Episodes

  • Jay Groah - Hey Neighbor #93
    Jul 10 2025

    In this episode, we sit down with Jay Groah, a scientist, real estate entrepreneur, and the bold mind behind MyYenta—a tech company changing the way professionals connect with their clients. Jay shares how a chance encounter with a realtor sparked the idea for MyYenta and how he turned a personality-matching concept into a full-blown business (yes, complete with him dressing in drag at conferences to promote it—seriously, you’re going to want to hear this story).

    From behavioral science to bold branding moves, Jay’s journey is packed with creativity, humor, and big lessons about understanding people on a deeper level. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a people person, or just love a wild origin story, this one’s full of energy and insights.

    💡 In this episode:

    • How a frustrating real estate experience inspired the creation of MyYenta
    • Why Jay dresses up like an 80-year-old woman to make his brand unforgettable
    • The science behind personality assessments and tailoring client experiences
    • Lessons from teaching, real estate, and entrepreneurship in the 315
    • His vision for building a nationwide database of professionals based on personality matching


    This episode is equal parts brilliant and hilarious—don’t miss it. 🎙️✨


    ---
    Show Markers:
    (0:00) - Welcome & Introductions – Meet Jay Groah
    (0:45) - What Is MyYenta? The Origin Story
    (2:20) - The Meaning Behind “Yenta” and Why Jay Dresses in Drag
    (6:30) - Standing Out at Conferences: Snacks, Medicine Cabinets, and Bold Branding
    (10:50) - The Realtor Experience That Sparked It All
    (13:55) - Why Personality Matching Matters in Business
    (15:30) - How MyYenta Works: Science Meets Service
    (18:00) - Tailoring Communication and Client Gifts
    (21:00) - The Vision for a Nationwide Professional Personality Database
    (24:30) - Applications Beyond Real Estate: Healthcare, Teaching, and More
    (27:10) - Lessons from Teaching and Why Personalization Matters
    (29:30) - Utica Pride: Why the 315 Is Still Home
    (32:00) - Affordable Tools for New Professionals
    (35:00) - The Future of MyYenta and Scaling Up
    (37:30) - Generational Shifts: Why Millennials and Gen Z Want Experiences
    (41:10) - Rapid Fire: Best Conference Cities, Advice for Realtors & What Keeps Jay Up at Night
    (46:00) - Cake Picnic & Community Events: A Sweet Idea for a Cause
    (48:00) - Where to Find Jay & MyYenta Online

    ---
    Jay Groah's Links
    IG - https://www.instagram.com/my_yenta
    FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575220696126
    Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-real-estate-yenta
    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@my_yenta
    Personal FB - https://www.facebook.com/jay.groah.2025



    ---
    Love Living Local Links:
    Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
    Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
    Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
    Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
    Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • Mike Skyros - Hey Neighbor #92
    Jul 3 2025

    In this episode, we step into the ring with Mike Skyros, a professional wrestler from Central NY who’s been grinding it out on the indie scene for over a decade. From dive bar shows with 14 people to selling out 1,000-seat arenas, Skyros shares the highs, lows, and body slams of life chasing the dream. He breaks down what it’s really like traveling town to town, wrestling in VFW halls, and why he keeps showing up—sometimes battered, but never broken.

    We talk about what makes a great wrestling crowd, the pressure of performing in front of kids who think it’s real (and adults who really think it’s real), and why you don’t need to be signed to WWE to live like a pro. There’s also plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, and a deep love for the 315 sprinkled in between the powerbombs.

    🤼‍♂️ In this episode:

    • The difference between wrestling for 14 people vs. 1,000—and which one’s actually harder
    • Why Mike believes every show matters, no matter how small the crowd
    • How he balances day jobs, road trips, and recovery with the hustle of indie wrestling
    • The magic of connecting with fans—from wide-eyed kids to die-hard superfans
    • His advice to anyone chasing a dream: just keep showing up


    ---
    This one’s a must-listen for wrestling fans, underdog lovers, and anyone who's ever gone all-in on something they love.


    ---
    Show Markers:
    (0:00) - Welcome to the Ring – Meet Mike Skyros
    (1:00) - How a Family Vacation Sparked a Wrestling Obsession
    (2:30) - From Karate Dropout to Pro Wrestler
    (4:00) - Training, Cardio, and Building the “Total Package”
    (5:30) - The Social Media Hustle Behind Indie Wrestling
    (7:00) - Finding His In-Ring Persona (and Entrance Music)
    (8:30) - Balancing College Life and Pro Wrestling Dreams
    (10:00) - Wrestling Full-Time: The Goal and the Grind
    (12:00) - Why Most Wrestlers Peak Between 35 and 45
    (14:00) - Wrestling Across the Northeast (and Fenway Park!)
    (15:30) - Preparing to Wrestle in Alabama: Nerves and Trust
    (17:00) - Piledrivers, Trust, and Staying Safe in the Ring
    (18:55) - Wrestling as Storytelling: Why It’s an Art Form
    (21:00) - Locker Room Politics and Wrestling People You Don’t Like
    (22:30) - The Syracuse Scene: Institute of Pro Wrestling and One Up Wrestling
    (25:00) - Building an Audience and Promoting Events
    (26:30) - Wrestling Small Crowds vs. Huge Arenas
    (28:00) - Crafting a Show That Appeals to All Ages
    (29:30) - The Origin of “Moonlight Sun”
    (31:00) - Advice for Aspiring Wrestlers: Bet on Yourself
    (32:30) - A Lifelong Love: Mentorship, Coaching, and Giving Back
    (34:00) - Upcoming Matches and How to Follow Mike
    (36:30) - Rapid Fire: Dream Opponent, Best Venue & Entrance Songs
    (38:30) - One Word to Describe the Journey: Perseverance

    ---
    Mike Skyros' Links
    IG - https://www.instagram.com/mikeskyros
    FB - https://www.facebook.com/mike.skyros8Barz


    ---
    Love Living Local Links:
    Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
    Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
    Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
    Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
    Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

    Show More Show Less
    39 mins
  • Episode 216 - Putts For a Purpose Sponsors
    Jun 25 2025

    It’s officially golf week! ⛳ In this special edition episode, the crew breaks down everything you need to know about Putts for a Purpose, happening Friday, June 27 at Pine Hills Golf Course. What started as a bold idea on a 90-day timeline turned into a massive community-powered charity golf outing. From the charities being supported to the sponsors who made it all possible, this episode is packed with shoutouts, laughs, and a serious dose of local love.

    Whether you’re golfing, sponsoring, volunteering, or just curious about how to make impact (and fun) collide—this one’s for you.

    🏌️‍♂️ In this episode:

    • How the team rallied a full-scale charity event in under 90 days
    • The unique sponsor perks (yes, real content, not just your name on a tee sign!)
    • Where the money’s going—over $10,000 raised for 20+ local charities
    • What to expect on the course (Mustangs, Jell-O shots, and putting contests included)
    • Why this isn’t your average golf outing—it’s Putts for a Purpose

    --
    💥 Sponsors & Their Supported Charities:

    Presenting Sponsor:

    • Steet Ponte Auto Group → Children’s Miracle Network

    Premier Partners:

    • Accent Brokerage (Becky Smith) → Christopher Newtown Memorial Fund
    • Kyle Velte → Livy Strong Foundation
    • Nascentia Health → Nascentia's nonprofit arm

    Community Champions:

    • BME Property Maintenance → Will’s Fight
    • Priore Construction + Staycation Retreats → Project Brotherhood

    Local Business Supporters:

    • Standard Heating & Cooling → Sleep in Heavenly Peace (Utica Chapter)
    • Cliff’s Local Markets → American Heart Association (Utica-Rome Chapter)
    • Slice Pizza → Bubba’s Beds for Shelter Friends
    • Meyda Lighting → The Stanley Theatre
    • Rome General Lumber + Lou’s Bargain Barn → Recycle-a-Bull
    • Meats on Main → Kristin’s Fund
    • Three Brothers Sealcoating → Wilson’s Cops and Kids
    • Rooster’s → Amazing Gracie's Gift Foundation
    • Jake’s Auto Detailing → Thea Bowman House
    • Padula Roofing

    🔥 With over 20 charities benefiting, a 2025 Mustang hole-in-one prize, food, drinks, and good vibes—this is more than a golf tournament. It's what happens when local businesses, leaders, and doers team up for good.

    Want in? Learn more or register at www.lovelivinglocal315.com/golf . Let’s tee off for something that matters. 🏌️‍♀️💙


    --
    Show Markers:
    (0:00) - Intro & Upcoming Tournament
    (1:35) - Presenting Sponsor Steet Ponte Auto Group
    (4:00) - Accent Brokerage & Becky Smith
    (5:00) - Kyle Velte (Edward Jones)
    (5:35) - Nascentia Health
    (6:15) - BME Property Maintenance
    (7:15) - Priore Construction & Staycation Retreats
    (8:05) - Standard
    (9:00) - Cliff's Local Market
    (9:50) - Slice Pizzeria
    (11:05) - Meyda Tiffany Lighting
    (12:35) - Rome General Lumber & Lou's Bargain Barn
    (13:30) - Meats on Main
    (15:15) - 3 Brothers Sealcoating
    (16:15) - Rooster's
    (18:25) - Jake's Auto Detailing
    (20:00) - Padula Roofing
    (21:15) - Register to Play
    (23:15) - Creatives Wanted


    ---
    Love Living Local Links:
    Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
    Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
    Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
    Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

    Show More Show Less
    25 mins
  • Success Circle - Hey Neighbor #91
    Jun 19 2025

    In this episode, we join forces with Christine Spiak and Tricia Sticca , the powerhouse duo behind Success Circle, a growing community for women solopreneurs in the Mohawk Valley who are ready to thrive—not just survive. What started as two coaches looking for office space has turned into a deeply supportive, action-focused movement for women building businesses, finding clarity, and rewriting the rules of success.

    If you’ve ever felt alone on your entrepreneurial journey or wished there was a hype squad that actually gets it, this episode delivers real talk, real tools, and a lot of heart.

    ☕ Tune in to hear:

    • How a simple coffee meeting sparked a full-blown movement for women in business
    • Why collaboration over competition is more than a motto—it’s the heartbeat of the community
    • How they create a safe, no-pressure space for connection, growth, and the occasional happy tear
    • What Coffee Connections and the Accelerator Membership are really all about
    • Why their vision isn’t just Mohawk Valley—it’s worldwide impact, starting with one powerful conversation at a time

    --
    Whether you’re building a brand, reinventing your next chapter, or just looking for your people, Success Circle might be the circle you didn’t know you needed. 💬✨



    ---
    Show Markers:
    (0:00) - Show Start & Introduction
    (0:30) - What Is Success Circle?
    (1:40) - How Two Coaches Joined Forces to Build a Movement
    (3:05) - Creating a Culture of Support & Safety for Women
    (6:05) - Who Can Join? Membership Tiers & What They Include
    (8:05) - Being the Catalyst for New Ideas & First-Time Founders
    (9:00) - Coffee Connections: What to Expect
    (10:25) - Why Women-Only Spaces Matter in Business Networking
    (13:00) - How the Talking Stick Changes the Game
    (13:30) - Blending Leadership Coaching with Financial Clarity
    (15:00) - What Members Get from the Accelerator Program
    (16:35) - The Summer Connection Series – Real-Time Problem Solving
    (18:50) - Action Over Perfection: Baby Steps & Momentum
    (21:10) - Weekly Wins & The Power of Small Victories
    (23:00) - Long-Term Vision: Franchise, Foundation & Global Impact
    (24:30) - July 17th Workshop at SUNY Poly – Collaboration in Action
    (26:00) - Advice for Women Feeling Burnt Out or Stuck
    (27:00) - Seasons of Life & Redefining Success
    (27:35) - Why One-Size-Fits-All Coaching Doesn’t Work
    (30:45) - Rapid Fire: Biz Besties, Mantras & Local Favorites
    (34:20) - One Thing Every Woman Entrepreneur Should Know
    (36:00) - Final Thoughts – Be Present, Be Real, Be in the Circle

    ---
    Success Circle's Links
    IG - https://www.instagram.com/success_circle_cny
    Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/success-circle-community
    Website - https://www.successcircle.biz

    ---
    Love Living Local Links:
    Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
    Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
    Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
    Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
    Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • Episode 214 - CNY Weekend 6/13
    Jun 13 2025

    🌟 Weekend Recap & Local Stops
    Newport Golf Club
    • Scenic and well-maintained course with a solid clubhouse and simulator.
    • Kelly's “best 9 holes ever” story… derailed 4 minutes later. Classic golf humility moment.

    Lunch at The Alamo (Herkimer)
    • Standout bar food: fish tacos, chicken & BBQ beef wrap, and top-tier comfort food.

    Rainy Day Plan: Turning Stone Casino
    • Family-friendly lunch at Upstate Tavern (Tavern Club sandwich = 10/10).
    • Driving range, simulator, and people-watching gold.


    💥 Sponsor Spotlight
    Meats on Main (Ilion)
    • Featured in depth: fresh deli meats, custom-cut steaks, daily subs on homemade bread, and Tito’s sausage with cherry peppers and Asiago.
    • Sponsored the Putts for a Purpose Golf Outing and donated to Kristen’s Fund.

    🏆 Local Achievements
    Section III Scholar Athlete Banquet (OCC)
    • 600+ in attendance. Highly efficient, heartfelt celebration.
    • Love Living Local represented with pride—props to all student-athletes balancing school and sports.

    This Weekend’s Events
    🎶 Blues Festival – NYS Fairgrounds, Syracuse (Thurs–Sat)
    • Free general admission; VIP available ($125–$475).
    • Headliner: Warren Haynes (Saturday). Full lineup online.

    🎡 Deerfield Firemen’s Field Days – Friday to Sunday
    • Rides, contests, carnival food, and community fun.

    💎 Herkimer Diamond Mines – Father’s Day Weekend
    • Dads get discounts June 13–15.
    • Family-friendly mining, KOA camping, river floating, and kids’ summer camps.

    🎭 Murder Mystery Dinner – Otesaga Resort (Saturday)
    • $75 per person, cash bar. Haunted hotel vibes + immersive experience.

    🧘‍♀️ Goat Yoga – Spring Creek Lavender Farm (Saturday)
    • Hosted by In Bloom Yoga. $30 for yoga + goat cuddles and photo ops.


    🍻 Dad Fest – Old Forge (Saturday–Sunday)
    • Car shows, vendors, frog jumps, and more.
    • Includes Enchanted Forest Water Safari’s opening weekend.

    🧺 World’s Largest Yard Sale – Herkimer County Fairgrounds (Saturday)
    • 10 AM–4 PM with live music by The Dovetones.

    🎤 Get the Led Out & Sofronio Vasquez – The Stanley Theatre (Fri–Sat)
    • Classic rock tribute Friday.
    • Local “The Voice” winner homecoming concert Saturday at 7:30 PM.

    🦞 Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck – Copper City Brewing, Rome (Sunday)
    • 1–6 PM. Famous lobster rolls + Copper City’s new arcade bar experience.

    ☕ Latte Love Pop-Up – Joey’s 307 (Sunday)
    • 7 AM–2 PM soft launch of new mobile coffee trailer with samples, snacks, and raffles.

    ⛳ Father’s Day Captain & Crew – Holland Heights Golf Course (Sunday)
    • 9 AM tee time. $80 includes golf, cart, prizes & cook-your-own steak dinner.


    --
    Show Markers:
    (0:00) - Intro & Newport Golf Club
    (2:50) - The Alamo
    (4:05) - Turning Stone Trip
    (7:25) - Section 3 Scholar Athlete Banquet
    (9:55) - Meats on Main
    (14:15) - NYS Blues Festival
    (15:50) - Deerfield Field Days
    (17:00) - Herkimer Diamond Mines
    (18:05) - Get the Led Out
    (18:50) - Goat Yoga
    (20:10) - Dad Fest in Old Forge
    (22:35) - Rome Cornhole Tournament
    (24:35) - Sofronio Vasquez Homecoming
    (25:10) - Cousin's Maine Lobster


    ---
    Love Living Local Links:
    Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
    Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
    Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
    Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
  • David Ocasio Ross - Hey Neighbor #90
    Jun 11 2025

    In this episode, we sit down with David Ocasio Ross—a former teller turned Assistant VP at AmeriCU Credit Union—who shares how a denied car loan at 21 became the wake-up call that launched his career in finance. Now, he’s on a mission to help others level up their money game, understand credit, and navigate the homebuying process with confidence.

    But David’s story goes far beyond banking. He’s also a devoted girls basketball coach with a deep love for the game, using the court to teach life lessons about accountability, confidence, and leadership. Whether he’s in the office or on the sideline, David shows up with heart, purpose, and a mindset built for growth.

    💬 In this episode:

    • How a personal money misstep turned into a career helping others with their finances
    • The biggest credit myths—and what most people get wrong about homebuying
    • Why credit unions might just be the best-kept secret in banking
    • How coaching girls basketball keeps David grounded and inspired
    • The motto he lives by: “Be you, they’ll adjust.”


    --
    Whether you’re a young professional trying to build credit, a parent raising athletes, or just someone who loves a good story of growth — this one’s for you 🏀💼💪



    ---
    Show Markers:
    (0:00) - Intro: Getting Into Banking
    (1:45) - Moving Up & AmeriCU Advantage
    (4:40) - Sitting Down with a Loan Officer
    (5:30) - Common Misunderstandings
    (6:45) - Local Advantage & Education
    (10:00) - Impact of Credit Pull
    (11:50) - Advice For Young Buyers
    (15:05) - Credit Considerations
    (16:10) - AmeriCU Region & Local Focus
    (18:25) - Coaching Girl's Basketball
    (21:10) - Catchphrase or Mantra to Live By
    (23:10) - Mamba Mentality in Life
    (26:00) - Belief in Yourself
    (26:55) - Relocating to CNY
    (28:10) - What Makes This Area Different
    (29:30) - Be You, They'll Adjust
    (32:10) - Loyalty & Building Trust
    (34:15) - Becoming a Member
    (35:35) - Real Estate Market Update
    (39:35) - Rapid Fire Questions


    ---
    David's Links
    IG - https://www.instagram.com/davidantonio041
    FB - https://www.facebook.com/david.ocasioross
    Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ocasio-ross-76037b10a
    AmeriCU - https://www.facebook.com/AmeriCU


    ---
    Love Living Local Links:
    Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
    Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
    Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
    Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
    Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • Episode 212 - CNY Weekend 6/5
    Jun 5 2025

    Episode 212:

    🌟 Local Eats Recap
    Golden’s (Genesee St.)
    • One-man-show Jeff Golden delivers a wild diner-style experience.
    • No takeout allowed. Homemade food, hilarious signs, massive burgers, garlic parm fries, and tomato soup with grilled cheese.

    One Genny (New Hartford)
    • Big menu, patio seating, great for group dining or drinks.
    • Highlights: steak sandwich, diverse cocktails, and family-friendly vibe.

    Brass Tack (Frankfort)
    • Canopy is up, Wednesday night live music has started (check their Facebook for the lineup).
    • Don’t miss the Thursday clam specials!

    💬 Bonus Shoutouts
    Accent Brokerage – Becky Smith
    • Stepped up as a sponsor for the Putts for a Purpose Charity Golf Outing.
    • Her donation supports the Christopher Newtown Memorial Fund, which raises suicide awareness for local youth.
    • Christopher Newtown Memorial Golf Outing (Pine Hills)
    • Huge turnout this past weekend. Emotional tribute and ongoing impact for mental health advocacy.

    🎉 This Weekend’s Events
    Thursday, June 6
    Luke Bryan at Lakeview Amphitheater – Big-name concert by the lake!

    Friday–Sunday, June 7–9
    Madison-Bouckville Antique Weekend
    • 12 show fields along Route 20. 400+ vendors, free parking, maps, food stops, and lodging recommendations on madison-bouckville.com.

    First Friday: Pride Edition – Munson Museum (Friday, 5–9 PM)
    • Live music by Pat Tato, art, cash bar, face painting, and $5 admission.
    • Family-friendly fun on the museum lawn.

    Saturday, June 8
    Amazing Gracie Golf Scramble – Stonebridge
    • Supporting families impacted by childhood cancer (especially those ineligible for Make-A-Wish due to age).

    Utica Zoo – Wine in the Wilderness (6–9 PM)
    • 21+ event with wine, beer, live music (Last Left), food trucks & local vendors.
    • Tickets: $30–$40. DD tickets: $20. uticazoo.org/wine

    Puddle of Mudd @ FX Matt Brewery (Saranac Stage)
    • General Admission: $48 / VIP Brewery Pass: $100 (includes snacks, indoor bar, and bathrooms).

    Diamond Dawgs Baseball – Veterans Park, Little Falls (5 PM)
    • Frankfort Little League Night

    Sunday, June 9
    Beer Hub (Utica) – Spring Bagel Brunch (9 AM–1 PM)
    • Featuring Waken Bagel sandwiches, Honey Pot Farms meads, wine, and Bloody Marys.


    --
    Show Markers:
    (0:00) - Intro & Golden's Visit
    (6:20) - One Genny
    (9:30) - Brass Tack
    (10:10) - Rebecca Smith & Accent Brokerage
    (11:00) - Christopher Newtown Memorial Golf
    (13:30) - Luke Bryan Show
    (14:30) - Madison Bouckville Antique Weekend
    (16:25) - Munson Pride First Friday
    (17:00) - Amazing Gracie's Golf Outing
    (18:00) - Wine in the Wilderness
    (19:55) - Mohawk Valley Diamond Dawgs
    (20:20) - Puddle of Mud Show
    (21:30) - Spring Bagel Brunch at The Beer Hub

    ---
    Love Living Local Links:
    Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
    Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
    Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
    Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

    Show More Show Less
    23 mins
  • Joe Palumbo (Kristin's Fund) - Hey Neighbor #89
    Jun 4 2025

    In this episode, we sit down with Joe Palumbo—Central NY native, Ithaca College football champ, black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and co-founder of Kristin’s Fund—to talk about impact, leadership, and using football to change lives. Joe shares the heartbreaking story behind the creation of Kristin’s Fund, and how it’s grown into a powerful movement against domestic violence. Through his A Call to Men football camp, Joe’s helping young men across Central New York learn more than just how to run drills—he’s teaching them what healthy masculinity and real respect look like.

    From hilarious football memories to emotional full-circle moments with camp attendees, Joe’s passion for creating change is contagious. And yes—he might live in San Diego, but his heart is 100% 315.

    🔥 In this episode:

    • The powerful and personal story that inspired Kristin’s Fund
    • Why teaching character off the field matters just as much as training on it
    • How the A Call to Men football camp is changing lives at Utica University
    • The surprising ways Joe measures impact—and one emotional story that says it all
    • Advice for parents, coaches, and anyone trying to raise strong, respectful kids

    📍 Don’t miss the next Call to Men Football Camp at Utica University:
    🗓️ June 23–24, 2025
    ⏰ 5:30–8:30 PM each night
    💥 Totally FREE for kids grades 6–12
    📲 Register now at www.kristinsfund.com or search “Kristin’s Fund” on Eventbrite!

    If you believe sports can shape character and community, this episode is for you.

    ---
    Show Markers:
    (0:00) - Scott's Intro
    (1:30) - Who is Joe Palumbo?
    (2:45) - The Story of Kristin’s Fund
    (5:00) - Reaching Young Men Through Football
    (7:00) - Breaking the Cycle
    (8:30) - Transformational Coaching Movement
    (10:15) - Influence of Coaches
    (11:15) - A Call to Men Camp
    (13:45) - Gala Event & Donor Support
    (16:00) - Measuring Impact
    (19:30) - Athletes Returning to Coach
    (21:45) - Teaching Healthy Relationships & Leading by Example
    (24:30) - Third Party Validation & Other Voices
    (25:35) - Focusing on Men
    (28:30) - Big Vision & Utica College Football Support
    (30:25) - What Keeps Joe Coming Home?
    (32:30) - Creating a Lifestyle & Travel
    (34:30) - Registering For Camp
    (35:55) - Rapid Fire Questions


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    Joe's Links
    IG - https://www.instagram.com/kristinsfund
    FB - https://www.facebook.com/KristinsFund
    Website - https://www.kristinsfund.com
    Camp Registration - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kristins-fund-a-call-to-men-free-football-camp-tickets-1361866472279?aff=oddtdtcreator

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    Love Living Local Links:
    Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
    Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
    TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
    Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
    Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
    Scott's Book - https://www.referralsdonerightbook.com

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    43 mins