Powered by Authenticity

NO KID SLEEPS ON THE FLOOR IN OUR TOWN!

There are moments on this podcast when the conversationshifts from storytelling to something deeper — something tender, urgent, and universally human. This episode is one of those moments.In this episode, Donna Ritchie and Jerry Sheldon, leaderswith Sleep in Heavenly Peace, share how a bed becomes much more than furniture. It becomes warmth. Stability. Safety. A sense of belonging. A soft place for a child to land after days that are sometimes heavier than any childshould carry.Across the United States, more than 150,000 childrenhave no bed of their own — a number that feels impossible until you hear Donna and Jerry speak about what they see every week here in Western New York. In our own backyard, hundreds of children lay their heads down on floors,couches, or borrowed spaces night after night. Rochester’s waitlist is around 300 kids. Buffalo’s approaches 700.This is not a far-away issue.It’s happening in our neighborhoods, our schools, our communities.And yet — the heart of this episode is not about what’smissing.It’s about the love that shows up to fill the gap.Donna and Jerry talk about the small details — the handmadeframes, the safe stain used to protect the wood, the bedding volunteers lovingly choose — because when you’re giving a child a bed, everything matters. They share moments from delivery days that stay with them: the look on a child’s face when they see their new bed, the way a parent’s shouldersfinally drop in relief, the joy of matching a little girl’s wish for unicorn bedding.And woven through every story is the same message:Love is the driving force behind this work.Love for children who deserve rest.Love for families who need support.Love for a community that rallies when the need is great.This episode is a reminder that sometimes the mostmeaningful change comes from the most basic human needs — a safe place to sleep, and people who care enough to make sure every child has it. Thank you Jerry and Donna for sharing the story of Sleep inHeavenly Peace’s mission across the US, and those incredible needs here in WNY.Links to where you will find additional information on Sleep in Heavenly Peace:Home - Sleep in HeavenlyPeacehttps://bit.ly/SHPNY-ROCSleep inHeavenly Peace - Buffalo ChapterSleep inHeavenly Peace - Rochester Chapter Donna Ritchie Bio:My husband and I learned about Sleep in Heavenly Peace alittle over 6 years ago after a conversation with one of our daughters. We were talking about kids in need, and she said she had friends in Michigan who build beds for kids. After looking into it, we were both intrigued. We were newlyempty nesters, so we thought we had some extra time on our hands. The next thing we knew, we were on our way to chapter president training.Our first delivery was Christmas Eve 2019. We delivered 2beds to twin 6-year-olds. Since then, we’ve had a nice family tradition of delivering beds with our 2 daughters every Christmas Eve. In total, our chapter has delivered over 1300 beds to local kids. Our chapter delivers approximately 300 beds per year. Both my husband and I (and many of our volunteers) work fulltime jobs. My husband is an engineer and I’m an event planner.I’d like people to know that anyone can help by eitherparticipating in a build or donating.Jerry Sheldon Bio:Jerry and Mary Jo Sheldon, along with Rick and Betsy DiVitaformed the Buffalo chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace in 2019.  It was August of 2020 that SHP Buffalo delivered its first bed to a child in Buffalo.  Currently SHP Buffalo has delivered over 5100 beds.Jerry has been active in the WNY community aa volunteer,board members and active citizen working to improve the lives of fellow WNYers.  He is a retired engineer havingworked in a corporate environment, owned a small business, and led a non-profit.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Giving Veterans a Voice with Cole Johnson of WNYHeroes

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I amjoined by Cole Johnson — Lead Caseworker for WNYHeroes, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, and Afghanistan War Veteran. We begin by honoring Cole for his service, but what becomes clear throughout our conversation is that his servicenever stopped. It simply shifted home to Western New York.Cole walks us through the extraordinary work WNYHeroes isdoing every single day for veterans, service members, and their families right here in our community. Beyond being a trusted ear and a steady shoulder, WNYHeroes provides both financial support and people-centered services that fill critical gaps for those who have sacrificed so much.We explore programs like:The Little Heroes Fund, which helps cover the costs of enrichment activities for the children of veterans and active-duty military — from sports and camps to music, arts, and after-school programs. These opportunities ensure every child has the chance to grow, learn, and belong.The Heroes’ Bridge Program, offering vital financial support in moments of crisis. Whether it’s rent, mortgage payments, utilities, or emergency needs, this grant gives veterans the stability they deserve when times get tough.And with the holiday season approaching, WNYHeroes ishard at work on their impactful Adopt-a-Hero Family program — ensuring veterans, service members, and their families experience a Christmas filled with warmth, and support when times are tough.While donations are always meaningful, volunteers are theheartbeat of this organization. Whether it’s lending Cole a hand in the office, assisting at community events, or offering support out in the field, every bit of time and effort truly matters. WNYHeroes welcomes anyone who is ready to step in, ready to help, and ready to support the veterans and families who have long supported us.I walked away from this conversation both humbled andinspired. I had no idea the depth and breadth of services WNYHeroes provides, nor how many lives they quietly transform across Western New York. I hope you’ll join me in supporting this extraordinary nonprofit that continuesto uplift those who have carried the weight of service on our behalf.THANK YOU, Cole — and every veteran connected toWNYHeroes — for your service, your leadership, and your ongoing commitment to our community.Links mentioned on this episode:WNY Heroes - WNY HeroesStaff& Board of Directors - WNY HeroesWNYHeroes Inc. |LinkedInInstagramFacebook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Out of Bounds with Kendra Brim

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I had the joy of sitting down with someone who is making a lasting mark on Western New York through her leadership, heart, and dedication to helping others grow — Kendra Brim.Kendra is the Founder and CEO of K. Savannah Consulting, where she partners with organizations to strengthen culture, develop inclusive leaders, and build strategies that drive meaningful, lasting change. Her work blends strategy with empathy — helping people and organizations move from intention to action with purpose and authenticity.She’s also the creator of Out of Bounds, an initiative born from her experience as a student-athlete that helps athletes navigate life beyond sports. Through Out of Bounds, Kendra helps others translate skills like discipline, teamwork, and resilience into success off the court and beyond the game.Today, she serves as the Vice President of Programs and Organizational Advancement at Leadership Buffalo, where she’s shaping the next generation of civic-minded leaders and deepening the organization’s impact across Western New York. Her work continues her lifelong commitment to leadership rooted in connection, service, and community.Kendra is co-founder of Buffalo Black Restaurant Week, a celebration that highlights and uplifts Black-owned restaurants across the region. What began as a grassroots idea has grown into one of Buffalo’s most anticipated community events — bringing people together through food, culture, and conversation.She’s also the co-host of the Black Gems Dive In Podcast, where she discusses inclusive culture, leadership, and all things diversity, equity, and inclusion.Kendra Brim is a leader who listens deeply, acts with intention, and inspires everyone around her to do the same. Thank you, Kendra, for an inspiring conversation. Links to Kendra:LinkedIn – Kendra Brim, MBAListen to the Black Gems Dive In PodcastAbout Kendra:Kendra Brim is a dynamic speaker, strategist, and founder of Out of Bounds, a transformative platform helping student-athletes, professionals, and emerging leaders navigate identity shifts and redefine success beyond traditional boundaries. A proud graduate of the University at Buffalo School of Management, she brings both business acumen and lived experience to her work in leadership and transformation.A former Division I basketball player and record holder at Colgate University, Kendra’s journey from the court to the boardroom has fueled her mission to help others unlearn limiting beliefs and reclaim their narratives. Her path has also been global — she’s lived in Australia and coached basketball in Thailand, experiences that continue to shape her worldview and passion for cross-cultural connection.In her acclaimed TEDx Talk, “The Weight We Carry,” Kendra challenged audiences to examine how external validation can mask internal uncertainty. She shared her journey of losing herself in titles and performance — and what it took to rediscover her authentic self. Her message deeply resonates with anyone standing at a crossroads of transition, especially high achievers questioning “what’s next” after success.Beyond her professional endeavors, Kendra is a dedicated community leader and advocate. She serves on the United Way of Buffalo and Erie County Board, Say Yes Buffalo Board of Directors, and has held board seats with the PGA of Western New York and the Buffalo Urban League. Nationally, she served as Vice President of the National Urban League Young Professionals, advancing leadership and civic engagement among emerging Black leaders across the country.Kendra is also the co-author of The Six-Figure Athlete and co-founder of Buffalo Black Restaurant Week, an initiative celebrating Black culinary excellence and economic empowerment. Whether she’s facilitating a leadership workshop, mentoring young professionals, or amplifying stories through her podcast, Kendra brings authenticity, warmth, and bold clarity to everything she does. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sponsor Highlight: SPoT Coffee

Powered by Authenticity was thrilled to be hosted by SPoT Coffee in beautiful downtown Buffalo, New York for our conversation with Kaely's Kindness Foundation.I had such a great time sitting down with Kevin Kuchta, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, to learn more about SPoT’s incredible story and community roots.As the original craft coffeehouse in Western New York, SPoT has been fueling connection and creativity for over 30 years. What began on the corner of Delaware and Chippawa has grown into a beloved local institution—still proudly roasting their beans onsite and serving guests in that very first café today.We absolutely love our location sponsors and were so grateful for the chance to partner with a business that embodies what Powered by Authenticity is all about: community, connection, and great conversation over an even better cup of coffee. Thank you, SPoT for hosting Powered by Authenticity and Kaely's Kindness Foundation!Links to SPoT and Kevin Kuchta:Home - SPoT CoffeeKevin Kuchta | LinkedInHome | kaelys-kindness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kaely’s Kindness Foundation - Kaely Kwitek

On this episode of Powered by Authenticity I am joined by Kaely Kwitek, Co-Founder of Kaely's Kindness Foundation.At just 16 years old, Kaely Kwitek was diagnosed with Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL)—a rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. During her treatment, Kaely realized there wasn’t a support group designed specifically for teen girls facing cancer. So, she decided to change that.While receiving inpatient care, Kaely and her go-to person, Emily, noticed another patient sitting alone in her hospital room. They ordered a pizza and shared a moment of connection that changed everything. That small act of kindness inspired Kaely’s mom to write a grant request to Pizza Hut—and Kaely’s Kindness Foundation was born.Today, Kaely’s Kindness is a beacon of hope for girls ages 11–21 navigating a cancer diagnosis and treatment. It’s more than a support group—it’s a sisterhood built on understanding, compassion, and shared experience. From back-to-school shopping and spa days to retreats and Friendsgiving celebrations, the foundation creates moments of joy and belonging for young women who need it most. Above that, the Kaely's Kindness Foundation gives back to families in ways they need to feel a sense of relief to some of the everyday burdens they still face -- such as rent, utilities, and daily expenses. This allows them to be able to fully focus on care and healing. I’ve had the privilege of getting to know Kaely, and the impact she’s making for teens across Western New York is truly remarkable. One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation? If you want it—get creative and find it. That tenacious spirit has helped Kaely’s Kindness grow to support over 116 teenage girls battling this unforgiving disease.Thank you, Kaely, for joining the show and for turning your own journey into a message of hope, connection, and community for others.Links to find Kaely and Kaely's Kindness Foundation:Kaely Kwitek | LinkedInHome | kaelys-kindnessAbout Kaely:Kaely Kwitek, Co-founder of Kaely’s Kindness. Kaely startedKaely’s Kindness back in 2012 after her journey with Cancer begun. Kaely was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and saw minimal resources for the teenage and young adult demographic. With that she founded Kaely’s Kindness. The foundation provides practical, peer and social support to young woman living with cancer.Kaely’s Kindness is a volunteer run organization. During the day Kaely works at Ingram Micro as a Supply Chain Consultant and before that was a Financial Business Manager on the FP&A team where she has was for over 5 years andhas been with the company for almost 8 years. In her spare time, she enjoys being an aunt to her three nieces and creating family memories. Kaely has two Goldendoodles, Ghost and Gabbana with her boyfriend and resides in Amherst, NY.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Finding Your Authenticity with Shannon Seastead

After more than two decades helping a company grow from startup to $600 million, Shannon Seastead faced an unthinkable moment—learning she was losing her job on the way to her mother’s funeral. That loss became the catalyst for rediscovery, leading her to write Micro Moment Reset and dedicate her work to helping leaders slow down, breathe, and lead with intention.In this episode, Emily and Shannon talk about what it means to rebuild from the inside out—how even in chaos, the smallest pause can bring you back to center. They dig into modern leadership, breathwork, self-coaching, and why every one of us leads—whether at work, at home, or in our own lives.It’s an authentic, grounded conversation about grief, growth, and giving yourself permission to start again… one micro moment at a time.Takeaways:Everyone is a leader, regardless of title.Small intentional pauses can shift everything.Coaching helps uncover the strength you already have.Starting over isn’t failure—it’s freedom.Thank you, Shannon, for such an inspiring conversation.Links to find Shannon:Shannon Seastead | LinkedInshannon seastead llc | executive coachMicroMoment Reset: Master the Moment, Master Your Life: Seastead, Shannon: 9798990613300: Amazon.com: BooksAbout Shannon:Shannon Seastead is a speaker, author, certified executive coach, and former C-suite leader with decades of experience navigating high-pressure environments. She now empowersnonprofit marketing executives to lead with clarity, presence, and purpose—helping them reconnect with what matters most while driving mission-aligned impact.Creator of the Micromoment Reset™ framework,Shannon equips leaders with practical tools to pause intentionally, reset in real time, and sustain meaningful momentum. Her coaching blends strategic insight with deep expertise in behavior change, making her a trusted guide forpurpose-driven professionals ready to lead with heart and focus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Passion, Purpose, and a Whole Lot of Love

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I am joined by Dionne Williamson, founder of UPward Design for Life, to talk about love made practical—turning empty apartments into true homes. Dionne shares how her team’s dignity-first approach delivers more than furniture: it creates spacesthat say you are safe, you are warm, you are loved. We explore how thoughtful details and community partnership help families exhale, begin again, and feel a deep sense of belonging. As Dionne puts it, our work deliversfamilies a true sense of home—a safe space and a place to rebuild their lives and find peace. If you believe home should be a soft place to land and a strong place to launch, this conversation is your reminder that practical kindness can build it—one room, one family, one fresh start at a time.Thank you so much Dionne for your time and sharing yourmission. The work that UPward Design for Life is doing is making such an impact on our local community. I can’t thank her and the team of Volunteers enough for all that they are doing to bring a renewed sense of home and peace to those who need it. Links to Upward Design for Life and Dionne are below. Links:DionneWilliamson | LinkedInUPward DesignFor LifeAbout Dionne:Dionne Williamson is a lifelong resident of Western New York with a passion for design and a deep appreciation for the power of creating safe, beautiful homes.  A naturally creative person, Dionne feels a true calling to use her gifts to uplift others and improve lives through design.She is the Founder and Executive Director of UPward Design for Life, Corp. (UDFL), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring hope by transforming empty spaces into homes for individuals and families transitioning out ofhomelessness in Erie and Niagara Counties.Dionne launched UDFL from her home in 2017 with a vision tomerge her love for design with a pressing community need. Since then, UDFL has transformed more than 150 empty spaces into warm, welcoming homes—restoring hope, dignity, and independence for countless families rebuilding their lives.A community-driven and servant-hearted leader, Dionne hasspent many years serving on local boards and volunteering with grassroots organizations that support survivors of domestic violence and neighborhood revitalization efforts.  She remains deeply engaged and hands-on in her work, connecting directly with those she serves.  Each month, she also finds joy in reading to children at a local bookstore.Dionne is a proud wife to a supportive husband and mother totwo incredible daughters, and a wonderful son. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Promote, Support, Connect - The Power of the Chamber of Commerce

Are you a member of your local Chamber of Commerce?If not — listen in. If you are — drop your ideas below.In this week’s episode of Powered by Authenticity, I sit down with Brian Cousins, President of the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce (NY), to explore what a Chamber really does behind the scenes — the wins, the challenges, and why every local business should care.A lifelong Western New Yorker, Brian brings renewed energy, focus, and passion to supporting local businesses. His approach centers on three powerful pillars — promote, support, and connect — helping members strengthen their reach and build meaningful relationships across the region. I’ve personally experienced the power of these connections and the ripple effect they can have on a business.Before joining the Chamber myself, I had no idea just how many resources were available — from educational workshops and business advocacy to community events and access to meeting spaces. In this episode, Brian shares real-world examples of how the Chamber’s mission comes to life, helping local entrepreneurs and organizations grow stronger together.Whether you’re tuning in from Western New York or across the globe, this episode offers valuable insight into how leveraging your Chamber can accelerate both personal and professional growth.P.S. Please bear with us as we have a few technical difficulties throughout this episode!Links to Additional Information on Brian and the Chamber!Brian Cousins on LinkedInGenesee County Chamber of Commerce – Promote | Support | ConnectBrian's Bio:“I’m a hard-working, dedicated individual who believes in having a vision. My passion and drive in life will always guide who I am.I truly value a work environment where:People are open to new ideas, creativity, positivity, and teamwork.Every opinion matters and decisions are made collaboratively.Hard work is appreciated and recognized.Fun and laughter are always part of the day.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Generations of Good - Rich Products

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I had thedistinct pleasure to talk with Michelle Lund Philbin, Senior Global Sustainability Manager at Rich Products, and Kevin Aman, VP of Social Impact and Community Engagement at Rich Products. Together, they share how culture, purpose, and community are deeply woven into the way Rich Productsapproaches leadership and impact.Emily reflects on how she has known Rich Products her entire life yet had no idea of the true depth of impact the company is making. This conversation was eye-opening — offering a whole new way to look at one of Western New York’s cornerstone businesses.Michelle and Kevin dive into the role of culture in shaping how teams show up, innovate, and lead authentically. They also share the story of how Rich Products, and their Generations of Good pillar transformed food wasteinto more than 180,000 meals for people in need, proving that when culture and purpose align, extraordinary things can happen.This episode is both inspiring and enlightening — highlighting not just what Rich Products does as a company, but how they are redefining what it means to be a business rooted in community and authenticity.Thank you so much Michelle and Kevin (and the incredible Rich Product team) for such a wonderful conversation. Links and Information on our guests can be found below:Michelle Lund Philbin | LinkedInKevin Aman | LinkedInHOME - Rich Products CorporationTable Magazine | Rich Products CorporationMichelle Lund Philbin:A proud Buffalo native, I earned my BSBA in Marketing from The Ohio State University and later completed my MBA at the University at Buffalo.Over the years, I’ve built a diverse career in marketing and product management, working across industries including healthcare, food, utilities/natural gas, and consumer goods.For the past 9 years, I’ve been at Rich Products, where I get toblend my professional expertise with my love of food. In 2023, I made the leap into a sustainability-focused role - a challenging yet deeply fulfilling shift that aligns with my commitment to leave the world a better place than I foundit for the next generation.Outside of the office, you can find me cheering on my favorite teams (I’m a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan and forever a Buckeye …O-H!), chasing after my three energetic boys, or exploring new restaurants in the Western New York area.Kevin Aman:Kevin Aman is the VP of social impact and community engagement at Rich Products Corporation and works on behalf of Rich Family Foundation to advance philanthropic initiatives. Using the food system as a unifying framework, the Generations of Good team is committed to funding causes and fostering partnerships that prioritize people and help to renew our planet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Even the GOAT Has a Coach

In this episode, I’m joined by Scott Lewis, Owner and Chairman of the CEO Roundtable, for a powerful conversation about the role of peer groups, emotion in leadership, and why human connection remains essential for leaders today.We dig into a key question: When you’re the CEO — the one making the final calls — where do you go for support? As Scott shares, being “at the top” can often feel isolating. That’s where peer groups come in: a trusted space to close the door, brainstorm options, and gain perspective from others who have faced — or are currently facing — the same challenges. These groups not only provide fresh insight but also serve as a vital reminder that you’re not alone and that your leadership matters.Our conversation also explores the growing importance of human connection in an era of AI and automation. Connection provides perspective, resilience, and meaning. It reminds us that strength lies in weaving together diverse voices and experiences, and that even leaders need a community to lean on.Scott illustrates this beautifully with the story of Susan — a stay-at-home mom returning to work who joined a workshop group activity. During a group project, Susan shared a perspective that was ultimately overlooked. In hindsight, it was the exact insight the team needed for a better outcome. The lesson? Always seek out and listen to the “Susan” in the room. That different perspective may be the key to moving forward.Thank you, Scott, for such a thoughtful conversation. From peer groups to one-on-one coaching, this episode is a timely reminder that leadership — at its best — is built on connection.Links to find more information about Scott:Scott Lewis | LinkedInCEO Roundtable | Forum Group | CEO Peer Advisory Groups Bostonwww.towerstonegroup.comScott's Bio:Scott is owner and Chairman of the CEO Roundtable, a fixture in the Greater Boston business community since 1996.  There he facilitates peer meetings that provide a confidential environment for CEOs to discuss issues unique to thecorner office.Scott’s 40-year career as GM and CEO involved 5 startups,2 significant operational turnarounds, 3 successful exits and 2 windups. He completed a management restructuring and return togrowth of a national medical supply company. He turned a failing navigation equipment manufacturer into thedefinitive market leader in two highly competitive markets.  He has brought value to 9 corporate boards as an active member, secretary and chair and has consulted to over 50 technology companies in Canada and the US.He has served as President of the Canadian Entrepreneursin New England, a non-profit dedicated to helping Canadian companies find their feet in the US. Scott holds a B.A.Sc. (EE ’78) from the University of Waterloo with an Option in Management Science.  He is a Commercial Airplane Pilot with Instrument, Multi-Engine Land and Sea ratings.  Scott came to Massachusetts in 1992 for 2 years.  He is still here.  Her name is Joanie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.