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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with Dave Casullo and Dan Williams for a real, wide-ranging conversation centered around leadership, community, and pride in where you’re from. Dave shares perspective from his work with Daneli Partners, along with his deep passion for Little Falls. He talks about why he believes in the city and how strong leadership plays a role in helping small communities grow and stay relevant.

Dan brings that same energy for his own corner of the 315. He talks about his connection to Deansboro and his experience building and operating businesses while staying rooted locally. Through his work, including Blueberry Brook Farm Resort, he shares how time in nature can be genuinely restorative. Stepping away, changing your environment, and getting offsite can bring clarity, reset your mindset, and ultimately make you better in both business and life.

This episode is not about hype or quick wins. It is about showing up, leading by example and caring about the places you are building in. Dave and Dan offer two different perspectives, but they share a belief that there is real opportunity in the 315 for people who are willing to put in the time and effort.

We Cover:
• Dave's approach to leadership and his passion for Little Falls
• Dan's connection to Deansboro and his experience building businesses locally
• The importance of pride, ownership, and consistency in your community
• How leadership shows up in small towns and why it matters
• Why the future of the 315 depends on people who choose to build where they are

This conversation is a reminder that the 315 is what you make of it. Opportunity exists here, but it depends on people who are willing to lead and stay invested. Dave and Dan are both doing that in their own ways, and it shows how much impact can come from building something right where you are.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:30) - Blueberry Brook Origins
(4:00) - Why Start Daneli & Little Falls
(6:00) - Passion For Inspiring Leaders
(6:45) - Dave & Dan's Collaboration
(9:15) - Where Does Daneli Fit?
(13:20) - Deansboro Dan
(14:40) - Rural Healthcare Narrative
(17:40) - Nurturing Visionary Leadership Locally
(22:00) - AI & Reconnecting with Nature
(26:15) - Healing with Nature
(30:00) - Presence & Energy
(35:45) - Setbacks vs. Failure
(37:30) - Work on You & Leading by Example
(38:30) - Work with Hamilton College
(46:00) - Maximizing Time & Priorities



---
Dave Casullo's Links:
Website - https://danelipartners.com
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/daneli-partners
IG - https://www.instagram.com/danelipartners
FB - https://www.facebook.com/DaneliPartners

Dan William's Links:
Website - https://blueberrybrookfarmresort.com
IG - https://www.instagram.com/blueberrybrookfarm
FB - https://www.facebook.com/dan.williams.720682

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode we sit down with Sal Longo, self-made entrepreneur, founder of Northern Safety, CEO of Zing Green Safety Products and the driving force behind several of the Mohawk Valley’s most talked-about hospitality destinations. From starting out selling safety products out of the back of his car to building a global company over nearly four decades. Sal shares the lessons he learned along the way about leadership, grit and surrounding yourself with the right people. His story is a reminder that success rarely comes from talent alone, it comes from persistence, trust and a willingness to outwork the competition.

We also dive into what happened after Sal sold Northern Safety and realized retirement wasn’t exactly his style. That realization sparked a new chapter filled with ventures across the region. From launching Zing Green Safety Products, a company focused on sustainable safety gear, to developing beloved local hospitality spots like Rocky’s, Roman’s, Tito's, Kuyahoora Resort & Stonebridge. Sal talks about the challenges of entering the restaurant world, rebuilding Valley View, and why creating experiences for the community has become such an important part of his work.

At its core, this conversation is about building things that last. Whether that’s a business, a team or a community. Sal shares what leadership means to him today, why he believes trust and hard work still win in the long run and why he’s proud to keep investing in the Mohawk Valley.

In this episode, we talk about:
• How Sal built Northern Safety from his trunk to a global company
• Why leadership, trust and team culture are the keys to scaling a business
• Launching Zing Green Safety Products and focusing on sustainable manufacturing
• The story behind Rocky’s, Roman’s, Tito’s, Stonebridge and investing in local hospitality
• Why Sal believes Utica is on the rise

If you enjoy stories about entrepreneurship, reinvention and local pride, this episode is packed with perspective from someone who’s spent a lifetime building things right here in the 315.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(1:40) - Scaling Northern Safety & Hands on CEO
(4:00) - Surround Yourself with People You Like
(5:10) - Becoming a Better Leader
(7:25) - Sharing the Power & Trust
(8:30) - Retiring For 10 Months
(9:30) - Never Going Into Hospitality...
(10:30) - Finding & Growing ZING Green Safety Products
(14:45) - Sustainable Safety Products
(17:30) - Continuing to Get Better & Legacy
(20:45) - Getting Into the Hospitality Space
(23:35) - Biggest Surprise in the Restaurant Business
(26:10) - Transforming Valley View
(29:00) - Variety of Menu Options
(33:00) - Stonebridge Golf & Country Club
(34:15) - Rapid Fire Questions


---
Sal Longo's Links:
Zing - https://www.zinggreenproducts.com
Roman's - https://romansvalleyview.com
Rocky's - https://rockysonthelake.com
Tito's Tavern - https://titosvalleyview.com
Kuyahoora Resort - https://www.kuyahooraresort.com
Stonebridge Golf & Country Club - https://stonebridgegolfandbanquet.com

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org

In this episode we sit down with Ujj Rai, social entrepreneur, community builder and founder of both Muju International Groceries and Nyano. This is one of those conversations that makes you stop and think about what business is really for.

From growing up in Nepal as a pastor’s kid to studying at Harvard and now building companies right here in Utica, Ujj shares how his entire philosophy centers on one thing: fall in love with the problem. For him, business isn’t about chasing profit, it’s about solving real social challenges in sustainable ways.

We dive deep into Nyano, his wellness tech platform that uses your phone’s camera to scan your vitals, no $400 wearable required. While making emotional and physical check-ins simple, accessible and stress-free. But this episode goes far beyond tech. Ujj opens up about why he chose Utica, why creating your own table is more powerful than fighting for a seat at someone else’s and how Muju has evolved into a community hub where cultures connect and stories are shared.

This one is thoughtful, inspiring and packed with perspective. From redefining the American Dream to rethinking what success really means. If you care about entrepreneurship, community, mental health or building something bigger than yourself, this conversation will stick with you.

We Cover:
• What it really means to be a “social entrepreneur”
• How Nyano is making health tracking accessible to everyone
• Why you shouldn’t wait for a seat at the table, build your own
• Turning Muju into a space for culture, food and connection
• Falling in love with the problem instead of chasing the money

Utica is very lucky to have Ujj.

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

---
Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(0:45) - Social Entrepreneurship
(5:00) - Understanding the Problem
(5:30) - Working at Mohawk Valley SBDC
(8:15) - SBDC Services
(10:45) - Celebrating the Success of Others
(11:50) - Creating Your Own Seat
(13:45) - Alternative to $400 Watches
(14:40) - Building the NYANO Tech
(16:45) - Simple Way to Take Care of Yourself
(19:00) - Emojis & Foods
(21:40) - Local Storage Only
(24:45) - Subscription Cost
(26:15) - Social Element
(33:00) - Taking Care of Loved Ones
(37:15) - Evolution of Muju
(43:00) - Winning Together & Abundance
(45:30) - How Nyano Measures
(47:45) - Rapid Fire Questions


---
Ujj Rai's Links:
FB - https://www.facebook.com/ujjwal.rai.9
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ujj-rai-884475256
Nyano Website - https://nyano.life
Nyano IG - https://www.instagram.com
Nyano Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/nyanolife
Muju FB - https://www.facebook.com/1310MujuGoLLC
Muju IG - https://www.instagram.com/muju_store1

---
Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org