In this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, host Katie Zilcosky sits down with David Kavney, President of Central New York and Pennsylvania at NBT Bank. From supporting major economic developments to helping CNY leaders tackle the housing crisis, Kavney shares how NBT Bank is strategically aligning its services to drive innovation and regional impact.

Tune in to this episode to learn more about NBT Bank’s expansion into new markets and how they are well-positioned for emerging opportunities.

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Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn

In this episode of Quarterly Market Insights, a special series part of the CenterState CEO’s Talk CNYpodcast, presented by NBT Bank, the conversation dives deep into the economic forces shaping Central New York and beyond in the second quarter of 2025.

NBT Bank’s Chief Economist and Chief Investment Officer Ken Entenmann breaks down the market’s record highs, analyzes the easing of geopolitical tensions, and explores how potential tariff extensions, Fed rate cuts, and the Big Beautiful Bill could affect the economic landscape.

Also, tune in to this episode of Quarterly Market Insights to hear what business leaders should be watching this summer.

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Host: Andrew Fish LinkedIn

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From rising job numbers and wage growth to transformative capital investments by small business owners and major employers, this episode of Talk CNY explores why Central New York is poised for economic growth — more in the next three years than the last 16 in terms of GDP growth.

In this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, host Katie Zilcosky is joined by Jess Abbott, Vice President of Member Engagement, and Jared Shepard, Director of Research and Planning at CenterState CEO. Together, they unpack the economic momentum propelling Central New York forward.

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Jess Abbott LinkedIn

Jared Shepard LinkedIn

Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn

In this episode of Talk CNY: Leadership Lessons, presented by NBT Bank, Todd Muscatello, the Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Growth Officer at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, gets candid about a defining moment in his career.

Todd began his journey with Excellus BlueCross BlueShield in 2003. A year after being on the job, he made a strategic move that propelled him forward but also ushered in some of the toughest yet most rewarding moments in his career. However, through resilience, reflection and the power of intentional leadership, Todd built the foundation for long-term leadership success.

Tune in to this episode of Talk CNY to hear Todd’s advice for rising leaders as well as his take on the importance of intentional leadership and growth.

Talk CNY: Leadership Lessons is presented by NBT Bank.

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Host: Brittni Smallwood LinkedIn

It’s estimated that Onondaga County will need to build around 2,500 new units of housing per year in order to meet expected growth demands. It’s averaged just about half of that in recent years.

Housing is a vital piece of the puzzle as we work to grow sustainably and equitably. It will require creative solutions and dedication from the entire community to create a more accessible and affordable housing market.

On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, Ryan Benz, managing partner of ReDev CNY, and Ben Lockwood, president and CEO of Housing Visions, discuss how they found success in building the housing our community needs.

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Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn

Every dollar spent at a small business gets returned to the local economy one and half times, so it’s not a surprise that small businesses are sometimes called the life-blood of the local economy. Here at CenterState CEO, we are lucky to support and work alongside many of the entrepreneurs who are making our neighborhoods more vibrant and helping our region grow.

On this episode of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank, we’re excited to introduce you to two of them: Michelle Cruse of Cracked Bean Roastery and Keeli Manning of Doomsday Pasta.

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Michelle Cruse Website | Facebook

Keeli Manning Website | Instagram

Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn

It’s National Small Business Week!

More than 45% of U.S. employees work at small businesses according to the Small Business Administration, making them a vital part of our national and local economy. With as important as they are, it’s imperative to recognize their impact and support their growth.

CenterState CEO offers an array of supports and services to try and help small business owners realize their goals and prosper in the community. This includes everything from community investment work through CenterState Up Start to operating the world's largest accelerator for uncrewed systems with GENIUS NY.

On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO’s Senior Busines Advisor Brandon Mastrangelo dives deeper into the role of small business in the community and how we can help them succeed.

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Brandon Mastrangelo LinkedIn

Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn

In this special anniversary episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, host Katie Zilcosky sits down with CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson to reflect on the organization’s 15-year journey. He recounts the state of Central New York’s economic development landscape in the early 2000s and how the creation of CenterState CEO in 2010 from its two predecessor organizations aimed to unify and strengthen efforts to drive sustainable regional growth for all people.

Looking ahead to envision Central New York another 15 years from now, Simpson shares why he foresees the region as a thriving growth market. With coordinated efforts, he believes the region is poised to become a national model of creative and equitable economic development.

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Rob Simpson LinkedIn

Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn