Powered by Authenticity

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.

WNY Changemaker - Jessica Cox & Highmark BCBS Western NY

When you look at Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, you see a thriving organization deeply committed to community involvement and prioritizing the well-being of its employees. At the heart of this mission is strong, compassionate leadership.In this episode, I’m beyond thrilled to share my conversation with Jessica Cox, President of Highmark Western and Northeastern New York. We talked not only about the incredible work Highmark is doing in our community, but also about Jessica’s personal journey—her growth, the “reach assignments” she embraced, and the mentors and coaches who helped shape her leadership path.One of the perspectives I loved most was her emphasis on empathy and understanding in healthcare leadership. When these values are held at the top, you can see the ripple effect across an entire organization, creating a culture where patient care and employee well-being truly flourish.This was such a lovely, inspiring conversation with a local leader who reminds us that it’s not just about the bottom line—it’s about serving people and making a meaningful impact in the communities we call home.Jessica Cox:Jessica Renner Cox | LinkedInJessica's Bio:Jessica CoxPresident, HighmarkWestern and Northeastern New York Jessica Cox is responsible for leading the not-for-profit health plan's performance across the New York market and serves as the primary liaison with community stakeholders, business partners, and Highmark’s strong local workforce. She was appointed in August 2024 as the company's first female president in its 90-year history. She possesses nearly 30 years of experience in the health care industry including as a health insurance executive, hospital administrator, and medical technologist. She currently serves on the board of directors for the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, the Business Council of New York State, Invest Buffalo Niagara, the Life and Health Insurance Company Guaranty Corporation of New York and the New York Health Plan Association. Jessica has also served on the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and ExecutiveCommittee, the Southern Tier Economic Growth Board of Directors and Executive Committee, the Food Bank of the Southern Tier Board of Directors and Executive Committee, and the Chemung County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. About Highmark Western andNortheastern New YorkHighmark Western and Northeastern New York is one of the leading and longest-standing health plans in upstate New York, with roots dating back to 1936. Today, it is an affiliateof Highmark Inc., the fifth largest overall Blue Cross Blue Shield-affiliated organization in the country with more than 7 million members in Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia and western and northeastern New York. The not-for-profit health insurance company operates as Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield in eight counties across Western New York and as Highmark Blue Shield in thirteen counties across Northeastern New York. The company insures over 500kmembers and employs nearly 1,600 team members across New York State. It is one of the region’s strongest corporate citizens, investing over $8 million into 200 non-profit partners across New York. The company generates over $1 billion in economic impact in New York. For more information, visit www.highmark.com.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WNY Changemakers - Midway Check-In

In this solo episode, I pause to reflect on the powerful stories we’ve shared so far in the WNY Changemakers series—leaders in healthcare, entrepreneurship, the arts, and beyond who are making a lasting impact right here in Western New York.I’m also asking you—should we keep this series going after it wraps? If these stories have inspired you, let us know. This is your chance to help shape what comes next.🎧 Listen in for highlights, impact, and an invitation to be part of the journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WNY Changemakers - Kristen Cornyn, Meet & Eat Charcuterie

Welcome to Episode four of our special WNY Changemakers series on Powered by Authenticity. In this episode, I’m joined by Kristen Cronyn, founder of Meet and Eat Charcuterie and host of the Boards and Bosses podcast, in Buffalo, New York—a business born from passion, built on community, and rooted in abundance.Kristen’s journey is a true showcase of the entrepreneurialspirit thriving here in Western New York. What started as a love for curating beautiful boards turned into a movement of connection—hosting classes in local restaurants during COVID, uplifting fellow food entrepreneurs, and evenrallying other creators to help execute large-scale events. What makes Kristen a changemaker isn’t just her creativity—it’s her commitment to community. She shares how choosing to operate from a mindset of abundance, rather than scarcity, opened doors and created meaningful partnerships. One of her favorite reminders?“Worry is like a rocking chair: it gives you something to dobut never gets you anywhere.” – Erma BombeckThis episode is filled with insight, laughter, and groundedwisdom for anyone dreaming of turning passion into purpose. Whether you’re a fellow entrepreneur, a lover of all thing’s charcuterie, or someone who believes in lifting others up—this conversation will stay with you.Kristen, thank you for being a WNY Changemaker—and forreminding us that when we lead with collaboration and heart, there’s no limit to what we can create together.Where to find more information on Kristen and Meet and Eat:Meet & Eat Charcuterie | Buffalo's Choice for On-Demand Charcuterie BoardsBoards & Bosses - Podcast - Apple PodcastsKristen Cronyn | LinkedInKristen's Bio:Meet & Eat Charcuterie was founded in November 2020 by Kristen Cronyn, a former bank executive and mom of two. Starting in the midst of the pandemic, the idea behind Meet & Eat was to virtually bring people together and teach them how to elevate their entertainment game through beautifullydesigned charcuterie boards.Five years later, Kristen has grown Meet & Eat into a thrivingstaple of the Buffalo, New York community. It is a place that connects wine and cheese experts with enthusiasts. Where the community can gather, eat, drink, laugh, and grow. Kristen says, “if it makes me smile, I do it again.” We hope you visit, we hope it makes you smile, and we hope you’ll do it again and again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WNY Changemakers - Helana Shumway & Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester

In this episode of our WNY Changemakers series, we’re joined by Helana Shumway, Public Relations Coordinator for the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester (BCCR)—an organization that exemplifies the power of local action and unwavering compassion.Helana shares how BCCR serves individuals in Western New York who are navigating breast and gynecological cancer diagnoses—not just through resources and advocacy, but through something even more powerful: hope. Whether it's one-on-one peer support, healing arts programs, or community education, every initiative is designed to uplift, empower, and remind survivors and their families that they are not alone.What makes BCCR truly remarkable is its commitment to keeping everything local. Every dollar raised stays right here in our region, directly impacting our friends, neighbors, and loved ones. Their partnerships with local healthcare organizations, elected officials, and researchers only deepen that impact, making sure the voices of patients are heard—and centered—in the fight for better care and outcomes.Helana, thank you for being a passionate advocate and a beacon of hope for so many in our community. Your voice and your work reflect the very best of what it means to be a changemaker.Links referenced:Helana Shumway |LinkedInBreast Cancer Coalition ofRochester | HomeFacebook InstagramHelana’s Bio:Helana Shumway is the Public Relations Coordinator atthe Breast Cancer Coalition. A Rochester native, Helana graduated from The Harley School in 2012, which will always hold a special place in her heart. She received her Bachelor's from Drew University in 2015, where she studied Spanish and Psychology, and later earned a Master's in Social Work from New York University. Helana is passionate about community engagement and empowering individuals and groups alike through storytelling and writtencommunications. At the Breast Cancer Coalition, she is dedicated to supporting the breast and gynecologic cancer survivor community. In her free time, she can be found eating vegan sweets, freelancing for local publications, and going for leisurely jogs around the city. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WNY Changemakers - Meghan Underhill - UR School of Nursing & Wilmont Cancer Institute

In episode two of our WNY Changemakers series, I amhonored to be joined by Dr. Meghan Underhill, Assistant Professor at the University of Rochester School of Nursing, a member of Cancer Control and Prevention at the Wilmot Cancer Institute, and a Nurse Practitioner at the Wilmot Cancer Institute.Did you know that our Western New York Community is home to some of the best cancer research and treatment facilities in the United States? Rochester proudly hosts an NCI-designated cancer center—a distinction held by less than 4% of cancer facilities nationwide.Within, Meghan shares the real impact this bringsto our region—from expanding opportunities for groundbreaking research, to making treatment more accessible throughout the community. She also highlights the importance of this designation in helping to recruit and train care providers.In addition to her research, Meghan provides direct patientcare. She discusses the importance of treating patients holistically, including recognizing the essential role caregivers play throughout the cancer journey. Her commitment to ensuring the patient’s perspective is at the forefront of care is both powerful and inspiring.Meghan explains that the best research starts with identifying real-world clinical problems:“The most important thing that drives the next researchproject is finding a problem in the clinical setting. That helps determine our next steps.”She shares how data collection—through interviews, surveys, and direct patient conversations—serves as a powerful tool to evaluate those needs and guide future solutions.We also explore how Wilmot and the University of Rochesterpartner with community organizations to extend care beyond the clinic. That includes outreach, education, and collaboration with groups like 13thirty Cancer Connect, whosupport young adults with cancer.The work being done at the University of Rochester School ofNursing and the Wilmot Cancer Institute is a source of deep pride for our region. As Meghan shares in this episode:“Feel proud of the work that is being done and do notkeep our Rochester area a secret. There is world-class work happening…”As we wrap up, Meghan reflects on her identity in this fieldby saying:“All of this was made possible because I became a nurse… There are so many opportunities to try and be and grow into something new event within the profession.”The difference Meghan is making in our community—alongside the University of Rochester School of Nursing and Wilmot—is inspiring. Meghan, thank you for highlighting the incredible work happening right here in WNY. You are a true WNY Changemaker.Links to Information Referenced in the Episode:Meghan Underhill | LinkedInHome | University of Rochester School of NursingWilmot Cancer Institute - University of Rochester Medical Center13thirty.org | Helping Teens & Young Adult with Cancer Live Their Very Best Lives - TODAY!Bio:Meghan Underhill is an assistant professor at the University of Rochester School of Nursing, a member of Cancer Control and Prevention at the Wilmot Cancer Institute, and a nurse practitioner at the Wilmot Cancer Institute.Underhill has dedicated her career to understanding the experiences of and improving care for individuals and families living with inherited cancer risk. As an active nurse practitioner within the Hereditary Cancer Program, her program of research focuses on building and implementing clinical innovations that transform the focus of cancer genetics from an illness model to a wellness focused model that directly responds to the needs of individuals and families. She has widely disseminated research findings both through publications and presentations and has served as the nurse scientist on multidisciplinary teams which has had national and international impact. She has worked to share her research expertise with others and has provided long-lasting successful research mentorship to multiple pre and postdoctoral nursing trainees. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

WNY Changemakers - Greg Hallock & GoArt!

In this premiere episode of the WNY Changemakers series of Powered by Authenticity, we’re joined by Gregory Hallock, Executive Director of GoArt!—an organization that is redefining what it means to bring culture, connection, and creativity to Western New York.Gregory shares how a lifelong love of the arts led him tohis current role, and how he’s using that passion to create inclusive spaces for artists, community members, and organizations to thrive. From turning historic buildings into vibrant community hubs to launching innovativeprogramming across the region, Gregory’s vision is reshaping Batavia and the complete Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming Counties in powerful ways.One of the most inspiring parts of our conversation? GoArt’s building—located in the heart of downtown Batavia—is open to everyone. It’s a truly welcoming space where people of all backgrounds can experience the arts, connect with others, and feel a sense of belonging. Whether you're attending an exhibit, participating in a workshop, enjoying live music, orsimply exploring the space, GO ART! invites the entire community to engage, express, and feel at home.We dive into:•The role of the arts in rural community revitalization•Building sustainable, creative spaces in unlikely places•How GO ART! is amplifying local voices through programming, galleries, and outreach•Gregory’s path from performer to changemaker—and the lessons he’s learned leading with authenticityThis inaugural episode begins a series where we will sharestories of local leaders who are rolling up their sleeves and redefining what change looks like—one project, one person, and one powerful idea at a time.A Special Thank You:I’d like to personally thank GO ART! for their generous support of Powered by Authenticity. Through the grants they’ve made available, we’ve been able to utilize the podcast studio to bring this series to life. Additionally, thecommunity of individuals connected to GO ART! has truly rallied around the show. The community support means the world to us here at Powered by Authenticity. THANK YOU! Links to GoArt and their Event Calendar:Home - Go ArtCulturalCalendar - Go ArtGreg’s Bio:GREGORY A. HALLOCK is the Executive Director at theGenesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council. Gregory holds an M.A. in Arts Management from the University at Buffalo, a B.S. from SUNY Brockport in Theatre with an acting concentration and minor in dance, and an A.A. from Genesee CommunityCollege in Theatre Arts. Having a background in arts and cultural studies, Gregory has traveled to and studied in Italy, The Netherlands, England, The Philippines, Japan, and Singapore. In Singapore he was part of the Theatre Training& Research Programme, “The Arts and Cultural Identity in a Borderless World,” which focused on current issues of international arts management such as international models of arts funding, public policy making, and performance& visual arts. Gregory is also an Eagle Scout. With the Scouts he traveled to the 18th World Jamboree in The Netherlands where the theme was Future is Now. The event was attended by Royalty from the Netherlands, Sweden, Jordan, andSadako Ogata, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Gregory has also represented Congressional Districts from Western New York, New York City, Hawaii, and California at Museum Advocacy Day in Washington D.C., meeting with Congressional Representatives discussing the needs of and for Museums. He has lived in Cattaraugus, Erie, and Genesee Counties, along with New York City,Los Angeles, and Honolulu. Prior to GO ART! Gregory has worked at Shea’s Performing Arts Center and Squeaky Wheel/Buffalo Media Resources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.