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.

• The Evolution of Stark Tech: Learn about Stark Tech's 2021 acquisition of the long-standing Technical Building Services (founded in 1981) and how they have expanded to nearly 1,000 employees across 16 offices.

  
  

• A Holistic Approach to Integration: Stark Tech doesn't just provide equipment; they manage the entire lifecycle from planning and execution to long-term servicing. They specialize in building automation, energy solutions, and even security and access control.

  
  

• Navigating Energy & Regulations: Jason dives into the challenges of New York's changing regulations—including the shift away from gas— and how businesses can find the most economical paths forward.

  
  

• The "Invisible" Energy Hogs: Discover why heating and cooling systems are the biggest energy offenders and how the modern reliance on computing and mobile devices is impacting building electrical usage.

  
  

• Building Resiliency: In a region prone to power outages, Jason explains how strengthening building systems can protect expensive equipment and allow business owners to focus on what they do best.

  
  

"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

In this episode, Ann speaks with Alex Bodensieck of AVB Taxes, who shares his journey into accounting and taxation. He discusses his passion for helping clients navigate the complexities of tax returns, particularly in rental real estate and small businesses.

Bodensieck emphasizes the importance of client communication and experience, as well as the need for tailored tax strategies. He also shares his future growth plans and the significance of networking in building his client base.

Throughout the discussion, Bodensieck highlights the challenges clients face and how he aims to provide solutions that alleviate their tax-related stress.

Key Takeaways

• Bodensieck started AVB Taxes to help clients navigate tax complexities.
• He finds personal tax work more rewarding than audit work.
• Rental real estate is a significant niche for his business.
• Small businesses often struggle with tax compliance and bookkeeping.
• Alex emphasizes the importance of client communication and experience.
• He aims to double his client base in the coming year.
• Quarterly tax payments are crucial for avoiding penalties.
• Networking has been key to building his client base.
• He provides tailored advice for clients looking to buy homes.
• Alex enjoys the creative aspects of running his own business.

More Information

• AVB Taxes
• Alex Bodensieck on LinkedIn
• Ann Donnelly Fractional COO
• Ann Donnelly Building Success Stories

In this conversation, Lisa Boucher, founder of HR Ninja, shares her extensive human resources experience and discusses the challenges and rewards of her journey. She emphasizes the importance of understanding business needs, navigating employee benefits, and fostering community through initiatives like HR Cafe. Lisa highlights the evolving landscape of HR and the necessity for businesses to adapt to new employee expectations while maintaining compliance and support for their workforce.

Key Takeaways

• HR Ninja combines Lisa's passion for human resources and martial arts.
• Lisa's diverse background enhances her HR expertise.
• Self-employment presents unique organizational challenges.
• Business owners often need guidance on HR projects.
• Proactive HR can prevent financial exposures for businesses.
• Employee feedback is crucial for improving benefits.
• Different generations have varying workplace expectations.
• Community support is vital for small businesses.
• HR Cafe fosters networking and collaboration among HR professionals.
• Lisa aims to positively impact her local community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to HR Ninja and Lisa Boucher

02:47 The Journey into Human Resources

05:35 Challenges of Self-Employment in HR

08:23 Understanding Business Needs and HR Solutions

11:23 Navigating Employee Benefits and Compliance

13:59 The Importance of Employee Feedback

17:08 Building Community through HR Cafe

19:44 Future Aspirations for HR Ninja

More Information

• Lisa Boucher - HR Ninja

In this episode, Kara Magoolaghan, principal of KMCG LLC, discusses her journey from mechanical engineering to founding a consultancy focused on helping nonprofits and small governments with capital projects. She emphasizes the importance of sustainable and resilient building practices, particularly in affordable housing, and shares insights on the challenges faced by community-centric organizations. Kara also reflects on her passion for charitable work and the rewarding experience of entrepreneurship.

Additionally, Kara and her husband, Matt, are opening a shop, called Hometown, in January 2026. Hometown will be located in the newly developed area of Glens Falls on South Street. Hometown will sell furnishings, home decor, gifts, food items, all carefully curated for their shop, which is modelled on a local general store. In the lead-up to Christmas, they are holding some pop-ups in other shops in Glens Falls.

Key Takeaways

• KMCG helps nonprofits and small governments with capital projects.
• The consultancy focuses on sustainability and resilience in building.
• Kara transitioned from engineering to law to better influence decision-making.
• Sustainable buildings can lead to lower energy costs for tenants.
• Nonprofits often struggle with capital projects due to limited resources.
• KMCG acts as a buffer between clients and construction professionals.
• Kara’s passion for helping others stems from her upbringing.
• The nonprofit sector is driven by mission and community engagement.
• Entrepreneurship offers the freedom to innovate and make an impact.
• Every day in business presents new challenges and opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to KMCG and Its Mission
02:42 Kara’s Journey: From Engineering to Consultancy
06:09 Focus on Sustainable and Resilient Building Practices
08:39 Challenges in Affordable Housing and Community Projects
11:20 Navigating Nonprofit Capital Projects
12:33 Passion for Community and Charitable Work
14:37 The Transition to Entrepreneurship and Its Rewards

More information:

• KMCG LLC
• Hometown Glens Falls
• Ann Donnelly Success Stories
• Ann Donnelly Fractional COO