Hosts Nick and Christine welcome Dr. Michael Loete, a dynamic leader dedicated to both healthcare and community well-being. As Board President of ROCCREW, he helps guide an inspiring organization where rowing becomes a vehicle for healing, resilience, and connection. Michael also serves as Treasurer for Person Centered Housing Options Inc. (PCHO), a nonprofit providing homeless outreach, permanent supportive housing, and care management services throughout the region.

From his extensive career in healthcare leadership to his community board work, Michael exemplifies how passion, service, and vision can create waves of positive change in Rochester.

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-michael-loete-ed-d-lah-msl-7b480a70

Michael Loete has been in healthcare for over ten years. Currently he is an employee of UnitedHealthcare as a Senior ACO Network Contract Manager, and subsequently held positions at a variety of local health insurance carriers. A career highlight was as a Director of Provider Network Operations, Mike led a team that successfully and initially contracted physicians, facilities, and providers in over 30 counties in New York State to work with individuals who are intellectually and developmentally disabled so that they could receive medical care.Mike is a graduate of Roberts Wesleyan's OM and MSL programs. In the MSL program, Mike's group studied the Walt Disney Company. The group specifically and successfully defended a strategic audit and recommendation for streaming services as a partnership between the Walt Disney Company and Netflix. Mike had finished his doctorate in educational leadership through St. John Fisher in 2021, and published his dissertation on the Communication styles of senior leaders in health insurance during times of organizational change.

• ROCCREW Website: https://roccrew.com

• ROCCREW Facebook: facebook.com/share/1F2XgaNvvn

• PCHO Facebook: facebook.com/share/1CgqMgNFrR

• For More About That Sounds Terrific in the 585

  Check out our Website: www.thatsoundsterrific.com

• If you or someone you know is doing something terrific in the 585 area and should be featured on our show, email us at thatsoundsterrific@gmail.com.

  
  

  Special Thanks To Our Key Supporters

  A huge thank you to (585) magazine for their continued support in sharing Rochester’s stories. Special appreciation goes to our intern, Ashlyn Dugdale, for their behind-the-scenes work in research, writing, and promotion.

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Hosts Nick and Christine welcome V Spehar, TikTok star, award-winning journalist, and the voice behind Under the Desk News. With over 3 million followers and recognition on the TIME100 Creators list, V has redefined how news can be shared accessible, compassionate, and authentic.

In this episode, V shares their journey from Brooklyn to Rochester, their experiences balancing fame with everyday life, and how theater and hospitality shaped their journalistic style. The conversation dives into topics like AI, Rochester’s food scene, and why V has truly fallen in love with the Flower City.

Our sit-down with V even sparked something bigger: a “day in the life” feature in (585) magazine where Nick and Christine explored Rochester with V from coffee at Café Sasso, art at the George Eastman Museum, shopping at Peppermint Boutique, to lunch at Dorado.

Read the related (585) magazine feature: Under the Desk News takes on Rochester

Connect with V Spehar – Under the Desk News

Website: underthedesknews.com

TikTok: tiktok.com/@underthedesknews

Instagram: instagram.com/underthedesknews

Substack: underthedesknews.substack.com

About Our Terrific Guest

V Spehar is the creator and host of Under the Desk News, where millions turn daily for digestible, jargon-free coverage of politics and current events. Named to the TIME100 Creators list, V has interviewed leaders including Presidents Obama and Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Since moving to Rochester during the pandemic, V has embraced the local community, showcasing how the Flower City inspires creativity, connection, and balance both online and off.

Connect and Follow (585) magazine

Website: 585mag.com

Instagram: instagram.com/585mag

Facebook: www.facebook.com/585mag

Some Other Mentions in this Episode

Café Sasso – coffee shop on Park Avenue

George Eastman Museum – historic Rochester landmark

Peppermint Boutique – fashion and gift shop owned by Tanvi Asher

Dorado – restaurant on Park Avenue

Tanvi Asher – owner of Peppermint Boutique

More About That Sounds Terrific in the 585

Podcast Website: ThatSoundsTerrific.com

Email: thatsoundsterrific@gmail.com

Special Thanks To Our Key Supporters

We’d like to thank (585) magazine for spotlighting Rochester’s stories and for helping us extend our conversation with V. A shoutout as well to our terrific intern Ashlyn Dugdale for her posts and contributions!

Rochester’s housing market is at a crossroads. In this episode, hosts Nick and Christine are joined by TST co-host, Jess DeCotis, as they all sit down with Jim Yakko, CEO of the Greater Rochester Association of Realtors (GRAR), and GRAR President Don Simonetti Jr. to unpack the region’s housing crisis and the bold steps being taken to address it. From accessory dwelling units and modular builds to 3D-printed homes and large-scale redevelopment projects, the conversation explores both the challenges and innovative solutions reshaping how Rochester can meet its housing needs. Discover how the Reimagine Rochester Housing initiative is pushing for affordable, sustainable, and community-minded development across the 585.

Connect and Follow ReImagine Roc Housing at: www.ReImagineROCHousing.org

About Jim Yockel, CEO, Greater Rochester Association of Realtors

Email: jyockel@grar.net

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/james-yockel-7b8a103a

Jim Yockel is the Chief Executive Officer for the Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS®, representing more than 3,000 REALTORS® across 11 counties in the Rochester, Finger Lakes, and Southern Tier regions of New York.

As the Association’s spokesperson, Jim works alongside community and government leaders to improve housing affordability and equitable access in the region. He currently co-leads the ReImagine ROC Housing initiative, an industry-driven effort to tackle Rochester’s housing shortage by collaborating with key stakeholders in business, government, and community development.

Jim earned his Bachelor of Science in Economics and Business Management from Cornell University. He also holds the prestigious REALTORS® Certified Executive designation from NAR and the Certified MLS Expert designation from the Council of MLSs.

About Donald Simonetti Jr.

Email: donjr@howardhanna.com

Donald specializes in executive relocation to the Greater Rochester Area. Born and raised in Rochester, he have a detailed understanding of the local housing market and history. I’m also a proud member of the Greater Rochester Association of Realtors. I look forward to working you and finding your next home.

About Jess DeCotis

Email: jessdecotis@gmail.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/em-marketing

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jessdecotishomes

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jessdecotishomes

Jess DeCotis is an experienced Real Estate Agent focused on providing premium service in all transactions. Clients rave about her ability to quickly analyze and adapt to the market when buying and selling homes. With almost 15 years of professional marketing and sales experience, Jess has a strong business acumen that assists in advocating and negotiating for her clients. Whether you’re buying or selling your way into a dream home, Jess DeCotis is the smart move. Jess is also the co-host of TST in the 585 sister podcast That Sounds Terrifying.

More About That Sounds Terrific in the 585 – Hosts Nick Koziol & Christine Green

For more information on That Sounds Terrific in the 585, visit our website at That Sounds Terrific and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you or someone you know is doing something terrific in the 585 area and should be featured on our show, email us at thatsoundsterrific@gmail.com.

Special Thanks To Our Key Supporters

585 Magazine and their team for their support with the That Sounds Terrific in the 585 podcast. Be sure to become a subscriber of this terrific magazine - learn more at https://585mag.com

Thank you to Morgan Brown and Meadow Viscuso, our terrific intern duo from SUNY Fredonia for all their hard work and for lending their voices and music to the Intro and Outro of the That Sounds Terrific in the 585!

Hosts Nick and Christine welcome Aubre Fox, a powerhouse in both design and community-building. With over 16 years of experience as an interior designer and entrepreneur, Aubre is also the visionary behind The NXT Level Collective, a professional network uplifting women across industries through connection, education, and support. Aubre shares how purpose and passion fuel her dual path. Discover how her work transforms not only interiors but lives, communities, and careers throughout the 585 and beyond.

Connect with Aubre Fox, Founder – The NXT Level Collective:

Email: info@thenxtlevelcollective.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/aubre-fox

Instagram: www.instagram.com/aubre_fox

About Our Terrific Guest:

Aubre Fox is the founder of The NXT Level Collective and a passionate advocate for women in business. With over 16 years of experience as an interior designer and entrepreneur, she brings innovation, insight, and leadership to both the design world and the professional development space. Aubre created NXT Level as a response to her own journey through entrepreneurship and motherhood fostering a community where women could grow together through accountability, education, and genuine support. Today, the organization includes 50+ members statewide, offering dynamic events, retreats, and business strategy programs.

Aubre also grew up showing horses at the state and collegiate level—a passion that still fuels her creativity and determination.

Connect and Follow The NXT Level Collective:

Website: www.thenxtlevelcollective.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-nxt-level-collective

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheNXTLevelCollective

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nxt_levelcollective

More About That Sounds Terrific in the 585 – Hosts Nick Koziol & Christine Green

For more information on That Sounds Terrific in the 585, visit our website at That Sounds Terrific and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you or someone you know is doing something terrific in the 585 area and should be featured on our show, email us at thatsoundsterrific@gmail.com.

Special Thanks To Our Key Supporters

585 Magazine and their team for their support with the That Sounds Terrific in the 585 podcast. Be sure to become a subscriber of this terrific magazine - learn more at https://585mag.com

Thank you to Morgan Brown and Meadow Viscuso, our terrific intern duo from SUNY Fredonia for all their hard work and for lending their voices and music to the Intro and Outro of the That Sounds Terrific in the 585!

Writer, humorist, and Rochester creative force Taylor Terrance joins Nick and Christine for a terrific and heartfelt deep dive into storytelling, performance, and building community through comedy. Known for her column Lunatics Lounge in every issue of (585) magazine, Taylor opens up about her journey from childhood creative writer to comedy performer at Second City Chicago and beyond. Taylor also shares insights on live readings, playwriting, column writing, and the creative power of visual storytelling. From producing "Listen to Your Mother" to publishing humorous essays, she brings a sharp wit and warm heart to everything she does which makes us in the 585 laugh, think, and connect.

Connect with Taylor Terrance:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/taylor_t_rants

Website: 585mag.com/magazine_author/taylor-terrance

About Our Terrific Guest:

Taylor Terrance is a writer and humorist whose voice is both bold and relatable. A regular contributor to (585) magazine through her widely beloved column Lunatics Lounge, she explores the humorous, awkward, and poignant moments of everyday life. Taylor is a graduate of the comedy writing program at Second City Chicago and has performed in sketch shows and storytelling events like Listen to Your Mother and Rochester Spoken Word.

More About That Sounds Terrific in the 585 – Hosts Nick Koziol & Christine Green

For more information on That Sounds Terrific in the 585, visit our website at That Sounds Terrific and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you or someone you know is doing something terrific in the 585 area and should be featured on our show, email us at thatsoundsterrific@gmail.com.

Special Thanks To Our Key Supporters

585 Magazine and their team for their support with the That Sounds Terrific in the 585 podcast. Be sure to become a subscriber of this terrific magazine - learn more at https://585mag.com

Thank you to Morgan Brown and Meadow Viscuso, our terrific intern duo from SUNY Fredonia for all their hard work and for lending their voices and music to the Intro and Outro of the That Sounds Terrific in the 585!

In this episode of That Sounds Terrific in the 585, hosts Nick and Christine uncork a conversation with Susan Reuter, the vibrant and community-focused owner of Flight Wine Bar in Rochester’s scenic Corn Hill Landing. A lifelong Rochesterian, Sue shares her journey from banking to wine, and how owning Flight has become her dream job. Her passion for community building shines through, from themed wine flights like the “Bossy Flight” and “In This Moment Flight,” to regular fundraisers, art exhibits, and celebrating all that the 585 has to offer! Flight Wine Bar is more than just a wine spot. It is a hub for connection, creativity, and collaboration. Whether you're seeking a cozy jazz night, wine education, or your next favorite date spot, Sue and her team have created something truly terrific in the 585.

About Susan Reuter, Owner of Flight Wine Bar

Email: flightrocdowntown@gmail.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/susan-reuter-423a4818a

Susan Reuter was born and raised in Rochester, NY, and proudly embraces everything about her hometown. Charlotte Beach has always been a special place for her, whether on good days or bad. She and her husband are proud parents to seven adult kids, four “plus ones,” and a beautiful granddaughter they babysit weekly. Owning Flight Wine Bar has become Sue’s dream job. She loves running the bar, supporting her staff, and building community in every glass poured.

Connect and Follow Flight Wine Bar:

Website: www.winebarflight.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/61030086

Instagram: www.instagram.com/flightwineroc

Facebook: www.facebook.com/FlightWineROC

More About That Sounds Terrific in the 585 – Hosts Nick Koziol & Christine Green

For more information on That Sounds Terrific in the 585, visit our website at That Sounds Terrific and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you or someone you know is doing something terrific in the 585 area and should be featured on our show, email us at thatsoundsterrific@gmail.com.

Special Thanks To Our Key Supporters

585 Magazine and their team for their support with the That Sounds Terrific in the 585 podcast. Be sure to become a subscriber of this terrific magazine. Learn more at https://585mag.com

Thank you to Morgan Brown and Meadow Viscuso, our terrific intern duo from SUNY Fredonia for all their hard work and for lending their voices and music to the Intro and Outro of the That Sounds Terrific in the 585!

In this inspiring return episode, hosts Nick and Christine sit down with Rochester artist Amanda Chestnut to explore their powerful and deeply personal artistic journey. With over 30 years of experience in photography and a growing passion for ceramics, bookmaking, and fiber art, Amanda shares how they create meaningful work that challenges perceptions and honors Black identity.

The conversation explores the intersections of race, history, and community, highlighting Amanda’s advocacy for equity in the arts and their ongoing efforts to make Rochester’s cultural history more inclusive. She speaks candidly about the challenges artists face in the city, particularly the housing crisis and lack of representation, and their commitment to uplifting others through collaboration and opportunity sharing.

Don’t miss this thoughtful discussion on resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of art.

About Amanda Chestnut

Email: inthismoment585@gmail.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blk_amanda/

Amanda Chestnut is a multimedia artist, curator, educator, publisher, and local arts loud-mouth in Rochester, New York. They have made image-based art as a photographer for 30 years. Their artwork has been exhibited throughout New York State, including at the Center for Book arts in Manhattan. Chestnut holds an MFA in Visual Studies from Visual Studies Workshop through The College at Brockport, SUNY. During that time, they held graduate assistantships at Visual Studies Workshop and in the Criminal Justice Department, both at the College at Brockport. Recent lectures and radio appearances focused on community action, equity in user experiences in digital platforms, curatorial practices, arts funding, the English language, and the over-policing of Blackness in the United States.

More About That Sounds Terrific in the 585 – Hosts Nick Koziol & Christine Green

For more information on That Sounds Terrific in the 585, visit our website at That Sounds Terrific and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you or someone you know is doing something terrific in the 585 area and should be featured on our show, email us at thatsoundsterrific@gmail.com.

Special Thanks To Our Key Supporters

585 Magazine and their team for their support with the That Sounds Terrific in the 585 podcast. Be sure to become a subscriber of this terrific magazine - learn more at https://585mag.com

Thank you to Morgan Brown and Meadow Viscuso, our terrific intern duo from SUNY Fredonia for all their hard work and for lending their voices and music to the Intro and Outro of the That Sounds Terrific in the 585!

This bonus episode "Go Friend Me," was inspired by Leadership Rochester’s Thrive Project, where participants select a local nonprofit to support in advancing its mission. Co-Host Nick Koziol alongside fellow LR 2025 cohort members Tiera Proctor, Danielle Novara, Jaime Ciccone, Pat Rojas, and Rhonda Morien chose Compeer Rochester to create a volunteer drive called "Go Friend Me" encouraging people to sign up to be mentors for Compeer Rochester.

In this Bonus TST in the 585 Epsiode, Nick and Christine sit down with Sara Passamonte to spotlight this initiative and dive into all things Compeer. Sara, a previous guest on the TST goes deeper and shares her personal journey with the organization. This episode shines a light on how personal relationships, community partnerships, and dedicated volunteerism are reducing stigma and building a healthier, more connected Rochester.

About Sara Passamonte, CEO Compeer Rochester

Email: spassamonte@compeerrochester.org

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sara-passamonte

Sara Passamonte was born and raised in Rochester, NY within a family of musicians. She obtained a bachelor’s in psychology from Nazareth College in 2005, having completed a summer internship at Compeer Rochester. After being employed in multiple roles at Compeer post-graduation, Sara became the Director of Programs in 2014 and assumed the role of President in January 2020. In this first year, Sara led the organization through the challenges of COVID-19 and the social justice movement, taking every opportunity to keep mental health in the spotlight. Sara was honored as a member of Rochester Business Journal’s “Forty under 40” in 2021. Sara previously served on the Monroe County Youth Bureau Board, serves on the advisory board of Crossroads of Caring, and maintains ongoing collaborative efforts with other nonprofits in the area. Sara is trained in Critical Incident Management, Advancing Youth Development, and Trauma-Informed Care. She is a long-time Compeer volunteer.

Connect and Follow Compeer Rochester:

Website: www.compeerrochester.org

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/compeerrochester

Instagram: www.instagram.com/compeerrochester

Facebook: www.facebook.com/compeerrochester

Youtube: www.youtube.com/compeerrochester6598

During her long rehabilitation from a near-fatal automobile accident in 1975, Rochesterian Bernice “Bunny” Skirboll discovered the healing power of friendship and vowed to make a difference in others’ lives. She got involved in the Mental Health Association’s Adopt-A-Patient Program and soon transformed it into the community-based Compeer model, serving as Executive Director from its inception through 2006.

Under Skirboll’s leadership, Compeer grew from a small program in Rochester to an internationally recognized mental wellness model and organization — one that has demonstrated solid results and been replicated around the globe.

More About That Sounds Terrific in the 585 – Hosts Nick Koziol & Christine Green

For more information on That Sounds Terrific in the 585, visit our website at That Sounds Terrific and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you or someone you know is doing something terrific in the 585 area and should be featured on our show, email us at thatsoundsterrific@gmail.com.

Special Thanks To Our Key Supporters

585 Magazine and their team for their support with the That Sounds Terrific in the 585 podcast. Be sure to become a subscriber of this terrific magazine - learn more at https://585mag.com

Thank you to Morgan Brown and Meadow Viscuso, our terrific intern duo from SUNY Fredonia for all their hard work and for lending their voices and music to the Intro and Outro of the That Sounds Terrific in the 585!