Talk CNY: Recent Episodes
CenterState CEO
CenterState CEO is Central New York’s leading business leadership and economic development organization, committed to creating a region where businesses thrive, and all people prosper. Welcome to CenterState CEO's semimonthly podcast, Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank.Through this series CenterState CEO shares the latest news and information on topics ranging from community and workforce development, to policy and innovation. Each month we’ll feature leaders from across Central New York to shine a spotlight on the growth and opportunities happening in the region. In under 15 minutes, you’ll get an inside look at the people, projects and planning moving Central New York forward, and be connected to resources you need to support your business’ growth.
In this episode of Quarterly Market Insights, a special series part of CenterState CEO's Talk CNY podcast presented by NBT Bank, host Kevin Schwab sits down with NBT Bank Chief Economist and Chief Investment Officer Ken Entenmann to unpack the biggest economic headlines. From oil prices to inflation and AI-driven growth, Ken explains why market volatility may be masking a surprisingly resilient economy.
From connecting Central New Yorkers to essential services and preventing lead poisoning to building a love of reading among city school district students and empowering workers to build strong financial futures, the United Way of Central New York is helping to create a region where all people can find opportunities to thrive.
Now with a new President and CEO, the United Way of Central New York is continuing its tradition of caring for the community and finding new ways to create opportunity. On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we learn more about the current work of the United Way of Central New York from President and CEO Carrie Large.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
United Way of Central New York Website | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram
Guest: Carrie Large LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
What does it take to scale a company without losing sight of its values? In this episode of the Talk CNY Miniseries: Leadership Lessons, presented by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, Community Financial System President and CEO Dimitar Karaivanov shares how one of Central New York's largest financial services organizations has grown into a national enterprise through intentional leadership, strategic planning and an unwavering commitment to trust, talent and excellence. This episode shares valuable insights on scaling with intention and leading through change.
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Community Financial System Website | LinkedIn |
Learn about the strategies and priorities guiding CenterState CEO’s work directly from those leading it. This special episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, features CenterState CEO’s entire Corporate Leadership Team and is guest hosted by Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications Elle Hanna.
On this episode, the Corporate Leadership Team discusses the highlights of the last year and the big projects moving the Central New York community forward.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Ben Sio LinkedIn
Jess Abbott LinkedIn
Andrea Hahn LinkedIn
Elle Hanna LinkedIn
Juhanna Rogers LinkedIn
Kevin Schwab LinkedIn
Honora Spillane LinkedIn
CenterState CEO announced Dr. Carlene Lacey as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of ON-RAMP CNY just about a year ago. In that time, Dr. Lacey has hired new staff members, forged partnerships across the workforce ecosystem, welcomed dozens of community residents into training programs, helped establish a Community Advisory Committee and much more.
As we enter year two, we sit down with Dr. Lacey on this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, to reflect on the work that’s been done and the next steps we need to take to further reduce barriers to in-demand, family sustaining careers in Central New York.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Dr. Carlene Lacey LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
One of the greatest challenges we will undertake as Central New York grows is building enough housing to accommodate all the region’s residents. Available, affordable housing is imperative to creating a truly inclusive, competitive and sustainable future for Central New York.
For that reason, CenterState CEO and its Network have prioritized examining the region’s housing landscape, its obstacles and what needs to be done to create meaningful change.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we speak with CenterState CEO’s Senior Vice President of Member and Business Experience Jess Abbott and Director of Policy and Research Jared Shepard about the important role housing plays in our regional economy and how we’re supporting creative, practical solutions.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Jess Abbott LinkedIn
Jared Shepard LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
What does it take to build trust, unite communities and lead with purpose? In this episode of theTalk CNY Miniseries: Leadership Lessons, presented by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, Evelyn Ingram of Wegmans reflects on her leadership journey, the power of showing up authentically and the role businesses can play in strengthening communities. From career-defining lessons to rapid-fire leadership insights, hear how integrity and a commitment to service have strengthened partnerships across sectors and inspired meaningful change.
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Evelyn Ingram LinkedIn
Communicating with animals is not just something out of a storybook, but a reality for the GENIUS NY Cohort 9 grand prize winner. Flox Intelligence is a wildlife AI company that aims to minimize harmful interactions between humans and animals. The idea recently won them a $1 million grand prize at the GENIUS NY pitch finals during CenterState CEO’s annual Innovation Night.
On this episode of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank, we talk about winning this round of GENIUS NY and the problem Flox Intelligence aims to solve with Flox Intelligence cofounder Sara Nozkova.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Sara Nozkova LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Central New York is home to the world’s largest accelerator for robotics and uncrewed systems, GENIUS NY. Funded by Empire State Development and operated by CenterState CEO with support from National Grid, GENIUS NY has been bringing some of the most innovative uncrewed systems startups in the world to set up a headquarters in downtown Syracuse for nearly a decade now.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO Director of Programs and Engagement Kara Jones and Investment Manager Brad Banikowski join us to discuss how GENIUS NY is keeping speed with the UAS industry.
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Brad Banikowski LinkedIn
Kara Jones LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
In this episode of Quarterly Market Insights, a special series part of CenterState CEO’s Talk CNY podcast, presented by NBT Bank, host Kevin Schwab sits down with NBT Bank’s Chief Economist and Chief Investment Officer Ken Entenmann. From a strong jobs report to volatile oil prices, the conversation explores what the markets are signaling about inflation and growth. Ken breaks down shifting labor dynamics, inflation expectations and consumer resilience, while offering grounded insight on what it all means for markets, businesses and Central New York’s outlook.
CenterState CEO | LinkedIn | Website
NBT Bank | Website | LinkedIn
Kevin Schwab | LinkedIn
What happens when two experts decide the solution they need doesn’t exist? They build it themselves.
In this episode of Talk CNY Miniseries: Leadership Lessons, presented by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, we sit down with Dr. Adrienne Bitar, co-founder of Seen Nutrition, to explore how she and her team transformed a deeply personal connection to bone health into a growing business serving customers across all 50 states.
From navigating manufacturing challenges to rapid scaling as first-time founders, Dr. Bitar shares the leadership decisions that helped bring Seen Nutrition to life.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Excellus BlueCross Blue Shield LinkedIn | Website
Seen Nutrition Website | LinkedIn
Dr. Adrienne Bitar LinkedIn
CenterState CEO is hosting Micron’s Executive Vice President of Global Operations Manish Bhatia for its 2026 Annual Meeting. Bhatia’s visit to Syracuse comes as Micron preps its site for its first fab in Clay, NY, and the company continues to lay its roots in Central New York.
There are many moving parts, and it’s not always easy to stay on top of all of Micron’s activity in the region. On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, Joe Nehme, Senior Manager for External Affairs at Micron Technology, joins us to discuss the latest on the Micron project.
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Joe Nehme LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
After more than 15 years, CenterState CEO is changing its leadership structure, splitting the President and CEO role in two. But the new titles are taken on by some very familiar faces.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we speak to Rob Simpson and Ben Sio about their new positions as CenterState CEO Chief Executive Officer and CenterState CEO President.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Ben Sio LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
CenterState CEO’s traditional membership model has evolved into a dynamic ecosystem of members and clients, designed to meet businesses wherever they are in their journey. But it's the thoughtful and innovative organizations that make up the CenterState CEO Network that make its impact so powerful.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we hear from two members of the Network. Kathleen Avery Connell and Jim Connell, partners at Furthermore and Lindsay Mastrogiovanni, founder of ConsciousHR.
Learn more and join the CenterState CEO Network!
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Lindsay Mastrogiovanni LinkedIn
Kathleen Avery Connell LinkedIn
In this episode of Talk CNY Miniseries: Leadership Lessons, presented by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, our guest Dr. Martin Stallone, Executive Vice President and Chief Healthcare Services Officer for Lifetime Healthcare Companies, the parent organization of Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, shares how his leadership journey is fueled by service and purpose. From a passion for helping others to a distinguished career as a physician, military officer, and healthcare executive, Dr. Stallone describes how stepping outside of one's comfort zone, embracing risk and focusing on the mission and vision can elevate leadership at every level.
This episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, examines the launch of the new CenterState CEO Network and what it means for business owners. CenterState CEO’s Senior Vice President of Member and Business Experience Jess Abbott and Senior Vice President of Inclusive Growth Honora Spillane explain how the network connects businesses of all sizes and stages to resources, networking and support from CenterState’s team of experts to help them grow faster, innovate smarter and navigate change with confidence. Learn how the new network provides guidance that is responsive, practical and tailored to where you are and where you want to go.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Guests:
Jess Abbott LinkedIn
Honora Spillane LinkedIn
Host:
Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
In this episode of Quarterly Market Insights, a special series part of CenterState CEO's Talk CNY podcast, presented by NBT Bank, guest host Jared Shepard sits down with NBT Bank’s Chief Economist and Chief Investment Officer Ken Entenmann. They explore the economic outlook for 2026—from tariffs and AI disruption to consumer spending and labor market trends. Despite headlines filled with uncertainty, Ken explains why the underlying data still points to a resilient economy. Plus, they examine what Micron’s groundbreaking and new housing development could mean for Central New York’s economic future.
The Greater Oswego Fulton Chamber of Commerce, or GOFCC, is recognizing 110 years in the Oswego County community this year, and the GOFCC will soon be celebrating at its upcoming annual meeting.
The Annual Meeting is not only an opportunity to celebrate milestone anniversaries, but also a time to take stock of all that we’ve accomplished in the last year. This year’s event will allow attendees an even greater chance to connect with other members of the business community and find new ways to work together for a community where all people can prosper.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, GOFCC Executive Director Sara Broadwell joins host Katie Zilcosky to talk about all there is to celebrate at the upcoming GOFCC Annual Meeting.
Get your Annual Meeting tickets today!
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Sara Broadwell LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
84% of business leaders who participated in CenterState CEO’s 2026 Economic Forecast Report said they see themselves as beneficiaries of the anticipated growth of Central New York’s emerging technology sector, meaning most people can see how major projects, like Micron, TTM or the Tech Hubs designation, will impact them.
But we also know that small and midsized businesses face unique challenges that may keep them fully capitalizing on the region’s momentum. To ensure that all parts of our economy are able to benefit from this growth, CenterState CEO is finding new and intentional ways to help these businesses grow.
On this episode of Talk CNY Presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO Senior Business Advisor Brandon Mastrangelo joins us to talk more about the resources we’re providing to the business community.
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Brandon Mastrangelo LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Earlier in January, we marked an exciting moment for Central New York’s economic future, the groundbreaking of Micron’s historic project in Clay, NY. A vital partner in bringing Micron to Central New York was Onondaga County, led by County Executive Ryan McMahon. But CenterState CEO’s work with the county goes beyond just attracting major projects like Micron and extends to all facets of making this a vibrant community for all.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO President and CEO Rob Simpson sits down with County Executive Ryan McMahon to reflect on the work that brought us to Micron’s historic groundbreaking and discuss priorities for the future.
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Rob Simpson LinkedIn
County Executive Ryan McMahon LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Happy New Year! There is a lot in store for Central New York in 2026. From Micron’s groundbreaking on its project site in Clay and opportunities for new energy generation to beginning the redevelopment of 1300 South Salina St. and working with a new mayoral administration in Syracuse to build a stronger city, the year is sure to bring historic opportunity and new challenges
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO Rob Simpson breaks down 2026 priorities and shares what he hopes to accomplish this new year.
Join the CenterState CEO team at the Economic Forecast Breakfast on Jan. 22 to hear about what’s in store for the regional and national economy. Purchase a ticket today!
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
In this episode of the Talk CNY Miniseries: Leadership Lessons, we sit down with Andrew Lunetta, Founder and Executive Director of A Tiny Home for Good. Andrew shares how working in shelters for nearly a decade inspired him to create an organization dedicated to ending homelessness in Syracuse. From early challenges to powerful success stories, including tenants whose lives have been permanently changed, this conversation explores leadership, resilience, and the role community plays in creating real, lasting impact.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
A Tiny Home for Good | Website
Guest: Andrew Lunetta, Founder and Executive Director, A Tiny Home for Good LinkedIn
Host: Brittni Smallwood LinkedIn
In this episode of Quarterly Market Insights, a special series part of CenterState CEO’s Talk CNY podcast, presented by NBT Bank, host Kevin Schwab is joined by NBT Bank’s Chief Economist and Chief Investment Officer Ken Entenmann. They explore consumer spending patterns, what AI really means for jobs and productivity, and why Central New York is outperforming the nation. As 2025 comes to a close, hear why “resilience” may be the word of the year—and why there’s reason to be optimistic.
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Host: Kevin Schwab LinkedIn
NBT Bank LinkedIn
The city of Syraucse will have a new mayor at the start of the new year. Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh has reached his term limit, and current deputy mayor Sharon Owens will succeed him as mayor of Syracuse starting in 2026.
CenterState CEO’s great working relationship with the city of Syracuse has helped to advance key regional strategies that have positioned us for today’s historic growth. On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO president and CEO Rob Simpson takes over as host and speaks with Mayor Ben Walsh and Mayor-elect Sharon Owens about the work that’s been done and their goals for the future.
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In this episode of Talk CNY: Leadership Lessons, presented by NBT Bank, Syracuse City Fire Chief Michael Monds discusses the habits, values, and decisions that have defined his leadership journey.
Chief Monds reflects on more than two decades of service – from firefighter to fire chief – and explains why servant leadership guides every decision he makes.
Chief Monds also opens up about staying calm under pressure, building mental toughness and learning from challenging calls. Listen or watch the full conversation to gain practical and inspiring lessons from a leader dedicated to the greater good of his department and community.
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Guest: Chief Michael Monds Website | LinkedIn
Host: Brittni Smallwood LinkedIn
As a part of our Innovation and Entrepreneurship work, CenterState CEO staff gets the opportunity to work with some of Central New York’s most dedicated and creative small business owners. These entrepreneurs are offering unique products, investing locally and making our neighborhoods more vibrant.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, one of those entrepreneurs joins the podcast to discuss her journey and passion: Tanika Jones, founder and director of It Takes A Village Daycare.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
We’re heading into the giving season and CenterState CEO is lucky to receive support from so many people across the business community. Their generosity enables the programs and strategies that help us create a region where businesses thrive and all people prosper.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we speak with a founding contributor to our Growth +Equity Fund, John Peter and Executive Director of the CenterState CEO Foundation Kelly Fumarola about the impact giving can have in helping people achieve success.
What if gaming could change the way we learn, connect, and build communities right here in Central New York? In this episode of Talk CNY: Leadership Lessons, we sit down with Rob O’Connor, the co-founder of ELITE Gaming, Brain Play, and The Underground in Downtown Syracuse, to talk about how he’s redefining what it means to be a gamer.
Rob shares how he’s turning gaming into a force for good, helping students find confidence, community, and career opportunities through eSports and tech. From lessons learned from his father to the light-bulb moments he sees in kids every day, this conversation is inspiring and eye-opening.
If you love gaming, innovation, or just seeing CNY thrive — you’ll walk away seeing both business and video games a little differently.
Elite Gaming | https://elitegaming.gg/
Brain Play | https://elitegaming.gg/brain-play/
The Underground | https://www.theundergroundsyr.com/
Our neighbors to the north in Oswego County have a long list of accomplishments so far in 2025. From thriving farmers markets to innovative child care initiatives, Oswego County leaders are building a vibrant community prepared for future investment.
The Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a fully integrated partner of CenterState CEO, and for good reason. Oswego County’s business community ranges from major regional employers to dynamic and diverse small businesses. Their success is an important part of our entire region’s success.
On this episode of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank, we're joined by two Oswego County leaders that are guiding the strategic initiatives that are making regional impact: Sara Broadwell, executive director of the Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce and Rachel Pierce, director of workforce development for Oswego County.
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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Sara Broadwell LinkedIn
Rachel Pierce LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
On this Talk CNY quarterly check, we welcome back CenterState CEO President and CEO Rob Simpson. Rob joins us for this episode to share lessons learned during his sabbatical, his renewed goals now that he’s back in the office and what he’s excited about in the final quarter of 2025.
You can hear more on the power of reset from Rob and Syracuse Women’s Basketball Head Coach Felisha Legette-Jack at CenterState CEO’s Economic Champions Celebration on Oct. 29. Get your tickets today!
In this episode of Quarterly Market Insights, a special series part of CenterState CEO’s Talk CNY podcast, presented by NBT Bank, the conversation explores the shifting dynamics of the U.S. economy and their implications for businesses and consumers.
NBT Bank’s Chief Economist and Chief Investment Officer Ken Entenmann breaks down market trends, policy shifts and local opportunities. This episode offers practical insights to help you plan for what’s ahead.
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Host: Andrew Fish LinkedIn
NBT Bank LinkedIn
The Regional Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics or STEAM School welcomed its first class at the start of this school year. The new school is the first of its kind in the Central New York region and brings the historic Central Tech building back to life in downtown Syracuse.
It’s a major accomplishment, bringing together numerous partners across private, public and nonprofit sectors, to create a school that will help us meet the moment and help more people access more of the area’s opportunity. On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, STEAM School principal Dan Straub and Syracuse City School District’s Executive Director of Career and Technical Education Erin Noto join us to discuss how classes are going so far and how the school fits into the region’s growth.
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INSPYRE Innovation Hub Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
Erin Noto LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
In this episode of Talk CNY: Leadership Lessons, presented by NBT Bank, we sit down with Felisha Legette-Jack, Head Coach of Syracuse University’s Women’s Basketball Team. In just three seasons, Coach Jack has turned the Orange into one of the ACC’s top contenders, earning ACC Coach of the Year in 2024—the first Syracuse head coach, men’s or women’s, to ever receive that honor.
Beyond the wins, Coach Jack shares how her faith, family and life lessons drive her leadership, and how she empowers young athletes to chase—and surpass—their dreams. From navigating challenges to building mental toughness, her passion for helping people shines through.
Tune in to hear how she leads with purpose and creates lasting impact.
We are so close to opening the doors to CenterState’s INSPYRE Innovation Hub. This 90,000-square-foot facility will be the largest innovation hub of its kind in New York state and one of the top five largest in the entire country.
The resources and programs at INSPYRE are designed with founders in mind. Offerings range from state-of-the-art work spaces and a new maker space to funded accelerator programs, mentorship opportunities and much more.
Before the public is welcomed into this facility, we wanted to share a few INSPYRE essentials. The CenterState CEO team has been featured across season 3 of Talk CNY discussing different parts of the INSPYRE Innovation Hub, from its name to its significance to the region.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we’re going back into the season to get the answers to some INSPYRE questions.
This episode features clips from:
Season 3, Episode 3: Project and Partnerships Impacting CNY
Season 3, Episode 7: Building the Largest Entrepreneurship Hub in NY
Season 3, Episode 8: Inspiring Growth Through Innovation
Season 3, Episode 9: Celebrating and Supporting Small Business
Season 3, Episode 14: CenterState Leadership Team Takeover
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INSPYRE Innovation Hub Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
It’s been just over a year since the New York SMART I-Corridor was named a federally funded Tech Hub. It’s the only Tech Hub focused on semiconductors in the country to receive federal dollars. When the award was first announced, we spoke with leaders from the convening organizations back when the Tech Hub was first announced to learn about its goals in creating a global semiconductor hub in upstate New York.
Now on this episode of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank, we’re check back in on the Tech Hubs progress with those leaders: Dottie Gallagher, president and CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, Joe Stefko, President and CEO at OneROC and Ben Sio, acting president and CEO of CenterState CEO.
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Dottie Gallagher LinkedIn
Ben Sio LinkedIn
Joe Stefko LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
One of the ways that CenterState CEO is working towards its goal of creating a region where businesses thrive and all people can prosper is by supporting programs that help create greater access to in-demand careers in the community. The Bridge to Manufacturing Careers program is one such initiative. Thanks to the many community partners that have helped to make it possible, more than a dozen people are now pursuing a degree at Onondaga Community College that could help them to find a career in the region’s growing advanced manufacturing sector.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we are joined by CenterState's Director of Workforce Innovation Emilija Postolovska to talk about the program and its success so far.
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Emilija Postolovska LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
When Governor Kathy Hochul charged CenterState CEO with leading the One Network for Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships or ON-RAMP Syracuse planning process, one of the first things the team knew to do was look for an innovative, dedicated and experienced professional to lead this new organization.
They found her right here in Central New York. After conducting a national search, CenterState CEO appointed Dr. Carlene Lacey as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of ON-RAMP Syracuse.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, Dr. Lacey joins us and shares a little bit about her professional journey and her hopes for ON-RAMP.
Learn more about ON-RAMP on our website. Find out how to get involved by contacting Dr. Lacey (clacey@centerstateceo.com).
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Dr. Carlene Lacey LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
This episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, is a bit different. We’re passing the host mic to the CenterState CEO corporate leadership team for this episode, recorded at the Redhouse Arts Center in downtown Syracuse.
With CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson on sabbatical, the Corporate Leadership Team is taking charge of all the projects this organization currently has underway, from the INSPYRE innovation hub and new ON-RAMP site, to office renovations and staff development.
This episode is hosted by CenterState CEO’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications Elle Hanna, she is joined by Acting President and CEO Ben Sio, Interim Senior Vice President of Strategy, Policy and Planning Kevin Schwab, Senior Vice President of Inclusive Growth Honora Spillane, Senior Vice President of Member and Business Experience Andrew Fish, Senior Vice President of Racial Equity and Social Impact Dr. Juhanna Rodgers and Senior Vice President of Administration and Human Capital Andrea Hahn.
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Ben Sio LinkedIn
Kevin Schwab LinkedIn
Dr. Juhanna Rodgers LinkedIn
Honora Spillane LinkedIn
Andrea Hahn LinkedIn
Andrew Fish LinkedIn
Elle Hanna LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
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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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
NBT Bank LinkedIn
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.
CONNECT
CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Host: Andrew Fish LinkedIn
NBT Bank LinkedIn
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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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
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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Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield Website | LinkedIn
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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Ryan Benz LinkedIn
Ben Lockwood LinkedIn
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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CenterState CEO Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
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
Talk CNY - Quarterly Market Insights presented by NBT Bank features Ken Entenmann, Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist for NBT Bank.
Ken joins us to share what's happening in the markets and how it impacts you.
Kenneth J. Entenmann is Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has over 3 decades of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank.
In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in Trust, Custody, Retirement, Institutional and Individual accounts.
Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor's degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also graduated from William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester with an MBA. He has also earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Ken is a former Board member of the New York Bankers Association and was the Chair of the Trust and Investment Committee. He has served on the board of the Central New York Community Foundation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse's Investment Advisory Committee.
In this episode of Talk CNY: Leadership Lessons, presented by NBT Bank, serial entrepreneur Jeff Knauss shares the personal and professional philosophies that have shaped his dynamic career. As an angel investor, 4x Inc. 5000 founder and the CEO of Arcovo AI and Opin, Jeff reflects on what drives his business decisions and his passion for building things from the ground up and bringing them to life in ways that provide real value.
Beyond business, Jeff’s leadership is deeply grounded in personal values, especially his commitment to family and the intentional use of time. Tune in to this episode of Talk CNY to hear Jeff’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, as well as his take on the importance of reverse-engineering big goals, taking a leap, and striving for daily improvement—emphasizing that regret is more frightening than failure.
Talk CNY: Leadership Lessons is presented by NBT Bank.
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Jeff Knauss Website | LinkedIn
Host: Brittni Smallwood LinkedIn
This episode will start with a trivia question. What do the dental chair, the tool you use to measure a person’s shoe size and the 24 second shot clock all have in common?
They were all invented in Central New York.
This region has a rich history of inventing, creating, and bringing new ideas to life. As we embark on this new chapter of growth in our community, we want to grow with respect to our roots. That’s why CenterState CEO’s new innovation hub will reflect both where we’re going and where we’ve been.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson discusses how the new name and look of the innovation hub captures the region’s legacy of innovation and the vision for the future.
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Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
As each month passes in 2025, CenterState CEO gets closer and closer to opening the new innovation hub in downtown Syracuse. If you pass the building on Harrison Street these days, you’ll see glass is now in the windows and exterior siding is going up. Inside, the elevators are now installed and crews are painting and renovating the new rooms.
We know there are still a lot of questions about how the new innovation hub will fit into our community and when people will be able to get inside. And we still have a lot to share about this project—including new resources, new programs and a new name.
On this episode of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO’s Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship John Liddy stops by to discuss the latest progress and future goals of the Innovation Hub.
Get tickets to CenterState CEO’s 2025 Annual Meeting!
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John Liddy LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
If you’re leaving the Syracuse Hancock International Airport through Terminal A, and you look to your left after crossing through the glass doors, you’ll see a room with large screens on the walls. The screens are displaying air traffic control data, a microweather service and low-altitude flight detection and more.
It's a room you may not have noticed if you weren’t looking for it, but it’s home to a keystone of the Central New York uncrewed aerial systems, or UAS, ecosystem, an ecosystem with a global reputation of innovation and success. This is the NUAIR Center of Excellence, headquarters for the NUAIR Alliance.
As the Central New York region grows as a hub of UAS technology, NUAIR works with its partners to enable the next generation of aviation in our region and across the country.
On this episode of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank, NUAIR’s Executive Director Ken Stewart joins host Katie Zilcosky to discuss the organization’s success and how the industry is impacting Central New York.
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Ken Stewart LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
The Talk CNY Miniseries: Leadership Lessons is a new series where we sit down with business and community leaders to explore the personal and professional experiences that have shaped their journeys.
Kicking off the series is Merike Treier, Executive Director of the Downtown Committee of Syracuse. In this role, she leads initiatives focused on development, revitalization, security, and environmental maintenance.
Ever wondered what it takes to create and sustain a thriving downtown? Merike shares with host Brittni Smallwood her perspective on downtown Syracuse’s remarkable transformation and the strategies she’s used to foster lasting growth.
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Downtown Committee of Syracuse Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube
Each year, uncrewed systems startups from across the globe apply to be a part of an accelerator program in Central New York. The five selected startups move to Central New York to take part in the world’s largest uncrewed aerial systems accelerator, GENIUS NY.
The GENIUS NY program, operated by CenterState CEO, awards $3 million in funding across the five selected teams and provides a suite of business services over the course of the program. It’s a program that produces results.
Since the program’s start in 2017, Empire State Development has invested $24 million in these uncrewed systems startups. GENIUS NY teams have since gone on to raise more than $350 million in follow-on funding.
GENIUS NY cohort 8 is currently underway. So what are these teams up to now?
GENIUS NY program director Kara Jones and Flyhound co-founder Manny Cerniglia join this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, to talk about the GENIUS NY experience.
Apply for GENIUS NY Cohort 9!
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Kara Jones LinkedIn
Manny Cerniglia LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
This episode of the Talk CNY, Economic Champions Miniseries, presented by NBT Bank, features Hannah Henley, President and Head of Intelligent Sensor Solutions at INFICON. Hannah and host Kate Hammer talk about her clear passion for developing high performance teams with a growth mindset. Through her work at INFICON she’s collaborated across the semiconductor value chain as the industry evolved through several inflection points. These experiences have firmed up her view that possibilities are truly endless when teams work together and let go of traditional fixed pie mindsets. Hannah initially came to CNY from New Hampshire, to pursue Chemical Engineering as an undergrad, and later complete her M.S. in Engineering Management at Clarkson University. At INFICON, she began as a product specialist and transitioned through numerous leadership roles before stepping into her current role as president. Hannah shares her journey at INFICON as well as INFICON’s inspiring and stellar year in 2024, and its positive outlook for 2025.
Governor Kathy Hochul has a number of economic development initiatives in this year’s budget, from supporting the semiconductor supply chain to helping adults reskill for the new careers that will be available in the state.
Leading these projects and all other economic development in the state is Empire State Development. On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development Hope Knight joins the show to discuss the state’s plans to see New York grow.
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Commissioner Hope Knight LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
CenterState CEO’s vision of economic development is not narrow. It aims to enable inclusive and sustainable growth, bringing together a range of partners to find creative solutions that will make for a vibrant community.
That means the work is varied. From multi-billion dollar investments like Micron to new restaurants opening in city neighborhoods. It’s all economic development.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO Vice President of Economic Development Nora Spillane discusses a range of projects currently underway in this region and how they’ll impact the community.
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Nora Spillane LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
CenterState CEO is taking on an exciting new role as a sub-intermediary for Micron Technology’s workforce development investment through the CHIPS and Science Act. And we’ll get to work with one of our long-time partners, the Central New York Community Foundation, which will serve as the lead intermediary for the investment.
The Central New York Community Foundation has invested more than $300 million in the region since its establishment in 1927. It also serves as a civic leader, convener and sponsor of strategic initiatives that foster a thriving and equitable region.
Joining host Katie Zilcosky on Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, to discuss the foundation’s work with Micron as well as its role in the community, is the Community Foundation’s President, Melanie Littlejohn.
It’s a new year, and 2025 will be filled with a lot of work and a lot of opportunity. Micron is expecting to break ground this year, partners in Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo and Ithaca continue their work as a federally awarded Tech Hub, ON-RAMP will begin to take shape and we’ll be celebrating the opening of the new Tech Garden. And that is just a bit of what’s to come.
On this episode of Talk CNY by CenterState, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson discusses what’s to come and what it means for our community.
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Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Today’s conversation on Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, is with Miniseries, Economic Champions host, Kate Hammer and multi-hyphenated entrepreneur, Arel Moodie. You may know him as the host of Disney+ show, "Family Reboot", which is oh so much fun, but in this episode we discuss his current businesses and work as a professional speaker.
Arel is co-founder of the tech start up Talkadot, a top tool for professional speakers allowing them to capture leads, collect data, and prove their value with hard numbers.
He also co-founded Profound Mastermind, where he helps bring together some of the top entrepreneurs and business professionals in Upstate NY to partake in unforgettable experiences with unforgettable humans.
Beyond these exciting ventures, Arel spends quite a bit of time hopping from city to city as a professional speaker. We’re talking 48 states and 5 countries to audiences that add up to three quarters of a million people. Now that’s a big number, in fact if we compare it to the Syracuse metropolitan area, tack on another 100,000 folks and we’re in the ballpark!
Arel has been invited to speak at the White House twice, the TEDx stage three times, and has been quoted in media outlets like Inc. Magazine, The New York Times, Forbes, and many others.
Today’s conversation on Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, is with Miniseries, Economic Champions host, Kate Hammer and guest, David Casullo, CEO and founder of Daneli Partners and CEO of Rock City Development. David is the author of Leading the High-Energy Culture: What the Best CEOs Do to Create an Atmosphere Where Employees Flourish, an Amazon best seller published with McGraw Hill.
In this episode, Kate and David discuss David’s work as a C-suite executive, entrepreneur, leadership coach, and author on a mission to develop leaders who have the courage and capability to change the world. Dave has developed leaders in local businesses through executive coaching and leadership development programs, and has traveled the world to work with leaders, including top executives in Fortune 500 organizations. Here in Central NY, he has also worked on the development of LIttle Falls including creative infrastructure projects from restaurants to a boutique hotel and even a dance studio.
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Guest: David Casullo LinkedIn & Book
Guest’s Companies: Daneli Partners and Rock City Development
Host: Kate Hammer LinkedIn
Today’s conversation on Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, is with Miniseries, Economic Champions host, Kate Hammer and guest, Sheena Solomon, executive director of The Gifford Foundation. In this episode Kate and Sheena discuss the role of the non-profit in economic development, and foundations in particular.
Sheena joined the Gifford Foundation team in 2007, and was named Executive Director in January 2019. Her prior work at the foundation was primarily focused on expanding its community impact initiatives, as well as working with the grants management team. She has been instrumental in the design and planning of Nourishing Tomorrow’s Leaders, a leadership development training that focuses on increasing the diversity and inclusiveness of nonprofit boards. In her role as Executive Director she remains fully committed and engaged in racial justice, equity and inclusion work.
Sheena also dedicates her time by serving on local and national boards such as the Syracuse Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO), PLACES (Professionals Learning About Community Equity and Smart Growth), the Urban Minority Economic Association (UMEA), The Near Westside Initiative, The Funders Network, Empire State Development (REDC) Council and the M&T Directors Advisory Council.
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Guest: Sheena Solomon LinkedIn
Guest’s Company: The Gifford Foundation
Host: Kate Hammer LinkedIn
Today’s conversation on Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, is with Miniseries, Economic Champions host, Kate Hammer and guest, Tom Huegel, founder and senior Partner at Wireless Business Group. Tom brings his clients over 35 years in the cellular industry, primarily working in corporate sales and engineering. And if you think you know what we mean when we say cellular, tune in because we are not just talking phones, we’re talking drones!
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Guest: Tom HuegelLinkedIn
Guest’s Company: Wireless Business Group
Host: Kate Hammer LinkedIn
Today’s conversation on Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, is with Miniseries, Economic Champions host, Kate Hammer and guest, Anthony E. Rojas, AIA, principal of in-ARCHITECTS. In this episode they discuss Anthony’s passion, which lies in successfully translating a clients’ vision into a path towards construction.
Anthony has over 17 years of professional experience in the architectural profession with a focus in Planning and Design. He is responsible for the conceptualization and implementation of design strategies and solutions for various project types which include; Mixed-Use, Multi-Unit Residential, Office, Retail, Restaurant, and Healthcare.
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Guest: Anthony Rojas LinkedIn
Guest’s Company: in-ARCHITECTS
Host: Kate Hammer LinkedIn
CenterState CEO’s Strategy, Policy and Planning team works closely without our elected officials to advance policies that help our region grow. Now with less than a month until the start of a new legislative session for both Congress and the New York State legislature, they’re identifying some legislative priorities for the upcoming year.
So what are we at CenterState CEO paying attention to, and what are we hoping to see? Joining this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank is CenterState CEO’s Vice President of Public Policy and Government Relations and Senior Aviation Industry Advisor Kevin Schwab.
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Kevin Schwab LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Today's guest of Talk CNY - Quarterly Market Insights presented by NBT Bank is Ken Entenmann, Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist for NBT Bank.
Ken joins us today to share what's happening in the markets and how it impacts you.
Kenneth J. Entenmann is Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has over 3 decades of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank.
In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in Trust, Custody, Retirement, Institutional and Individual accounts.
Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor's degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also graduated from William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester with an MBA. He has also earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Ken is a former Board member of the New York Bankers Association and was the Chair of the Trust and Investment Committee. He has served on the board of the Central New York Community Foundation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse's Investment Advisory Committee.
We are in the final month of 2024 and thinking back on all this region’s accomplished this year, you’d be forgiven if you missed or forgot some of the great work that’s been done to make Central New York a place where all people can prosper.
This season on Talk CNY, we’ve had the privilege to hear about the progress we’re making from vital partners as well as some of our talented and thoughtful colleagues at CenterState CEO. They’ve all helped us better understand the work and how it impacts the people in our community.
But the year is long and we’re all busy, so you may have missed an episode or two along the way. On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we’re looking back on some of the season’s highlights.
Episodes mentioned, in order:
Episode 4 - Partnering in the Skies
Episode 6 - Building a Business with CenterState CEO
Episode 8 - CNY Needs Housing Now
Episode 18 - Community Voices Informing Community Needs
Episode 15 - Becoming the Next Semiconductor Industry Hub: Part 1
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Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
CenterState CEO’s Tech Garden expansion project would not be possible without the entire Central New York community. Support from our local and state leaders, as well as from the surrounding business community is essential to achieving our vision. For some, they’re not only supporting the future vision, but also giving back to a place that helped them grow.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we are joined by one of those supporters, Tony Baird, President and CEO of Tony Baird Electronics.
One of the most exciting projects that CenterState CEO has underway right now is the expansion of The Tech Garden into a new center of innovation at 235 Harrison Street. The expansion is a physical symbol of how much our innovation economy has grown. We’re not just expanding the building, but also the program offerings. We want this new building to be open to everyone, a welcoming space for all types of entrepreneurship.
Helping to lead this vision to reality is CenterState CEO’s Vice President of Innovation & Entrepreneurship John Liddy. He joins this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, to talk about the expansion project and the future of innovation in Central New York.
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John Liddy LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Today’s conversation is with CenterState CEO member and Business of the Year award winner (in partnership with the Upstate Minority Economic Alliance), Eli Smith, Founder & Managing Director of E. Smith Contractors. In this episode you’ll hear about how this local builder with national reach is evolving and taking on incredible projects, like the renovation of Micron’s downtown office space on West Jefferson Street.
Eli has a passion for creating and scaling ventures that make a positive difference in the world. He is a 10,000k Goldman Sachs alumnus, and has received multiple honors, including the New York State Minority Business of the Year and the Harriet Tubman National Freedom Award. Eli enjoys working with diverse and talented teams, and values collaboration, innovation, and social responsibility.
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Guest: Eli Smith LinkedIn
Guest’s Company: E. Smith Contractors LinkedIn
Host: Kate Hammer LinkedIn
Today’s conversation is with Heather Drake Bianchi, CEO and Founder of Drakos Clinical Dynamics, an award winning umbrella organization created as a foundation of innovation to provide accessible laboratory and healthcare resources to all walks of life in Central New York.
Drakos Dynamics was named the 2024 Centerstate CEO Business of the Year Award in the ‘Fewer than 50 Employees category’ after opening the only standalone pediatric urgent care in the CNY area at Clay Medical Center in Liverpool to address the lack of accessible after-hours pediatric care for children and their families in the area. Following patient demand, Drakos opened a second urgent care location in Cicero that serves patients of all ages. In today’s episode you’ll hear about their team’s plan for an upcoming Camillus location as you get to know our spotlighted member!
(Note: This episode was recorded in August 2024. Since the recording, there have been some changes to the Drakos' expansion timeline. The team is now targeting a year's end of 2024 opening for its Camillus location.)
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Guest: Heather Drake Bianchi LinkedIn
Guest’s Company: Drakos Clinical Dynamics LinkedIn
Host: Kate Hammer LinkedIn
Today’s conversation is with Dakota Malone, Managing Partner of Community Solar Authority, a do-it-all, done-for-you, bolt-on partnership that delivers turnkey access to enhanced sustainability leveraging the most significant solar developers in the country. Dakota was born and raised in Central New York. In this episode you’ll be inspired by this five-heart surgery survivor with a love for entrepreneurship who believes in working on meaningful projects that help reshape the world into a more empowered place.
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Guest: Dakota Malone LinkedIn
Guest’s Company: Community Solar Authority LinkedIn
Host: Kate Hammer LinkedIn
We are in the last quarter of 2024, but that doesn’t mean things are slowing down. The team at CenterState CEO is working on numerous projects and events to celebrate and advance Central New York’s economy.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we’re catching up on the last few months and looking forward to what 2025 will hold. CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson joins the podcast to discuss everything from microelectronics to the annual Economic Champions event.
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Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Today's guest of Talk CNY - Quarterly Market Insights presented by NBT Bank is Ken Entenmann, Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist for NBT Bank.
Ken joins us today to share what's happening in the markets and how it impacts you.
Kenneth J. Entenmann is Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has over 3 decades of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank.
In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in Trust, Custody, Retirement, Institutional and Individual accounts.
Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor's degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also graduated from William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester with an MBA. He has also earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Ken is a former Board member of the New York Bankers Association and was the Chair of the Trust and Investment Committee. He has served on the board of the Central New York Community Foundation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse's Investment Advisory Committee.
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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have been declining nationwide over the last few years. But the values of those initiatives are vital to business and overall community success. As Central New York grows and we strive to create a region where all people can prosper, it’s become even more important to prioritize DEI work and create an inclusive economy.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO’s Senior Vice President of Racial Equity and Social Impact (RESI) Dr. Juhanna Rogers discusses the evolving DEI landscape and why equity work is an important pillar of a sustainable, robust local economy.
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Dr. Juhanna Rogers LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
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Syracuse’s future ON-RAMP facility needs to be a place where diverse people from across the community can feel welcome to utilize resources that can aid their success. So, a vital part of the ongoing planning and design process of this future workforce training facility is community engagement and input.
Helping to lead the community engagement portion of the ON-RAMP planning process is the Urban Jobs Task Force Executive Director Tylah Worrell. She’s hosted feedback sessions across the community and collected comments from people the future ON-RAMP facility aims to serve. Tylah joins this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, to discuss what she’s heard so far and how that feedback is being incorporated into what ON-RAMP will become.
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Tylah Worrell LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
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The workforce development ecosystem involves a lot of people—training partners, employers, career seekers, support networks, educational institutions and many more. So what if instead of having to coordinate all these different people and places, everyone had access to a shared physical space and collaborative process?
That’s that vision for Gov. Kathy Hochul’s recent workforce development initiative One Network for Regional Advanced Manufacturing Partnerships or ON-RAMP. CenterState CEO is currently helping to lead the design and planning process of this transformative project.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO’s Senior Vice President of Inclusive Growth, Dominic Robinson, joins us to discuss the work so far and what to expect from ON-RAMP in the future.
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The NY SMART I-Corridor, a consortium of partners from Syracuse, Rochester and Buffalo, is one of just 12 groups to receive a federal Tech Hub award and the only Tech Hub focused the semiconductor industry. The federal government saw local leaders’ strategy and existing regional assets and determined the NY SMART I-Corridor region has what it takes to be the next globally critical semiconductor industry hub.
To support this growth, the federal government awarded the NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub more than $40 million for initiatives and projects that will help us grow and ensure all residents have access to opportunity.
On Part 1 of our Tech Hub conversation, CenterState CEO’s Chief of Staff Ben Sio, OneROC President and CEO Joe Stefko and Buffalo Niagara Partnership President and CEO Dottie Gallagher joined Talk CNY to discuss how the NY SMART I-Corridor came to be. On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we are joined again by Ben, Joe and Dottie to talk about the projects and work ahead as our region tries to reach its goals.
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Ben Sio LinkedIn
Dottie Gallagher LinkedIn
Joe Stefko LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
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Around 400 communities applied to the federal Tech Hubs program, a program designed to support tech-based economies in underinvested areas. Of those, only 12 received a Tech Hub designation and federal dollars to support and implement their strategies.
The NY SMART I-Corridor, a coalition of partners from Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo and Ithaca, is one of those 12 Tech Hubs. And it’s the only designated Tech Hub in the US focused on the semiconductor industry. That means 40 million dollars from the federal government and 8 million dollars from the state are coming to upstate New York to support the growth of a world-class semiconductor industry hub right here.
Building this successful application was no small task.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we speak to three people who helped to lead the process: CenterState CEO’s Chief of Staff and Senior Vice President of Strategy, Policy and Planning Ben Sio, OneROC’s President and CEO Joe Stefko and Buffalo Niagara Partnership’s President and CEO Dottie Gallagher. They join the show to discuss how the NY SMART I-Corridor came to be and the significance it holds for the regions involved.
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We’ve said it before on Talk CNY, but it’s a really exciting time in Central New York.
So far this summer, a delegation of Taiwanese semiconductor industry and supply chain representatives paid a visit to Central New York, the Central New York Community Engagement Committee released the Community Priorities Document, and the federal government awarded the NY SMART I-Corridor a multimillion dollar award through the Tech Hubs program. And that’s only a portion of what is going on throughout the region.
CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson joins this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, to talk about the region’s recent accomplishments and milestones, and how they’ll impact us.
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Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
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Today's guest of Talk CNY - Quarterly Market Insights presented by NBT Bank is Ken Entenmann, Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist for NBT Bank.
Ken joins us today to share what's happening in the markets and how it impacts you.
Kenneth J. Entenmann is Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has over 3 decades of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank.
In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in Trust, Custody, Retirement, Institutional and Individual accounts.
Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor's degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also graduated from William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester with an MBA. He has also earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Ken is a former Board member of the New York Bankers Association and was the Chair of the Trust and Investment Committee. He has served on the board of the Central New York Community Foundation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse's Investment Advisory Committee.
Send us a Text Message.
When thinking of any bank or financial institution, it’s likely you think of a place to manage your money, maybe a physical building or an ATM. All of that is a part of the banking ecosystem, but it’s not the whole of it. Our financial institutions are involved in much more, from financing the projects that enable us to grow to supporting nonprofits.
This podcast is an example of that work, with NBT Bank serving as our presenting sponsor.
On this episode of Talk CNY, NBT Bank’s regional president for Central New York and the Mohawk Valley Dave Kavney joins us to discuss all of the roles financial institutions plan in the regional economy and how NBT Bank is an active community member.
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Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Dave Kavney LinkedIn
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New infrastructure don’t just appear. It requires a skilled workforce. So, as the Central New York region grows, we’ll need more people in building trades careers to construct and maintain all that we need. And to grow equitably, it’s vital that the workforce is representative of our entire community.
Women and people of color are traditionally underrepresented in the building trades. But if more people from these populations can access training and activate their potential, an entirely new talent pipeline could be created for the industry. Syracuse Build’s Pathways to Apprenticeship program does just that by creating more access and exposure to careers in the building trades to women and people of color in the city of Syracuse.
CenterState CEO’s Work Train staff helped to develop the program, and now Ebony Farrow serves as the Pathways to Apprenticeship program manager. She’s played a vital role in the program’s development, has helped to lead 6 cohorts to completion and is planning and recruiting for the next. She joins Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, to discuss the program’s successes and its community impact.
Learn more about Pathways to Apprenticeship.
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Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
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CenterState CEO’s unique position as both a chamber of commerce and an economic development organization allows us to implement holistic strategies when working towards our goal of creating a region where businesses thrive and all people prosper. One example of this is our workforce development team.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO’s Vice President of Workforce Innovation discusses how they’re helping to bring together members from the community, educational institutions, regional employers and more to find creative solutions to one of our region’s most pressing challenges to growth: building a skilled workforce to fill the jobs that are currently open and soon coming to Central New York.
Learn more about CenterState CEO’s workforce innovation efforts.
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Aimee Durfee LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
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Central New York needs a skilled workforce that is representative of its population to build a vibrant, equitable economy. That’s something our partners at SUNY Oswego know well.
As the largest public employer in Oswego County, SUNY Oswego is committed to making a positive economic, social and civic impact. They recently established the Office of Workforce Innovation and External Relations (OWIER) is a single point-of-entry to enhance partnerships with the university and access resources. They also offer programs aimed at upskilling, preparing and advancing community members for the increasing regional opportunities.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, Assistant Vice President for Workforce Innovation and External Relations at SUNY Oswego Kristi Eck discusses the university’s role in the sphere of regional workforce innovation.
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Kristi Eck LinkedIn
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Talk CNY: Economic Champions Miniseries gives us a chance to celebrate all the amazing businesses that make Central New York a great place to live and work. Host Kate Hammer speaks with a different business leader each episode to discuss who they are, what they do and how they’re tackling the growth in the region.
On this episode, Kate talks to Haun Welding Supply and Haun Specialty Gases Co-Presidents Kyle Pipes and Josh Haun. They discuss leaving and coming back to Central New York, their family’s journey to the business they run today, the hope they feel for the region’s future.
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Talk CNY: Economic Champions Mini Series gives us a chance to celebrate all the amazing businesses that make Central New York a great place to live and work. Host Kate Hammer speaks with a different business leader each episode to discuss who they are, what they do and how they’re tackling the growth in the region.
On this episode, Kate talks to VIP Structures CEO Meg Tidd. Meg discusses her music background, transforming the building that CenterState CEO now calls home, and finding “a better way” for the entire community.
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Talk CNY: Economic Champion Mini Series gives us a chance to celebrate all the amazing businesses that make Central New York a great place to live and work. Host Kate Hammer speaks with a different business leader each episode to discuss who they are, what they do and how they’re tackling the growth in the region.
On this episode, Kate talks to Dr. Bianca Gonzalez, CEO of AMPAworks, a company that manufactures IoT devices to count inventory. They discuss how Dr.Gonzalez’s medical background led her to her current position, the challenge of recruiting as a small company, and why she’s excited to be in this region.
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Dr. Bianca Gonzalez LinkedIn
Host: Kate Hammer LinkedIn
Central New York’s current economic development pipeline, the mechanism we use to monitor economic opportunities, is 20 times what it was in 2019. As of May 2024, it’s tracking around $10 billion in interest investment, and advanced manufacturing projects make up around 75% of that. It’s a big shift from what we were seeing even a year ago.
But CenterState CEO’s economic development work isn’t limited to the traditional business attraction and retention. It also aims to create opportunities and wealth for local residents and in underinvested neighborhoods.
On this episode of Talk CNY, CenterState CEO Vice President of Economic Development Nora Spillane discusses the work we’re doing now and how we’re planning to grow sustainably.
Learn more about starting a business in Central New York.
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Communities don’t often have the advantage of being able to plan for exponential growth until they’re in it. However, Central New York has the unique opportunity to do just that.
Because there is time to plan, there’s a chance to address the region’s current and upcoming demand for housing without creating unsustainable, inequitable conditions that often result from significant economic investment. CenterState CEO convened a Housing Task Force in the summer of 2023 to examine interrelated challenges and make policy recommendations that can be implemented under existing laws and economic conditions, while maintaining equity as a core tenant.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, Housing Task Force co-chairs Andy Breuer, president of Hueber Breuer Construction Company, and Jo Anne Gagliano, president of EDR, discuss the Task Force’s work and the solutions needed to build an equitable future.
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We are a quarter of the way through 2024, and the team at CenterState CEO is working to keep pace with the region’s growth. From convening a housing taskforce and creating career pathways with our partners to supporting our members’ growth and building a new center of innovation on Harrison St., CenterState CEO is engaging in a wide range of projects.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson returns to discuss all this work and how it impacts Central New York.
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Rob Simpson LinkedIn
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Today's guest of Talk CNY - Quarterly Market Insights presented by NBT Bank is Ken Entenmann, Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist for NBT Bank.
Ken joins us today to share what's happening in the markets and how it impacts you.
Kenneth J. Entenmann is Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has over 3 decades of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank.
In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in Trust, Custody, Retirement, Institutional and Individual accounts.
Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor's degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also graduated from William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester with an MBA. He has also earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Ken is a former Board member of the New York Bankers Association and was the Chair of the Trust and Investment Committee. He has served on the board of the Central New York Community Foundation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse's Investment Advisory Committee.
CenterState CEO’s business development work includes aiding new entrepreneurs as they start their first business—entrepreneurs like Durin Leckie. Durin utilized CenterState CEO’s small business development programming to formalize and accelerate his business. Through Up Start technical assistance and the Growth + Equity Fund, Durin took Ali Fix It Construction from a one-man operation doing handyman jobs to a growing team that’s helping to tackle Syracuse’s lead problem.
On this episode of Talk CNY, Durin Leckie talks about his journey to entrepreneurship, from Jamaica to Syracuse.
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Durin Leckie Website | Instagram
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
An important part of CenterState CEO’s economic development efforts is community investment. This work ensures business development services help not just large companies, but also small, main street businesses and entrepreneurs from historically marginalized backgrounds.
One of the people helping our region’s small business owners navigate the ins and outs of entrepreneurship is CenterState CEO’s small business manager Erik Jankowski.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, Erik Jankowski talks about the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship in Central New York. He also shares details of CenterState CEO’s small business programming and stories of small business owners experiencing growth.
Register for Start It! classes.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
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Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
Syracuse Hancock International Airport is one of the fastest growing airports in the country. Air traffic is up 20 to 25 percent compared to 2019, the airport’s busiest year on record... and the number of available airline seats in 2024 already exceeds 2023. And there are no signs of slowing down.
But the Syracuse Hancock International Airport is not only expanding commercial air service. It’s also innovating in the space of advanced air mobility and uncrewed aerial systems through a partnership with NUAIR, one of CenterState CEO’s organizational partners. Opened late last year, the NUAIR Center of Excellence is a hub for the organization’s work helping to integrate uncrewed aerial systems or UAS into the current airspace.
On this episode of Talk CNY Season 2, presented by NBT Bank, Syracuse Hancock International Airport Executive Director Jason Terreri and NUAIR President and CEO Ken Stewart join Katie Zilcosky to talk about their new partnership and growing innovation in the air.
Video in this episode is provided courtesy of 325 Productions.
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In 2016, local leaders recognized the potential of making Central New York a globally recognized center for uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) innovation. That vision was turned into reality thanks to unparalleled state investments.
Now, our region has an ecosystem of research and development assets like an FAA designated test site, beyond visual line of sight testing and advanced air mobility (AAM) capabilities that are at the leading edge of this growing industry. Also, Central New York is home to the world’s largest UAS accelerator GENIUS NY, which is operated by CenterState CEO.
On this episode of Talk CNY Season 2, presented by NBT Bank, GENIUS NY Director Kara Jones joins Katie Zilcosky to talk all things GENIUS NY and UAS in CNY.
GENIUS NY Cohort 8 applications open this February. Apply now!
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Kara Jones LinkedIn
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On this episode of Talk CNY Season 2, presented by NBT Bank, Empire State Development’s Regional Director for Central New York Dan Kolinski discusses the goals outlined in the recently released Regional Economic Development Council’s 2023 strategic plan. The 2023 plan is updated to include goals that reflect our current regional moment, such as creating a future ready workforce, connecting industry ecosystems, ensuring equitable growth and much more.
Daniel Kolinski, a graduate of West Genesee High School in Camillus, NY, earned degrees in Biology and Environmental Studies from Hobart College. After graduating, his professional path led him to Washington, DC, where he spent three years working for a political communications firm as an account manager. He returned to Syracuse in 2015, earning a master’s degree in sports management while serving as the Director of Volleyball Operations at Syracuse University.
Kolinski returned to Washington, DC during the 2016 national elections, but a subsequent return to Syracuse saw him involved in local political races before joining Empire State Development, New York State’s economic development agency. Starting as Deputy Director in the Central New York region, Daniel was recently promoted to Regional Director, a position he proudly holds today after nearly six years of service at the agency
Connect with the CNYREDC
Read the CNYREDC’s 2023 Strategic Plan
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Dan Kolinski LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
In the first episode of Talk CNY Season 2, presented by NBT Bank, CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson joins new host Katie Zilcosky to reflect on all Central New York accomplished in 2023, and share his outlook for 2024. Tune in to get a preview of CenterState CEO’s 2024 Economic Forecast Report.
Simpson serves as president of the CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CenterState CEO), based in Syracuse, New York. CenterState CEO is Central New York’s premier business leadership and economic development organization, committed to creating a region where business thrives, and all people prosper.
Learn more about CenterState CEO
Get tickets for the 2024 Economic Forecast Breakfast
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Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Host: Katie Zilcosky LinkedIn
On this episode of our podcast, we’ll take a look back at the first season of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank and celebrate a year of thoughtful conversations and highlight the stories that we told over the past 23 episodes.
We will also share a few behind-the-scenes moments, including some of our best bloopers.
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Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
On this episode of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank, Jared Shepard, CenterState CEO’s director of research and planning, talks about the key indicators that underscore the growth that is ahead for the region and develop the strategic plans needed to meet those opportunities and challenges.
As the director of research and planning within the Strategy, Policy and Planning team, Jared Shepard leads the organization’s economic and policy research work. He also serves as staff to CenterState CEO’s Housing Task Force. Shepard additionally explores new applications for Artificial Intelligence and helps to deploy impact modeling for the organization’s mission-driven activities. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University.
Learn more about CenterState CEO
Connect with Jared Shepard on | LinkedIn |***
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guest of Talk CNY - Quarterly Market Insights presented by NBT Bank is Ken Entenmann, Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist for NBT Bank.
Ken joins us today to share what's happening in the markets and how it impacts you. He will focus on the Fourth Quarter of 2023 UPDATE
Kenneth J. Entenmann is Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has over 33 years of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank.
In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in Trust, Custody, Retirement, Institutional and Individual accounts.
Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor's degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also graduated from William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester with an MBA. He has also earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Ken is a former Board member of the New York Bankers Association and was the Chair of the Trust and Investment Committee. He has served on the board of the Central New York Community Foundation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse's Investment Advisory Committee.
On this episode of Talk CNY, Alan Rottenberg, founder, Canadian Career Apprenticeship Initiative, and Donna Gillespie, chief executive officer of the Kingston Economic Development Corporation, share how the Career Apprenticeship Initiative, first developed in Canada, is connecting recent college graduates from local colleges to career opportunities in the region. You’ll hear how this talent model can help the community retain talent educated in Central New York.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
Learn more about CenterState CEO’s work with the Canadian Career Apprenticeship Program.
Learn more about the Canadian Career Apprenticeship Initiate.
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- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
On this episode of our podcast, we’ll hear from CenterState CEO’s Ben Sio on how his team is leaning into the unprecedented growth in the region and developing strategies to ensure we are prepared for all the opportunities and challenges ahead.
As Chief of Staff and Senior Vice President of Strategy, Policy and Planning, Ben Sio oversees the strategic direction of CenterState CEO and ensures that collective activities are advancing the organization’s mission-based priorities. Additionally, he is responsible for building consensus around strategic needs and priorities and managing the change necessary to drive execution. Ben also oversees the organization’s policy development and government affairs activities.
Learn more about CenterState CEO
Connect with Ben Sio on | LinkedIn |
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- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
On this episode of Talk CNY, we’ll talk with Tim Kennedy, the Regional President for Advance Local about This Is CNY and how this effort is helping attract talent back and to Central New York.
Tim Kennedy is the regional president of Advance Media NY, the publisher of The Post Standard newspaper and syracuse.com news site. Under Kennedy’s leadership, the Syracuse-based operation doubled its audience and tripled its digital revenue. syracuse.com is recognized as one of the best-read newspaper websites in the country and the Syracuse Post-Standard is recognized as the one of the best-read Sunday newspapers in the U.S.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
Learn more about This is CNY.
Connect with Tim Kennedy on | LinkedIn - CONNECT -
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn **|
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
On this episode of Talk CNY, CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson joins us for the fourth edition of Quarterly Opportunities to give us an update on three impactful projects we are tracking, including Micron’s historic investment, the region’s economic development pipeline and The Tech Garden’s expansion.
Robert Simpson serves as president of the CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CenterState CEO), based in Syracuse, New York. CenterState CEO is an independent and forward-thinking economic development strategist, business leadership organization and chamber of commerce; focused on creating a region where business thrives and all people prosper.
Learn more about CenterState CEO
Learn more about Micron
Learn more about the Community Engagement Committee
Take the Community Engagement Survey
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CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
- Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
On this episode of Talk CNY, we’ll talk with Joe Nehme, Sr. Manager External Affairs, Micron Technology who discusses the anniversary of the company’s historic announcement to build its megafab facility in CNY.
Joe currently serves as Senior Manager for External Affairs at Micron Technology, where he directly supports the company’s New York expansion. He was born and raised in Utica, NY and graduated from Syracuse University in 2011. Prior to joining Micron, Joe led U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer’s Central and Northern New York Regional Office for over 7 years. He also held roles at the New York State Assembly, Democratic Assembly Campaign Committee, and Syracuse University’s Office of Government and Community Relations. Joe is a proud Lebanese American and lives in Dewitt with his wife Ilyana Rahman.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
Learn more about Micron
Learn more about the Community Engagement Committee
Take the Community Engagement Survey
Connect with Joe Nehme on | LinkedIn |
**- CONNECT - LinkedIn
CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guest of Talk CNY - Quarterly Market Insights presented by NBT Bank is Ken Entenmann, Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist for NBT Bank.
Ken joins us today to share what's happening in the markets and how it impacts you. He will focus on the Third Quarter of 2023 UPDATE
Kenneth J. Entenmann is Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has over 33 years of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank.
In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in Trust, Custody, Retirement, Institutional and Individual accounts.
Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor's degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also graduated from William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester with an MBA. He has also earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Ken is a former Board member of the New York Bankers Association and was the Chair of the Trust and Investment Committee. He has served on the board of the Central New York Community Foundation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse's Investment Advisory Committee.
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- NBT Bank:Website |Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
- Ken Entenmann: LinkedIn
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC
On this episode of Talk CNY, we’ll talk with two members of our CenterState CEO team Andy Obernesser, Director of Community Investment and Jonathan Link Logan, Senior Manager of Neighborhood Development. Andy and Jonathan talk about the impact of their work and CenterState CEO’s efforts to make our Syracuse neighborhoods more thriving and equitable places.
Andy Obernesser is the Director of Community Investment at the CenterState CEO in Syracuse. In that role, he oversees a team facilitating inclusive business and property development projects in distressed urban neighborhoods, supporting historically marginalized clients through a combination of training, technical assistance and access to capital. Before working at CenterState CEO, Andy worked as a consultant in the field of community planning for municipal clients across New York State.
Jonathan Link Logan is the Senior Manager of Neighborhood Development at CenterState CEO. In that role, he supports historically marginalized property and business owners navigate development projects in distressed urban neighborhoods as well as benevolent developers of projects that support inclusive growth opportunities. Prior to CenterState CEO, Jonathan worked at a non-profit community design center in Rochester, New York.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
Connect with Andy Obernesser on | LinkedIn |Connect with Jonathan Link Logan on | LinkedIn |*
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
On this episode of Talk CNY, we will talk with Shawni Davis, President and CEO of Luminary Electrical Contractor, the first recipient of CenterState CEO’s Growth and Equity Fund about her company, its growth and how that investment has supported her ability to scale her company here in Central New York.
Shawni Davis is New York State’s first African American female master electrician with more than 15 years of experience in the construction industry. She established Luminary Electrical Contractor, LLC in 2021. Luminary Electrical is certified as both a New York State Certified MBE & MWBE Business (minority-owned & woman-owned). A native of Syracuse New York, Davis started as an apprentice in the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in 2007. In 2022, she made headlines when she introduced President Joe Biden during a major Micron Technology announcement in Syracuse, NY. Davis continues to mentor and give back to the community.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
Connect with Shawni Davis on | LinkedIn |
- CONNECT -
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn **|
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
On this episode of Talk CNY, Kelly Fumarola, Executive Director, the CenterState CEO Foundation and CenterState Development Foundation; Director of Development at CenterState CEO joins us to talk about how the two CenterState Foundations are supporting community progress and advancing the impact of CenterState CEO’s programmatic work.
In her role as Executive Director of the CenterState CEO and CenterState Development Foundations, Kelly Fumarola is chiefly responsible for supporting the success of CenterState CEO’s charitable activities. This includes the parallel approaches of overseeing the organization’s charitable fundraising activities as well as acting as one of the organization’s leading champions and promoters at a national level. Fumarola also serves as Director of Development at CenterState CEO. Before joining CenterState CEO in 2020, she served as a consultant to the nonprofit sector with a specialty in grant fund development. Fumarola graduated from Binghamton University with an M.S. in education and B.A. in economics.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
Connect with Kelly Fumarola on | LinkedIn |
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- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
On this episode of Talk CNY, Nancy Eaton, President of the United Way of Central New York joins us to talk about how nonprofits are working to address the needs of the community. Learn about the important role nonprofits play in our regional economy and how important it is for the business community to partner with them to advance progress for all.
Nancy Eaton is president of the United Way of Central New York. She has spent her career working in non-profit organizations. Nancy has served in leadership roles at ARISE, Salvation Army of the Syracuse Area, Syracuse Weed & Seed Community Partnership, Home HeadQuarters, and Housing Visions Unlimited. Nancy began her non-profit career as a client advocate at the Erie County Mental Health Association.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
Learn more about the United Way of CNY.
- Connect with Nancy Eaton on | LinkedIn |
- CONNECT -
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube(watch the video!) | Google | iHeartRadio | Stitcher | Amazon/Audible | New episodes are released on the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month. Ratings and reviews are appreciated!
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC
On this episode of Talk CNY, CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson joins us for the third edition of Quarterly Opportunities to give us an update on three impactful projects we are tracking, including Micron’s historic investment, the region’s economic development pipeline and The Tech Garden’s expansion.
Robert Simpson serves as president of the CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CenterState CEO), based in Syracuse, New York. CenterState CEO is an independent and forward-thinking economic development strategist, business leadership organization and chamber of commerce; focused on creating a region where business thrives and all people prosper.
Learn more about CenterState CEO.
- CONNECT -
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
- Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
All of Central New York’s businesses have a distinct role to play as the community prepares for rapid growth.
On this episode, we are joined by David Kavney, Senior Vice President at NBT Bank to talk about the growth he sees happening in this community and the role financial institutions must play in supporting and shaping progress. David Kavney has over 30 years of experience in commercial banking in Central New York. He was Central New York Middle Market Banking Leader for Key Bank and has held leadership positions with M&T Bank. He earned his B.S. in Business Management from St. John Fisher College. He is active in community and business groups, including Elmcrest Children’s Center, Inc., CenterState CEO and Mohawk Valley EDGE.
Talk CNY is CenterState CEO's podcast, presented by NBT Bank.
Learn more about CenterState CEO | NBT Bank
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- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Guest - Dave Kavney: LinkedIn *
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
banking, #investing, #community, #home, #financialinsitutions #cny, #opportunity, #businessopportunity**
Talk CNY, Quarterly Market Insights - Q2/Episode 2: Ken Entenmann
Today's guest of Talk CNY - Quarterly Market Insights presented by NBT Bank is Ken Entenmann, Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Chief Economist for NBT Bank.
Ken shares second-quarter insights and analysis as well as what's ahead regarding inflation, the stock market, and the disruption potential of artificial intelligence on things like labor and productivity.
Kenneth J. Entenmann is Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer & Chief Economist at NBT Wealth Management. Ken has over 33 years of investment experience. Prior to joining NBT Bank, he served as Director of Investment Management at Alliance Bank.
In his current role, he oversees more than $6 billion in assets under management and administration in Trust, Custody, Retirement, Institutional and Individual accounts.
Entenmann graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor's degree in Applied Economics and Business Management. He also graduated from the William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Rochester with an MBA. He has also earned his Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
Ken is a former Board member of the New York Bankers Association and was the Chair of the Trust and Investment Committee. He served on the board of the Central New York Community Foundation from 2006-2012. He currently serves on the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse's Investment Advisory Committee.
- Learn more about CenterState CEO.
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Connect with Ken Entenmann on | LinkedIn
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CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- NBT Bank: Website |Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | LinkedIn
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
- Ken Entenmann: LinkedIn
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube (watch the video!) | Google | iHeartRadio | Stitcher | Amazon/Audible | New episodes are released the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month. Ratings and reviews are appreciated!
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC
Talk CNY: Season 1, Episode 11 - David Mankiewicz
Regional growth is putting significant pressure on the Central New York Housing Market. How do we prepare for continued growth and ensure that the housing market doesn’t create economic challenges for the region?
On this episode, we are joined by Dave Mankiewicz, Senior Vice President for Research, Policy and Planning for CenterState CEO, who will help us unpack this big question. David has 45 years of experience at CenterState CEO addressing issues involving economic development, center city revitalization, community improvement and comprehensive planning. He has worked extensively with small business district revitalization, anchor districts, and special assessment districts. He is a member of the board of directors of the Syracuse Economic Development Corporation, the City of Syracuse’s vehicle for small business financing. Dave is an alumnus of the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University where he received a Master of City and Regional Planning degree and St. Lawrence University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in government.
Talk CNY is CenterState CEO's podcast, presented by NBT Bank.
Learn more about CenterState CEO
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CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
- Guest - Dave Mankiewicz: LinkedIn
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube (watch the video!) | Google | iHeartRadio | Stitcher | Amazon/Audible | New episodes are released the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month. Ratings and reviews are appreciated!
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC
realestate, #realestateinvesting, #housing, #home, #housingmarket, #cny, #housingprices, #opportunity, #businessopportunity
Talk CNY: Season 1, Episode 10 - Ryan Benz
Central New York is growing, and we need more housing to meet demand. To accommodate this region's growth, 2,500 housing units will need to be built each year over the next two decades. Just 808 units were permitted in 2021. The risks are high if the community doesn't act, and we can look at what has happened in other communities when housing demand drove the market above what the average person could afford.
On this episode of Talk CNY, presented by NBT Bank, we are joined by a Syracuse-based real estate developer, restaurateur and investor, Ryan Benz, who will give us an inside look at some of the development projects he has in the works that will help us meet this increasing need.
As the owner of popular restaurants Oh My Darling and The Fitz, along with the new Parthenon Bookstore, Benz splits his time between his retail offerings and his development company, Redev CNY. His company is currently in development on over $400 million in projects, including the redevelopment of the former Penfield Manufacturing Building, the redevelopment of the former Shoppingtown Mall into District East, and several others.
Talk CNY is CenterState CEO's podcast, presented by NBT Bank.
Learn more about CenterState CEO
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- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
- Guest - Ryan Benz: LinkedIn
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript**
On this episode of Talk CNY, we discuss the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act or CLCPA, which is among the most progressive climate policies in the nation. Our guest, Kevin Schwab, vice president, Public Policy and Government Relations at CenterState CEO joins us to share what businesses need to know and do to meet the state’s goals to have 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
Kevin Schwab is vice president of public policy and government relations, as well as Senior Aviation Industry Advisor for CenterState CEO, the Syracuse region’s leading business and economic development organization. His diverse career includes work as an award-winning journalist, service in state government, consultation to the aviation industry and, currently, work in economic development with a focus on public policy.
Mr. Schwab is a member of the board of directors at the Central New York Community Foundation, the Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council, the Syracuse Say Yes to Education Scholarship Council and is Co-chair of the Literacy Coalition of Onondaga County. Mr. Schwab holds degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Spanish from Syracuse University. He is a native of Washington, DC, and resides in Syracuse with his wife and three children.
- Learn more about CenterState CEO
- Learn more about CLCPA
- Kevin Schwab on LinkedIn
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- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
“Understanding & Mitigating Corporate Risk ”
Today's guest of Talk CNY is Pierre Morrisseau, CEO of OneGroup. Today, Pierre will draw on his nearly 30 years of experience in insurance and risk management to share some best practices and avoidable pitfalls for small businesses.
OneGroup is one of the largest and fastest-growing risk management and insurance brokers on the East Coast. Pierre has spent 20 years at OneGroup, gaining valuable experiences in performance improvement, customer and employee experiences, risk management, and more. Pierre believes strongly in lifting up communities, mentoring our youth, and creating opportunities for people to connect with one another.
- Pierre Morrisseau on | LinkedIn |
- OneGroup on | LinkedIn |
- CONNECT -
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
**“How Companies Can Stay Ahead of Changing Marketing Trends”
Today's guest of Talk CNY is Erick Candelero Griscenco, Agency Development Manager for Google. In this episode we discuss digital marketing strategy and the ever-changing landscape of digital marketing. We also share what companies can do to keep out ahead of these trends.**
Erick Candelero Griscenco is the Agency Development Manager for Google in New York City. Erick focuses on digital strategy and digital transformation at Google. Previously, Erick worked at Google’s São Paulo, Brazil, office where he improved customer experience for Google services throughout Latin America. Before joining Google, Erick worked in corporate banking for Itau BBA in Sao Paulo and as a knowledge management specialist for SAP AG, in Walldorf, Germany.
Erick Candelero Griscenco on | LinkedIn |*
- CONNECT -
CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
* Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
* Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |*
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube (watch the video!) | Google | iHeartRadio | Stitcher | Amazon/Audible | New episodes are released the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month. Ratings and reviews are appreciated!
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guest of Talk CNY is Maria Hudson, Government Affairs Manager at Constellation. In this episode, we discuss the state’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act or CLCPA and how businesses like Constellation are supporting these ambitious goals and driving impact in their community.
Maria Hudson, Government Affairs Manager, has two decades of experience in nuclear communications and advocacy with Constellation’s upstate New York fleet. Maria earned her bachelor’s degree at the State University of New York at Plattsburgh and a master’s degree from Ithaca College.
- Learn more about Constellation
- Learn more about CLCPA
- Maria Hudson on | LinkedIn |
- CONNECT -
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guest of Talk CNY is CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson. In this episode, he talks about how the trajectory of growth for CNY has changed and the forces behind that shift. Given this progress, he outlines how community leaders can shape growth to ensure opportunity is amplified for all.
Robert Simpson serves as president of the CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CenterState CEO), based in Syracuse, New York. CenterState CEO is an independent and forward-thinking economic development strategist, business leadership organization and chamber of commerce; focused on creating a region where business thrives and all people prosper.
Through this work, Mr. Simpson is focused on improving the capacity of organizations and individuals to identify and meet their strategic objectives, and is involved in a number of initiatives to build vibrant and sustainable communities. In 2022, Simpson was confirmed by the New York State Senate as a director of the New York State Urban Development Corporation. He was previously appointed by the Governor to serve as co-chair of the Central New York Regional Economic Development Council, from 2011 to 2018. He has also served as an adviser to the Brookings Institution as part of the Global Cities Initiative.
Simpson currently serves in leadership roles across CenterState CEO’s partner organizations, including: The Tech Garden; the NUAIR Alliance; CenterState CEO’s Foundations, and Electronics Park LLC. He holds board and advisory seats with the Upstate Minority Economic Alliance, CNY Biotech Accelerator and the Downtown Committee of Syracuse.
Accolades include 40 UNDER 40 recognition by CNY BizEvents (2006); the Salvation Army’s Community Team Spirit Award (2010); Onondaga Citizens League Citizen of the Year (2010), Boy Scouts of America Boypower Honoree (2016), Loretto Health System’s Legacy Award (2019), and The Salvation Army of Syracuse's Community TEAM Spirit Award (2022).
Mr. Simpson graduated from Colgate University in 1997, and earned a master's degree in Public Administration from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. He and his wife, Corinne Ribble, and son, Ben, reside in Syracuse.
- Learn more about CenterState CEO.
- Connect with Rob Simpson on | LinkedIn |
- CONNECT -
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
- Rob Simpson LinkedIn
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guest of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank is John Liddy, CenterState CEO’s Interim Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
John Liddy joins us to talk about the region’s innovation ecosystem, expanding The Tech Garden and creating a new hub of programming and resources for more entrepreneurs.
As the interim vice president of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Liddy is responsible for leading CenterState CEO’s entrepreneurship portfolio and support programming, operated out of its incubator, The Tech Garden, located in downtown Syracuse.
Liddy most recently served as entrepreneur-in-residence at The Tech Garden, where he brought his experience with startups, scaling companies and investments to its programs and members. He has also worked for more than a decade to provide business coaching to teams as they look to scale and grow their companies within the region’s tech ecosystem. Liddy has also helped mentor the GENIUS NY cohorts over the last five years. Liddy is an accomplished entrepreneurial executive with more than 30 years of business experience. For over a decade he’s helped people start and grow businesses, primarily by contracting with organizations whose role it is to support entrepreneurs. His clients include educational institutions, government agencies, economic development organizations, accelerators, incubators, and individual entities. The support he provides through this consulting work, incudes immersion programs, accelerator formation, content creation, course delivery, mentorship, workshops, entrepreneur-in-residence, strategic planning, and one on one coaching.
Liddy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Vermont and a Master of Business Administration, from Syracuse University. He is also the recipient of numerous professional awards. He and his wife, Jen, and their son, Jack, live in Syracuse.
Learn more about CenterState CEO’s The Tech Garden
Connect with John Liddy on | LinkedIn |
- CONNECT -
CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC |Today's guests of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank is John Liddy, CenterState CEO’s Interim Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guests of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank is Dr. Juhanna Rogers, CenterState CEO’s Senior Vice President of Racial Equity and Social Impact
Dr. Rogers joins us to talk about why and how companies are investing in diversity, equity and inclusion. She will share her perspective on the benefits to companies who are doing this work, and the risks associated with not making this investment.
Juhanna Rogers, Ph.D. is a member of CenterState CEO’s Corporate Leadership Team and serves as senior vice president of Racial and Equity and Social Impact. In this role, she develops and deploys diversity, equity and inclusion strategies that achieve more equitable outcomes both internally and across the organization’s portfolios of work, including helping members and institutions establish strategic action-oriented plans that drive inclusive change in their respective workplaces.
Previously, she served as vice president of Racial Equity and Social Impact, and also director of community engagement and empowerment, developing engagement strategies to drive change in Syracuse, New York. Before working at CenterState CEO, Dr. Rogers was the director for Health Services at Syracuse Community Connections. She also has a background in higher education.
Dr. Rogers earned her undergraduate degree in integrative arts from Penn State University-Altoona, and a Master of Science from Indiana University in higher education and student affairs. She and seven other colleagues made history at Indiana University as the largest group of Black women to graduate simultaneously in the School of Education. This group of women, deemed “The Great Eight,” gained national attention and were selected as honorees for the 2016 Ebony Magazine’s Power 100 list.
Dr. Rogers is a motivational speaker, commentator, artist and activist committed to social justice, education and the arts. As a critical race scholar, she builds platforms for critical conversations on race, justice and equity. Dr. Rogers has worked nationally and internationally to help address equity in higher education, exploring ways through which underrepresented populations can improve their lives and communities. She is also the creator of Behind the Woman, a WCNY television production that shares personal stories from diverse women leaders to empower other woman to pursue their goals and dreams.
Learn more about CenterState CEO’s RESI work.
Connect with Dr. Rogers on | LinkedIn |
- CONNECT -
CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guests of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank is Melanie Littlejohn, Vice President of Customer & Community Engagement for National Grid-New York.
Melanie Littlejohn joins us to talk about the importance of companies investing in and do the real work associated with diversity, equity and inclusion. She will share how National Grid is benefitting from their investment and why she believes the Central New York Business Community should lead these efforts to create a more welcoming community.
As vice president of Customer & Community Engagement for National Grid-New York, Melanie leads a team responsible for engaging with customers and key community leaders and policy makers across New York State. She is focused on the delivery of safe, reliable and affordable energy to the 4 million customers and 800 plus communities, while advancing National Grid’s net zero solutions, while leaving no one behind.
Melanie is also responsible for the design and delivery of the Company’s corporate social responsibility effort called Project C. The focus is to inspire positive change across New York communities. Through partnerships and collaborations, she is leading the charge to create a more equitable future for every customer, in every community that National grid serves. started Project C to inspire positive change across our New York communities.
Prior to 2017 when Melanie was named to her current position, she served as Director of Customer & Community Management in Upstate New York. Melanie joined the company (then Niagara Mohawk) in April of 1994 as the Director of Inclusion & Diversity-US Operations.
A thought-leader and visionary, Melanie is an active member of chambers of commerce, boards, and community organizations where she represents emerging industry trends and energy policy to ‘bring energy to life’ for customers. Melanie currently serves as Board Trustee and Vice Chair of Onondaga County Community College. She is also on the Board of Directors for CenterState CEO, SUNY Morrisville Business School and Path Finder’s Bank.
Melanie has also received numerous awards such as the 2022-Yva Jourdan Foundation- Women of Prestige; 2019 Wisdom Keeper, 2014 Partners for Education and Business-Business Leaders Award, the 2012 House of Providence Humanitarian Award, the Network Journal’s 25 Influential Black Women in Business award in 2011, the 2011 Leadership Greater Syracuse Distinguished Community Leader Award, 2011 Community Wide Dialogue Racial Justice Award, 2010 NAACP Freedom Award, and CNY 40 Below.
Melanie obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from the State University of New York at Stony Brook and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management.
Learn more about National Grid.
Connect with Melanie Littlejohn on | LinkedIn
- CONNECT -
CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Transcript
Today's guests of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank are Dominic Robinson and Aimee Durfee of CenterState CEO.
Finding skilled workers and attracting talent to fill open positions at all levels is a challenge faced by many Central New York companies. So this month we’ll take a closer look at what business and community leaders are doing to address the talent challenge. Through this episode we’ll explore how CenterState CEO is acting as a convener to uncover hidden talent, connect local talent to opportunities and helping to address issues of generational poverty and under-employment.
Dominic Robinson is Senior Vice President of Inclusive Growth for the CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CenterState CEO). CenterState CEO is a regional economic development and business leadership organization and chamber of commerce, based in Syracuse and representing Central Upstate New York. In this role he is responsible for driving positive impact and outcomes in the region. Robinson oversees the majority of the organization’s direct programs, services and initiatives, including core areas of business expansion, retention and attraction; business incubation and acceleration (including The Tech Garden); workforce development; community investment and prosperity; and cluster development. Robinson previously served as the organization's vice president of Economic Inclusion.
Aimee Durfee serves as Vice President of Workforce Innovation at CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CenterState CEO), based in Syracuse, New York. CenterState CEO is an independent and forward-thinking economic development strategist, business leadership organization and chamber of commerce; dedicated to the success of its members and the prosperity of the region.
In this role, Durfee leads her team to create partnerships with businesses and community organizations to build industry sector training pipelines in construction, technology, manufacturing and health care. She also convenes employers and educational partners to advance job quality and diversity, equity and inclusion through targeted strategies and co-investment.
Durfee has been working on poverty issues for over 20 years, as a technical assistance provider, direct services program leader, public speaker, policy advocate and grant maker. Her areas of expertise include workforce development, public benefits, asset building and community economic development, as well as racial/gender equity and employment discrimination issues.
- Learn more about CenterState CEO.
- Connect with Dominic Robinson on | LinkedIn |
- Connect with Aimee Durfee on | LinkedIn |
CONNECT
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guest of Talk CNY presented by NBT Bank is Maarten Jacobs, director of Community Prosperity, Allyn Family Foundation and executive director, Syracuse Urban Partnership.
This is a story about the Salt City Market (SCM) in Syracuse, a market and food hall providing culinary options as diverse as our city. It was created by the Syracuse Urban Partnership, a project of the Allyn Family Foundation, with support from numerous community leaders. CenterState CEO's Up Start program provides SCM entrepreneurs and vendors with business trainings and one-on-one technical assistance. SCM is transforming Syracuse. It's all about food, culture, and enabling people to build generational wealth doing what they love.
In his role at the Allyn Family Foundation, Maarten Jacobs, MSW, is co-developing a Community Prosperity Initiative which aims to disrupt concentrated poverty in targeted Syracuse neighborhoods by empowering residents to fulfill their full potential, while contributing to the well-being of their families and the revitalization of their neighborhoods. Within this initiative, a strong focus is being placed on creating economic opportunities, economic empowerment, and vibrant neighborhoods where residents are empowered to transform their communities into the places where their families thrive. As part of his work as the Director of Community Prosperity, he is the acting executive director of the Syracuse Urban Partnership, a nonprofit organization created to build and operate the Salt City Market, a space for people to build generational wealth doing what they love. A space where everyone feels a sense of belonging, ownership and civic pride.
- Learn more about CenterState CEO.
- Connect with Maarten Jacobs on | LinkedIn |
- CONNECT -
- CenterState CEO: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Salt City Market: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
- Cohost- Kate Hammer: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn |
- Cohost- Andrew Fish: LinkedIn |
- Maarten Jacobs LinkedIn
Produced with 32One Media or Kate Hammer Consulting LLC | Read the Transcript
Today's guest on Talk CNY is CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson.
New investments are driving progress across Central New York but what are the headwinds businesses face and how can those leaders be prepared for what 2023 has in store? Rob Simpson, president of CenterState CEO shares his thoughts on what you need to know about the central New York Economy as we begin the New Year.
Robert Simpson serves as president of the CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CenterState CEO), based in Syracuse, New York. CenterState CEO is an independent and forward-thinking economic development strategist, business leadership organization and chamber of commerce; focused on creating a region where business thrives and all people prosper.
Through this work, Mr. Simpson is focused on improving the capacity of organizations and individuals to identify and meet their strategic objectives, and is involved in a number of initiatives to build vibrant and sustainable communities. In 2022, Simpson was confirmed by the New York State Senate as a director of the New York State Urban Development Corporation. He was previously appointed by the Governor to serve as co-chair of the Central New York Regional Economic Development Council, from 2011 to 2018. He has also served as an adviser to the Brookings Institution as part of the Global Cities Initiative.
Simpson currently serves in leadership roles across CenterState CEO’s partner organizations, including: The Tech Garden; the NUAIR Alliance; CenterState CEO’s Foundations, and Electronics Park LLC. He holds board and advisory seats with the Upstate Minority Economic Alliance, CNY Biotech Accelerator and the Downtown Committee of Syracuse.
Simpson also serves on numerous community boards, including the Central New York Technology Development Organization, the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority, the Lifetime Healthcare Companies, and others.
Accolades include 40 UNDER 40 recognition by CNY BizEvents (2006); the Salvation Army’s Community Team Spirit Award (2010); Onondaga Citizens League Citizen of the Year (2010), Boy Scouts of America Boypower Honoree (2016), Loretto Health System’s Legacy Award (2019), and The Salvation Army of Syracuse's Community TEAM Spirit Award (2022).
Mr. Simpson graduated from Colgate University in 1997, and earned a master's degree in Public Administration from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. He and his wife, Corinne Ribble, and son, Ben, reside in Syracuse.
CONNECT:
- Learn more about CenterState CEO | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter
- Connect with Rob Simpson on LinkedIn
- Connect with Kate Hammer (cohost) on LinkedIn
- Connect with Andrew Fish (cohost) on LinkedIn
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube (watch the video!) | Google | iHeartRadio | Stitcher | Amazon/Audible | New episodes are released the 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of each month. Ratings and reviews are appreciated!
Produced in collaboration with Kate Hammer Consulting LLC