RockCityCentral's podcast

Vanessa is the ultimate connector. It is not easy juggling multiple businesses and having a family, and Vanessa is exceptional at it.  Vanessa arrived in the United States 18 years ago, about 8 months after meeting her (now husband) Josh.  This is a great interview with a lot of tips for future entrepreneurs with a lot of nuggets throughout the interview. For all inquiries email Admin@BellaMedia.co

Christine is a force to be reckoned with. 36 years as a nurse, a history of forensics and a woman who continues to grow. Christine Ruggiero is the owner of 3 Liquivida locations. One in Marlboro NJ, one in Middletown NJ and one in Palm Beach Florida. I had no idea all of the benefits you can get by injecting vitamins through an IV. Join me as Christine tells us all about Liquivida and how it can help you! Address: 55 Willow Ln Suite 103, Englishtown, NJ 07726   Phone: (732) 612-9833

In less than one year, Lisa Elg went from sales at the StretchLab Princeton NJ location, to General Manager of StretchLab in Marlboro NJ. After reading David Goggin's book, 'Can't Hurt Me', I learned how important stretching can be for everyone. Even if you are in the best physical shape of your life (as David was), you still need to stretch.  Lisa talks all about the benefits of stretching as well as all of the programs available at StretchLab to help you live a healthy lifestyle!   Location: Marlboro Plaza: 128 US-9, Englishtown, NJ 07726     Phone: (732) 612-9842

Madam Maha lives the American Dream. Arriving from Egypt after graduating college to be a teacher, Maha changed direction to pursue Permanent & Paramedical Cosmetics. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did. You're really in for a treat. (732) 674-7226 www.madammaha.com me@madammaha.com 

I knew Danny as a teenage drummer. Danny played drums for Checkmate and Pissed On. Pissed On went on to tour Europe in the 90's. I bet you didn't know that about Danny. Danny Kavaldo is a personal trainer who has written a total of 8 books on fitness. You may know him from his videos, seminars or published stories you'll find on him as well. This was an intimate interview that digs deep into Danny's journey from Musician, to Event Planner to Personal Trainer. 

"MAKE VISIBLE THE INVISIBLE" is a movement that seeks to raise awareness about the importance of cultivating mental health and promoting psychological care as a preventive method in the face of the suicide crisis that is being experienced internationally. Through STIGMA-FREE conversations and educational dynamics, "MAKE VISIBLE THE INVISIBLE" aims to create safe spaces for children, adolescents and adults who have been personally affected by this public health problem, to share their experiences, build a community of support, and a network of information accessible to all.   OUR STORY “MAKE VISIBLE THE INVISIBLE” was born after its founder, Valentina Sanchez Trivella, lost her mother and her grandmother due to suicide when she was only 16 years old. After experiencing up close the heartbreaking consequences caused by the stigma that still exists, the lack of available resources and the misinformation related to mental health disorders, Valentina makes the decision to share her story publicly for the first time, hoping that it would serve as an example to demonstrate the urgent change that as a society we must create in terms of our understanding and management of mental health. The overwhelming response she received after talking about her experience made clear the long journey and hard work that was ahead of her. From that moment on, Valentina began her journey as a mental health ambassador, becoming a pioneer of the movement in the United States and Venezuela.

Lindsay Kate Dolashewich is Survivors 42's Force to be Reckon with! She is Beautiful (with and without makeup), incredibly smart, funny and full of life. The world knows her as the 5th person to be voted off the island in Season 42 of Survivor, but back in Jersey we know her as the Dietician at Absolute Nutrition Counseling; a company she started in 2017. Lindsay speaks about the ‘Aqua Dump', living on an island for 26 days and the effects of not having the proper nutrition that comes with being stranded on an island. Join me and Lindsay and learn about what really happened behind the scenes of Survivor 42. For more information on how to contact Lindsay and have her help you with your nutrition, visit https://www.absolutenutritioncounseling.com/ and setup an appointment!

A true American success story. Born in Venezuela and brought to Superior Wisconsin at 18 years old to get his Associates Degree, Pedro Trivella shares his amazing journey. An immigrant mindset of the American Dream has shaped Pedro's life that has touched the lives of hundreds of children. It was truly a pleasure to have the opportunity to interview such a dynamic individual who is full of life.

Spending time with Rita and learning about Foster Care was an amazing story about faith and love. I am certain anyone listening has a lot of questions about fostering. A lot of those questions were answered. Rita is running for Ms. Woman International and her platform is Foster Care. Her passion for humanity is heartwarming. She is a burst of energy and has a zest for life. There were a lot of life lessons on this episode.

I met Steven at twelve years old, although I think he was ten, either way he would become one of the greatest musicians I would ever teach. From Brooklyn, to Staten Island and landing in Northern New Jersey, Steven has played guitar for over 30 years and now plays a dozen shows a month! Steven is an amazing dad, husband and friend. I asked him to be on Rock City Central to share his story and his Journey. While he doesn't do music full-time, he will one day.

When you read all of Buddy's reviews at the Handsome Man Barbershop in Freehold New Jersey, you can't help but wonder what he is doing to get him over (100) 5 STAR Reviews! A trip to the Handsome Man Barbershop immediately reveals what separates him from the rest. Whether it's the warm welcome, the ultra modern space or being treated like a King about to sit on a throne, it's the whole experience. Join me in this wonderful conversation between 2 entrepreneurs who share the same landlord!

I met Corey Schwitz in January 2021. Coincidentally his dad called me to wish me a Merry Christmas and we just started talking about Corey. Corey, it turns out was running a new company he started call SkyDogOps (a great name and a great story behind the name). SkyDogOps specializes in Salesforce integrations for financial institutions.  It's no surprise how successful Corey is. He comes from an amazing family. I enjoyed our conversation that was pushed in so many directions!

When you Google Susan Nardone you will find that there are two Susan Nardone's, both attorneys and both from New Jersey. I was lucky enough to get the Susan Nardone who is Ms. International Elite which I just learned there was an 'Elite' Category. Susan talks about her life as an attorney, a mediator for the New Jersey Department of Education as well as her quest to fly...yes Susan is on her way to becoming a pilot! 

Mike DeMarco, owner of Motives Movement in Millstone New Jersey is an all encompassing gym that provides work outs, nutrition and physical therapy. Mike speaks about opening his gym and going from a hobby to a business, his life during Covid-19 and how he intends on leaving his mark. Truly a great episode.

Olivia Martin is not new to pageants! In 2019 she was Ms New Jersey America. In 2021 she is Ms. NJ International 2021. With a beautiful smile and a firecracker personality Olivia is set to feed all 21 Counties in New Jersey. Since she was 10 Olivia donated her time at soup kitchens or feeding folks less fortunate. Join me as I interview this amazing woman!

Andrianna appeared on our show before winning Miss NJ International.  Andrianna is truly the whole package. Beautiful, smart and successful. Listen in on all she's done in the few short months since winning the Pageant. Andrianna reminds us all to just give that extra hug...because today are the good 'ole days.

Sarah joined us last season as a contestant. Now she stands Crowned! Sarah won her category and is now heading towards competing in Mrs International USA.  Sarahs platform is IBD and shares her story. She also brings up her life growing up in a divorced family and the struggles she had to overcome as a child.

In our final 2021 New Jersey International Pageant Podcast Series we spend time talking to Mary Moulds and Kim Meehan. Kim Meehan shares her heartbreaking story of losing her sister to a drug overdose at age 29, just 4 months after her sister gave birth to her son. Kim started Support Sacks in memory of her sister Michele. Support Sacks collects sacks of women's toiletries and donates them to recovery centers to be handed out to women heading to recovery. This was an emotional podcast that I was honored to be a part of. Enjoy the interview.

Valerie Cullari is a Disney princess, an author, an advocate for bullying and is the voice for her two children. Valerie's platform is Autism Awareness. Both of her children had been diagnosed at the age of two years old and her mission is to educate others about the challenges parents face bringing up children on the spectrum. We speak about music (the universal language) and what families with children with special needs go through on a daily basis. Valerie is a true super hero, not just a Disney princess, but a true superhero.  This interview was incredible. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. 

Karen Correa holds a PhD. sits on the Board of Directors of many institutions and speaks about her journey from bullying, abuse and homelessness. Karen's platform is Self-Love but can also be a host of other important things. Karen is a mentor to many people and a role model to many. It was a real pleasure interviewing Karen. She is a strong woman that comes from an amazing family. Listen in on an amazing journey. 

When I met Donna I could not believe the journey she has been on. From Faux Painting to hanging drywall (yes, hanging drywall), you would never believe this bombshell built homes! She is an interior designer, a real estate agent, a mother, a grandmother, a chef and an entrepreneur.  Donna is a huge advocate for recovery support. Her most recent achievement is getting bill # A-5061 introduced for N.J. "Recovery Support" license Plates. This bill if passed will bring sorely needed funding for sober living and homelessness due to substance use disorders.  I am honored to even have met Donna whose goals are to help those who need it. She is an amazing woman with a beautiful heart.

Krystle Danza is a born performer. She has been a singer and actor most of her life! Krystle had no idea that after graduating from Marymount Manhattan College in 2019 as a performance major that Broadway would go dark due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Hear how she handled it and learned how to adapt. Krystle talks about her life as an actress, singer and most importantly the stigmas of body and weight issues; a platform she is so passionate about.

Meet Mrs. Burlington County; Sarah May Campbell. Sarah is an AMAZING woman who is a school teacher in Pennsylvania, a wife, a mom and an advocate for IBS (Crohn's and Colitis). Sarah was diagnosed in 2018 to learn she had Crohn's disease. Hear her heartbreaking story and what she went through for 2 years! Sarah's speaks about her teaching, her love for classic rock n roll and other fundraisers she is doing along with her mission to support Crohn's and Colitis awareness.

What an honor it was to have interviewed such an amazing woman. Don't just take her grandmothers word for it; this girl is Special! Andrianna is running for Miss NJ International 2021. We speak about her job as a marketer, winning Miss World New Jersey, Human Trafficking and Heart Surgery. Yes...Heart Surgery. This was such and intense interview and educational at the same time.

It won't take long for you to see how compassionate of a woman Giannina is. Giannina is a wife, mother, school teacher, a lover of all animals and is on a quest to end Child Hunger. Giannina speaks about the stark contrast in culture when coming from Peru and how different things were for her when she started attending school in the US. She also speaks about why she chose to teach as a profession. Growing up in Lima Peru, Giannina remembers what it was like to see children selling candy on the side of the roads. It was that image, that remains with her today that has her on the quest to leave no child hungry. Giannina, along with her amazing husband Chris, (@chriscookscrazy) have done fundraisers to help bring awareness to such a great cause. Here is a message from Giannina: As your Mrs. Ocean County International 2021, I would like to continue my efforts in bringing awareness and influencing change on the issue of “Hunger in America”. This is a cause I hold dear to my heart as I have witnessed the negative effects hunger has on children and students. No Kid Hungry focuses on providing funds to various school district’s nutrition programs throughout the U.S. Despite our students not being in school due to the Covid Pandemic, these programs are on the ground providing children with much needed daily food and meals. Please consider supporting this cause and help me in my efforts of “Ending Hunger”. Thank you for your support! No Kid Hungry Link

As Ms. Jersey Shore International 2021, and also a Domestic Violence Survivor, I feel so passionately about helping other women and children escape and heal from domestic abuse in their own home. Through the last year with COVID challenges, the Providence House of Catholic Charities has overgrown their safehouse. Mothers are living with their children in hotel rooms right now and need our help. Currently 56 women and their children need support. Thank you for your generous donation and support! Ms. Jersey Shore International 2021 GOFUNDME LINK: (to support) https://charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/domestic-violence-support-for-jersey-shore-victims?fbclid=IwAR3S3R8mbuVFUv0Dhm1qwpK_pYk-OAQ2BcO5iTOK6vVZfPL21lWW_8v8Xcs PROVIDENCE HOUSE LINK: (to learn more) https://www.catholiccharitiestrenton.org

Have you ever met someone and felt like you've known them forever? Meet Mary Moulds. She is magnetic! Once you start talking to her you immediately recognize the beautiful woman she is. Mary runs the New Jersey International Pageant and is instrumental in giving the women of New Jersey a platform to educate the world on topics such as MS, eating disorders, bullying, domestic violence and so much more. It was truly an honor to interview such an amazing woman!

Jacqueline DePasquale is the entire package. She is beautiful, smart, empathetic and is on a mission to bring awareness to bullying; a platform she has supported for over a decade. Jacqueline was crowned Miss NJ International 2020 in March. Jackie shares her story with us and speaks about life at 7 years old and being bullied all the way thru college.  Watching Jackie you'd never expect she was a victim of bullying as she exudes confidence and self esteem. Remember, NO bully in the world is strong enough to hurt you!

Mike Frantino of Family First Funding talks about his journey from seeing Eddie Van Halen (at the Brendan Byrne Arena), to Family First Funding to becoming a franchisee of the Smoothie King. Smoothie King is located in Morganville New Jersey (The Costco Shopping Center). Mike Also introduces Bea (Beatrice) and Sonja of Keller Williams Reality to talk a little about the Real Estate Market during COVID-19. Mike is a great guy who always goes the extra mile for his friends, family and community. Mike also runs a Le Tip Chapter in New Jersey! For more info, please visit https://www.fam1fund.com/

I met Jacob Moussa in 2016 and we hit it off the first day we met. We are like minded, read the same books and we both love helping others. It's no wonder why Jacob is so blessed with a beautiful family. Jacob shares how so many things that came into his life were perfectly timed and you cannot help but wonder who is watching over him! I think you're going to love this time learning about my dear friend; Jacob Moussa.

If you ever have the chance to interview into your dad, do it. This will always be one of the top podcasts of my career, along with interviewing my mom!

Ok, so people have asked how I got to be so focused and determined. Are you born that way? Do you learn to become resourceful? OR, is it living in a home with a mother who is the person who you watch and learn from? In my case, having a mom who did it all, from starting her own business to fixing a toilet bowl, with the exception of fixing computers, she does it all. You tell Laraine Grande it can't happen? Well, she will make it happen...You tell Laraine Grande it's too hard to do? Watch...she'll do it better than anyone else. I know it's true. I lived with her. So what happens when you can't beat 'em? You join 'em. You become more resourceful, you figure it out. And what better example can you have than a mother who can do it all? And that's where I get it from :) And my nose? Courtesy of Salvatore Grande!

Lisa Marie is a driven young woman who cuts no corners. I had the pleasure to spend some time with Lisa Marie and her journey that got her to the Hungry Hippie, an all natural vegan food delivery company she built all on her own. Lisa Marie set out after high school to become a Fashion Designer. She graduates the Fashion Institute of Technology only to learn that was no longer her passion. She then gets into designing jewelry and later moves on to The Hungry Hippie where she has made an impact on hundreds of lives, getting them to eat better and feel healthy in the process. Lisa Marie offers a concierge service where food is delivered to your home (or office), where she changes the menu every week (yes, every week), to always keep her menus new and exciting for her clients. Lisa Marie can be reached by visiting https://www.hungryhippieeats.com/menu

James Raffone, the founder of The JAR of Hope.  James is on a quest to cure his son Jamesy. Jamesy was diagnosed with a rare disease with no cure. James, along with his family have started a Charity called the JAR of Hope to help fnd a cure that will ultimate save his son. Speaking with James you can see he is a man on a mission. As Mark Twain said; 'There are 2 most important days in a mans life. The first is when you were born and the day you realize why. Listen as James tells you his 'Why'. To donate to the JAR of Hope, please visit jarofhope.org.

Anyone familiar with Brooklyn, Staten Island and Central New Jersey knows Aunt Butchies. Aunt Butchies is known for its big portions and amazing food. But does anyone know who Aunt Butchie is? You'll have to listen to the podcast to find out. I had the pleasure to interview Pete Marcolini and ask him about his amazing journey that led to the opening of one of Central New Jerseys favorite restaurants. Pete gives some great tips to entrepreneurs, whether you're just starting out or if you already have a business. Pete's one hell of a guy, generous and always giving. It was a real pleasure interviewing Pete. Enjoy!

Join me and Mayor Jon Hornik as we speak about his tenure as the Mayor of Marlboro New Jersey. You'll get an intimate look into his role as Mayor and the life of his father Saul who would help shape Mayor Jon Hornik's career in the political arena. Mayor Hornik also shares a story about his call into the White House during Hurricane Sandy and how he was able to have the United States Army come in to get the power back to a Senior Center in Marlboro Township within hours of a call. Mayor Hornik is now serving his 4th term. Just hearing how passionate he is about his community is no surprise no one wanted to run against him during last years election.

On December 17, 2019 I had the pleasure of interviewing an entrepreneurs entrepreneur. John Buckley has spent years doing what he has always done best. His intuition has brought him into a career where he can see the value [in just about anything] and turn it for a profit. Whether it is a Gibson Double Neck guitar signed by Jimmy Page or a Vintage Rolex he picked up on Craigslist, John will find that deal of a lifetime, which for John happens at least once a week. This interview was a blast, simply because it felt less like an interview and more like a casual conversation. Join me and John Buckley of Tuscanyrose for some great stories that took him on his path to success.

Kelsey Healy is amazing for a lot of reasons. She graduates college in 3 1/2 years with TWO, (yes TWO), majors. One in Business and one in Culinary. She graduates at 22 and asks the owner of Frutta Bowls to consider franchising! And it all happened. Kelsey became the 1st Franchise owner of Frutta Bowls and opened her very own Frutta Bowls in Marlboro New Jersey, located in the Buffalo Wild Wings Shopping Center. Watch and listen to how Kelsey went from Wegmans to opening her own Frutta Bowls location and the story that got her there.

On December 3, 2019 I had the privilege to spend some time with Geo Hubela. For those of you who don’t know Geo; Google him! He has an incredibly impressive resume. Geo is a world renown dancer who performs, tours, choreographs and with his family, owns Icon Dance Complex in Manalapan New Jersey. Geo started dancing at age 11 and has had an amazing career. From working with stars like Michael Jackson to teaching daily classes at his dancing school.   Geo is so committed to every child who comes in to his school to learn dance. No matter what style they want to learn, or how old they are he dedicates his world to his kids. It was amazing to hear how much he absolutely loves what he does. And you can tell by just the way he speaks about them. And the loyalty he has amongst his students is unparalleled. It’s no wonder Geo is such a success in every aspect.   To learn more about Geo and Icon Dance Complex, please visit: https://icondancecomplex.com/

Join me and listen to this wonderful conversation with Barry Habib as he tells us about his struggles and how he rose to the top. Barry speaks about his upcoming book (to debut in the Fall 2020; Money in the Streets), his journey that led him to become one of today's most sought out speakers and his life as he lives it on his terms. Barry goes deep and shares stories with us that you will be shocked to hear. For anyone who knows Barry, they can attest to how humble and generous of a person he is.  I am truly blessed to have had the pleasure to have interviewed such an amazing individual.

On November 12, 2019 I had the pleasure to interview Dr. Mark Schwitz, one of the most successful Orthodontists in the State of New Jersey. With two offices in Central Jersey (Marlboro and Howell), Dr. Schwitz, to date, has 151 5 STAR Reviews, has impeccable service and an incredible staff, unmatched by any other doctors office. Dr. Schwitz attributes it all to an amazing father, a supportive wife and his amazing staff. This interview is a MUST SEE for anyone looking to provide the ultimate customer experience.

Join me while I interview two AMAZING people. Meet Michele and Randy, the founders of RevolutioniZe. Listen to some incredibly inspiring stories of failures and successes. Learn how they have created an amazing culture and RAVING fans. This was no accident. They know exactly what they're doing!

Join me and spend an evening with Jimmy Pecci from a Taste of Italy in Tinton Falls New Jersey. Jimmy is a natural born hustler with a vision and a quest to leave a legacy. What is Jimmy's legacy? Well you'll just have to listen to find out!

Dreams Fulfilled; an evening with Bryan Klein. Bryan Klein, founder of The Max Challenge sits with Michael Grande and talks growing up, going to college and changing his course the day he graduated! Bryan exposes the 3 secrets to becoming successful and gives incredible insight on how to achieve your goals.