Stories of Gumption

Episode #35 Thom Hallock, North Country "celebrity" and accomplished journalist, joins the podcast for a conversation about his upbringing, his passion for journalism, and the gumption in pursuing such a career.  We encourage all listeners to check out www.mountainlake.org to explore all the great work from Thom and his team.   Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ Home Hevans Designs https://www.instagram.com/homehevansdesigns/ *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com. 

Episode #34 We welcome Mr. Bob Eckert to the virtual Gumption Studio for a conversation about creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. Bob is the CEO for New & Improved LLC, a trusted consulting firm of several Fortune 100 companies. In this episode, we discuss the "myth of the grown-up" and how we're really all just a bunch of "growing-ups". Enjoy! Learn more about Bob and his team at: https://newandimproved.com/   Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ Home Hevans Designs https://www.instagram.com/homehevansdesigns/ *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com. 

Episode #33 of S.O.G. welcomes the gumptious and gritty Nicole Cline. In this episode, Nicole shares how a tragic experience ultimately inspired her to build confidence and give back to her community. We discuss the ALICE Project, United Way, JCEO Backpack Program, AND... her pursuit to earn her CDL license!      Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ Home Hevans Designs https://www.instagram.com/homehevansdesigns/   *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com. 

Episode #32 of S.O.G. brings you Dr. Jon Mulholland, the owner and chiropractor of The Ideal Athlete Chiropractic (https://theidealathlete.com/). For Jon, consistency over time is one of the most rewarding forms of gumption. Jon has worked with multiple US Olympic teams, travelled the world, published several articles, and continues to teach for RockTape. This is an episode packed full of great conversation. Personally, it was fantastic to hear Jon's position (backed by research) on the growing trend of minimalist running and the zero-drop shoe.     To schedule an appointment with Jon, visit his website and book from there with his easy-to-use online booking system.      Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ Home Hevans Designs https://www.instagram.com/homehevansdesigns/ Alexander Edwards & Company, CPA's, P.C. http://www.aecocpas.com/ *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com. 

In episode #31 of S.O.G., Ryan reconnects remotely (thanks Corona...) with a long-time friend from high school, Adam Lucia. In the first half of the pod, Ryan and Adam reminisce on some memories from high school and chat about Spartan races.  As a Sargeant for the Street Crimes Unit of the Rutland P.D. in VT, Adam often faces some interesting situations on a regular basis. At times, things become very dangerous for his fellow officers and local citizens. Adam shares two stories that stick with him over his many years in law enforcement (~30 mins in if you prefer to jump ahead).    Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ Home Hevans Designs https://www.instagram.com/homehevansdesigns/ Alexander Edwards & Company, CPA's, P.C. http://www.aecocpas.com/ *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com. 

  Ellie Conger stopped by the Gumption Studio to share her fears of social anxiety and how she has fought against those fears to become the confident woman and young entrepreneur she is today. Plus, we learn (at the very end of the episode) she's a die-hard Star Wars fan. It's a great episode full of laughs and some helpful lessons.    Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ Home Hevans Designs https://www.instagram.com/homehevansdesigns/ Alexander Edwards & Company, CPA's, P.C. http://www.aecocpas.com/ *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.

In this episode of S.O.G., Mark Lukens stops by to share some stories from his career and journey through life. If you're looking to hear the story of a serial entrepreneur, this is a great episode for you. Mark mentions that he's started roughly twelve businesses in his life so far and there's a lesson to be learned from each experience.    Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ Home Hevans Designs https://www.instagram.com/homehevansdesigns/ Alexander Edwards & Company, CPA's, P.C. http://www.aecocpas.com/ *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.

In this episode of S.O.G., Ryan sits down with Danielle Howard-Ross for a great conversation about gumption, running, and the art negotiation. In particular, Danielle shares her experience running the New York City Marathon with only 6 weeks to train. Then, later on Danielle shares her perspective on the importance of negotiation skills in life and business.    Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen:  https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Sparkilkleen/ https://www.instagram.com/sparkilkleen/ Alexander Edwards & Company, CPA's, P.C. http://www.aecocpas.com/ (518) 563-1600 *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.

#27 Zack & Katie Hoyt: Spina Bifida, "Winning the Lottery", & Starting Spar-Kil-Kleen In this episode of S.O.G., Zack & Katie Hoyt stop by the studio to share their amazing story of gumption. Starting in separate careers and meeting when they were both still in high school, Zack & Kate are now the successful owners of Spar-Kil-Kleen in Upstate NY. They share the incredible story of how their child, Macie Hoyt, was born with spina bifida, the "ups and downs" of that experience, and how it, ultimately, brought them closer together.    Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsors: Spar-Kil-Kleen:  https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Sparkilkleen/ https://www.instagram.com/sparkilkleen/ Alexander Edwards & Company, CPA's, P.C. http://www.aecocpas.com/ (518) 563-1600 *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.

#26 Matt Craig: Starting Open Gate Farmstead & Maintaining Positive Mental Health In this episode of S.O.G., Matt drops by the Gumption Studio to share his story of finding his career, buying his first home, and then working with his wife (Sarah) to create the Open Gate Farmstead. It's an incredible story of ups and downs, which also gave us the opportunity to talk about the importance of mental health and self-care. Enjoy!    Special Thanks to this Episode's Sponsor, Spar-Kil-Kleen.  https://www.spar-kil-kleen.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Sparkilkleen/ https://www.instagram.com/sparkilkleen/ *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.

#25 John Bernardi: United Way Service in the ADK Region In this episode of S.O.G., John Bernardi discusses the gumption he sees every day from families throughout the Adirondack Region. As the CEO of the United Way of the ADK Region, John works with many partner agencies throughout Clinton, Franklin, and Essex Counties in Upstate NY. It's an enlightening conversation and a great sampling of the gumptious work being done by the United Way team in Plattsburgh.    Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Open Gate Farmstead https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEamUQkEkVZi8_kVE34Ggqw Kavanaugh Realty https://www.facebook.com/KavanaughRealty/ Adirondack Mindfulness https://www.adirondackmindfulness.com/upcoming-classes.html *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.

#24 Paula Gonyea: Gumption in Parenting & a Conversation About Healthcare.  In this episode of S.O.G., Paula Gonyea shares a story from when she was a young parent and her daughter, Lauren, was only an infant and needed urgent medical care. As a young parent, this was a clear moment of gumption. We also talked quite a bit about medical insurance, how hospitals are funded, and the cost of healthcare. We wrap up the podcast with a brief chat about Paula's hobby, Adirondack Taste and Green Mountain Gifts.  Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Open Gate Farmstead https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEamUQkEkVZi8_kVE34Ggqw Kavanaugh Realty https://www.facebook.com/KavanaughRealty/ Adirondack Mindfulness https://www.adirondackmindfulness.com/upcoming-classes.html *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.

#23 Issac Giroux, A Total Health & Lifestyle Transformation   In episode 23 of S.O.G., Issac Giroux starts off by sharing a bit of background on his upbringing and an interesting decision he made at age 17. He packed his bags and shipped off across the country. You'll have to listen in to hear why. Today, Issac works as the Right-of-Way Associate in the region, covering nearly all of the eastern part of NYS.  The big story of this episode is his complete transformation. It's an amazing story with some lessons for everyone. Issac offers to provide support and will answer additional questions for anyone interested. Reach out him on Facebook by searching his name, Issac Giroux.    Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Open Gate Farmstead https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEamUQkEkVZi8_kVE34Ggqw Kavanaugh Realty https://www.facebook.com/KavanaughRealty/ Adirondack Mindfulness https://www.adirondackmindfulness.com/upcoming-classes.html *Looking for an effective way to spread your brand or business? Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.  

Episode 22: Matthew Waite, Esq.    Ever considered attending law school? Nervous? Not sure if it's the right fit for you? In this episode of S.O.G., Matt Waite shares his personal account of pursuing a career in law and passing the Bar Exam. It wasn't an easy goal, but he mustered some gumption, didn't quit, and now is an attorney at law and Essex County public defender. Also, as a fellow podcaster himself, the conversation shifts toward the benefits of podcasting and there may be a teaser for a new podcast coming to town. Listen in for more info.    Looking to expand your brand or services? Consider sponsoring the Stories of Gumption podcast. Reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com to learn about your options. 

Episode #21: Corey Parent, Client Advisor for Hickok & Boardman Insurance Group & Vermont State Senator.    This episode of S.O.G. gets into the root of success, which comes down to small measurable behaviors that ultimately can produce long-term results. Corey shares how he has been able to find success in his professional career in insurance AND in politics by taking each day one at a time manageable and measurable behaviors. Enjoy!  LINKS: www.hbinsurance.com https://legislature.vermont.gov/people/single/2020/30980   WANNA GET YOUR NAME OUT THERE? Consider sponsoring the Stories of Gumption Podcast! Learn more about our audience, reach, and how the podcast can help you tell YOUR story. Email Ryan at storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com  

Episode #20: Justin Ihne, CEO of the Plattsburgh-Malone YMCA.    In this episode of S.O.G., Justin tells us about his experience studying musicology and ethnomusicology in college. Then, we learn how Justin fell into his career with the YMCA, which stemmed from a love of summer camp. Finally, Justin shares his story of gumption, which is a story of finding solace in a difficult relationship after nearly 30 years.    LINKS: www.plattsburghymca.com www.linkedin.com/in/justin-ihne/   WANNA GET YOUR NAME OUT THERE? Consider sponsoring the Stories of Gumption Podcast! Learn more about our audience, reach, and how the podcast can help you tell YOUR story. Email Ryan at storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com   

Episode #19: Lauren Gonyea, Academic Coach at SUNY Plattsburgh.    After popular demand from Gumption listeners, I finally sit down with my better half and incredible life partner to discuss how her childhood created an intense mindset of always competing with herself. It led her to success in school, athletics, and now her career in higher ed. Lauren shares some great insight into how being competitive with yourself can be an important driver in achieving success and happiness. It's another unique dose of gumption!   Interested in learning about sponsorship? Send a note to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.   

#18 - Dr. Sharon Theroux: Neuropsychologist, Psychotherapist, Certified MBSR Instructor, & much more...  Ever considered the short- or long-term benefits of practicing mindfulness? If you're anything like me, you probably tried and then felt like you weren't doing it right. Dr. Theroux tells her own story of gumption and also discusses her journey into her current career. Then, she takes some time for us beginners (and maybe intermediates) to share some of her expertise on mindfulness, it's positive effects on the body, and how one can get started.  HELPFUL LINKS: www.mindfulsouthflorida.com Email: drtheroux@comcast.net Office Phone: (561) 395-0243   Want to learn more about sponsoring Stories of Gumption? Send an email to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com    Original introduction music by Ryan C. Lee. 

#17 - Bruce Garcia, CEO of the Joint Council for Economic Opportunity (JCEO).   In this episode of the podcast, Bruce shares stories about how commitment and persistence are the essential elements of gumption. We also learn about how Bruce landed in the field of community action and how a little bit of gumption, hard work, commitment, and persistence have helped him become the community advocate he is today. Check out the JCEO website today to learn more about their efforts and how you can help: www.jceo.org.   If you'd like to learn more about sponsoring the Stories of Gumption podcast, reach out to storiesofgumption@gmail.com.    Original introduction music by Ryan C. Lee.   

Episode #16: Gaelan Trombley, Kavanaugh Realty.    To kick off this episode, Ryan and Gaelan take some time to share their experiences as podcast hosts. Then, shortly thereafter, Gaelan explains what gumption means to him, expanding on his constant focus to improve and grow. There are many great moments of this episode but, about two-thirds of the way through, Gaelan addresses the classic "Catch-22" of real estate: How do you buy a home when you're counting on the income of selling your home?    Interested in supporting the Stories of Gumption Podcast and advertising your business? Send an email to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com to learn more about your options.    Original introduction music created by Ryan C. Lee. 

Episode 15: Past NYS Assemblywoman Janet Duprey.    If you're looking to learn about an incredible career in public service, this is your episode. Ryan sits down to learn about the gumptious decisions Janet made during her tenure as the Assemblywoman for New York State's 114 & 115th district. As a native to the North Country, Janet shares stories from her childhood all the way to her retirement from the assembly a few years ago. We also learn a little bit more about her passions during retirement. Enjoy!    If you'd like to learn more about advertising on Stories of Gumption, reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com.   Original introduction music by Ryan C. Lee.

Episode 14: Zyaijah Nadler, Violence Prevention Education & Outreach Coordinator at SUNY Plattsburgh, Title IX Department.    Episode 14 starts off with a conversation about risk... not risk management, quality assurance, or insurance... RISK. The game. Zyaijah Nadler, the 14th guest on the show, knows her board games and is a fierce competitor. After a fun discussion about her background story, Ryan and Zyaijah discuss current Title IX initiatives at SUNY Plattsburgh, as well as ways the campus community and outside community, can better connect, support each other, and build connections.    If you'd like to learn more about sponsorship, reach out to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com    Original introduction music by Ryan C. Lee 

Episode 13: Craig De Boos -- Quality Assurance Manager, Norsk Titanium.   In the 13th episode of the Stories of Gumption podcast, Ryan sits down with Craig to talk about the importance of strategic thinking and choices. Asking "why" is a critical piece to managing risk and effective decision-making. Craig shares some great stories from his time in the Australian Navy, Plattco, and Norsk Titanium. We also take time to talk about Australia and a few other fun topics along the way.    Would you like to advertise on Stories of Gumption? Send an email to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com   Original introduction music by Ryan C. Lee. 

Episode 12: Congressman Bill Owens.  Congressman Owens sits down with our host to share stories of his childhood (learning problem-solving right on the sandlot), his days playing college hockey, how he met Senator Ron Stafford and started the Stafford Owens law firm, and he also discusses his experiences as a Congressman for the NYS 21st (and at the time, 23rd) district. It's certainly an episode full of gumption!    Want to advertise on Stories of Gumption? Send an inquiry to storiesofgumptionpodcast@gmail.com Original introduction music written by Ryan C. Lee.   

Episode #11: Maria Latinville, Employee Development Manager at CVPH After recently earning her Masters Degree in Organizational Development, Maria brings a ton of knowledge to the Stories of Gumption podcast. We learn about Maria's background, how she conquered 2 full marathons (including the Boston Marathon), how she landed in Plattsburgh, NY, and she shares some valuable career development advice. Enjoy!    Original introduction music by Ryan C. Lee.  

Episode #10: Sandra Geddes In the beginning of the episode, we take a few minutes to discuss the best and worst parts about long-distance running. Then, Sandra opens up and tells her story of perseverance as she hit a period of time she describes as one of her lowest points in life. It's a story of staying true to yourself and mustering the gumption to keep working hard every day. Eventually, hard work pays off. We close out the episode with a discussion around social media and Sandra has found success with it as a marketing professional.    Original intro music by Ryan C. Lee

Episode #9: Mark Hamilton Sometimes it takes gumption to navigate the crossroads of life. Mark shares his story of pursuing his dreams and how he seized opportunity along the way... ultimately taking him in unexpected directions. Mark explains how he became the Executive Director of the Plattsburgh Housing Authority, how he (and his family) decided to start a community solar farm, and shares some detail on his newest venture: Capatus, a non-profit consulting firm with connections across the nation. Enjoy!   Original introduction music by Ryan C. Lee.  

Episode #8: Hannah Provost, CFP® Sometimes taking the leap of faith to pursue your dream can be scary and exciting. How do you know when it's the right time to take the leap? In this episode of the podcast, Hannah tells the story of how she went from (what felt like) the lowest point in her life to pursue her dream career. The discussion also shifts toward the desperate need for foster parents in the North Country (NY) and around the country. As a foster parent who eventually adopted three children, Hannah explains the whole process and how you can help if you're not ready to foster parent. It's an episode FULL OF GUMPTION! Enjoy.

In episode #7, we dive deeper into the meaning of gumption and discuss some of the psychology behind the meaning and perception of what it means to have gumption. With years of incredible (and arguably reckless) stories and her incredible commitment to the community, Amy brings a full dose of gumption to this episode. Enjoy!

Episode #6: Tom J. Bull Do you need some inspiration, positivity or perspective to kickstart your day? Tom Bull is your guy. He brings positivity and laughter with him every day. In this episode, we discuss the power of your authentic self, how Tom found his passion for working as a Life Coach, and (of course) we had some great laughs along the way. Enjoy!  Original Intro Music by Ryan Lee

Episode #5: Neal Kirby Ever questioned whether it's worth diving into a side-hustle? What about dropping your corporate America career to start your own business and pursue your dreams? Neal Kirby has done both. Listen in to learn more. Enjoy!  Original Intro Music by Ryan C. Lee

Episode #4: Shatawndra Lister The college admissions process is complex and the people behind the operation must juggle a long list of tasks. For Shatawndra, a Transfer Advisor for SUNY Plattsburgh, working in college admissions often includes late nights on the road, long days of reviewing applications, hours of connecting with faculty and learning the details of each program. This episode comes packed with some great stories. Enjoy!  Original Intro Music by Ryan C. Lee

Episode #3: Forrest Edwards This episode can be broken into two equal parts: sales and financial literacy. In the first half, we learn about Forrest's success in car sales and the strategies he implemented. In the second half, Forrest drops some knowledge on credit scores and financial literacy. Enjoy! Original Intro Music by Ryan C. Lee

Episode #2: Steve Frederick Whether you're a professional fundraiser or simply a volunteer looking to improve your skills in cultivating philanthropy, quality relationships are essential. In this episode, Steve explains how he cultivates long-term relationships in his role as VP of Institutional Advancement at Clinton Community College. We also learn how Steve's ability to foster meaningful relationships led to him securing his largest gift to date. A fantastic episode with great lessons throughout. Enjoy!    Original Intro Music by Ryan C. Lee

Episode #1: Jason Conde  Jason "Jay" Conde lived many years of his life with a deep fear of public speaking. Social anxiety and the fear of public speaking is often ranked on the top of the list of fears across Americans. Jay conquered this fear by recognizing the need to expand outside of his bubble, engage in situations where he was uncomfortable, and (most importantly) grow through the process. If you enjoy philosophy, this is a great episode for you. Jay brings some unique perspectives on the world we live in. Enjoy!