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 can drive environmental change while effectively engaging communities. Tune in for actionable tips and inspiring stories!

Key Topics:

- Introduction to the Use Less Store and its refill-ery concept, emphasizing bulk and eco-friendly products

- The importance of reuse, recycling, and reducing plastic waste, including practical product swaps

- The role of thrifting and upcycling in supporting sustainability and reducing expenses

- The challenges and opportunities of starting a small, eco-conscious business

- Community engagement, marketing strategies, and collaborations, including local events like Ladies Night and farmers markets

- The benefits and logistics of refilling with traditional and new products, cost savings, and environmental impact

- Future plans, product sourcing, and the importance of small steps towards zero waste

- The significance of location, signage, and online presence for local business success

More Information:

- The Use Less Store of Glens Falls website

- The Use Less Store of Glens Falls Facebook

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.

Key Topics

1. Founding story: Starting with a single customer and scaling rapidly within three to four years
2. Evolution of tech services: From hardware sales and on-premises solutions to cloud-based security and remote access
3. Strategic move: Transitioning to a multi-use facility to support growth and attract talent in upstate New York
4. Operational efficiencies: Streamlining processes through AI, standardized procedures, and reducing client count for personalized service
5. Client focus: Valuing quality, uptime, and proactive security over quantity of clients for better retention and less chaos
6. Company culture: Investing in employee benefits, team camaraderie, and reduction of turnover to improve service and morale
7. Future outlook: Incorporating AI, industry consolidation trends, and expanding talent reach across the East Coast
8. Advice for potential clients and employees: Valuing partnership, strategic guidance, and a strong culture over purely cost-driven decisions

More Information

1. ADK Techs Website
2. Jared on LinkedIn

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:

1. Ryan’s background and how he transitioned from music to coffee entrepreneurship
2. The evolution of Stinky's Coffee Co: from idea to opening
3. Strategic location choice near Northway exit 17 and its advantages
4. Coffee offerings: specialty pour-overs, seasonal lattes, and fresh roasted beans
5. The new food menu features gluten-free options and local sourcing
6. Vision for building a community hub and inviting locals to make the space their own
7. Future goals: visiting coffee farms in Guatemala and expanding roasting capabilities
8. The story behind the nickname "Stinky" and branding considerations

Further Information

1. Stinky's Coffee Co.

This conversation explores the history and evolution of Inside Edge and Reliable Racing, detailing the journey of the family business from its origins to its current state. The discussion highlights innovations in ski racing equipment, the transition of leadership, and the ongoing contributions to the ski industry. It also touches on the changing landscape of ski racing, the financial challenges faced by athletes, and personal reflections on life and business.

(We apologize for the poor sound quality due to recording on location in the back of the shop. The stories we discuss are so good, we still needed to get this episode to you!)

Key Takeaways

1. The origins of Inside Edge and Reliable Racing date back to the 1960s.
2. The business evolved from a ski shop to a significant player in the ski racing equipment market.
3. Innovations in ski racing equipment have been a hallmark of the business.
4. Leadership transitioned in 2000, with a focus on product development and innovation.
5. The company was sold in 2017, continuing its legacy under new ownership.
6. The ski racing landscape is changing, with new opportunities for athletes.
7. Skiing and ski racing have become increasingly expensive for families.
8. The American dream is reflected in the success of family-run businesses.
9. Personal experiences in the ski industry highlight the importance of community and relationships.
10. Retirement does not mean stepping away from the industry; ongoing contributions are vital.

More Information

1. Inside Edge
2. Reliable Racing

This conversation explores the journey of a family-owned ski shop, discussing its operations, the evolution of ski equipment, and the challenges faced in the ski industry. The speakers reflect on their experiences with customer engagement through ski trips, the impact of COVID-19 on business operations, and the importance of community and staff in maintaining a successful family business. They also touch on pricing strategies and the significance of adapting to changes in the market.

Key Takeaways

1. The ski shop has been in operation since 1966, showcasing a rich family legacy.
2. Ski trips started in 1994, enhancing customer engagement and loyalty.
3. COVID-19 led to a reduction in operating hours, which surprisingly increased business.
4. Pricing strategies include free rentals for children under five and competitive adult rates.
5. The importance of experienced staff in providing quality service and fitting equipment.
6. Community relationships are vital for the ski shop's success and customer retention.
7. The shop has adapted to changes in technology and customer preferences over the years.
8. Social media marketing is becoming increasingly important for reaching new customers.
9. The ski industry faces challenges from online shopping and competition.
10. Maintaining a family business requires navigating generational transitions and employee loyalty.

More Information

Alpine Sport Shop

In this conversation, Felicia Lynn, owner of Hometown Board Shop in Glens Falls, shares her journey from a passionate snowboarder and ski instructor to a business owner. She discusses the challenges of starting a business, the importance of community engagement, and her plans for the future of the shop. Felicia emphasizes the significance of mentorship and building a supportive team while navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship in the outdoor sports industry.

Key Takeaways

• Felicia has been involved in snow sports since childhood.
• The idea for Hometown Board Shop stemmed from a lack of local snowboard shops.
• Community engagement is crucial for the success of the shop.
• Starting a business requires a lot of planning and support.
• Mentorship can significantly impact a new business owner's confidence.
• Balancing customer service with backend operations is challenging.
• Finding the right team members is essential for business growth.
• Felicia's family plays a supportive role in her business.
• Safety and education in sports are important topics for the community.
• The future of Hometown Board Shop includes expanding product offerings and community events.

More Information

• Hometown Board Shop
• Ann Donnelly Success Stories
• Ann Donnelly Fractional COO

In this episode, host Ann Donnelly meets Jason Tyler, the Eastern New York Market Lead for Stark Tech. As a new member of the Adirondack Chamber, Jason shares how Stark Tech is transforming from a traditional temperature control company into a powerhouse of holistic building solutions and energy management.

With energy costs rising and New York’s regulatory landscape shifting, businesses are facing unprecedented challenges in keeping their facilities efficient and resilient. Jason discusses how his team acts as "master integrators," helping everyone from K-12 schools to large-scale commercial facilities navigate these complexities.

"Stark Tech's success is tied to our client's success. If we're not ensuring that our clients are successful, we're not doing our job right." — Jason Tyler

Stark Tech prides itself on being a partner that "walks alongside" the client, leveraging decades of experience to phase out aging equipment and integrate new, cost-saving solutions. They also help businesses navigate the world of incentives, rebates, and grants to make these upgrades financially feasible.

More Information:

• Stark Tech
• Ann Donnelly Fractional COO
• Ann Donnelly Building Success Stories