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 traditional marketing practices and the value of storytelling in building relationships. He also explores the evolving landscape of social media and how to navigate it effectively.

In this conversation, we explore the evolving landscape of digital marketing, the integration of technology and AI, and the importance of community and collaboration in entrepreneurship. We discuss the challenges faced by small business owners, the ethical considerations of using AI, and the tools that enhance productivity. We discuss Chuck’s personal experiences of balancing work and family life, and the excitement of building innovative projects that foster local connections.

Key Takeaways:

• Improv classes helped Chuck overcome social anxiety.
• Networking can be gamified by helping others feel comfortable.
• Following your instincts can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Life coaching can enhance marketing strategies by focusing on relationships.
• Vulnerability in storytelling builds trust with clients.
• Authenticity is crucial in a world filled with inauthenticity.
• Experimentation is key in adapting to changing environments.
• Social media should be approached with enjoyment and authenticity.
• Disruption in marketing can lead to better engagement.
• Building connections is about understanding and supporting others.
• Digital marketing has become more accessible, but expertise is still valuable.
• Technology is integral to daily life and business operations.
• AI can enhance productivity, but raises ethical concerns.
• Authenticity and storytelling are crucial in a tech-driven world.
• Productivity tools can help manage tasks and reduce decision fatigue.
• Balancing work and family can lead to increased productivity.
• Community building is essential for local entrepreneurship.
• Innovative projects can create new opportunities for collaboration.
• Embracing change and technology can lead to exciting developments.
• Listening to one’s instincts can guide effective work habits.

More Information:

• Identity Pending
• Chuck’s book “A Pocket Full of Seeds: Healing through Poetry – An Autistic Transgender Story”
• Chuck’s Social Media Profiles – LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Threads
• Contentblocks – Chuck’s Referral Link

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 her work.

The conversation also delves into the services she offers, including consulting for legal cases and providing continuing education for legal teams.

Carrie emphasizes the significance of education in reducing litigation risks and the value of building strong client relationships.

Key Takeaways:

• Carrie Barber has 25 years of nursing experience.
• Transitioning to entrepreneurship comes with challenges that mindset and hard work can overcome.
• Networking is crucial for business success.
• Expectations for immediate returns can lead to disappointment.
• Maintaining a positive mindset is essential.
• Referrals from clients are invaluable for growth.
• Education plays a key role in legal consulting.
• Continuing education can help reduce litigation risks.
• Carrie's consulting services are tailored to client needs.
• Building strong relationships with clients leads to repeat business.

More Information:

• https://barbermedicallegalnurse.com/
• https://anndonnelly.com
• https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com

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 the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) in her practice. Wendy also provides practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the need for mentorship and building genuine relationships in business.

Key Takeaways:

• Wendy’s journey began with her experiences as a Girl Scout, emphasizing teamwork and understanding the rules of the game.
• She transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, founding WaldronWorks with a focus on building teams and growing businesses.
• Community and accountability are crucial for entrepreneurs, especially when transitioning from a corporate environment.
• Overcoming self-doubt is a common challenge; reflecting on fears can help clarify one’s value and capabilities.
• Wendy emphasizes the importance of taking risks and not regretting missed opportunities.
• Starting a business comes with logistical challenges, including time management and creating a productive work environment.
• Implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) provides structure and tools for effective leadership and management.
• Networking should be viewed as relationship building, focusing on genuine connections rather than superficial interactions.
• Aspiring entrepreneurs should seek mentorship and surround themselves with supportive individuals who understand their goals.
• It’s essential to define success in networking and focus on meaningful interactions rather than quantity.

More Information:

• Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) – Wendy Waldron, Certified EOS Implementer
• https://anndonnelly.com
• https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com

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 of starting a business, and the support available for women entrepreneurs in the Glens Falls community. Ginny emphasizes the value of stepping out of one's comfort zone and the significance of community resources in fostering business growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Ginny transitioned from a successful marketing career to entrepreneurship.
• Networking is crucial for business growth and opportunities.
• Starting a business requires stepping out of your comfort zone.
• Community support is vital for new entrepreneurs.
• Women in business can find valuable resources in local chambers.
• Zobel and Co Kitchens was born from a family collaboration.
• Flexibility in business allows for a better work-life balance.
• The growth of Glens Falls is beneficial for local businesses.
• Empowering women in business creates a supportive environment.
• Every entrepreneur should embrace challenges as learning opportunities.

More Information:

• https://zobelandco.com
• https://anndonnelly.com
• https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com
• https://www.adirondackchamber.org/councils-committees

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 touches on the challenges of building a sustainable business model, the feedback received from the community, and future plans for classes and services.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of community in the arts.
• Creating accessible spaces for artists is crucial.
• Feedback from the community can shape business offerings.
• Building a sustainable business model takes time and effort.
• Engagement through social media is vital for visibility.
• Collaboration with local artists enhances community ties.
• Offering classes can attract more visitors to the studio.
• Flexibility in services can meet diverse needs.
• Investing in quality equipment is essential for a professional space.
• Networking with local businesses can foster growth.

More Information:

• Light & Lens Studios https://www.lightandlensgf.com/
• Ann Donnelly Marketing & Business Consultant https://anndonnelly.com
• Ann Donnelly Success Stories https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com

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 market, the significance of concierge services, and strategies for marketing during different seasons.

The conversation also touches on the role of technology in enhancing guest convenience and offers valuable advice for property owners and guests alike.

Key Takeaways

• LakeGeorgeVacay.com was created to fill a void in the luxury vacation rental market.
• The business aims to provide a resort feel for families and create lasting memories.
• Concierge services are being added to enhance guest experiences.
• Marketing strategies differ between peak and off-seasons.
• Technology, such as mobile apps and smart locks, improves guest convenience.
• Property owners should do thorough research before entering the short-term rental market.
• Guests should have a checklist of amenities and preferences when booking.
• Direct booking can save guests significant money compared to platforms like AirBnB.
• Community involvement is crucial for building a successful business.
• Creating unique experiences is key to standing out in the vacation rental market.

More Information:

• LakeGeorgeVacay.com
• Ann Donnelly Marketing & Business Consulting
• Ann Donnelly Success Stories

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, effective strategies, and the role of networking. Sheila also discusses employee retention, the impact of remote work, and the importance of diversity in hiring.

The episode concludes with insights on the qualities to look for in candidates and the benefits of ongoing recruitment efforts.

Key Takeaways

• Sheila Greco transitioned from a bond trader to a recruitment entrepreneur.
• Risk-taking is essential for business success.
• Researching the industry is crucial before diving in.
• Understanding competition helps in strategic positioning.
• Niche focus can lead to better staffing outcomes.
• Recruitment strategies should be tailored to specific needs.
• Networking is key for job seekers.
• Employee retention requires ongoing engagement and support.
• Work-life balance is increasingly important for employees.
• Diversity in hiring leads to a more robust talent pool.

More Information:

SGA Talent website

Ann Donnelly Success Stories

Ann Donnelly Fractional COO & Business Advisor

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 world and emphasizes the connection between food, health, and wellness.

She discusses her commitment to sourcing ethical ingredients, expanding her restaurant brand, and creating a positive work environment.

The conversation also touches on maintaining quality and aesthetics in dining and the stories behind the restaurant's decor.

Key Takeaways

• Johanna's journey into the culinary world began with her mother's health struggles.
• The healing power of food is a central theme in Johanna's philosophy.
• Sourcing ethical ingredients is crucial for a sustainable restaurant.
• Creating a positive work environment leads to better customer experiences.
• Maintaining quality and aesthetics in dining enhances the overall experience.
• The restaurant's decor has unique stories and history behind it.
• Building relationships with farmers and artisans is essential for success.
• Johanna's approach to leadership focuses on empathy and understanding.
• The expansion of the Mint brand aims to reach more customers.
• The restaurant serves as a gallery for local artists, enhancing community ties.

More Information:

https://www.mint518.com/

https://anndonnelly.com/

https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com/