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SEASON THREE

Season 3, Episode 5

Elite Fighting Promotions

In Season 3 Episode 5 of Buying Local our host, Michael Nelson, sits down with Don Walton and Jay Ingleston from Elite Fighting Promotions to talk about their upcoming Fight Fest in Saratoga Springs. They chat about Don’s recent trip to Thailand with one of his students who is absolutely dominating his age group, local fighting and jiu jitsu, and of course the upcoming event at Saratoga Springs City Center on November 1st. Jay also drops a big news bomb on some things coming up in February! CHECK IT OUT!!

Season 3, Episode 4

Alliance Jiu Jitsu Saratoga

Mike Nelson of Five Towers Media is on location at Alliance Jiu Jitsu Saratoga as they prepare to open their doors. He interviews Brazilion Jiu Jitsu Professors James and Jesse Bruchac about what is in store for the new location as well as some of their past experiences on and off the mats.

Season 3, Episode 3

Katie Tansey - HR Resolved

In this Episode Mike Nelson from Five Towers Media interviews Katie Tansey about her successful company HR Resolved and her passion for nutrition coaching, fitness, and helping people be the best version of themselves.
Season 3, Episode 2

R.A.S.P Controls - Ron Richards

In this episode Michael Nelson from Five Towers Media interviews Ron Richards from R.A.S.P. Controls. They talk about Ron's experience launching and growing his business, Triathlons, and more.

Season 3, Episode 1

Saratoga Dry Aged Cuts

In this Episode host Michael Nelson interviews the owners of Saratoga Dry Age Cuts. These guys built a successful business that started as a hobby in their garage and grew into a brick and mortar store with over 12 employees.

SEASON TWO

Season 2, Episode 15

Four Incredible Shows at The Adirondack Theatre Festival

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Miriam Weisfeld, the Producing Artistic Director of the Adirondack Theatre Festival! The ATF has been producing fantastic original shows for 30 years, and 2024’s season will be no exception – whether it’s a one-man musical recreating the sinking of the Titanic, an introspective look at perception of an actress throughout her evolving career, or a modern recreation of a classic Hitchcock thriller, this season’s shows are some that you won’t want to miss!

Season 2, Episode 14

The Secrets of Influencer Marketing

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Stephanie Poulin, the owner and founder of The Happy Brands Company! Marketing has so many facets, it can be difficult to know which route… Stephanie gives us the basics on a new style that’s been taking off lately: influencer marketing. What is it exactly? How does it work? Is it right for your business? Listen to this episode, and you might just find out!

Season 2, Episode 13

Grow Your Business with The ARCC

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson meets with Tricia Rogers, President of the ARCC! Tricia’s been the President of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce for two years now, and the offerings it has for local businesses just keep getting better – between ribbon-cuttings, mixers, educational services, and other resources, the value of the ARCC is just incredible! Listen to this episode to hear more about how they can help you, and your business!

Season 2, Episode 12

KJ's Barbershop - With Kris Jordan

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Kris Jordan, the master barber and owner of KJ’s Barbershop! Both his grandfather and father were barbers, but Kris wasn’t so sure he wanted to do it himself… All of that changed after a significant event in 2020. What happened? Why did it motivate him to reenter the family trade? You’ll have to listen to this episode to find out!

Season 2, Episode 11

Real Food for Real People

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Stephen Zabala, the nutrition master and founder of Greenfork! Being mindful of where your food comes from is more important than ever in our corn syruped, food-dyed modern world… Greenfork beats the supermarket by providing real, nutrient-dense food to clients all around Saratoga. Get the full scoop on Greenfork’s approach to nutrition here in this episode!

Season 2, Episode 10

Atlas Jiu Jitsu - Anyone Can Roll!

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Joe “Josferatu” Zakriski from Atlas Jiu Jitsu! Joe’s been rolling with the best of them for 18 years, but he’s only worked out of Atlas Jiu Jitsu for 8… How did he come to run Atlas in South Glens Falls? How did the business rise and fall (and rise again) during the COVID pandemic? What does jiu jitsu have to offer? Hear the answers to these questions and many more by tuning in to this episode!

Season 2, Episode 9

Raw Milk Revolution

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Chuck and Sarah Curtiss, husband-and-wife team behind the Willow Marsh Farm and storefront! Their fifth-generation farm offers a special option that nobody else nearby yet does – the production and sale, direct to consumers, of raw milk and raw milk products, including cheese, yogurt and more… What’s the deal with raw milk? How is it made? Is it safe to drink? Why do so few farms produce it? Hear the answers to those questions and many more here, in this stellar episode!

Season 2, Episode 8

Momentum Makers - Moving Forward

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson pairs with cleaning mastermind Steven Boxley to interview Kevin Hinman, co-founder of Momentum Makers!

Kevin’s mission is bringing faith-based principles to workplaces across the nation… But the lessons he teaches can be applied to any organization, secular or not. And the results speak for themselves – companies typically see much better culture, customer retention, higher profits, and more! Listen to this episode to find out what Momentum Makers might have to offer you!

Season 2, Episode 7

Saratoga Biochar Fights Back!

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Raymond Apy, the CEO of Northeastern Biochar Solutions and one of the main figures behind Saratoga Biochar Solutions! The proposed facility’s goal is to process biosolids into carbon fertilizer, but local opposition to the project has been significant… Ray has met every goal and then some, and he wants more people to understand the importance of the project. Listen to this episode to hear his explanations and future plans!

Season 2, Episode 6

Design & Development, Hand in Hand

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Geff Redick, owner of Redbud Development! Redbud’s specialty is improving your living space – not just “adding a pool”, but considering every factor of how you live in and use the space! For any project big or small, Redbud’s thoughtful building acumen impresses every time!

Season 2, Episode 5

Unraveling Financial Mysteries

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Charles Amodio, a main partner and forensic accountant at FAZ Forensics!
Forensic accounting is a little-known but invaluable resource to businesses of all kinds, and FAZ is the premier provider of it in the region! Whether you need a business valuation, financial investigation, or even litigation support, when answers matter, FAZ delivers!

Season 2, Episode 4

March to Victory - The Men Behind the Melee

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Don Walton and Jay Ingleston - former fighters turned promoters at DonnyBrooke Fight Promotions!

On March 30th, Vermont-based Donnybrooke is bringing a premier MMA event to New York state for the first time - Adina Hornstra vs. LG Pannell and Carmen Corchado vs. Oriana Bracho at the March to Victory! How did they go about putting together this action-packed event? What were their motivations behind the matchups? What brings them to New York this time around? You'll have to listen to this episode to find out!

Season 2, Episode 3

The Real Estate Roundtable Reconvenes

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson talks with local top real estate experts Dan Wade, Mark Pawlows, and Lori Danussi!

It’s been a few years since the COVID pandemic first affected the real estate market… What’s recovered, what still has a ways to go, and what does that mean to prospective home-buyers and sellers? Listen to this episode for the answers to those questions, and many more!

Season 2, Episode 2

Three Generations of Boxley Brilliance

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Steven and Christian Boxley, the father-son Presidential team of Boxley's Services!

For three generations, Boxley's has provided complete cleaning and detailing services to homes, businesses, and vehicles... From humble beginnings, Boxley's transformed hard work and reliable service into a successful and reputable business. Each generation has built upon the last; and Christian has plenty of new ideas to help Boxley's grow! Listen to this episode to hear their incredible story, plans for the future, and more!

Season 2, Episode 1

Leave Your Company & Start Your Own - The Five Towers Story

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Brad Colacino, his partner at – and co-owner of – Five Towers Media!

Brad had a stable, cushy job at a big white collar company, but he decided to leave it all behind to start his own business! Has he achieved the success he sought? What does he love about his current company? Find out the answers in this special first episode of our second season!

SEASON ONE

Episode 50

Improving the Community with The Town Tinker

n this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Scott Lufkin, Argyle native and star of The Town Tinker!

The Town Tinker is all about taking on cool projects, but not just for himself – whether it’s restoring tombstones and church bells, clearing sidewalks, or crowdsourcing a new town skating rink, Scott is community-first, making his native Argyle a better place for everyone. Listen to his amazing stories here in this episode, and check out his YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@towntinker

Episode 49

Building Better Culture with Tom Schin

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Tom Schin, the man behind the important consulting business of Build Better Culture! Every organization thinks they have a great workplace culture – but not all of them actually do! Tom knows the secrets to employee satisfaction and retention… But you might be surprised by how inherent they are! Listen to this episode to find out more!

Episode 48

Riding the Rails of Progress with Stimler Advantage

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Neal Stimler, the President of Stimler Advantage! Technology development has accelerated by leaps and bounds in recent years, and keeping up with it can be an overwhelming task... But Stimler Advantage has all the know-how to catch you and your business up with the times - making your processes efficient, and keeping your strategy tightly focused!

Episode 47

The Two Key Words - Experience, and Teamwork

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Kris Brunelle, owner and CEO of White Glove Janitorial Service! He may be the executive at the helm, but Kris still does cleaning, team-building and managing along with his salesmanship duties. The key words to his success? Experience, and Teamwork! How have these things helped his small startup thrive this past year? You’ll have to listen to this episode to find out!

Episode 46

The Ultimate Beverage Solution! MicroBottler Seals it All!

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Doug Ernenwein, Jordan Wood, and Scott Lufkin from DK Advanced Technologies! They have an amazing product on offer that truly does it all - the MicroBottler, an affordable, adaptable, customizable and portable solution for any and all of your beverage-containment needs! Canning and bottling, any size you need... MicroBottler is one amazing machine!

Episode 45

Building a Creative Community at Artisan Ink

In this episode, our host Michael Nelson interviews Melissa Freebern, owner and operator of Artisan Ink and artist par excellence! Her dedication to art goes beyond the tattoo shop – whether it’s painting, ceramics, or sculpting, Melissa’s love of art runs deep, and sharing that love with the community is what her business is all about!

Episode 44

Everything You Need to Know About Home-Schooling

In this episode, our host Michael Nelson sits down with Chris Leuzinger – owner and tutor at Nourishing Minds Tutoring – to talk about home-schooling! Is it right for your child? How do you get started? How much time does it require? Is it harder in New York State? All these questions and more have an answer in this informative episode!

Episode 43

Amazing Alternative Therapies at The Eden Center

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Daniel Breeyear, the Director of Integrative Care at The Eden Care Center! They’ve expanded their offerings across the board, and some of their offerings are truly unique – their fully personalized therapy options ensure that no matter what your troubles, The Eden Center for Integrative Care can help!

Episode 42

More Than Just Accounting - Capital CFO+

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson is joined by business partner Brad Colacino to interview Sabrina Houser, the do-it-all owner of Capital CFO+! With a history of helping businesses and organizations both for and non-profit thrive, Sabrina's company takes all the guesswork out of the challenging sides of running a business - accounting, marketing, consulting, administration, and more, they can help!

Episode 41

Dirty Job, Pure Hearts - The Impact of Performance Industrial in Our Community

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Sean Willcoxon, the Operations Manager of Performance Industrial! The company provides stellar commercial cleaning services, but what really sets them apart is their commitment - not just to their clients and employees, but to the community as a whole. Whether it's epoxy flooring, kitchen exhaust cleaning, supporting employees or organizing charity drives, Performance Industrial gets the Dirty and Difficult, Done!

Episode 40

Mike Nelson's In With the ARCC

In this episode, our familiar Mike Nelson is interviewed by Amanda Blanton on an episode of her radio show, I'm In With the ARCC! This gives him the chance to tell the story of his two biggest companies - Five Towers Media, and Glens Falls TODAY! How does each company operate? How do they work together? The answer is here in this very special episode!

Episode 39

Let's Go To the Hub

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Robert Starbuck, the CEO at Migrate Business Services, and Saratoga's Business Hub! Robert has 40 years of experience in world business, and his company can help you and your business get the help you need by providing office space, professional help, outsourcing options, and more!

Episode 38

Real Estate Roundtable

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews a trifecta of real estate experts - Agent Paul Smith, real estate specialist attorney Dan Wade, and owner of Freedom One Funding, Mark Pawlows! The 2023 market is awash with confusing and hectic developments, and nobody knows better than these three! Want to know their secrets to navigating through this storm? You'll have to listen to this episode and find out!

Episode 37

David Byrne (Renua Energy)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews David Byrne, an army veteran and the owner & president of Renua Energy! Electric vehicles are becoming more popular and affordable across the nation, and David uses Renua to try to help meet the coming energy demands and make our nation energy-independent! Listen to this episode to hear about his goals, his history, and more!

Episode 36

Howard Litwak & Chris Ryan (SIX Marketing)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Supreme Commander Chris Ryan and "AI Howard" Litwak of SIX Marketing! AI's a big topic right now, and it can be hard to know where to stand on it - How can you access it? What's it useful for? Are there downsides? We have some answers for you here, in this informative episode!

Episode 35

Stephen Zabala (Greenfork)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Stephen Zabala, owner and operator of Greenfork in Saratoga! Stephen's passionate about all things fitness - whether it's strengthening the body through exercise or feeding it properly with a nutritious diet, Stephen can help anyone down the road to a healthier, happier self!

Episode 34

Jacob Goldman (Layoff Lookout)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Jacob Goldman, nineteen-year-old co-founder of Layoff Lookout! In this country, companies must post a warning if they plan to layoff over a certain number of workers, but these warnings are often difficult to find... Layoff Lookout scrapes depositories of information to find these warnings, and passes the information to you when you need it most! Learn more about it by listening to this episode!

Episode 33

Danushan Sooriabalan, M.D. (Dr. Dan)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Danushan Sooriabalan; better known as Dr. Dan, a local Internal Medicine Physician... But most importantly, a primary care specialist! Primary Care has been on the decline in this country for some time now, but Dan is trying to bring it back into the spotlight! Hear about his important mission and what he can offer you here, in this stellar episode!

Episode 32

Aimee Woodhouse (Aimee Lactation Consulting)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Aimee Woodhouse, a local professional Lactation Consultant! Aimee helps expecting and current mothers prepare for the proper feeding of their children, and there's a lot more that goes into it than you might think! Give this episode a listen to find out what value her service - and other similar services, such as doulas - bring to our community.

Episode 31

Don "The Soldier's Son" Walton

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Don "The Soldier's Son" Walton, a former pro MMA fighter turned fight coach! The road to "fighting for a living" was a difficult one to travel, but Don never gave up and made his dream come true! Listen now to hear his incredible success story!

Episode 30

Alan VanTassel (Velocity Sales)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Alan VanTassel, the Outsourced VP of Sales at Velocity Sales! Developing and nurturing a sales team and structure for your business is no easy task, but Alan's got the know-how to take you from a sales slump to a bargain bonanza! How? Take a listen and find out!

Episode 29

Chris Leuzinger (Nourishing Minds)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Chris Leuzinger, the head tutor and founder over at Nourishing Minds! How'd he get started with professional tutoring? How did COVID affect his business? What subjects are kids struggling with nowadays? Listen to this episode and find out!

Episode 28

Brandi Tyler (Unbroken Athletics & Club Midnight Crossfit)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Brandi Tyler, the workout guru behind Unbroken Athletics and Club Midnight Crossfit! They talk on location after an intense workout and cover all the bases behind what it entails, who can join in on it, and more!

Episode 27

Samantha Bosshart (Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Samantha Bosshart, the Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation! Her organization is dedicated to preserving the historic legacy of Saratoga Springs in more ways than one, and they have an exciting event coming up very soon! Take a listen and find out what they're about, and what the event will be!

Episode 26

Chris Mast (The Car Shoppe)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Chris Mast, owner and operator of The Car Shoppe - two locations in Queensbury, and now, a brand new one in Malta! Where did he come from? How has he had such success? How do new mandates affect his business? To find out, listen to this episode!

Episode 25

Teddy Foster & Chris Ryan (Universal Preservation Hall)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Teddy Foster and Chris Ryan - two superstars that work with the Universal Preservation Hall! They're hosting a fundraising event on May 18th: The Shaken and Stirred Celebrity Bartender Party! What will the event be like? Who will be there? To find out, listen to this episode, and check out their website at: https://universalpreservationhall.org/shaken-and-stirred-2023/

Episode 24

Andy Liporace and Joe Cerrone (Blue Flame and Cerrone Plumbing & HVAC)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Andy Liporace - the President of Blue Flame Gas - and Joe Cerrone, the Manager and Owner of Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning! New York's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act is calling for the installation of heat pumps in many homes and business throughout the state. What does this mean? Is it going to be expensive? Is it practical? These questions and more have been on the minds of everyone in the state... But don't worry! Our guests have all the answers you need here, in this informative episode!

Episode 23

Jennifer Rhodes & Drew Cali (Mind Body Soul Expo)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Jennifer "Gem" Rhodes - the founder of the Mind Body Soul Expo - and Drew Cali, a psychic-medium and intuitive guide! They discuss the fantastic offerings of the Expo, the trials Drew faced that led him to his practice, and even conduct a brief reading on Mike! You won't want to miss this episode!

Episode 22

Scott Peterson (D'Orazio-Peterson LLP)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Scott Peterson, a founding partner and attorney at D'Orazio-Peterson LLP! They discuss what services they offer to discriminated-against workers, how real law differs from what you see in the news, their mutual interest in podcasting, and more!

Episode 21

Sarah Craig (Caffé Lena)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Sarah Craig, the Executive Director at Caffé Lena! Caffé Lena needs no introduction as one of the most historic spots in all of Saratoga Springs, and Sarah has plenty of stories to tell about its past, present... And future!

Episode 20

Chris Ryan & Leah Parillo (SIX Marketing)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Chris Ryan and Leah Parillo - the "Supreme Commander" and "Purveyor of Fun" respectively at SIX Marketing! Marketing can often be a challenge for burgeoning and experienced businesses alike, and these two have no shortage of advice to offer and strategies to implement! How can their expertise help YOUR business? Take a listen and find out!

Episode 19

Ray Apy (Saratoga Biochar Solutions)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Ray Apy, the CEO of Saratoga Biochar Solutions! The organization is hoping to open a facility that can process biosolids and turn them into clean fertilizer, but they've encountered some problems along the way... Find out what their goal is and how their process works in this informative episode!
Episode 18

James Bruchac (Ndakinna Center)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews James Bruchac, the founder and program director of Ndakinna Education Center! They discuss the value of a "Renaissance Man", how martial arts can tone the body as well as the spirit, the many offerings of the Ndakinna Center, and more in this fantastic episode!

Episode 17

Nick Pavoldi (Bodywork Professionals)

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Nick Pavoldi, the massage master at Bodywork Professionals! They discuss the many different kinds of massage he can perform, how one of Nick's hobbies transformed into a lucrative side hustle, and the business' unique application of "Gong Therapy"... Don't know what that is? Take a listen and find out!


Welcome to Buying Local!
Saratoga, Warren, and Washington County have no shortage of fantastic goods and services to offer! In this podcast, our host Mike Nelson will clue you in on the amazing gems hidden in your very own community!

A SARATOGA BUSINESS REPORT & GLENS FALLS TODAY PRODUCTION

PRODUCTION NOTE: The opinions reflected in this podcast are not indicative of the views of Saratoga Business Report, SaratogaBride.com LLC, Saratoga TODAY, Glens Falls TODAY, Spa City Digital, or Five Towers Media.


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