In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, Kenny sits down with Sebastien Silvestri, CEO of The Dinex Group — the renowned restaurant group founded by Chef Daniel Boulud.

As the leader shaping the next chapter of one of the world’s most respected culinary empires, Sebastien is redefining hospitality through innovation, global expansion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

This conversation dives deep into the art and business of hospitality — uncovering what it takes to create and sustain world-class dining experiences. Sebastien shares powerful insights into Chef Daniel Boulud’s enduring legacy, the values behind true hospitality, and the passion that drives success in the restaurant world.

From Paris to London, Las Vegas to New York, Sebastien reflects on his remarkable career, offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship, care, and culture that make hospitality one of the most inspiring industries in the world.

In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with acclaimed chef and restaurateur Scott Conant to explore his remarkable journey through the culinary world.

With over 35 years in the industry, Scott has built a legacy rooted in passion, precision, and purpose — from humble beginnings as a dishwasher at 15 to becoming a celebrated Food Network personality, bestselling author, and owner of multiple award-winning restaurants.

Scott opens up about the importance of doing what you love, surrounding yourself with the right people, and staying grounded through spirituality and self-care. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at his latest ventures — including his new line of sauces, Martone Street, and his soon-to-open restaurant Leola at Baha Mar.

This conversation goes beyond food — diving into leadership, resilience, and what it really takes to build something meaningful. Whether you’re in hospitality or any other field, this episode is packed with wisdom from one of the best in the business.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:20 Meet the Guest: Scott Conant

01:16 Scott's Culinary Journey

02:15 The Philosophy of Success

04:16 The New York City Challenge

05:20 Overcoming Adversity and Staying Focused

09:48 Spirituality and Personal Growth

21:09 The Importance of Family and Relationships

24:31 Creating the Ideal Restaurant Experience

29:24 Exciting Events at the New York Food Festival

30:16 Creating a Service-Oriented Culture

31:02 Hiring for Heart, Not Skillset

36:19 The Importance of Self-Improvement

37:44 The Americano: A Culinary Journey

41:34 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People

54:15 Launching Martone Street and Future Plans

57:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This week on the Strong New York Podcast, Kenny Santucci is joined by Harley Pasternak — New York Times bestselling author, celebrity trainer, and professor at the University of Toronto.  Harley is the author of six acclaimed health and fitness books, including The Body Reset Diet and The 5-Factor Diet. With a master's degree in exercise physiology and nutritional sciences, and an extensive background in kinesiology, Harley brings both academic rigor and real-world experience to the table.

In this episode, Kenny and Harley explore his dynamic career — from training Hollywood’s biggest stars to designing cutting-edge gyms around the world. They unpack common myths around carbs, exercise, and dieting, while offering no-nonsense insights into what truly works in the wellness world.

Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a nutrition nerd, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of celebrity wellness, this episode delivers an honest, informative, and inspiring conversation.  Tune in now for a deep dive into the science — and reality — of living strong.

00:00 Introduction and Event Promotion

00:38 Guest Introduction and Initial Conversation

02:49 Discussing Fitness Events and Community

05:14 Career Beginnings and Influences

09:06 Hollywood Training Experiences

16:33 Challenges and Successes in the Fitness Industry

26:49 The Decision to Sell the Company

27:23 Evolution of Gym Equipment

27:40 A Tour of Classic Gyms

29:46 The Rise of Dual Cable Pulley Systems

30:29 Favorite Workout Spots

33:43 Building a Fitness Business

42:09 The Importance of Carbohydrates

49:39 Myths and Misconceptions in Fitness

51:34 Coffee and Personal Reflections

52:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This Week on The Strong New York Podcast host Kenny Santucci sits down with entrepreneur, top podcast host, and founder of Grow The Social LLC, Ayesha Sehra. Based in both Los Angeles and New York City, Ayesha has built a powerhouse PR and branding agency that works with global brands, celebrity clients, and industry-leading voices.  Originally from Toronto, Ayesha moved to LA at just 22, navigating the challenges of securing a U.S. visa, and building her business from the ground up. Her podcast and live events brand, Coffee & A Good Vibe, and has become a staple for community, connection, and entrepreneurship.

In this episode, Kenny and Ayesha dive deep into the highs and lows of event planning, working with sponsors, and staying authentic in an image-driven world. They explore the value of real, in-person connections post-pandemic, and the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into creating impactful experiences.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or just looking to level up your mindset, this episode offers valuable insights, honest stories, and motivation to keep going—even when the hustle gets hard.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout

00:15 Strong New York Event Announcement

00:46 Guest Introduction: Ayesha's Journey

02:02 Challenges in the Business World

03:35 Event Planning and Execution

04:39 The Rise of Community Building Post-Pandemic

05:15 The Hamptons Dilemma

06:35 Brand Collaborations and Event Success

14:49 The Matcha Craze

19:28 Reflections on Personal Growth and Career

24:45 Dating and Personal Anecdotes

31:47 Introduction to the Social Club Concept

32:11 Navigating Brand Collaborations and Free Promotions

32:38 Event Planning Challenges and Success Stories

35:21 The Impact of Personal Interactions and Feedback

37:37 The Evolution of Reality TV and Social Media Influence

40:32 Dream Collaborations and Event Planning

42:18 Highlighting Influential Brands and Their Events

48:08 The Importance of Coffee and Merch in Branding

53:41 Upcoming Events and Personal Projects

01:00:47 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

On this episode of the Strong New York podcast, Kenny Santucci sits down with Dom Iacovone, Co-founder and CEO of Raw Nutrition—one of the fastest-growing brands in the supplement space.  Dom shares his journey from leaving medical school to launching a multi-million-dollar company, opening up about the hard lessons, high stakes, and personal sacrifices along the way. He talks about the challenges of the supplement industry, the power of community, and his game-changing partnership with Gymshark.

Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, aspiring founder, or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode is packed with real talk and valuable takeaways.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:15 Event Announcement: Strong New York

00:39 Welcome to the Podcast

00:49 Guest Introduction: Dom Iacovone

02:19 Dom's Journey in the Medical Industry

03:11 Building a Successful Supplement Brand

04:52 The Role of Influencers in Branding

06:58 Family and Personal Life

13:29 Challenges of Social Media and Parenting

20:58 Gym Business Ventures

23:37 Finding the Right People in Business

26:04 Managing a Large Team

26:36 The Role of a CEO

27:40 Building a Strong Team

28:59 Dealing with Industry Hate

29:51 Innovative Business Strategies

31:12 Challenges and Inspirations

36:06 Brand Identity and Copycats

38:50 Scaling and Selling the Business

41:00 Future Goals and Reflections

51:05 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, Kenny Santucci sits down with modern day adventurer and motivational speaker Tom Fabbri. From piloting jets and helicopters to climbing the Seven Summits and diving with great white sharks, Tom has built a life around pushing limits and embracing fear. He shares how overcoming challenges like bullying and addiction led him to discover purpose through fitness, aviation, and personal growth.  Tom discusses the mindset shifts that fueled his transformation, the power of gratitude, and his innovative fitness tool, Total Motion 360. Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, preparation, and living life with passion and authenticity.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:15 Strong New York Event Details

00:39 Podcast Welcome and Event Promotion

02:08 Guest Introduction: Tom's Background

03:18 Tom's Fitness Journey and Overcoming Bullying

05:44 Discussion on Art, Creativity, and Personal Expression

13:08 Tom's Troubled Past and Military Experience

16:57 Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle Choices

18:02 Flying Career and Life Lessons

37:11 Client Accountability and Fitness Realities

38:54 The Importance of Consistency and Effort

40:24 Personal Fitness Journey and Product Development

44:03 Finding Purpose and Overcoming Adversity

57:34 The Role of Mindset in Health and Success

01:01:27 The Power of Authenticity and Preparation

01:10:59 Networking and Business Expansion

01:12:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci is joined by renowned health and nutrition expert Sam Miller for an in-depth conversation about the science behind metabolism, nutrition, and gut health. 

With over 15 years of experience, Sam has helped thousands of coaches and clients cut through the confusion and take a more strategic approach to health and fitness.

Together, Kenny and Sam explore the often misunderstood world of metabolism, uncovering how our bodies respond to diet, exercise, and modern health trends. They discuss the long-term impact of generational habits, the role of gut health in performance and recovery, and the evolving landscape of hormone therapy and medical interventions. Sam also shares his own journey in the industry and how he’s helping shape the next generation of health professionals through education and mentorship.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better understand how their body works and how to make smarter, more sustainable decisions for long-term wellness.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:15 Strong New York Event Announcement

00:38 Podcast Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:50 Discussing Metabolism with Sam Miller

01:15 Sam Miller's Background and Book

03:50 Understanding Metabolism

08:05 Nutrition and Diet Culture

09:31 Generational Shifts in Food and Diet

14:00 Pharmaceuticals and Metabolic Health

21:35 Bodybuilding, Diet, and Longevity

26:00 Discussing the Disappearance of Certain Products

26:16 Marketing Strategies in Health and Fitness

27:09 Contextualizing Health Advice

28:15 Bodybuilding and Gut Health

29:49 Diet and Body Fat Distribution

32:25 Optimizing Nutrition and Training

40:42 The Role of GLP-1s in Weight Management

43:12 Evaluating Supplements and Hormone Therapy

44:52 Nootropics and Microdosing

47:44 Wrapping Up and Event Promotion

In this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci welcomes back Functional Medicine Nutritionist Rachel Scheer—the very first returning guest on the show. With a background in Nutrition Science and Dietetics from Baylor University and certification from the Kalish Institute, Rachel brings science-backed expertise and real-world insight to the table.

Together, Kenny and Rachel dive deep into essential health and wellness topics, including the critical role of gut health, common misconceptions around plant-based diets, and the best ways to build and maintain muscle mass. They also explore the latest thinking on supplements, metabolic health, and the gut microbiome.

Whether you're an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or just looking to level up your health, this episode is packed with practical tips and no-nonsense advice. Tune in and get stronger from the inside out.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout

00:15 Strong New York Event Announcement

00:38 Podcast Milestone and Guest Introduction

01:48 Guest's Recent Activities and Peter Hurley

02:53 Discussion on Plant-Based Diets and Gut Health

11:42 Cholesterol, Blood Tests, and Diet Recommendations

16:11 Testosterone and Hormone Optimization

21:12 Women's Health and Thyroid Issues

27:14 Metabolic Issues and GLP-1 Medications

28:22 The Risks and Benefits of GLP-1

28:55 Gut Health and GLP-1

29:51 Responsible Use of Medications

32:14 Post-Menopause Health Tips

33:27 Essential Supplements for Everyone

36:10 The Importance of Blood Work

40:07 Muscle Mass and Aging

41:12 Probiotics vs. Prebiotics

45:03 Dietary Changes and Gut Health

46:26 Personal Experiences with Diet and Fitness

49:43 The Impact of Bodybuilding on Health

53:32 The Truth About Instagram Fitness Models

55:07 Conclusion and Contact Information

On this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, Kenny Santucci sits down with Max Siegelman, the founder of Siegelman Stable, to unpack the brand’s unexpected rise from a pandemic passion project to a viral sensation. Recorded in East Hampton, the conversation traces Max’s journey from creative consulting for athletes and musicians to building a globally recognized apparel brand rooted in authenticity, storytelling, and quality. Max shares lessons from navigating the fashion industry, collaborating with major sports teams, and leaning on the fitness community for support. If you're interested in the intersection of sports, fashion, and entrepreneurship, this one’s for you. 

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:15 Strong New York Event Announcement

00:38 Interview with Max Siegelman Begins

01:17 The Origin of Siegelman Stable

03:23 Challenges and Growth in Business

05:04 Collaborations and Brand Recognition

10:26 Fashion and Cultural Influence

12:17 East Hampton Pop-Up Experience

14:01 Future Plans and Reflections

20:07 The Illusion of Knowing What You're Doing

20:41 The Importance of Good Energy and Humility

21:30 Facing Setbacks and Challenges

24:27 Drawing Inspiration and Building a Brand

30:51 Fitness and Personal Stories

38:15 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with Dr. Jordan Shallow—a global authority in sports performance, biomechanics, and athletic education. Known for his work with elite athletes, professional teams, and major corporations, Dr. Shallow brings a cutting-edge, holistic approach to optimizing human performance—from the treatment table to the training floor and onto the field of play.

Jordan shares his remarkable journey from living out of his car to becoming one of the most respected voices in fitness. He opens up about the challenges he's faced, the lessons he's learned, and the evolution of the industry—especially as AI and technology begin to reshape how we train.

This episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real talk for anyone passionate about fitness, wellness, and pushing human potential. Don't miss it.

00:00 Introduction and Event Promotion

00:43 Welcome to the Strong New York Podcast

01:00 Guest Introduction: Dr. Jordan Shallows

01:25 Dr. Shallows' Journey: From Struggles to Success

06:32 The Turning Point: Strong New York Event

12:29 Training Shaquille O'Neal

16:53 Working with Andrew Schultz and Akosh Singh

23:56 The Evolution of Personal Training

26:17 Impact of COVID-19 on Business

33:41 Advanced Training Techniques and Certifications

40:14 The Influence of Science in Bodybuilding

40:35 The Importance of Knowing Industry History

41:48 Early Inspirations and Influencers

44:18 The Evolution of Fitness Trends

45:01 The Role of Digital Media in Fitness

53:13 The Impact of AI and Technology in Gyms

58:53 Personal Training Experiences and Gym Culture

01:05:32 Tattoo Stories and Personal Reflections

01:15:22 Advice on Steroid Use and Longevity in Fitness

01:18:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts