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!
In this episode of Building Success Stories, host Ann Donnelly sits down with F. Raymond “Ray” Agnew, the Vice President of Hospital and Community Engagement at Glens Falls Hospital. Ray shares his fascinating career trajectory, which began at the Crane School of Music, where he studied music composition and theory. From writing music for the...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, host Ann Donnelly sits down with John Snyder, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Park Theater Foundation in Glens Falls, New York. Relocating from a remote village in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, John brings a unique blend of experience in the performing arts and nonprofit leadership to the...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, host Ann Donnelly sits down with Kevin O’Brien, co-founder of TechFirst Insurance Agency. With a career spanning decades—from working with industry giants like Travelers to leading family-run agencies and bank consolidations—Kevin has seen the insurance landscape transform through technology and private equity. Now, Kevin is “starting fresh” with...
Disrupting Upstate Real Estate: Technology, Discretion, and the $6.5M Lake George Estate with Realize Brokers Episode Overview: What do aviation, cryptocurrency, and a chance meeting at a local cigar bar have to do with the future of real estate in Glens Falls? In this episode of Building Success Stories, host Ann Donnelly sits down with...
In this episode, Ann Donnelly sits down with Colleen Carlson, the Director of Sales at the Saratoga Casino Hotel, to explore a career that spans decades at one of Saratoga’s most iconic properties. From her humble beginnings selling race programs at age 15 to overseeing sales for a massive complex that includes a hotel, casino,...
In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly sits down with Sharon Horton, the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington Counties. With a rich background spanning hospitality and major nonprofits such as the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and NAMI, Sharon brings a wealth of operational...
Embracing Sustainability with the Use Less Store in Glens Falls Discover how Kevin Kroeze has revolutionized local shopping with his eco-friendly refill store, bringing sustainable habits to Glens Falls. Learn about innovative products, community impact, and tips to start reducing waste today. This episode offers practical insights into small-scale sustainability initiatives and how local businesses...
In this episode, Jared Humiston, President and CEO of Adirondack Technical Solutions (ADKtechs), shares his journey from a small startup to a thriving IT service provider focused on proactive cybersecurity, strategic growth, and company culture. Discover how intentional client selection, embracing technology, and investing in team well-being have fueled their success over two decades.
Discover the inspiring journey of Ryan McNaughton as he transforms his passion for coffee into a community-centered coffee shop in Moreau. From humble beginnings with homebrewing to opening a bustling local spot, Ryan shares insights into entrepreneurship, ethical sourcing, and fostering the local community. Key Topics: Ryan’s background and how he transitioned from music to...
In this episode, we attend the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce’s monthly Women In Business meeting and interview some of the attendees. We explore how the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses, fosters community connections, and offers valuable resources for entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and established businesses alike. From networking events to advocacy...
