S2 E9: Keri Wytrwal, Co-Owner, Shipology

Ann Donnelly on March 3, 2025

In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Keri Wytrwal, co-owner of Shipology, a woman-owned fulfillment center that supports small businesses in the e-commerce sector. They discuss the origins of Shipology, the challenges faced during growth, and the importance of flexibility and adaptability in business. Keri shares insights on hiring practices, the significance of client relationships, and the excitement of celebrating client successes.

S2 E8: Victoria Bushey, VP of Finances, Kingsbury Printing Co., Inc.

Ann Donnelly on February 18, 2025

In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Victoria Bushey, co-owner of Kingsbury Printing. They discuss the origins of the family business, the transition of leadership, and the importance of community engagement. Victoria shares insights on the challenges faced in the printing industry, the significance of client relationships, and the future plans for expanding their services, particularly in digital marketing and social media support for small businesses.

S2 E7: Erika Wood, Partner, and Vittoria Buzzelli, Counsel, Meliora Law, PLLC

Ann Donnelly on January 22, 2025

In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly speaks with Erica Wood and Vittoria Buzzelli from Meliora Law Firm about their journey in establishing a law firm that prioritizes collaboration, sustainability, and a supportive culture. They discuss the challenges of starting a new business, the importance of aligning with core values and creating an approachable environment for clients.

S2 E6: Lourene Bouffard, Owner, Every Penny Bookkeeping & Business Services (S2 Ep6)

Ann Donnelly on January 6, 2025

In this episode, Ann Donnelly speaks with Lourene Bouffard, Owner of Every Penny Bookkeeping & Business Services, who shares her journey from aspiring CPA to entrepreneur, detailing the challenges she faced while starting her business during the COVID-19 pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of building strong client relationships, networking, and providing tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of service-based industries.

S2 E5: Kevin & Neelo Jaikeran, Owners, Queensbury Billiards & Cafe

Ann Donnelly on December 31, 2024

In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Kevin and Neelo Jaikeran, the owners of Queensbury Billiards. They discuss their journey from Guyana to opening a unique billiards hall that offers not only pool but also a diverse menu inspired by their cultural background. The conversation highlights their commitment to customer service, community engagement, and the importance of food in attracting customers. They also share insights into the facilities available for pool enthusiasts and the family-friendly atmosphere they have created.

S2 E4: Paula Traina, State Farm Agent & Community Leader

Ann Donnelly on December 10, 2024

In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann speaks with Paula Traina, a dedicated State Farm agent with offices in Queensbury and Glens Falls who has built a thriving business rooted in community involvement and a passion for helping others. With a strong foundation in the insurance industry and a commitment to personal and professional growth, Traina has positioned herself as a trusted advisor and a valuable asset to the local community.

S2 E3: Nicole Rothe, Owner, Body by Nicole

Ann Donnelly on December 2, 2024

In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Nicole Rothe, a seasoned physical therapist and personal trainer. They discuss Nicole’s journey in the health and wellness industry, her holistic approach to training, and the importance of community building. Nicole shares her experiences working with diverse clients, her plans for a new studio, and her unique brand identity as ‘The Pink Mamba.’ The conversation emphasizes the significance of personalized training and nutrition plans and the value of collaboration among local businesses.

S2 E2: Riham LaRussa, Owner, SmallPackages.co

Ann Donnelly on November 21, 2024

In this episode of Building Success Stories, I speak with Riham LaRussa, owner of Saratoga-based Small Packages, a company built on the idea that gift-giving should be personal and stress-free. Riham left the corporate world to take over Small Packages in late 2022 and aims to empower customers to find the perfect gift for any occasion.

S2 E1: Jenny & Chris Dore, Owners, The Peppermill Family Restaurant

Ann Donnelly on November 18, 2024

In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews culinary power couple Jenny and Chris Dore, who have recently taken over the Peppermill Family Restaurant in South Glens Falls. They discuss their backgrounds, the legacy of the restaurant, their vision for the future, and the importance of community engagement. Chris shares his culinary journey and the thoughtful process behind transitioning ownership, while Jenny emphasizes the significance of maintaining the restaurant’s family-friendly atmosphere. The couple highlights their commitment to evolving the menu based on customer feedback and building trust with their staff and the community.

S1 E36: How to Extend Your Selling Season

Ann Donnelly on November 17, 2024

In recent tourism news, Alaska raised cruise tourism limits as residents’ concerns about over-tourism grew. Over-tourism is an increasing issue in trendy tourism destinations, and one solution that will keep revenue flowing is to focus more on bringing in visitors outside the regular busy season. Unless downtime is needed for maintenance or other recovery, selling year-round is a goal of most businesses that commonly experience seasonality. In this episode of Building Success Stories, Seth and I discuss How to Extend Your Selling Season.