Building Success Stories with Ann Donnelly

Ann Donnelly
  • 4.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Are you ready to ignite your business and achieve your full potential? Welcome to Building Success Stories, the podcast that empowers entrepreneurs and business leaders. I'm Ann Donnelly, and I've spent over four decades in the business world. I've witnessed the power of perseverance, innovation, and strategic thinking firsthand. We'll explore the stories of successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, and we'll delve into the practical strategies and mindset shifts that can propel your business to new heights. Get ready to be inspired and motivated to take your business to the next level!

  1. Sep 28 ·  Bonus Video

    Clearing Business Blocks: The Ruby Red Road to Peak Leadership Performance

    Host: Ann Donnelly Guests: Karen Carey, Owner & Intuitive Life & Business Support Coach, Ruby Red Road Episode OverviewIn this live-on-location episode from Moreau Commons, host Ann Donnelly speaks with Karen Carey, owner of Ruby Red Road. Drawing on 30 years in the customer service and beauty industries and 17 years of dedicated coaching experience, Karen breaks down how intuitive life and business coaching helps entrepreneurs, non-profits, and corporate teams break through frustration and operational chaos. Whether addressing team friction, leadership misalignment, or personal burnout, Karen shares how clearing blocks creates a direct path to sustainable success. Key TakeawaysHolistic Life & Business Alignment:Why personal growth and professional success are inextricably linked, and how addressing underlying personal blocks transforms business performance.Supporting Non-Profits & Lean Teams:How specialized coaching helps mission-driven organizations navigate high-chaos, low-resource environments to maximize community impact.Recognizing the Warning Signs:Key indicators that it’s time to seek external support—including persistent operational bottlenecks, repeated team friction, and feeling stuck in reactive patterns.Frictionless Onboarding:Karen’s unique "gifted session" model, allowing prospective clients to experience her coaching style without immediate sales pressure.Nationwide Virtual Reach:How Karen supports clients across the country—from Upstate New York to Washington and California—through seamless virtual sessions. Memorable Quotes from Karen Carey"Life is life and business is business, and we can use support in both. You don't have to just sit around and settle—you can upgrade it." "If you keep asking yourself, 'How can this still be happening? Why aren't they getting along?'—that's your sign that it's time to clear the blocks." More Information More about Karen Carey & Ruby Red Road: Ruby Red Road Website - https://rubyredroad.com More from Ann Donnelly: Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist- https://anndonnelly.comBuilding Success Storiespodcast & articles -https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com More from the North Country Media Network: Are you an Upstate New York business leader looking to dominate your market? Subscribe to The North Country Insider– the premier weekly dispatch for regional economic insights and strategic authority-building assets delivered straight to your inbox.https://northcountrymedianetwork.com/north-country-insider/Want your business’s legacy captured with broadcast-quality impact?Don’t let your story get lost in the noise.https://northcountrymedianetwork.com/digital-legacy/Listen to more episodes on the NCMN website:https://northcountry.media Love the Show? Help Us Build More Success Stories!If you found value in Karen’s insights, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: Subscribe/FollowonApple Podcasts,Spotify, orYouTubeso you never miss an episode.Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up)- your reviews and ratings help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs!Share this episodewith a friend, team leader, or non-profit director who needs support clearing operational hurdles today.Drop a comment:What is the biggest recurring block or frustration you've had to overcome in your business journey?

    Clearing Business Blocks: The Ruby Red Road to Peak Leadership Performance

  2. Sep 28 ·  Bonus Video

    Can You Afford Not to Have a Financial Advisor? Inside Wealth Planning with Equitable Financial

    Host: Ann Donnelly Guests: Brandon Crist, Financial Advisor & Max Benedetto, Financial Advisor Associate, Equitable Financial Episode OverviewIn this live-on-location episode from Moreau Commons, host Ann Donnelly sits down with Brandon Crist and Max Benedetto of Equitable Financial Advisors. Brandon shares insights from a decade of helping state employees, retirees, and local business owners navigate complex pensions, Social Security optimization, and tax-efficient distribution strategies. Max discusses his journey coming on board, passing his licensing exams, and elevating client management and customer service. Together, they break down why financial planning isn't just for the wealthy, how fee transparency works, and why having a trusted local advisor in Queensbury and the North Country makes all the difference. Key TakeawaysMaximizing State Pensions & Social Security:How tailored strategies help public sector employees and retirees make informed decisions about when and how to draw benefits.Tax-Efficient Wealth & Gifting Strategies:Smart approaches to managing IRAs, reducing tax exposure in retirement, and executing intergenerational gifting strategies.Business Succession & Family Planning:Navigating the unique financial and emotional challenges of passing a business down to the next generation.Demystifying Financial Advisor Fees:A transparent look at how asset-management-based compensation works—and why initial consultations are low-pressure and no-obligation.Building a Team for Long-Term Support:How Brandon and Max combine a decade of strategic experience with modernized customer support to deliver seamless client service. Memorable Quotes "A lot of people think, 'I can't afford a financial advisor.' But the real question is: can you afford NOT to use one?" — Ann Donnelly "Everybody's got their own unique challenges when it comes to retirement and business succession, and we get to help them solve those puzzles every single day." — Brandon Crist More Information More about Brandon Crist, Max Benedetto & Equitable Financial: Equitable Financial Website More from Ann Donnelly: Ann Donnelly Business Growth StrategistBuilding Success Storiespodcast & articles More from the North Country Media Network: Are you an Upstate New York business leader looking to dominate your market? Subscribe to The North Country Insider– the premier weekly dispatch for regional economic insights and strategic authority-building assets delivered straight to your inbox.https://northcountrymedianetwork.com/north-country-insider/Want your business’s legacy captured with broadcast-quality impact?Don’t let your story get lost in the noise.https://northcountrymedianetwork.com/digital-legacy/Listen to more episodes on the NCMN website:https://northcountry.media Love the Show? Help Us Build More Success Stories!If you found value in Brandon and Max's insights, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: Subscribe/FollowonApple Podcasts,Spotify, orYouTubeso you never miss an episode.Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up)- your reviews and ratings help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs!Share this episodewith a friend, state employee, or business owner who is mapping out their financial future.Drop a comment:What's your biggest question when it comes to planning for retirement or optimizing Social Security?

    Can You Afford Not to Have a Financial Advisor? Inside Wealth Planning with Equitable Financial

  3. Sep 28 ·  Bonus Video

    Beyond the Break-Fix: Proactive Cybersecurity and Local Partnership with Nic Molik

    Host: Ann Donnelly Guests: Nic Molik, Director of Partnerships, Adirondack Technical Solutions (ADKtechs) Episode Overview In this live-on-location episode of Building Success Stories from Moreau Commons, host Ann Donnelly sits down with Nic Molik, Director of Partnerships at Adirondack Technical Solutions (ADKtechs). Nic shares how ADKtechs' strategic move from Argyle to Route 9 in South Glens Falls has breathed fresh energy into their team, turbocharged recruiting across the Capital District and North Country, and drastically increased community visibility. Beyond physical location, Nic breaks down why IT shouldn't just be talked about when things go wrong, how local businesses can stay ahead of changing cybersecurity and AI trends, and why authentic community involvement is the heart of business growth. Key TakeawaysStrategic Real Estate for Talent & Reach: Moving right off Exit 17 at Moreau Commons increased visibility to 15,000 daily passing vehicles and expanded ADKtechs' recruitment radius from Saratoga to Clifton Park and beyond.Proactive vs. Reactive IT: Why businesses need a trusted, local IT partner to solve problems before disaster strikes—and why face-to-face accountability still matters in a digital world.Navigating the AI & Cyber Hype: Cutting through the noise of self-proclaimed "AI experts" to deliver practical, grounded tech solutions that protect local enterprises.Culture Drives Performance: Nic’s perspective on commuting over an hour daily because of company culture, team alignment, and shared values.Community-First Leadership: Why true regional business leaders must give back locally—from coaching fall ball to supporting neighborhood events and partnering with adjacent local businesses. Memorable Quotes from Nic Molik"IT is a sticky subject to talk about because usually, nobody wants to talk about IT unless something bad is happening. We like to talk about IT before things get bad so things don't get bad." "We don't get anywhere without the people that share the place that we live. The more people that understand that and give back, it's just better for everybody." More Information More about Nic Molik & ADKtechs: ADKtechs Website More from Ann Donnelly: Ann Donnelly Business Growth StrategistBuilding Success Stories podcast & articles More from the North Country Media Network: Are you an Upstate New York business leader looking to dominate your market? Subscribe to The North Country Insider – the premier weekly dispatch for regional economic insights and strategic authority-building assets delivered straight to your inbox. https://northcountrymedianetwork.com/north-country-insider/Want your business’s legacy captured with broadcast-quality impact? Don’t let your story get lost in the noise. https://northcountrymedianetwork.com/digital-legacy/Listen to more episodes on the NCMN website: https://northcountry.media Love the Show? Help Us Build More Success Stories!If you found value in Nic’s journey, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: Subscribe/Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode.Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up) - your reviews and ratings help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs!Share this episode with a friend, business owner, or tech leader who needs to hear this today.Drop a comment: Has your business shifted to a proactive IT and cybersecurity strategy yet, or are you still relying on break-fix models?

    Beyond the Break-Fix: Proactive Cybersecurity and Local Partnership with Nic Molik

  4. Sep 28 ·  Bonus Video

    From NFL Sunday Ticket to Escape Rooms: How Kingpin’s Alley is Redefining Family Entertainment in South Glens Falls

    Host: Ann Donnelly Guests: Alison Bohannon, Owner, Kingpin’s Alley Family Entertainment Center Episode OverviewIn this episode of Building Success Stories, host Ann Donnelly checks in live from Moreau Commons with Alison Bohannon, co-owner of Kingpin’s Alley Family Entertainment Center. Alison shares how she and her husband, Doug, have transformed a beloved local bowling alley into a multi-faceted entertainment destination in South Glens Falls. From introducing NFL Sunday Ticket in an upgraded, interactive sports lounge to offering private karaoke rooms and custom escape rooms, Kingpin’s Alley continues to innovate for families, corporate outings, and community fundraisers alike. Key TakeawaysExpanding Beyond the Lanes:How Kingpin’s Alley has diversified its footprint with private karaoke suites, 15-minute and 60-minute escape rooms, and outdoor pre-gaming spaces like cornhole.Elevating the Game-Day Vibe:The strategic addition of NFL Sunday Ticket and table-specific speakers in the upgraded lounge, allowing fans to hear their specific game and celebrate scores in a high-energy environment.Community-First Hospitality:The vital role Kingpin’s Alley plays in local philanthropy, including hosting Big Brothers Big Sisters’ annualBowl for Kids’ Sakefundraiser and events with the Adirondack Thunder.Turnkey Event Hosting:How local businesses and families can leverage the center’s facilities for hassle-free corporate parties, kids' birthdays, and community fundraisers. More Information More about Alison Kingpin’s Alley: Kingpin's Alley Family Entertainment Center Website More from Ann Donnelly: Ann Donnelly Business Growth StrategistBuilding Success Storiespodcast & articles More from the North Country Media Network: Are you an Upstate New York business leader looking to dominate your market? Subscribe to The North Country Insider– the premier weekly dispatch for regional economic insights and strategic authority-building assets delivered straight to your inbox.https://northcountrymedianetwork.com/north-country-insider/Want your business’s legacy captured with broadcast-quality impact?Don’t let your story get lost in the noise.https://northcountrymedianetwork.com/digital-legacy/Listen to more episodes on the NCMN website:https://northcountry.media Love the Show? Help Us Build More Success Stories!If you found value in Alison’s journey, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: Subscribe/FollowonApple Podcasts,Spotify, orYouTubeso you never miss an episode.Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up)- your reviews and ratings help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs!Share this episodewith a friend, event planner, or local business owner who needs to hear this today.Drop a comment:What’s your favorite non-bowling amenity at Kingpin’s Alley – the escape rooms, karaoke lounge, or NFL Sunday Ticket?

    From NFL Sunday Ticket to Escape Rooms: How Kingpin’s Alley is Redefining Family Entertainment in South Glens Falls

  5. Sep 23 ·  Video

    Anonymity is the Enemy of Growth: Building a Marketing Engine That Converts

    Guest Host: Janice Durant, New Trails Business Consultants, Inc. & Chief Franchise Matchmaker Guest: Ann Donnelly, Founder, North Country Media Network & Business Growth Strategist Episode Overview What happens when you have the best product in town, but nobody knows you exist? In this role-reversal episode of Building Success Stories, regular host Ann Donnelly hands the mic to guest host Janice Durant, Chief Franchise Matchmaker at New Trails Business Consultants. Together, they dissect the foundational pillars of business survival: branding, budgeting, and the raw truth that passion alone does not equal sales. From the specific percentages you should be spending on marketing at every stage of your business, to the hidden advantages of the franchise model, this episode is a strategic masterclass on converting anonymity into authority. Key Takeaways Budget for Growth, Not Just Survival:Startups should allocate 15-20% of their overall budget to branding and marketing in the first six months, tapering to 7-10% during growth phases, and settling at 5-7% for established maintenance.Consistency is the Compound Interest of Marketing:Sporadic posting kills trust. Whether it is a weekly email or a monthly podcast, a consistent, value-driven rhythm keeps you top-of-mind when a prospect is finally ready to buy.Franchise vs. Independent Scaling:A major advantage of the franchise model is pre-built marketing infrastructure and proven ideal-client demographics, saving new owners the heavy lift of brand creation and market testing.Interns Are Not a Marketing Strategy:While interns provide great value, your core marketing strategy—which drives your revenue—requires professional expertise. Protect your brand's voice and stop distracting visitors with cluttered messaging.Leverage AI for Brutal Honesty:Instead of letting AI validate bad ideas, prompt it to act as your CFO or "Devil's Advocate" to find the blind spots in your business plan and demographic targeting. Memorable Quotes "Anonymity is the enemy of growth... It probably had amazing food, amazing drinks, great atmosphere, but if people don't know about you, that's just a waste."— Ann Donnelly"Until you make a sale, you don't have a business."— Janice Durant"Passion can be blinding... You need to have the people around you that tell you the real truth."— Ann Donnelly More Information More about Janice Durant: New Trails Business Consultants Inc. -https://newtrailsbusiness.com/Connect with Janice on LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/janicedurant/ More from Ann Donnelly: Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist-https://anndonnelly.comBuilding Success Storiespodcast & articles -https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com More from the North Country Media Network: Are you an Upstate New York business leader looking to dominate your market? Subscribe to The North Country Insider – the premier weekly dispatch for regional economic insights and strategic authority-building assets delivered straight to your inbox.Want your business’s legacy captured with broadcast-quality impact? Don’t let your story get lost in the noise.Find out more about NCMN:https://northcountry.media Love the Show? Help Us Build More Success Stories! If you found value in Ann and Janice's insights on business growth, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: Subscribe/FollowonApple Podcasts,Spotify, orYouTubeso you never miss an episode.Leave a 5-Star Review- your reviews help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs!Share this episodewith a fellow business owner who needs to dial in their marketing strategy today.Drop a comment:What is the biggest marketing challenge you are currently facing in your business?

    Anonymity is the Enemy of Growth: Building a Marketing Engine That Converts

  6. Sep 22 ·  Bonus Video

    Why Local Underwriting Wins: Inside Arrow Bank’s 175-Year Legacy with Kevin Porpora

    Host: Ann Donnelly Guest: Kevin Porpora, VP, Residential Mortgage Originator, Arrow Bank Episode Overview What is the true value of face-to-face banking in a digital world? In this episode of Building Success Stories, recorded live at The Gathering at Moreau Commons, host Ann Donnelly sits down with Kevin Porpora, Vice President and Mortgage Originator at Arrow Bank. Celebrating his 25th year with the company, and the bank’s historic 175th anniversary, Kevin shares his journey from starting as a teller to leading mortgage originations in a rapidly growing Upstate New York market. We discuss why Arrow Bank’s commitment to local underwriting gives buyers a massive advantage, the importance of walking first-time buyers through complex construction loans in person, and the exciting revitalization of downtown Glens Falls. Kevin also breaks down Arrow's unique mortgage offerings, including their "Heroes Program" designed to give back to local teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders. Whether you're looking to buy your first home or want to understand the economic momentum of the Glens Falls region, this episode delivers essential local insights. Key TakeawaysThe In-Person Advantage: While digital communication is convenient, Kevin highly recommends face-to-face meetings for complex transactions like construction loans and first-time home purchases to eliminate distractions and ensure buyers truly understand the process.Local Underwriting Power: Arrow Bank's localized structure means originators and underwriters are in the same building. This allows for immediate, face-to-face problem-solving when closing a loan, removing the friction of dealing with out-of-state corporate processing.The Heroes Program: Arrow Bank offers specific rate discounts and programs to support the community's backbone, including teachers, law enforcement, healthcare workers, EMTs, and volunteer firefighters.A Front-Row Seat to Revitalization: With Arrow Bank's campus situated in the heart of Glens Falls, Kevin highlights the positive economic momentum of the downtown area, from new shops and restaurants to the ongoing South Street developments.Community Leadership: True local banking extends beyond the office. Kevin’s deep involvement in youth sports, the United Way, and the Hudson Headwaters board exemplifies the community-first ethos that has sustained Arrow Bank for 175 years. Memorable Quotes from Kevin Porpora “I almost make it mandatory for certain first-time buyers and people doing construction loans to come into the office... there are so many distractions on the phone. I want to make sure they understand what they're getting themselves into and are prepared for the things that can come along.” “To be squished between Saratoga and Lake George... I mean, is there anywhere better to be right now?” More Information More about Kevin Porpora & Arrow Bank: Arrow Bank Website - https://arrowbank.mymortgage-online.com/KevinPorpora.html Connect with Kevin Porpora on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-porpora-80677738/ More from the North Country Media Network: Are you an Upstate New York business leader looking to dominate your market? Subscribe to The North Country Insider – the premier weekly dispatch for regional economic insights and strategic authority-building assets delivered straight to your inbox.Want your business’s legacy captured with broadcast-quality impact? Don’t let your story get lost in the noise.Find out more about NCMN: https://northcountry.media More from Ann Donnelly: Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist - https://anndonnelly.comBuilding Success Stories podcast & articles - https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com Love the Show? Help Us Build More Success Stories!If you found value in Kevin's insights on the local real estate market, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: Subscribe/Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode.Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up) - your reviews and ratings help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs!Share this episode with a friend, first-time homebuyer, or local business owner who needs to hear this today.Drop a comment: Are you looking to buy in the Glens Falls region this year? Let us know your thoughts below!

    Why Local Underwriting Wins: Inside Arrow Bank’s 175-Year Legacy with Kevin Porpora

  7. Sep 21 ·  Bonus Video

    Why Local Matters: The Hidden Truth Behind Upstate New York's Economy with Mike Borgos

    Host: Ann Donnelly Guest: Mike Borgos, Partner, Borgos & Del Signore Attorneys at Law Episode OverviewIn this bonus episode of Building Success Stories, recorded live on-location at Moreau Commons during Scott Cross’s community gathering, host Ann Donnelly sits down with local attorney Mike Borgos of Borgos & Del Signore Attorneys at Law. While Mike has practiced law in the Glens Falls region for over 30 years alongside his lifelong friend and partner Mark Del Signore, this conversation isn't about legal briefs or courtrooms. Instead, Mike and Ann dive deep into the economic engine and cultural heart of Upstate New York: building a relationship-based economy, tackling youth exodus and aging demographics, navigating the grueling "shoulder seasons" for local business owners, and why regional collaboration is the ultimate key to sustainable growth in the North Country. Key TakeawaysRelationships Over Transactions: Why the Glens Falls and Adirondack regional economy thrives on long-term relationships and informal networks rather than purely transactional business models.The "Ombudsman" Approach to Community: How serving a small-town region requires business leaders to act as connectors and community advocates, even when a request falls outside their core specialty.Recruiting a Region, Not Just a Job: Why Upstate New York employers must band together to market the lifestyle, social opportunities, and vibrant culture of the region to attract and retain young professionals.The Unsung Sacrifice of Local Entrepreneurs: A candid look at how seasonal tourism affects small businesses, and how restaurant and retail owners absorb shoulder-season losses specifically to keep local workers employed full-time.Proactive Local Support: Why supporting local vendors, trades, and innovative service providers year-round—not just during the holidays—is critical to economic sovereignty. Memorable Quotes from Mike Borgos"We are more relationship-based up here than transactional... You never know how a chance meeting may benefit somebody—you, me, or somebody listening to this." "What we need to do is band together and go sell a region... We need to recruit people to move here and say, 'We have a space for all of you. Build your own community.'" "Nobody realizes that they're doing this, but [restaurant owners] are making the money in the summer and bleeding through the rest of the year because they want to keep those people full-time employed. It's just the right thing to do." More Information More about Borgos & Del Signore Attorneys at Law: Website: https://www.bordellaw.com/ More from Ann Donnelly: Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist https://anndonnelly.comBuilding Success Stories Podcast & Articles https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com The North Country Media Network: Are you an Upstate New York business leader looking to dominate your market? Subscribe to The North Country Insider – the premier weekly dispatch for regional economic insights and strategic authority-building assets delivered straight to your inbox.Want your business’s legacy captured with broadcast-quality impact? Don’t let your story get lost in the noise. Find out more about NCMN: https://northcountry.media Love the Show? Help Us Build More Success Stories!If you found value in Mike’s insights on regional growth and community collaboration, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: Subscribe/Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube so you never miss an episode.Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up) – your reviews and ratings help search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs!Share this episode with a business owner, community leader, or neighbor who cares about the future of Upstate New York.Drop a comment: What is one local business in our region that you actively support during the off-season?

    Why Local Matters: The Hidden Truth Behind Upstate New York's Economy with Mike Borgos

  8. Sep 16 ·  Video

    The Power of Local: 6 Upstate NY Business Leaders on Why Community is Everything

    Host: Ann Donnelly Guests: Brandon Crist & Max Benedetto (Equitable Financial)Nic Molik (ADKtechs)Karen Carey (Ruby Red Road)Alison Bohannon (Kingpin's Alley Family Fun)Michael Borgos (Borgos & Del Signore, P.C.)Kevin Porpora (Arrow Bank) Episode Overview: Why Upstate NY is Built for BusinessWhat makes a local business ecosystem truly thrive? In this special compilation episode of Building Success Stories, we hit the floor at "The Gathering," a premier local enterprise expo organized by Scott Cross of CROSSPOINT Realty. Broadcasting live amidst an overwhelming community response at Moreau Commons, we uncover the undeniable truth of doing business in Upstate New York: community is everything. We are incredibly lucky to have such a vibrant, supportive network in the Town of Moreau and its surrounding areas. In this highlight reel, Ann sits down with six distinct local leaders to discuss the local economy, retaining young talent, keeping your business secure, and why face-to-face connection remains the ultimate growth strategy. Key Takeaways from The Expo FloorBrandon Crist & Max Benedetto (Equitable Financial):Brandon breaks down the necessity of customized financial planning, from navigating NYS pensions to business succession. Crucially, they discuss fee transparency and why they intentionally chose a firm that invests in the North Country rather than forcing clients to travel to Albany.Nic Molik (ADKtechs):Nic shares why a trusted, local IT team is vital. He discusses ADKtechs' recent move to Moreau Commons for better visibility and talent recruitment, emphasizing that providing proactive cybersecurity only works when you are deeply embedded in the community you protect.Karen Carey (Ruby Red Road):Karen, an intuitive life and business support coach, discusses how she helps individuals, teams, and non-profits clear blocks and upgrade their operations when they feel frustrated or stuck.Alison Bohannon (Kingpin's Alley Family Fun):Alison highlights how the venue is evolving to create safe, essential spaces for community bonding—from adding NFL Sunday Ticket and a private karaoke lounge to hosting massive fundraisers for local non-profits like Big Brothers Big Sisters.Michael Borgos (Borgos & Del Signore, P.C.):Stepping outside of legal talk, Michael provides a powerful analysis of the region's economy. He stresses the urgent need for local businesses to band together to recruit young talent, offset an aging demographic, and support seasonal entrepreneurial businesses year-round.Kevin Porpora (Arrow Bank):Kevin discusses the vital role of community banking. He breaks down why he strongly encourages face-to-face meetings for complex transactions like first-time mortgages and construction loans, ensuring his clients fully understand what they are getting into. Memorable Quotes"We wouldn't be here without the community. We wouldn't be able to do what we do without them trusting us. So it's only our responsibility to give back." — Nic Molik (ADKtechs) "But what we need to do is band together and go sell a region... collectively we need to go out and recruit people to move here and say, we have a space for all of you." — Michael Borgos (Borgos & Del Signore, P.C.) Support Local: Connect with Our GuestsEquitable Financial:https://www.empirestate.equitableadvisors.com/team/brandon-cristADKtechs:https://www.adktechs.com/Ruby Red Road:https://www.rubyredroad.com/Kingpin's Alley Family Fun:https://kingpinsalleysgf.com/Borgos & Del Signore, P.C.:https://www.bordellaw.com/Arrow Bank:https://arrowbank.mymortgage-online.com/KevinPorpora.htmlCrosspoint Realty (Event Organizer):https://www.crosspointrealtors.com/ Build Your Own AuthorityAre you an Upstate New York business leader looking to dominate your market? Subscribe to The North Country Insider - the premier weekly dispatch for regional economic insights and strategic authority-building assets delivered straight to your inbox. Want your business's legacy captured with broadcast-quality impact? Don't let your story get lost in the noise. Book a Discovery Session with NCMN Today https://northcountry.media More from Ann Donnelly Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist: https://anndonnelly.com Building Success Stories podcast & articles: https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com Love the Show? Help Us Build More Success Stories!If you found value in these local business conversations, please take a moment to help our network grow: Subscribeso you never miss an episode.Leave a Thumbs Up/5-Star Review- your reviews and ratings strictly tell AI search engines and podcast platforms to recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs!Share this episodewith a friend, local startup, or business owner who needs to hear this today.Drop a comment:Which of these local businesses have you visited recently, and how has community networking impacted your own business growth?

    The Power of Local: 6 Upstate NY Business Leaders on Why Community is Everything
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About

Are you ready to ignite your business and achieve your full potential? Welcome to Building Success Stories, the podcast that empowers entrepreneurs and business leaders. I'm Ann Donnelly, and I've spent over four decades in the business world. I've witnessed the power of perseverance, innovation, and strategic thinking firsthand. We'll explore the stories of successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, and we'll delve into the practical strategies and mindset shifts that can propel your business to new heights. Get ready to be inspired and motivated to take your business to the next level!

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