In this episode, we sit down with Adam Vanderhoof, founder of Oneida News and one of Central New York’s most genuine local storytellers. Adam takes us all the way back to the beginning — from filming in his parents’ basement to building a hyper-local video series that now racks up hundreds of thousands (and even millions) of views. What started as a passion for storytelling turned into a powerful platform focused on something we don’t get nearly enough of: positive local news.

Adam opens up about leaving Oneida for Washington, D.C., why the pull of community brought him back home, and how that return reignited his mission to highlight the people, businesses, and stories that make the area special. We talk about why positivity matters more than ever, how Oneida News operates more like a “Netflix-style” seasonal series than a traditional news outlet, and why Adam has zero interest in monetizing the platform — choosing instead to give back to the community whenever possible.

From veterans’ stories that bring real perspective, to local restaurants, food trucks, and everyday people quietly making a difference, this conversation is a reminder that some of the most powerful stories are happening right around the corner — if you’re willing to slow down and tell them the right way.

In this episode, we cover:
• How Oneida News started in 2012 — and why Adam chose to focus exclusively on positive local stories
• The challenges and rewards of staying hyper-local in a world driven by national headlines and negativity
• Why veterans’ stories have become some of the most meaningful episodes Adam has ever filmed
• The evolution of content creation — from kitchen-table interviews to polished, high-impact storytelling
• Advice for young creatives who want to start creating now, even without money, gear, or experience

This one is full of heart, perspective, and a whole lot of love for Central New York.

This is episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.
(https://www.instagram.com/vaultcapitalpartners)

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & Starting in Storytelling
(1:45) - Moving Back Home From DC
(3:45) - Start of Oneida News
(5:30) - Focusing on Positive Stories
(7:00) - Seasons of the Show
(10:15) - Memorable Stories
(12:25) - Evolution of Production
(14:45) - What's Changed?
(16:30) - Navigating Politics & Positivity
(19:00) - Common Traits of Guests
(21:50) - Focus on Oneida vs. Expanding
(24:30) - Great Spots in Oneida
(27:10) - Creating Community
(29:15) - Loving What You're Doing
(30:15) - Advice For Young Creatives
(33:15) - Belief in the Next Generation
(36:00) - Attracting an Audience
(37:30) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Adam's Links
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/OneidaNewsCNY
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OneidaNews
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/oneida.news

---
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
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode we sit down in the brand-new Impact X Marketing Studio with Brad Waters, Morgan Mielnicki, and Emily Broomfield to pull back the curtain on the creative force behind some of the best digital content coming out of the region. From podcast production and photo shoots to short-form video strategy, this team isn’t just keeping up, they’re setting the pace.

If you’re a business owner, content creator, or someone who’s been toying with launching your brand online, this one’s a must-listen. We dig into why social media presence is now more important than Google, how to overcome being camera-shy, and why starting somewhere is better than waiting for perfect. We also get real about AI, the rise of personal branding, and why this Utica-based studio might just be the creative secret weapon the Mohawk Valley didn’t know it needed.

In this episode:
• How Impact X grew out of The Sentinel and built a full-service marketing studio from the ground up
• Why being relatable beats being polished when it comes to social media
• Advice for business owners who hate being on camera
• The shift from company brands to personal brands—and what that means for you
• The team’s take on AI, authenticity, and what it means to create "real" content today

This is episode is brought to you by Vault Capital Partners.


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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & Meet the Team
(1:05) - What is Impact X Marketing?
(3:00) - The Space
(4:20) - Social Media Today
(5:15) - Social Search
(7:20) - Everyone Can Be an Influencer
(10:10) - Something is Better Than Nothing
(11:20) - Everyone Wants a Specialist
(12:50) - Building an Audience
(14:20) - Working with Clients
(16:55) - Podcasting & Professional Setting
(19:15) - Team & Services
(21:00) - Brand Breakaway
(22:05) - Long Term Vision
(24:00) - Thoughts on AI
(28:30) - Human First Motivations
(31:30) - Elevating Central NY
(33:50) - Creating a Unique Space
(36:20) - Travel & Home Base
(37:45) - Working with Local Colleges

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Impact X & Team Links
Website - https://www.impactxmarketing.com
Impact X IG - https://www.instagram.com/impactx.marketing
Morgan - https://www.instagram.com/morganmielnicki
Emily - https://www.instagram.com/globetrotting.emma
Sentinel IG - https://www.instagram.com/ur_sentinel

---
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
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

What does a tourism professional actually do—and why should you care? In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Calero, President of Oneida County Tourism, to talk about what it really means to promote a region like Central New York. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about hotels and highways—it’s about stories, small towns, hidden gems, and reminding people why this place still matters.

Sarah shares how she accidentally stumbled into tourism, what it’s like marketing your hometown to locals and outsiders, and why she’s so passionate about getting people to explore the places right in their backyard. This one’s packed with local charm, fresh perspective, and a whole lot of heart.

Episode Highlights:
• How she ended up in tourism by accident—and why it instantly clicked
• The moment her NYC friends thought the night sky was a planetarium
• Why Sylvan Beach has more charm than people give it credit for
• What “agritourism” really means (and why it’s growing fast)
• Why golf isn’t just a hobby for her—it’s part of how she experiences and connects with the region

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & Meet Sarah
(0:45) - Starting Career in Tourism
(3:30) - What Sarah Loves About Oneida County
(6:10) - Bringing Young People Home
(9:30) - Role & Mission of Oneida County Tourism
(12:30) - Working with Turning Stone
(14:20) - Rebranding
(20:30) - Agritourism & Changing Travel Habits
(23:45) - Buying Local Meats & Health Focus
(26:10) - Love For Golf
(27:45) - Birthday Party Story & Meeting Husband
(29:40) - So Many Great Courses
(32:25) - Something For Everyone
(34:00) - Becoming a Parent
(37:40) - Leadership & Imposter Syndrome
(41:25) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Sarah Caleros Links
Website - https://www.oneidacountytourism.com
FB - https://www.facebook.com/oneidacountyny
IG - https://www.instagram.com/visitoneidacounty
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@visitoneidacounty
Personal IG - https://www.instagram.com/sarahcalero13

---
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
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

What happens when a full-grown man goes to Santa School... multiple times? You get Steve Nunno, a professionally trained Santa with a heart the size of the North Pole and a mission to bring real magic to families across Central New York. In this episode, we sit down with the man behind Santa’s Magical Visits to talk about storytelling, community, and what it really takes to create unforgettable holiday experiences.

Steve opens up about how a moment at Roswell Park changed everything, why his Santa character focuses on kindness over the naughty/nice list, and how his team of moose, reindeer, elves (and a talking Christmas tree) are turning local holiday events into something straight out of a Hallmark movie. This isn’t your average mall Santa story — it’s about creativity, compassion, and building something that matters.

Highlights from the episode:
• How one powerful moment with a child in hospice inspired a new mission
• The wild world of Santa School — and why Steve keeps going back
• Meet “Wannabe the Moose” and the rest of the North Pole crew
• Why kindness is more important than “being good”
• What to expect at this year’s Hotel Utica Santa event (hint: real reindeer)

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & Becoming Santa
(2:30) - Going to Santa School
(4:00) - Attention to Detail
(6:00) - Managing Emotions
(8:30) - Adapting to Children
(9:30) - Santa & the North Pole Pals
(12:30) - Type of Events
(13:55) - Example Locations
(19:55) - Not Focusing on Naught or Nice
(22:30) - Signature Event in Utica on November 29th
(27:30) - What's Next?
(29:10) - Sponsors & Getting Involved
(36:00) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Steve Nunno's Links
Website - https://santasmagicalvisits.com/
FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580902788001

---
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
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

Javon Pratt returns to the podcast for a real conversation about growth, focus, and staying true to your vision. Since his first episode, he’s opened Westie’s, a small pizza spot with a simple goal: make great food, stay creative, and build something that lasts. In this episode, he talks about what it’s been like to run two concepts at once, what he’s learned about leadership, and why he’s not in a rush to do anything that doesn’t feel right.

We also get into his experience at the NYC Wine & Food Festival, the challenges of managing customer expectations, and how his priorities have shifted in this next chapter. It’s honest, reflective, and packed with insight for anyone figuring out how to grow without burning out.

In this episode:
• How Westie’s came to life — and why it’s intentionally different from Roosters
• What it’s like to be invited to cook alongside some of the best in NYC
• The mindset shift that comes with building a team and stepping back
• Why structure and boundaries matter more the second time around
• What Javon is learning about patience, pressure, and playing the long game

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro
(0:55) - The Past 18 Months & New Location
(2:55) - What's Changed?
(5:05) - Opening Westie's & Being Different
(6:35) - Focus on Pizza
(8:05) - Wednesday Through Friday
(9:05) - Riches in the Niches
(11:00) - Unique Pie & Science of Dough
(12:45) - Decision to Not Offer Wings
(13:45) - Simplicity of Rooster's
(15:55) - Recent Trip to NYC
(20:00) - Gratitude & Confidence
(22:20) - Culture & Employees
(26:05) - Advice to Younger Self
(27:45) - Goals For Next Few Years
(30:55) - Perspective Drives Performance
(33:20) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Javon Pratt's Links
Rooster's Website - https://uticasmashburgers.com
Rooster's IG - https://www.instagram.com/roosters315
Rooster's FB - https://www.facebook.com/Roosters315
Westie's FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579599244302

---
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
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

After two decades in insurance, Michele Hummel took a leap most people only talk about — she walked away to follow a gut instinct that there was something more she was meant to build. Now, as the Executive Director of Next - Herkimer County, she's helping reshape how communities collaborate, how nonprofits get supported, and how long-abandoned ideas can be brought back to life.

In this episode, Michele gets real about the messiness of starting something new, the power of saying "yes" when others say "no," and why small wins — like a single basketball court or an event that brings people together — can lead to big change. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, a community-builder, or just someone with a big idea and no roadmap, this episode will hit home.

In this episode:
• Why being underestimated can be your greatest asset
• How to turn frustration into fuel for real community impact
• What Michele is doing to support nonprofits beyond just funding
• The challenges (and wins) that come with revitalizing overlooked spaces
• How one symposium is bringing nonprofit leaders and ideas together in a whole new way

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro
(0:40) - Inspiration to Start Next
(4:45) - What is the Mission?
(5:10) - David P. Whalen Memorial Story
(7:50) - Grant Writing
(9:10) - Collaboration
(11:20) - No One Size Fits All Approach
(12:40) - Bringing Back Main St. Might Look Different
(14:05) - Good Luck with That & Challenge Accepted
(15:30) - Who is They?
(17:45) - November 13th Symposium
(21:45) - Relationship Marketing
(22:15) - Making a Difference Here
(24:45) - 2026 Nonprofit Bootcamp
(27:15) - What Keeps Michele Motivated
(29:10) - Getting Involved
(30:25) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Michele Hummel's Links
Website - https://www.herkimercountynext.org
IG - https://www.instagram.com/next4hc
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-hummel-a7ab24160
FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095344432223

---
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
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

What do community, mocktails, and mindfulness have in common? According to Cristi Kaido — everything. In this episode, we sit down with the founder of The Mindful Mixer, Central New York’s first mobile mocktail bar and wellness experience. Cristi shares her journey from growing up in a low-income neighborhood to surviving a life-threatening blood clot, and how those moments sparked a mission to help people slow down, connect, and sip with intention.

You’ll hear how her new book “12 Sips of Christmas” is way more than a recipe collection — it’s a step-by-step mindfulness toolkit wrapped in fun, flavor, and self-care. Plus, she spills the (mock)tea on why sleep, gratitude, and community might just be your ultimate wellness secret weapons. If you've ever wondered what a wellness coach’s evening routine looks like, or how to make mocktails that actually make you feel better — this one’s for you.

Episode Highlights:
• Why mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword (and how mocktails can help you practice it)
• What happens at a Mindful Mixer workshop — from muddling to reflection
• The powerful inspiration behind The 12 Sips of Christmas book
• Sleep routines, blue zones, and why Cristi swears by 8 hours a night
• The bigger mission: building community, one sip at a time

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro
(1:00) - Mindfulness & Slowing Down
(2:30) - Combining Mocktails with Mindfulness
(4:15) - Ingredients & Wellness
(6:20) - What to Expect at a Mindful Mixer Event
(9:00) - Unique Gathering Opportunity
(10:40) - Foundational Years & Community
(12:25) - 2020 Health Scare
(15:10) - 12 Sips of Christmas
(20:45) - Food Pairing Ideas?
(21:30) - November 15th Event at The Portal
(22:45) - Favorite Drinks & Mishaps
(26:00) - Certified Wellness Coach
(28:00) - Cristi's Personal Routines
(32:30) - Alcohol & Sleep
(34:35) - Surprises in Business
(36:15) - Talking to Former Self
(37:30) - Vision For the Future
(38:50) - November 15th Tickets
(40:45) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Cristi Kaido's Links
12 Sips Book - https://www.amazon.com/12-Sips-Christmas-Mocktails-Reflections/dp/B0FV8NVX68/ref=sr_1_1?
Website - https://www.mindfulmixercny.com
IG - https://www.mindfulmixercny.com
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristi-kaido-30429167
FB - https://www.facebook.com/mindfulmixermocktails

---
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
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

From law offices to barbell racks, short-term rentals to speakeasy renovations, Colin LaReaux is a man who wears a lot of hats—and somehow keeps them all balanced. In this episode, we sit down with Colin to talk about everything from his roots in Utica and his real estate empire to his gym FIT Training, nonprofit work through 315K for the Cure, and the bold vision he has for the community’s future. Oh, and did we mention he turned an old auditorium into 1920s-themed Airbnbs across from the brewery?

Colin brings a fresh, optimistic take on what's possible in Central New York. Whether you're a dreamer, a doer, or just someone looking to get inspired to start something in your own hometown, this episode is full of nuggets. We talk setbacks, side hustles, why winters aren't so bad if you ski & how purpose and community make the whole grind worth it.

🎧 Tap in for:
• The real story behind turning a historic Varick Street building into a roaring '20s-themed Airbnb
• Why group fitness works—and why some people just come to the gym to pet the dog
• What every beginner should know before jumping into real estate investing
• The inspiring origin of 315K for the Cure, a nonprofit rooted in personal experience
• How optimism and action are transforming Utica, one project at a time

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show & Colin Intro
(1:00) - What Brought Colin Back to Utica?
(3:30) - Utica Just Because
(4:15) - Getting Into Real Estate
(8:30) - Managing Airbnbs
(10:15) - Best Advice Starting Off
(13:15) - Different Mindsets
(14:50) - The Speaks at Faxton Hall
(20:45) - Future Plans For Events
(23:00) - FI Training
(25:45) - Surviving Cancer
(26:45) - 315k For the Cure Origins
(30:30) - Learning From Adversity & Perspective
(33:00) - Common Thread For Colin
(35:20) - Looking to the Future
(39:00) - Rapid Fire Questions

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Colin LaReaux's Links
Breaux Website - https://www.breauxproperties.com
FIT Website - https://www.fitraining.fit
315k Website - https://www.315kforthecure.org
Law Office - https://www.goldbaslaw.com
The Speaks IG - https://www.instagram.com/thespeaksfaxtonhall
FIT IG - https://www.instagram.com/fi.training
FB - https://www.facebook.com/colin.lareaux

---
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
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org