Powered by Authenticity

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.

WNY Changemakers - Del Reid

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I’m joined by Del Reid, Founder of 26 Shirts in Buffalo, New York. Del shares his insights on leadership, networking, and the power of a giving mindset.I’ve long admired the work of 26 Shirts, and our conversation only deepened that respect. As Del explains, “26 Shirts exists to make an impact on families who are going through the worst situations of their lives.” What began with a single tweet has grown into an organization making a profound difference across Western New York. That tweet, of course, was the now-famous #BillsMafia tag — and it was such fun to hear the story behind its creation.We talked about what it means to lead with generosity, and how a giving mindset can spark ripples of good throughout the community. A theme that stood out to me was “team” — from the support of his family and wife, to the broader community that stands behind his mission. Del also shared how being rooted in faith has shaped his journey and leadership — something that resonated deeply with me.Del, thank you for joining me on Powered by Authenticity. I’m grateful for the conversation and look forward to many more ahead.A special thank you as well to our location sponsor, Roman’s, for hosting us at your #1 rated restaurant for this episode.Links to find Del and 26 Shirts:Del Reid | LinkedIn26 Shirts - Behind everyshirt, there's a story.Mafia Family Ties Podcast - YouTubeDel’s Bio:After (quite accidentally) co-founding the #BillsMafiamovement among Bills fans on social media in 2011, Del felt moved to do something more than just make jokes on his growing social media platform about the cheating Patriots. After trying out a couple different ideas, in 2013 helanded on the idea of selling shirts to help out fellow fans who foundthemselves in tough situations... and thus, 26 Shirts was born!Thank you to our location sponsor, Roman's in Batavia, NY! Roman's Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Circle the Wagons Foundation

This week, I’m joined by James Currey and Christian Buerk of the Circle the Wagons Foundation—two genuinely great guys working tirelessly to support Western New Yorkers impacted by cancer.In our conversation, you’ll hear:The inspiring work their foundation is doing in our communityHow we can all play a part in their missionThe role networking has played in growing Circle the WagonsHow passion, connection, and community can transform a grassroots idea into a force for goodWhether you’re here in Buffalo or tuning in from across the globe, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of the difference local action can make.A huge thank you to Chris and James for the amazing conversation—and to Terry Hills Golf Course for hosting us to record! Terry Hills is also the site for the Circle the Wagons charity golf tournament this September.Every day, people face crossroads—some simple, others life-altering. In these moments, the choices we make and the support we receive shape our journey.Circle the Wagons Foundation was born from a deep respect for the fearless and resilient—individuals who confront adversity with strength, defy the odds, and draw power from faith, hope, and community. In the spirit of “circling the wagons,” we rally around one another in the battle against cancer, determined to make a lasting impact and bring us closer to a cure.Inspired by the resilience of loved ones affected by cancer, James Currey and Christian Buerk—alongside their families, Lacey (Hansen) Buerk and Ashley Currey—established the Circle the Wagons Foundation in 2024. Today, the foundation supports programs that promote physical and emotional well-being, provides financial assistance through college scholarships, and funds cancer research initiatives throughout Western New York.Because no one should battle alone. Together, we circle the wagons.Learn more & connect:🌐 Circle the Wagons Foundation🔗 Christian Buerk on LinkedIn🔗 James Currey on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WNY Changemakers - Kimberly Behzadi, Read It & Eat

Food is the best connector we have.At Powered by Authenticity, we couldn’t agree more—and this week, we’re thrilled to be joined by Kimberly Behzadi, founder of Read It & Eat Bookshop in Buffalo, New York.As the first culinary bookstore in Buffalo—and one of only 13 in the entire country—Read It & Eat is more than a bookstore. It’s a space filled with flavor, heart, and purpose.In this episode, Kim shares how she blended her love of cooking, reading, and connection to bring her business to life during the pandemic. What began as a monthly subscription box has now grown into a beautiful brick-and-mortar location offering books, events, and community—a true gathering place.We also talk about how this journey aligned with a deeply personal chapter in Kim’s life. With her father living far away and unable to see him during COVID, Kim turned to daily walks and business planning as part of her healing. Their shared love of cooking became a bridge across the miles, and even now, when she misses him, she reconnects through the food they loved together.Kim’s story is also one of community impact. From her beginnings in Chicago to her growth in Buffalo, she’s made giving back a cornerstone of her business—supporting local organizations and creating meaningful ties with the people around her. From the start, a portion of her revenue has been devoted to distributing across community organizations.I can’t thank Kim enough for joining us and sharing the heart behind Read It & Eat Bookshop. Her journey is a reminder that when we gather around food, books, and shared stories—we’re building something far bigger than business. We’re building community.More about Kim:Kimberly Behzadi, MBA | LinkedInKimberly Behzadi is a food lover, marketer, and community builder based in Buffalo, NY. With seven years of experience in the consumer-packaged goods industry, she has helped bring popular products like plant-based milks, Planters snack nuts, and Halo Top ice cream to market.Driven by a deeper curiosity about food origins and the people behind them, Kimberly launched Read It & Eat Boxes in 2020 from her Chicago apartment. Read It & Eat Box—a culinary book box subscription that pairs food writing with artisan treats and gives back to hunger-fightingorganizations . Since then, her initiative has partnered with over 15 nonprofits and now specifically partners with non-profits in Buffalo, NY. Her boxes have been featured in Book Riot, The New York Post, and Real Homes.In 2023, she expanded the concept into Buffalo’s first culinarybookstore, Read It & Eat Bookshop, originally inside the West Side Bazaar and now part of the women-led Valvaere Collective. Most recently featured in USA Today, the Read It & Eat Bookshop is on a mission to inspire culinaryadventure with a curated selection of cookbooks, author chats, and cooking classes. Kimberly also founded the annual Read It & Eat Book Fair and Market, which celebrated its third year in 2025.Links to Referenced Materials:https://www.ted.com/speakers/nora_mcinernyFood of LifeAncient Persian and Modern Iranian Cooking and CeremoniesNajmiehBatmanglij (Author)https://bookshop.org/a/7093/9781949445800 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Space and Grace

In this episode, I’m joined by Stephanie Kord Miller, CEO of Empower Your Results and Membership & Operations Manager for CEO Roundtable.Stephanie is a wealth of information, and her perspective on supporting fellow business owners is nothing short of inspiring.Here are a few key takeaways from our conversation:✨ Work/Life Balance vs. Work/Life Integration: It’s time to rethink balance and embrace integration, allowing us to keep both home and business running at their highest potential.✨ Small actions create big results: Consistent, simple actions over time lead to meaningful growth and success.✨ Be. Do. Have.: We have the power to succeed when we take intentional actions and choices aligned with who we want to be.I also loved Stephanie’s reminder that the defining difference between goals and dreams is taking action.I could have talked with Stephanie for days! This was such an impactful conversation, and I loved learning about the work she is doing to help entrepreneurs and leaders cut through the noise and reach their next level.Thank you, Stephanie, for an engaging, insightful, and fun conversation.Where to find Stephanie:Stephanie Kord Miller | LinkedInEmpower Your Results | Business ConsultingCEO Roundtable | Forum Group | CEO Peer Advisory Groups BostonBio:Stephanie Kord Miller is the Membership &Operations Manager at CEO Roundtable, an exclusive in-person peer group where growth-stage CEOs scale and exit faster through honest conversations and trusted accountability. She’s also the Founder of Empower Your Results, a boutique coaching program helping women business owners lead with clarity and confidence during seasons of change and growth. Through strategic planningworkshops, personalized coaching, and digital tools like her self-guided SWOT analysis and KPI scorecard, Stephanie equips entrepreneurs to stop spinning their wheels and focus on what truly drives results.With more than two decades of experience in digital media, technology, and operations, Stephanie has launched enterprise software, built high-performing teams, and scaled revenue across public media, SaaS, and startup environments. She’s a certified Scrum Master and ProductOwner, trained as an EOS Integrator, and deeply grounded in Business Agility principles.When she's not recruiting CEOs to experience thepower of a peer group or facilitating strategic workshops, Stephanie co-manages her husband’s “Cape-famous” rock & roll cover band, The Boston Naturals. She’s also an avid traveler, a dog mom, and a Gen X’er originally from Texas.Stephanie earned her BA from Boston College and now calls Boston home.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.