In this episode of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Jennifer Huntley, Executive Director of Paige’s Childhood Cancer Fund, an organization that has spent nearly 30 years supporting children and families facing childhood cancer across Central New York. What began as a small memorial walk in honor of a six-year-old girl named Paige has grown into a powerful mission that now serves families across 22 counties. Jennifer shares the story behind the organization, the impact of Paige’s legacy and why the work continues to matter just as much today as it did three decades ago.

This conversation shines a light on the realities families face after a childhood cancer diagnosis. Jennifer talks about the financial strain, the constant travel for treatment and the emotional toll that comes with caring for a child battling cancer. She explains how Paige’s Childhood Cancer Fund steps in with immediate support, helps families build community and works closely with Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital to address the greatest needs along the journey.

We also discuss the incredible resilience of the children and families she meets every day. Jennifer shares stories that are both heartbreaking and inspiring, along with the perspective she has gained from working alongside families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength that exists in our communities and the difference people can make when they come together around a common cause.

We Discuss:
• The story of Paige and how her legacy sparked a mission that has lasted nearly 30 years
• The challenges families face after receiving a childhood cancer diagnosis
• How Paige’s Childhood Cancer Fund provides financial and emotional support
• The long-term impact childhood cancer has on survivors and their families
• Ways individuals and businesses can help support children battling cancer across Central New York

This conversation is emotional, inspiring and full of perspective. It is also a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful way to help is simply to show up, spread awareness and let families know they are not facing their journey alone.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(0:55) - Story of Paige's Childhood Cancer Fund
(2:30) - 30 Years Later
(3:45) - Day to Day Operations
(6:00) - How Did Jennifer Get Involved?
(7:00) - Standing Out & Spreading Awareness
(8:15) - Comfort Kits & Financial Help
(9:45) - Resilience & Community
(11:20) - Providing Some Normalcy
(12:45) - Long Term Journey
(15:20) - Powerful Moments & Success Stories
(17:15) - Are There Warning Signs?
(18:30) - Prevention & Environment Factors
(20:30) - Growth & Rebranding
(22:15) - Annual Events
(27:00) - Getting to Know the Need
(28:30) - June Run
(30:10) - Keeping Memories Alive
(32:30) - Not Bringing Work Home
(35:45) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Jennifer Huntley's Links:
Website - https://paigesccf.org
IG - https://www.instagram.com/paigeschildhoodcancerfund
FB - https://www.facebook.com/paigeschildhoodcancerfund
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/paiges-childhood-cancer-fund

---
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 of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Daniel Clark, a US Marine Corps veteran, former Utica firefighter and paramedic, and founder of Adirondack Spirit Leadership Forge. Dan opens up about a life built around service, from growing up in a family deeply connected to education and the fire department, to serving overseas in the Marines and later working on the front lines here in Utica. What starts as a conversation about service quickly turns into a much deeper discussion about trauma, purpose, mental health and the realities many veterans and first responders face after years of carrying heavy experiences.

Dan speaks honestly about burnout, emotional regulation, fatherhood and the loneliness that can come from living through experiences most people cannot fully understand. He shares how important community, nature and open conversations have been in his own healing journey, while also talking about the need to move mental health conversations beyond crisis response and toward prevention. There are some incredibly powerful moments in this one, especially around learning how to slow down, reconnect and ask for help before things spiral too far.

We also dive into Dan’s vision for Adirondack Spirit Leadership Forge and his goal of creating a healing-focused outdoor center for veterans, first responders, entrepreneurs, and community members across Central New York. From leadership retreats and mental health workshops to mentorship opportunities for young people, his focus is all about rebuilding connection in a world that often feels disconnected.

We Cover:
• Dan’s journey from the Marines to the Utica Fire Department and the impact of service
• The mental health struggles many veterans and first responders face in silence
• Why nature, community, and conversation play such a major role in healing
• The mission and future vision behind Adirondack Spirit Leadership Forge
• Supporting youth leadership, mentorship and stronger community connection in the 315

This conversation is a reminder that healing is not weakness, and that nobody is meant to carry everything alone.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(0:40) - Journey of Service
(2:30) - Enlisting in the Marines
(4:15) - The Lonely Side & Trauma
(7:15) - The Moment Dan Knew
(9:30) - People Struggling Alone
(12:15) - Growing Focus on Mental Health
(13:30) - Adirondack Spirit Leadership Forge
(18:30) - Looking For a Location
(19:30) - The Vision
(23:10) - Replacing an EAP Program
(24:30) - American Legion Involvement
(26:30) - Boys State
(29:30) - Helping the Youth
(30:50) - Supporting the Mission
(31:50) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Daniel Clark's Links:
Website - https://www.adirondackspiritleadershipforgellc.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DanielClark7
FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070653181737

---
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 with Mary Warfel Moquin, founder of A Brand New Day, for a conversation that goes far beyond marketing. Mary shares the story behind launching her business after navigating job loss, motherhood, health complications and the realization that the traditional corporate path no longer aligned with the life she wanted to build. What started as freelancing during the pandemic slowly evolved into a business rooted in storytelling, authenticity and helping brands connect with people in a more human way.

Mary dives into her philosophy around “human-to-human marketing” and why so many businesses struggle to clearly communicate who they are. From branding and vulnerability to email marketing and storytelling, she explains how the strongest brands are built through trust, clarity and genuine connection. The conversation also explores the realities of entrepreneurship while balancing motherhood.

We also get into Mary’s love for poetry, writing and community. She talks about how storytelling has shaped her entire life, why the Mohawk Valley is such a unique place for entrepreneurs and how collaboration has become one of the area’s greatest strengths.

We Cover:
• Mary Warfel Moquin’s journey from corporate marketing to entrepreneurship
• The idea behind “human-to-human marketing” and why authenticity matters
• The difference between marketing and sales, and why small businesses confuse the two
• Balancing motherhood, creativity, and building a business from the ground up
• How storytelling, poetry, and community all influence the way she approaches branding

This conversation is a reminder that great marketing is not about being louder. It’s about being real, telling better stories and creating genuine connections with people.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:00) - Origins of A Brand New Day
(7:30) - Human to Human Marketing
(10:15) - Why Small Businesses Struggle to Communicate
(12:10) - Outsourcing Your Weaknesses
(13:10) - Marketing vs. Sales
(16:15) - Working with Mary
(17:55) - People Buy on Emotion & Why?
(19:45) - Building a Strong Brand From Scratch
(22:00) - Email Marketing
(25:35) - Most Challenging Part
(27:50) - Flexibility & Work Life Integration
(30:45) - Poetry & Writing
(34:10) - Community
(37:00) - What's Next
(40:05) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Mary Warfel Moquin's Links:
Website - https://www.abrandnew.day
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marywarfelmoquin
FB - https://www.facebook.com/p/A-Brand-New-Day-Co-61572507656380

---
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 of Love Living Local 315, we welcome back Anthony Amodio. Anthony is a chef, entrepreneur and the force behind Philomena’s Salumeria, Monarch by Anthony and several of the area’s most talked-about food experiences. From carrying on a family legacy that dates back to 1919 to building multiple businesses across the Mohawk Valley, Anthony shares what it really takes to create something that lasts. This conversation blends history, hustle and a whole lot of heart.

Anthony opens up about the realities of running multiple businesses at once, from managing teams and maintaining quality to navigating rising food costs and constant change. He talks about the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, staying connected to your customers, and being willing to adapt without losing what makes your product special. Whether it’s building a modern-day salumeria experience or perfecting something as sacred as tomato pie in Utica, everything he does is intentional.

At its core, this episode is about more than food. It’s about legacy, resilience, and creating experiences that bring people together. Anthony’s story is a reminder that success isn’t just about what you build, but how it makes people feel long after they leave.

We Discuss:
• Carrying on a family legacy and building Philomena’s from the ground up
• The challenges of running multiple businesses and staying consistent
• How Anthony approaches quality, team building, and leadership
• The story behind his tomato pie and creating something unique in Utica
• Why food, family, and community are at the center of everything he does

This one feels like sitting at the table with someone who’s lived it — and is still building every day.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:30) - Carrying on Family Legacy
(2:55) - Names of Sandwiches
(4:15) - Managing Multiple Businesses
(4:55) - Salumeria Experience
(7:45) - Old Experience, New Twist
(10:15) - Customer Suggestions
(11:40) - Destination Location
(13:00) - Why Baggs Square?
(16:20) - Hiring Up
(17:30) - Quality & Scaling
(18:30) - Product Diversity
(20:15) - Long Hours & Recharging
(21:00) - Driven by Struggle & Giving Back
(23:50) - Biggest Challenges
(27:50) - Tomato Pie
(31:50) - What's Next?
(37:15) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Anthony Amodio's Links:
Philomena's - FB - https://www.facebook.com/p/Philomenas-Salumeria-61581390762049
Monarch Website - https://monarchyorkville.com
Monarch FB - https://www.facebook.com/p/Monarch-by-Anthony-Amodio-Anthony-Amodio-Catering-100092354675069/

---
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 of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Dr. Victor Martinez Zavala, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Slocum-Dickson Medical Group, whose journey spans from Mexico to Chicago and now right here in New Hartford. With nearly two decades of training and experience, Dr. Zavala shares how his passion for plastic surgery started early and evolved into a career focused on restoring not just appearance, but confidence, function, and quality of life.

This conversation goes far beyond what most people think of when they hear “plastic surgery.” Dr. Zavala breaks down the powerful impact of reconstructive work, from helping patients recover after trauma or cancer to performing procedures that quite literally give people their lives back. At the same time, we dive into the realities of aesthetic procedures, the influence of social media, and the importance of setting realistic expectations. His approach is simple but refreshing. Listen first, guide second, and always put the patient’s well-being first.

We also talk about why he chose to build his practice in the Mohawk Valley, the value of community-based care, and what makes Slocum such a unique place for both patients and providers. This one is equal parts educational and eye-opening, with a human side to medicine that often gets overlooked.

We Discuss:
• Dr. Zavala’s journey from Mexico to New Hartford and what shaped his career
• The difference between reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery
• How procedures can restore confidence, function, and quality of life
• The impact of social media on beauty standards and patient expectations
• Why building a practice in the 315 and serving the local community matters

This episode will change the way you think about plastic surgery and give you a deeper appreciation for the people behind the work.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(0:45) - Journey From Mexico to New Hartford
(2:45) - Defining Moment
(4:55) - Restoring Balance & Confidence
(6:50) - Is This an Option For Everyone?
(10:30) - Setting Realistic Expectations
(12:00) - Connecting with Patients
(13:45) - Post Pregnancy Procedures
(16:25) - Hand Surgery
(18:45) - Experience in Central NY
(20:00) - Stress & Striving For Better
(22:30) - Treadmill Challenge & Staying Active
(23:25) - Slocum-Dickson Medical Group
(26:05) - What Does Success Look Like in 2026?
(29:20) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Dr. Victor Martinez Zavala's Links:
Website - https://sdmg.com/provider/victor-martinez-zavala-md
IG - https://www.instagram.com/sdmgplastics
FB - https://www.facebook.com/SDMGPlastics

---
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 of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Utica native and decorated veteran Vinny Scalise, founder and executive director of the Utica Center for Development. After serving 24 years in the military, including deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, Vinny returned home with a mission. What started at his dining room table has grown into one of the most impactful organizations in Central New York, serving thousands of veterans, families and community members every year.

Vinny shares the reality of transitioning from military life back to civilian life, along with the gaps he saw in services for veterans. Instead of waiting for change, he built it himself. From housing and mental health support to youth programs and community spaces, the UCD has expanded into something much bigger than its original vision. This conversation dives into the challenges of building a nonprofit from the ground up, navigating setbacks and staying committed to a mission that truly matters.

We also get a look at the future of Utica through Vinny’s eyes. From revitalizing buildings like the former YWCA into wellness centers, to creating inclusive spaces like the Better Together Center, his focus is clear. Identify the gaps, fill them, and build a stronger community in the process.

We Dive Into:
• Vinny’s transition from military service to building the Utica Center for Development
• How the UCD grew from a small idea into a multi-location organization serving thousands
• The importance of addressing mental health, homelessness, and veteran support at the root
• Expanding programs for youth, families, and individuals with developmental disabilities
• His vision for a stronger, safer, and more connected Utica

This conversation is a powerful reminder that real change starts locally. If you care about community, leadership, and making a difference, this episode is one you don’t want to miss.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(0:55) - Returning Home
(2:00) - Transitioning Back to Civilian Life
(3:30) - Starting the Center & Challenges
(6:30) - Operating Private Non Profit
(8:45) - Serving 4,000 Veterans Annually & Expansion
(11:15) - Purchasing Bleecker Building
(12:00) - Non Veteran Services & Team
(13:00) - Fundraising
(14:00) - St. Patrick's Day Parade
(18:45) - Better Together Center
(24:00) - Identify Gaps & Mission
(29:05) - Services & Website
(32:00) - Youth & Private Investment
(33:40) - Getting Involved
(40:45) - Rapid Fire Questions


---
Vincent Scalise's Links:
Website - https://www.ucdevelopment.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/ucdevelopment.org
IG - https://www.instagram.com/uticacenterfordevelopment

---
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 of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Utica native Jordan Johnson, a single father, entrepreneur, music producer, and newly published author who’s all about turning life’s challenges into fuel. Jordan shares how this current season of his life feels like a culmination of everything he’s been through, from early struggles to building something meaningful for himself and his family. It’s a conversation rooted in reflection, growth, and the idea that sometimes the toughest seasons are what shape you the most.

We get into real conversations around parenting, mindset and what it means to lead by example. Jordan opens up about raising two teenage boys, learning how to communicate and realizing that kids are always watching. The discussion naturally flows into self-talk, discipline and how easy it is to get stuck in your own head. But Jordan keeps bringing it back to perspective. No matter what you’re going through, there’s always a way to flip it and find something positive to build from.

On top of that, Jordan dives into his journey as an author and business owner, from writing his book Turning the Tables from Negative Thinking to Positive Living to running his mobile detailing business here in the 315. His message is simple but powerful. You don’t need to have everything figured out. You just need to keep moving, stay coachable and believe that your next win is on the way.

We Talk About:
• Why reflection and quiet time are key to growth and self-awareness
• Lessons from being a young father and raising two teenage boys
• How negative self-talk holds people back and how to break it
• The story behind his book and the message of turning setbacks into wins
• Building a business locally and what makes Utica a unique place to grow

This one is real, relatable, and packed with perspective. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure of your next move, this conversation will hit home.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:00) - What Season is Jordan Most Proud Of
(2:30) - Daily Reflection & Silence
(4:30) - Lessons From Parenting
(7:05) - Kids Are Always Watching
(8:25) - Maturing as a Dad
(10:00) - The Leader Doesn't Always Know
(14:00) - Allowing Your Kids to Learn From Mistakes
(17:00) - Eliminating Negative Self Talk
(19:30) - Becoming an Author
(22:30) - There's Always Room For Positivity
(24:15) - Perspective
(25:45) - Auto Detailing Business
(28:20) - Patterns Observed
(31:50) - Who the Book is For
(35:20) - Emotions & Being Coachable
(45:50) - Rapid Fire Questions

---
Jordan Johnson's Links:
FB - https://www.facebook.com/JDubthegenius
IG - https://www.instagram.com/Jdubthegenius
Detailing FB - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558813994621
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@JDubthegenius

---
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 with Melquea Smith, an award-winning children’s book illustrator from Syracuse and the creative force behind PrettyKittyPaintings. From discovering art online at a young age to turning it into a full-time career, Melquea shares what it really takes to break into the world of children’s publishing. She pulls back the curtain on an industry that can feel like a “secret society,” explaining how she found her lane, built her skillset, and learned to tell powerful stories through illustration.

We dive into the artistry behind children’s books in a way most people never think about. Melquea explains how every detail matters, from color choices that shape emotion to subtle techniques that guide a reader to turn the page. What looks simple on the surface is actually the result of months or even years of work, layered with intention, psychology, and storytelling. She also shares the realities of the business side, including how illustrators get paid, how long projects really take, and why you have to truly love the work to stay in it.

Beyond books, Melquea is building something bigger. Through her clip art subscription, she’s helping educators, creators, and authors access diverse, joyful imagery that reflects the real world. At the heart of everything she does is a mission to normalize and celebrate representation, creativity, and self-expression. This conversation is thoughtful, eye-opening, and full of perspective for anyone who’s ever underestimated what goes into a children’s book.

We Discuss:
• How Melquea found her path into children’s book illustration and what it takes to break in
• The hidden complexity behind picture books and why “simple” is actually very hard
• The business side of illustration, including timelines, payments, and royalties
• How art influences emotion through color, composition, and storytelling techniques
• Her clip art membership and mission to bring more diversity and representation into creative spaces

This one will completely change the way you look at children’s books—and might just inspire you to create something of your own.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:00) - Getting Started in Illustration
(5:00) - Sequential Storytelling
(6:30) - Learning the Industry
(7:30) - Cannot Exist Without Creating
(8:25) - Relationship with Author
(11:15) - Project Criteria
(15:30) - Structure of Deals
(19:40) - Business Mind vs. Artistic Heart
(21:15) - Amount of Time Per Book
(24:30) - Insider Secrets & Strategy
(28:30) - Melquea's Style & Personal Elements
(31:00) - Thoughts on AI
(35:30) - Clipart Membership
(40:45) - Rapid Fire Questions


---
Melquea Smith's Links:
Website - https://www.prettykittypaintings.com
IG - https://www.instagram.com/prettykittypaintings
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melqueasmith
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@PrettyKittyPaintings

---
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