & Co-Owner of Roc Vox, a professional studio for recording audiobooks, voice-overs and podcasts, with video production services.

https://rocvox.com/

Hosted by Tamara MacDuff (pickle#1) and Sid Ragona Ph.D (pickle#2) of Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles. Western NY SCORE's podcast.

Scott W. Fitzgerald

Podcast, Live Stream and Voice Over Studio

eLearning Voice Productions

Video Production & Post

ROCVox.com

ROC Vox Recording & Production, LLC.

640 Kreag Rd. Suite 103

Pittsford, NY  14534

585-200-4832

[email protected]

Podcasting Strategies with Scott Fitzgerald: Insights and Trends

In this episode of 'Rethinking Business: Success Sauce and Two Pickles,' hosts Tamara MacDuff and Sid Ragona sit down with Scott Fitzgerald, the founder and owner of Roc Vox Recording, the first podcast studio in Rochester. The discussion explores the evolution of podcasting, best practices for starting and maintaining a podcast, and the impact of AI and technological advancements on the industry. Scott shares valuable advice on the importance of passion, patience, and perseverance in successful podcasting, alongside insights into audience engagement and promotional strategies. The episode also delves into the relevance of video podcasts, AI tools in audio production, and the future landscape of podcasting.


01:16 Podcasting Statistics and Business Potential
02:00 Guest Introduction: Scott Fitzgerald of Roc Vox Recording
03:01 Scott's Journey from Radio to Podcasting
03:35 Early Days of Podcasting: Challenges and Evolution
08:01 The Importance of Video in Podcasting
11:41 Finding Your Ideal Audience and Podcast Format
16:22 AI's Impact on Podcast Production
19:18 Advice for Aspiring Podcasters
22:22 Promoting Your Podcast Effectively
29:28 The Power of Micro Casts
30:49 The Value of Motivational Content
31:44 Best Motivational Advice
37:42 The Future of Technology and AI
48:08 Reflections and Personal Advice
50:04 Roc Vox Recording and Community

Interested in supporting our show? Please click below.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1735426/supporters/new

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

In this episode of Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles we welcome John Adams, President & CEO of the Greece Regional Chamber of Commerce and the President & Senior Consultant of The Too Tall Franchise Guy powered by Frannet, where he covers the benefits of the chamber and information about starting up a franchise.

https://greecechamber.org/

https://frannet.com/franchise-consultants/john-adams/

Hosted by Tamara MacDuff (pickle#1) and Sid Ragona Ph.D (pickle#2) of Re-Thinking Business: Success Sauce & Two Pickles. Greater Rochester SCORE's weekly radio show.

Insights with John Adams of the Greece Chamber of Commerce and the Too Tall Franchise Guy

In this episode of the Rethinking Business Success Sauce and two pickles show, hosts Tamara McDuff and Sid Ragona sit down with John Adams, President and CEO of the Greece Chamber of Commerce. John discusses his extensive business background and how he came to lead the Chamber. He highlights the various roles a Chamber of Commerce plays in supporting local businesses, including networking opportunities, facilitating growth, and offering visibility through advertising and events. John also shares insights on franchising, drawing from his decade-long experience in franchise consulting. The episode covers the benefits of Chamber membership, collaborations with SCORE and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and provides advice for small business owners. Listeners will gain valuable information on how Chambers can help grow their businesses and the importance of leveraging community resources for entrepreneurial success.

00:30 Introduction and Welcome
01:06 Introducing the Guest: John Adams
03:48 Role and Impact of the Chamber of Commerce
05:35 Networking Events and First Fridays
07:58 Podcast and Media Outreach
12:11 Personal Journey with Chambers of Commerce
19:20 Membership Benefits and Services
25:48 Franchising Insights and Opportunities
27:22 Franchise Benefits and Marketing Support
27:47 Challenges and Realities of Running a Restaurant
28:57 Simplified Loan Processes for Franchises
29:52 Journey into the Franchise Business
32:50 Partnerships and Mentorship in Business
42:29 Advice for Small Business Owners
48:15 Conclusion and Contact Information

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

Mastering Communication with Jen DiMarzio: Insights on Leadership, Change, and Connectivity

In this episode of 'Re-Thinking Business Success Sauce and Two Pickles, hosts Tamara McDuff and Sid Ragona welcome Jen DiMarzio of Jen DeMarzio Consulting. Jen shares her expertise in helping CEOs improve employee communication, emphasizing the importance of connecting employees with the company's mission. She discusses her transition from corporate to consulting and offers insights into change management, highlighting the significance of the ADDCAR model. Jen also shares her thoughts on the role of AI in communications and offers practical advice for entrepreneurs. Learn from Jen's journey and discover key strategies for effective leadership and communication.
https://www.jendimarzioconsulting.com/

• 00:35 Introduction and Guest Welcome
• 02:19 Jen DeMarzo's Journey into Consulting
• 04:48 The Leap from Corporate to Consulting
• 06:57 Challenges and Strategies in Consulting
• 11:05 The Importance of Networking
• 13:51 Leadership and Change Management
• 22:17 Impact of AI on Business and Communication
• 27:07 How to Connect with Jen DeMarzo
• 27:55 Exploring Fractional Support
• 28:49 Defining Fractional Support
• 30:03 Jen's Professional Identity
• 31:27 Advice to a Younger Self
• 32:17 Parenting and Communication Skills
• 33:14 Curiosity in Personal and Professional Life
• 39:18 Mentorship and Best Advice
• 44:40 Future Networking Plans
• 47:14 Conclusion and Contact Information

Interested in supporting our show?  Please click the link below.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1735426/supporters/new

Support the show

Let us know your thoughts!!

Pursuing Longevity through Functional Fitness with Natalie Grace,

  In this episode of 'Rethinking Business,' hosts Tamara MacDuff and Sid Ragona interview Natalie Grace from Graceful Body Works. Natalie shares her journey from New York City to Rochester and her passion for longevity, with a personal goal of living to 103. She discusses her expertise in nutrition, wellness, and functional fitness, emphasizing the importance of exercises that improve everyday movements. Natalie explains how her work bridges gaps between physical therapy and personal fitness, with special attention to bone density and resistance training for older adults. She also highlights the importance of hydration and balanced protein intake for overall health.

https://gracefulbodyworks.com/

•  00:35 Introduction and Greetings
•  01:03 Meet Our Guest: Natalie Grace
•  03:11 Understanding Functional Fitness
•  05:58 Longevity and Health Span
•  17:31 The Importance of Hydration and Protein
•  29:34 Bone Density and Resistance Training
•  32:24 Lunges with Bags: A Fun Fitness Tip
•  32:30 Natalie's Journey: From NYC to Rochester
•  33:32 The Serendipitous Meeting with Sharon Perry Ferrari
•  36:22 Building a Business: Mentorship and Networking
•  39:59 Advice to Younger Self: Take More Risks
•  43:01 Future Plans: Empowering Women Through Health
•  46:22 The Benefits of Cold Showers
•  48:32 Sports Massage and Marathon Experiences
•  52:20 Connecting with Natalie Grace
•  54:19 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Support the show