Spreading Kindness and Mental Health Awareness in Ithaca In this episode of Good News York, the host discusses the excitement around NFL draft day and welcomes special guests, including longtime friend and bandmate Daryl Harrington from Be Kind Ithaca, as well as Sandra Sorenson from NAMI Finger Lakes, and Samantha Shoemaker from Free Hugs Ithaca. The conversation delves into Daryl's journey of creating Be Kind Ithaca, a grassroots initiative that began with making wooden heart signs during the pandemic and has since grown into a nonprofit organization promoting kindness and mental wellness. Sandra shares her personal story of coping with her husband's bipolar disorder and subsequent suicide, emphasizing the support she found through NAMI's family-to-family classes. Samantha talks about the impact and emotional rewards of the Free Hugs Ithaca initiative. They all highlight the importance of mental health support, community connections, and upcoming events like the NAMI walk in May. The episode concludes with a fun anecdote about attending a recent Metallica concert and a sneak peek of the host's Buffalo Bills-themed music video. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:30 Special Guests Introduction 01:52 The Origin of 'Be Kind' 03:00 Spreading Kindness During the Pandemic 04:46 Be Kind's Growth and Impact 10:32 Free Hugs Ithaca Collaboration 20:51 Starting a New Perspective 21:37 Mental Health Advocacy and Personal Struggles 22:47 Introduction to NAMI Finger Lakes 23:10 Personal Journey with NAMI 25:50 Becoming Executive Director of NAMI Finger Lakes 27:31 Collaborations and Community Events 32:01 Support for Caregivers and Mental Health Awareness 36:35 The Sophie Fund and Community Impact 42:41 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events

Good News York Special: 2025 NFL Draft Analysis and Predictions In this special edition of Good News York, host Mike Brindisi, without his co-host Matt Masur, dives deep into the 2025 NFL Draft. Mike shares his comprehensive analysis of the first round, discussing the top talent and providing his best, favorite, and sleeper picks for each position. Joined by producer Danny Tripodi, the episode engages with viewer questions, covering topics such as potential team trades, the Buffalo Bills' draft strategy, and intriguing players and teams. Mike also discusses various scenarios and hot takes, providing an in-depth look at the upcoming draft. 00:00 Welcome to the NFL Draft Special 01:02 First Round Highlights and Analysis 02:48 Quarterback Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 07:55 Wide Receiver Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 10:20 Tight End Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 12:03 Running Back Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 13:07 Offensive Tackle Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 14:25 Cornerback Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 15:04 Defensive Tackle Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 16:14 Defensive End Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 17:08 Safety Picks: Best, Favorite, and Sleepers 18:42 Teams Likely to Trade Up or Down 24:05 New York Football Teams Overview 24:14 Buffalo Bills Draft Needs 25:18 Cornerback Prospects for the Bills 26:05 Defensive Tackle Prospects for the Bills 29:11 Wide Receiver Prospects for the Bills 31:12 Teams and Players That Intrigue Me 36:29 Quarterback Class Analysis 49:05 Hot Takes and Scenarios 52:42 Conclusion and Social Media

Good News York Ep. 26: Podcasts, Greek Yogurt, & Gaming Revelations In this episode of Good News York, host Matt Masur, founder of Growth Mode Technologies, and his co-host, affectionately called 'Teal Mike,' delve into various topics from their new podcast format to remarkable news about the state of New York. The hosts celebrate their milestone of reaching the 26th episode, discuss the importance of including the entirety of New York State in their podcast content, and shout out local podcast ‘Living Local 315’ on their 200th episode. They highlight major business expansions in New York, such as Chobani's new production facility in Rome and United Auto Supply's growth in Onondaga County. The episode also delves into nostalgic topics like the return of ground round restaurants and reminisce about bands like Guar and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Matt shares his unique dream of filling a massive commercial space with varied ventures, underscoring his entrepreneurial spirit. The episode wraps up with producer Danny Chapi providing exciting news about the remastered release of the classic game 'Oblivion.' Tune in for good news, interesting discussions, and some hearty laughs. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 01:00 Podcast Highlights and Platforms 02:23 Celebrating Podcast Milestones 04:41 Defining Upstate New York 05:46 A Funny Story About Poughkeepsie 06:17 GUAR Concert Experience 12:58 Local News and Updates 13:21 Chobani's Expansion in Rome 16:26 United Auto Supply Expansion 17:45 Ground Round Nostalgia 21:39 Saranac Brewery Achievements 25:16 Red Hot Chili Pipers at NY State Fair 27:06 Discovering the Chili Pipers 28:17 State Fair Lineup Surprises 31:45 Guess the Pedophile Game 33:50 Carmelo Anthony's Cannabis Brand 43:33 Retro Game Con and Oblivion Remaster

Interview with Candace Jar: Revolutionizing Payments with Blockchain | Good News York In this episode of Good News York, hosts Mike Brindisi and Matt Maer kick off the week with exciting stories and news. Mike shares his experience at a recent Metallica concert before diving into an engaging interview with Candace Jar, co-founder of Ex Cova. Candace introduces her tech startup that is simplifying blockchain payments and discusses the transformative potential of this technology. The conversation also touches on her background, the company's public beta release, and how Ex Cova aims to make cryptocurrency as user-friendly as Venmo or PayPal. The episode wraps up with news highlights, including Syracuse restaurants making it to the top 10 burger list and local heroes saving lives. 00:00 Introduction and Metallica Concert Recap 00:49 Introducing Candace and Ex Cova 02:35 The Vision Behind Ex Cova 04:02 Simplifying Blockchain for Everyone 05:09 Public Beta and Future Plans 22:53 Candace's Multifaceted Life 27:22 Candace's Farewell and Show Transition 27:32 Welcome Back to Good News York 28:22 Metallica Concert Experience 33:06 Burger Supremacy in Syracuse 37:44 Red Robin's Promotion Fiasco 39:24 Paramedics Save a Life at Daniella's 42:44 Show Wrap-Up and Future Ideas

An Exclusive Interview with Spin Doctors' Aaron Comess on Good News York In this special episode of Good News York, hosts Matt and Mike welcome Aaron Comess, drummer of the iconic 90s band Spin Doctors. Aaron discusses the band's new album 'Face Full of Cake,' their upcoming tour, including dates at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino, and their summertime tour with Blues Traveler and the Gin Blossoms. Aaron shares his personal journey as a musician, his love for New York, and the creative process behind their new album which began during the COVID-19 lockdown. The interview also delves into Aaron's solo career, his musical inspirations, and his thoughts on the evolution of the music industry over the years. The episode wraps up with some light-hearted banter about sports and a mutual admiration for the Buffalo Bills. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:50 Welcoming Aaron Comas 01:24 Aaron's Background and Love for New York 01:43 Football Fandom and Team Loyalty 05:06 New York's Appeal and Upstate Life 08:22 Spin Doctors' Tour and New Album 10:07 Creating 'Face Full of Cake' During the Pandemic 12:45 The Story Behind 'Still a Gorilla' 15:33 Reflecting on Musical Evolution 16:37 The Creative Process Behind 'Turmoil in My Mind' 17:14 Discussing the Music Industry's Transformation 21:20 Touring with Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms 24:52 Recording in Asbury Park 25:53 Aaron's Solo Career and Musical Versatility 30:10 The Timelessness of Rock and Roll 30:57 Concluding Remarks and Upcoming Shows

Uplifting Caregivers: Kate Houck and the Mission of David's Refuge In this episode of Good News York, hosts Matt and Matthew are joined by Kate Houck, the inspiring leader of David's Refuge. Kate discusses the organization's mission to support caregivers of children with special needs through their respite and wellness programs. She shares the touching origin story of David's Refuge, founded by a couple who lost their son to a rare genetic disease, and highlights the impactful services they offer to caregivers in New York State. The conversation also covers the emotional struggles faced by caregivers, the importance of mental health support, and upcoming fundraising events supporting the cause. Join us to learn about the incredible work being done to uplift and empower caregivers and their families. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter 00:27 Special Guest Introduction 00:53 Coconut Water Discussion 02:16 David's Refuge Overview 05:25 Personal Stories and Impact 06:47 Programs and Services 10:40 Community and Growth 12:17 Creating a Supportive Community 13:33 David's Legacy and Mission 14:40 Upcoming Fundraising Events 16:47 Mental Health Support for Caregivers 18:23 National Caregiver Awareness Month 21:28 Expanding Services and Future Goals 23:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Embracing the Journey: Joe Dougherty's Path from Rock Stardom to Mortgage Consulting In this episode of 'Good News York,' host Mike Brindisi welcomes Joe Dougherty of Cross Country Mortgage. Despite the snowy spring day, the discussion stays warm and focused on positive news. Joe shares his journey from aspiring rock star to successful mortgage consultant, highlighting the importance of personalized service in the mortgage industry. He explains the intricacies of the home buying process, addressing common misconceptions about down payments and stressing the importance of financial literacy in public education. Joe also discusses the impact of economic changes on the mortgage market and provides insight into specialized loan programs that make home ownership more accessible. The episode wraps up with a light-hearted conversation about Joe's musical background and a fun debate on creating the ultimate rock band. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:28 Meet Joe Dougherty: Mortgage Expert 01:52 The Mortgage Process Explained 04:25 The Importance of Financial Education 11:07 Helping People Achieve the American Dream 13:18 Navigating Market Volatility 21:36 Unique Loan Programs and Services 26:17 Addressing Down Payment Concerns 26:39 Exploring Loan Options and Grants 28:57 Myth Busting and Expert Advice 29:26 Tips for First-Time Home Buyers 32:08 Understanding Market Dynamics 34:22 Impact of Micron on Local Real Estate 37:25 From Mortgages to Music: Joe's Journey 41:18 Ultimate Dream Band Discussion 44:31 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Exploring Miniature Masterpieces: Interview with David's Miniatures - Good News York In this special episode of Good News York, hosts Mike and Matt welcome David from David's Miniatures for a unique 'no face' interview. David shares fascinating insights into his extraordinary work of creating scale miniatures for film, TV, advertising, and private collectors. Having made models for Universal Studios, Netflix, Amazon, and more, David talks about his creative process, tools, and how his journey began as a hobby during his recovery from kidney cancer. The discussion covers everything from his process of making custom miniatures to the importance of privacy and his decision to keep his identity anonymous. Dive into the world of miniatures and discover the meticulous craftsmanship behind these nostalgic and intricate creations. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 01:22 Meet David from David's Miniatures 02:31 David's Journey: From Hobby to Business 04:28 The Healing Power of a Hobby 12:09 Challenges and Triumphs in the Miniature World 21:49 Discussing Anonymity and Privacy 22:58 The Evolution of Social Media Presence 24:57 Launching a Podcast: Scale Talk 25:24 Maintaining a No-Face Identity 26:47 The Art of Miniature Making 28:52 Balancing Personal and Commercial Projects 32:02 Client Interactions and Custom Orders 38:03 Leveraging Community for Projects 39:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts