Are you ready to ignite your business and achieve your full potential? Welcome to Building Success Stories, the podcast that empowers entrepreneurs and business leaders. I’m Ann Donnelly, and I’ve spent over four decades in the business world. I’ve witnessed the power of perseverance, innovation, and strategic thinking firsthand. We’ll explore the stories of successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, and we’ll delve into the practical strategies and mindset shifts that can propel your business to new heights. Get ready to be inspired and motivated to take your business to the next level!
Update 2/17/2026: Cleome announced on its Facebook page that it is closing on 3/1/2026. Best of luck to Jakob and the team on their next ventures.Join Ann Donnelly as she learns about the culinary (and business) journey of Jakob White, the chef and co-owner of Cleome Table and Bar in Glens Falls, New York. Discover...
In this episode, Ann speaks with Chuck Copenspire, Creative Strategist and Author, who shares his journey from overcoming social anxiety through improv to building a successful marketing business, Identity Pending. Chuck discusses the importance of networking, authenticity in marketing, and the role of vulnerability in connecting with clients. He emphasizes the need for disruption in...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Carrie Barber, a medical legal consultant with a rich background in nursing and healthcare. Carrie shares her journey from being a nurse to establishing her own Medical Legal Nurse Consulting practice, discussing the challenges she faced, the importance of networking, and the fulfillment she finds...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Wendy Waldron, CEO of WaldronWorks, who shares her journey from the “corporatey” world to entrepreneurship. Wendy discusses the importance of community, accountability, and the challenges she faced while starting her business. She emphasizes the significance of overcoming self-doubt, embracing risks, and the value of implementing...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly speaks with Ginny Brandreth, COO of Zobel and Co Kitchens. Ginny shares her journey from a marketing career to entrepreneurship. Ginny, who is also the current Chair of the Women’s Business Council of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, discusses the importance of networking, the challenges...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Jess Keller, a photographer who has opened a community-focused space in Glens Falls, Light & Lens Studios. The conversation explores Jess’s journey into the art of photography, the vision behind creating a space for local artists, and the importance of community engagement. The discussion also...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews James Rubino, Co-Owner of LakeGeorgeVacay.com, a luxury vacation rental management company. They discuss the inception of the business, the unique offerings that set it apart in the market, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for guests. James shares insights on navigating the luxury rental...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Sheila Greco, founder and CEO of SGA Talent. Sheila shares her journey from a bond trader to a successful recruitment entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of risk-taking, research, and understanding competition in business. The conversation covers various aspects of recruitment, including the significance of niche focus,...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly interviews Johanna von Geldern, owner of Mint Farm to Table Restaurant. Mint grew a dedicated following quickly when it opened in Glens Falls in 2022 and is now expanding with a new location in Slingerlands opening in March 2025. Johanna shares her journey into the culinary...
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...
