The Up Beat Podcast

Mellisa and Sophia Allen join Mark on The Up Beat to talk about their new Liv Like Liv charitable foundation in memory of their daughter and sister, Olivia. Liv lost her valiant battle against leukemia in March 2024, but not before starting a movement to Live Like Liv. Hear how their efforts will help other families affected by cancer and honor Olivia's beautiful legacy of positivity.

In this powerful episode, Trisha Sena recounts the terrifying ordeal of her daughter's abduction and the heart-wrenching days that followed. She shares the emotional rollercoaster they've been on and how her family is healing and finding unexpected strength. Plus, you won't believe the heartwarming gesture Trisha made to the kidnapper's daughter.

In this powerful episode, Trisha Sena recounts the terrifying ordeal of her daughter's abduction and the heart-wrenching days that followed. She shares the emotional rollercoaster they've been on and how her family is healing and finding unexpected strength. Plus, you won't believe the heartwarming gesture Trisha made to the kidnapper's daughter.

Find comfort, practical guidance, and hope for your own journey of healing on this episode of The Up Beat. Mark sits down with Father Scott Vanderveer, a Catholic priest whose compassionate counsel has touched countless lives. Father Vanderveer shares his perspective on navigating grief, offering profound wisdom.

The Tompkins family was blindsided by the sudden death of their beloved father and husband, Mike, from an unexpected heart attack. On this episode of The Up Beat, discover how Mike's wife and sons have found strength in the face of overwhelming loss by keeping his memory alive and leaning on support from others.

Maureen and Ken Provost faced the heartbreaking loss of their son, Dan, to a drug overdose. In this emotional episode of The Up Beat, they open up about their journey through grief and how they've transformed their pain into a powerful mission to prevent other families from facing the same tragedy. Tune in to hear their inspiring story of resilience, advocacy, and hope for a future where addiction doesn't have to mean losing a loved one.

This episode shares the extraordinary heroism of the late New York State Police Investigator and beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend Nicholas Georgeadis. Nick lost his life in April 2023 to cancer that was attributed to his selfless work at ground zero following the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City. Nick's father, sister, and brother-in-law sat down with us to discuss his incredible life as well as an upcoming 5K charity event that they have organized in Nick's memory. It's their way of keeping his incredible spirit alive and honoring the courage, compassion, and dedication to serving others that were hallmarks of his life.

We're joining forces with Jake's Help from Heaven to hear how Heather Straughter and her husband, Brian, and their family have turned the heartbreaking loss of their beloved little boy into a force for good—improving the quality of life for those who suffer from debilitating illness. We ask questions of each other, sharing how we've turned personal tragedy into triumph for others.

On this episode of The Up Beat, we talk to former Lake George Mayor Bob Blais who earned the title of the longest serving mayor in America. Hear what motivates him to keep giving back to the community after all these years. Plus, hear what he's got planned for the Lake George Summer-Lovin' Funfest to benefit Kelly's Angels.

On this episode of The Up Beat, Jukebox Rebellion singer Keri Alonzo opens up about her battle with cancer and where she is finding strength. Hear her uplifting story of hope and perseverance. 

In this episode of The Up Beat, hear about Camp Stomping Ground and how deserving kids from the Kelly's Angels community can apply for a scholarship to spend 2 weeks at this amazing camp in upstate New York. From traditional camp activities to programs that teach kids to be empathetic decision-makers, the uplifting camp is helping to build character while making kids smile.

Combining a successful business with a sense of compassion. In this episode of The Up Beat we are joined by dynamic people -- Robert Nemer and Bill and Lucie Kane. We hear how these local people and philanthropists are making a lasting impact on the lives of local children. A feel-good conversation that we all need to hear in the middle of challenges in the world right now.

On this episode of The Up Beat, hear from Olivia Allen, an incredible young woman from Saratoga Springs, New York who turned a cancer battle into a rallying cry to “Live Like Liv.” Listen to be touched by Olivia's inspiring story of hope and perseverance that will leave you with much-needed perspective and many reasons to smile.

The pain of losing a spouse can be unbearable; however, in time, new beginnings are possible. On this episode of The Up Beat, listen to our conversation with Mike and Tricia Billok of Saratoga Springs, New York. You'll want to hear their story of finding love after loss and tips for building a strong foundation when blending families. 

He runs hundreds of miles every year carrying the American flag as a way to keep the memories of those who have passed away alive. On this episode of The Up Beat, meet Mike Newhouse and learn about the special mission of Flags 4 Fallen. Mike will be running in the 2023 Mother-Lovin' 5K to celebrate cancer survivors and honor loved ones who lost their cancer battles. 

On this episode of The Up Beat, Mark Mulholland talks to a mom and daughter from Ukraine who have relocated to upstate New York because of the war in their homeland. Hear their inspiring story of perseverance and their reaction to receiving a Hugs for Ukraine grant from Kelly's Angels. 

As a physical education teacher, Majiel Baker teaches her students how to play sports and develop skills such as mental and physical strength, determination, character, teamwork, and a positive mindset. As a cancer warrior, she's showing them how to apply those skills in the face of real-life adversity. Listen to Mark Mulholland's conversation with Majiel and a special guest for a reminder that winners never quit.

A colon cancer diagnosis has been a daunting challenge for Diane Zazzaro of Stillwater, New York. Yet, surprisingly, she says it has brought her blessings she never expected. Hear how her family, faith, and a supportive community are filling her with strength and gratitude on this episode of The Up Beat.

Harry Styles, supportive friends and family, and a positive personality. Those are the driving forces that are helping 18-year-old Nahviya Chapple in her battle against non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Hear Mark Mulholland's heartwarming conversation with Nahviya and her teacher. Plus, discover the surprise that Mark reveals to support Nahviya as she makes plans for the next chapter in her life.

Bob Kovachick has been a friend of Kelly's Angels for years. Now, as he retires after nearly 50 years as the go-to meteorologist in New York's Capital Region, Bob is making his commitment to Kelly's Angels formal as a new member of our board of directors. In this episode Bob reflects on his illustrious career and opens up about the next chapter in his life.

Each year, Kelly's Angels awards scholarships to graduating seniors at 8 high schools in New York's Capital Region. We honor students who have overcome significant adversity and shown a commitment to helping others. On this episode of The Up Beat podcast, we'll talk to 3 extraordinary young scholars who epitomize perseverance.

Kelly's Angels is a community of connection and support that keeps growing by the day. Hear 8th grader Etienne talk candidly about  Lessons in humanity.

Teacher and cancer survivor Geoff Bizan shares the lessons he has learned after battling a form of non-Hodkins Lymphoma during the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus, he reflects on his desire to pay forward the support he was shown and how a young student's own battle with cancer helped him do just that.

The death of a spouse can bring unimaginable grief. On this episode of The Up Beat, hear Annamaria's story of navigating the unexpected death of her husband, Joe, when their children were very young. She felt “stuck” in her grief for a long time, but explains how she was eventually able to move forward and ended up finding love again. 

Musician Jeff Brisbin helps us conclude our series on the healing power of music by playing some original songs from his albums, “Foreverly” and “Blame It On Love.” Jeff also opens up about how music helped him through the unimaginable grief of losing his son to suicide and other hardships he's faced.

Music is often recognized as being therapeutic. Musician and songwriter Ray Agnew joins Mark Mulholland on this first of two episodes dedicated to exploring the healing power of music. Hear Ray perform songs that are sure to touch your heart.

The happiest time of the year can also be the most stressful. Psychologist Dr. Gerry Florio returns to The Up Beat to help us get into the holiday spirit, learn how to keep stress low, and make those new year's resolutions stick. 

Hear award-winning author and poet Kimberley Pittman-Schulz share practical tips that can serve as an “emotional flak jacket” for dealing with grief. Plus, Kimberley will provide some insights for living a life of joy. 

Finances and legal paperwork are the last things anyone wants to think about when losing a loved one. However, there are some very important decisions that need to be made to ensure your family is taken care of. Mark Mulholland is joined by a financial expert and a lawyer to help sort it all out.

Dental hygienist and author Carrie Wucinich of Las Vegas is on a mission to beat childhood cancer by selling a million copies of her children's book. It all started when Carrie heard a stranger tell a story about the death of her son. That story set into motion a beautiful friendship and an unwavering commitment to help children affected by cancer and their families.

Mark Mulholland kicks off season two of The Up Beat podcast with an intimate conversation with his two young adult children, Connor and McKenna. Hear the Mulhollands' heartfelt reflections on growing up without their mom, Kelly, how they've coped, and what they've learned along the way.

On the Season 1 sign-off episode of The Up Beat Podcast, renowned psychologist and parenting expert Dr. Randy Cale offers practical advice to help families coping with grief from the loss of a loved one or a divorce. Dr. Cale has tips to set parents up for success in modeling the behaviors that will provide reassurance and hope. Plus, Mark Mulholland gives a sneak preview of some of the episodes we'll be working on for Season 2. Subscribe to The Up Beat so you don't miss new episodes in the fall of 2021.

With Mother's Day fast approaching, mom and breast cancer survivor Meredith Ellis sits down with Mark Mulholland to share her inspiring story. In doing so, Meredith reminds us why Kelly's Angels' Mother-Lovin' Virtual 5K on Mother's Day weekend is gaining national support and becoming a beautiful movement of kindness.

Golf legend Dottie Pepper is out with an inspiring, heartfelt new book that illuminates the value of mentorship and shares important life lessons she learned from her coach and mentor, Mr. George Pulver, Sr. Hear Dottie's emotional conversation with Mark Mulholland and her thoughts on persevering in this episode of The Up Beat.

Sara Cadoret is a breast cancer survivor whose inspiring story and passion for paying it forward shines a bright light on the remarkable strength and beauty of the human spirit. Sara's emotional conversation with Mark Mulholland will leave you with renewed sense of hope and encouragement for rising above adversity. 

Kelly's Angels is helping to spread the word about a great project called Scooby Doo Pajamas. It's a book of essays from adults whose childhoods were affected by the loss or illness of a loved one. Hear from the mother-daughter duo that's bringing this special book to life and how our listeners can contribute to its pages. 

Rachael Ray is our guest on this episode of The Up Beat podcast! Listen to hear America's beloved celebrity cook, author, talk show host, and philanthropist open up about the impact of the pandemic, her mom's enduring life lessons, and comfort food! She'll also share her tips for persevering through adversity. Listen to Mark Mulholland's conversation with the one and only Rachael Ray! 

Kristin Hansen was pregnant with her second daughter when her husband, Keith, was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer called multiple myeloma. More than a decade after his death, Kristin talks candidly with Mark Mulholland about the trying times she and her family went through and how family, friends, and a community of supporters helped lift her up along the way.

We've all heard the old adage, “laughter is the best medicine.” But is it true? Does it really help you feel better to laugh? Mark Mulholland gets the scoop when he's joined by comedian Steve Van Zandt, Dr. Gerry Florio, and some special guests sharing stories of humor's ability to heal. Featuring celebrity impressions and some jokes that are sure to make you smile!

Journalist and author John Gray talks with Mark Mulholland about the power of storytelling and routine in helping children—and adults—cope with the loss of a loved one. Hear special guests read touching excerpts from John's book, “God Needed a Puppy.” 

In its debut episode, The Up Beat explores how to rediscover joy after a terrible life loss. Host Mark Mulholland talks with psychologist Dr. Gerry Florio about the emotional and physical impact of grief and practical ways to get through tough times.

The Up Beat is a podcast about perseverance and hope hosted by TV news reporter and anchor Mark Mulholland. It's a podcast for anyone and everyone who has experienced loss or faced adversity and wants support and some help looking up.   Mark is the founder of Kelly's Angels, a charitable organization dedicated to helping families in New York's Capital Region smile again after the loss of a parent or child, or who are currently battling a life-threatening condition. Mark's children, Connor and McKenna, were only 7 and 5 when they lost their mom, Kelly, to breast cancer in 2007. The Mulhollands know how heavy the weight of grief can be. They also know how love and kindness from others can lift you up and strengthen your spirit.   The Up Beat strives to help its listeners stay positive through tough times—whether it's the loss of a loved one or a job, a health battle, or a divorce. This uplifting podcast features conversations with medical experts, life coaches, authors, special guests, and people who have persevered through adversity sharing their advice and stories of hope and resilience.   Subscribe to The Up Beat wherever you listen to podcasts and encourage your friends and family to do the same!   Special thanks to The Up Beat underwriters. All proceeds from this podcast benefit Kelly's Angels, a 501(c)(3) charity. If your business or organization is in interested in being an underwriter of The Up Beat, email us at TheUpBeatPod@gmail.com.