Powered by Authenticity

Mentors and Mentees in the City of Good Neighbors - Women in Tech Conference Special

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 | LinkedInSusan Was | LinkedInMorgan (Williams-Bryant) Hardy | LinkedInKelly Nagel | LinkedInLynne Thornton | LinkedInMelissa Garrido | LinkedInTechBuffalo: Posts | LinkedInWomen in Tech WNY: Posts | LinkedInM&T Bank: Overview | LinkedInSeneca One: Overview | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why We Climb - Erika VanDette

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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why We Climb - Russell Hill

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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s All About the Food - Batavia Restaurant Week with Kaeli Kleinbach LaFrance

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, NYHome - Roman'sAlex's Place | Fine Dining Steakhouse | Ribs & SeafoodCenter Street Smokehouse - western new york, Batavia, NYFortunes Restaurant - Fine Dining | Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, NY34 Rush Restaurant - Sports Bar | Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, NYO'Lacy's Irish PubEli Fish Brewing Company | Brewery | 109 Main St, Batavia, NY 14020Home - Bourbon & Burger Co. - Burger Joint in Batavia, NYBar OloEDEN Café & BakeshopSunny's - Batavia, NYEverybody EatsThe Coffee PressMatty's Pizza - Pizza Passion in Batavia New YorkBatavia's Original - Batavia, NY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Fancy Farm Girl with Sue-Ann Staff at Sue-Ann Staff Estates Winery

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, we are on location at Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, sitting down with Sue-Ann Staff for a conversation that blends entrepreneurship, legacy, and a deep connection to her craft. Sue-Ann is a seventh-generation farmer and fifth-generation grape grower, with her family’s roots on the estate dating back over 200 years. Choosing to build something of her own within that legacy, she carved out her path as a first-generation winemaker. After studying winemaking around the world and spending years developing her craft, she returned home and, at 37, took the leap to start her own winery. What stands out right away is how hands-on her journey has been. Sue-Ann doesn’t just run the business — she’s in it. From the vineyard to the winemaking to the day-to-day decisions, she understands every piece because she’s done every piece.She also shared a perspective that I loved — how her pilot training connects to what she does today. She described winemaking like being an air traffic controller, constantly managing moving parts, making decisions in real time, and balancing both science and instinct. It’s a way of thinking that feels very familiar to anyone building something from the ground up.We also get into the story behind her “Fancy Farm Girl” brand — how a nickname from her earlier years evolved into something that people genuinely connect with today.One of the things that makes Sue-Ann’s winery so special is the experience itself. When you visit, you’re not just tasting wine — you’re stepping into her home. It has that same feeling you get at a great gathering where everyone naturally ends up in the kitchen… comfortable, connected, and part of the experience. That sense of warmth and authenticity carries through everything she’s built.We also talk about the collaborative nature of the wine industry in Niagara — how wineries support one another, share knowledge, and contribute to a region that continues to grow and thrive together. It’s a great reminder that even in entrepreneurship, you don’t have to build alone.And of course, we can’t forget Brix — the happiest Bernese Mountain dog you’ll ever meet — named after the unit used to measure sugar in grapes during the winemaking process. A perfect example of how even the smallest details at the winery have meaning behind them. As one of the only solely female winery owners in her region, Sue-Ann brings a grounded, no-nonsense approach to leadership. She’s built something incredible by staying close to her craft, trusting her instincts, and doing the work every step of the way.This conversation is a real look at entrepreneurship — thoughtful, hands-on, and built over time.Thank you Sue-Ann (and Brix) for such a wonderful conversation. And thank you to the entire team at Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery for welcoming us on a beautiful Spring day…such a wonderful team!!Links to Sue-Ann:Sue-Ann Staff | LinkedInSue-Ann Staff Estate WineryInstagram - Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sponsor Highlight: Drew Schaub of Brazen Brewing

Powered by Authenticity was thrilled to be hosted by Brazen Brewing in Lancaster, New York for our conversation with Tom Whitmarsh.I had such a great time sitting down with Drew, owner of Brazen Brewing, to learn more about the brewery’s story and their deep roots in the WNY community.Brazen has built more than just a brewery—it’s a space that brings people together. From their commitment to crafting great beer to their continued support of local organizations, including hosting the Summit Center fundraiser in partnership with the WNY Beer Trail, they are a true example of what community looks like in action.We absolutely love our location sponsors and were so grateful for the opportunity to partner with a business that embodies what Powered by Authenticity is all about: community, connection, and creating meaningful experiences.Thank you, Brazen Brewing, for hosting Powered by Authenticity! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brewing Ideas, Supporting the Community - Tom Whitmarsh, WNY Trails

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I sit down with Tom Whitmarsh, founder of the WNY Beer Trail, for a conversation that is equal parts community and inspiration.Tom shares his journey from large corporate retail into building something of his own—right here in Western New York. What started as an idea turned into a business that now supports local breweries and brings people together across our region.And that’s what I love about this conversation…It’s a reminder that when you find something you’re passionate about, something that connects people, something that feels meaningful, you can build something real from it. You don’t have to have it all figured out on day one. You just have to start.And along the way, you figure out how to grow it, how to sustain it, and yes—how to monetize it.But Tom didn’t stop there.Giving back has always been part of the vision.We talked about his upcoming fundraiser on April 11 in support of the Summit Center, leading into their Autism Walk on May 2, as well as the continued support for the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park—creating inclusive, thoughtful spaces for families across WNY.We recorded this episode at Brazen Brewing, who will also be hosting the fundraiser and has created a Kölsch-style beer (which is so good!!) in support of the Summit Center. It’s such a great example of what happens when community and purpose come together.Thank you to Brazen Brewing for hosting us and being part of this story.If you’ve ever had an idea in the back of your mind… this one is for you. Thank you, Tom, for such a wonderful conversation rooted in inspiration, heart and the power of community. Links to Information discussed below:Tom Whitmarsh | LinkedInWNYBeerTrail - Craft Beer - Buffalo, New YorkThe Summit Center - WNY's Leading Provider of Autism ServicesWelcome | The Autism Nature TrailBrazen Brewing - Lancaster, NY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Climbing for Air with Mary Russo & the American Lung Association

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I’m joined by Mary Russo from the American Lung Association in Buffalo for a conversation rooted in community, impact, and action.One thing that really matters—when you support the American Lung Association here in Western New York, those dollars stay right here. They go directly toward lung cancer education, research, and patient support for individuals and families in our own community.Mary shares how their team is actively out across WNY, connecting with people, raising awareness, and making sure no one navigating lung disease feels like they’re doing it alone.We also talk about the Fight for Air Climb—an event held in cities across the country, all working toward the same mission. What makes it even more meaningful is that while it’s part of a national movement, the funds raised at each climb support that local community. Here in Buffalo, that means real impact for the people right here at home.This is about more than awareness—it’s about showing up for your community in a way that truly makes a difference.We are also honored to be joined by two of the top climber’s as they share their ‘why they climb’ stories …through loss, they’ve found a way to honor their loved ones and climb each year in their memory. It’s a beautiful story of trying to find purpose from loss. Producer Ken and I will be there climbing on May 9, 2026 – my why? My dad. Although we lost him to lung cancer on April 26, 2009, we continue to honor him each year by raising funds that will help drive awareness and, in time, find a cure to a disease so many suffer from.Thank you, Mary, for being such a wonderful guest on the show! To all of my fellow climbers, I look forward to seeing you climb and share memories of your loved ones on May 9, 2026 at Sahlen’s Field in Buffalo, NY. Link to Mary Russo:Mary Russo | LinkedInLinks to the American Lung Association and their Fight for Air Climb:Fight For Air Climb - Buffalo - American Lung AssociationHome | American Lung AssociationAmerican Lung Association Calls on Nation to Stair Climb for Clean Air and Healthy Lungs | American Lung Association Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Entrepreneur Frame of Mind with Drew Cerza (The Wing King!)

When you hear Buffalo, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?Wings.We think so too.But we also think about the person who helped put them on the map in a whole new way… the Wing King himself, Drew Cerza.And, this was a conversation the Powered by Authenticity team couldn’t wait to have.Getting to spend time with Drew was something we truly appreciated. What he has built in Buffalo, and the way he has brought attention to our community, is something we are proud of.To quote Drew, “It’s been about giving back since day one.”And as the festival has grown, so has the impact he’s been able to make.Drew shares the growth of the National Buffalo Wing Festival, now celebrating its 25th anniversary and recognized as one of the top specialty food festivals. What stands out most is how that growth has created a platform to give back and support the community in meaningful ways.We also talk about how he became the “Wing King,” including his win on Throwdown with Bobby Flay, and how that moment helped elevate both his platform and the festival.This conversation also dives into Drew’s entrepreneurial spirit and the mindset that has shaped his journey.From identifying a niche and going for it, to staying focused and continuing to evolve, Drew shares what it takes to build something that lasts. There is a clear passion for entrepreneurship throughout this conversation, and a respect for those willing to take an idea and turn it into something real.He also shares his commitment to mentorship, including his work with local colleges and reinforces what makes Buffalo so special… people showing up for people.At its core, this episode is about building something meaningful, supporting your community, and creating impact along the way.Be sure to join us in Buffalo on August 29 & 30, 2026 for the National Buffalo Wing Festival. You'll find Drew, Producer Ken and I there taking in all of the wings and community engagement. Find more information about Drew:Home - The National Buffalo Wing FestivalDrew Cerza | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Building our Visions with Nicole Cowley

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, we sitdown with Nicole Cowley, an identity and internal wealth mentor who helps women reconnect with who they are and step into their next chapter with clarity and confidence.Nicole shares her journey from working in her familybusiness to navigating major life transitions that led her to create her signature program, Unleash Your Inner Diamond. At the core of our conversation is a powerful reminder that real transformation starts from within. When you reconnect with your identity and how you want to feel, you begin to build a life that is aligned, not just accomplished.Within, we explore why high-achieving individuals can still feel unfulfilled and unpack the concept of internal wealth and self-trust. Nicole shares how identity shapes the life you create and what it looks like to navigate major life transitions such as divorce, loss, and career shifts. We also dive into why so many women struggle to answer what they truly want and how defining how you want to feel can become a powerful guide for your next steps, all grounded in the foundation of her program, Unleash Your Inner Diamond.Thank you, Nicole, for spending time with us. Where to find Nicole:Nicole Cowley |LinkedInNext Step with Nicole Renee | Hypnotherapist, Health and Life CoachAbout Nicole:Nicole Cowley is an identity reinvention coach, certifiedhypnotherapist, and creator of Unleash Your Inner Diamond™— a transformational coaching experience for high-achieving women who feel stuck in the cycle of almost getting what they want, only to be pulled back into self-doubt, overwhelm, or old patterns. After stepping away from a leadership role in her family’s multi-generational business to become a stay-at-home mom, Nicole experienced a profound identity loss — and when her marriage ended unexpectedly, she rebuilt her life from the inside out. That journey became the foundation of her life’s work. Through identity reinvention and personalized hypnosis tracks, Nicole helps ambitious women finally create confidence, clarity, and fulfillment that last. Her clients dissolve lifelong patterns, break free from the cycle of “almost,” and step into the woman they’re meant to be — not by trying harder, but by changing who they are being. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.