Fainting Goats, Speeding Tickets, and the Launch of 'Every Town in New York' In this episode of Good News York, hosts Matt Ma and Mikey BI discuss an array of entertaining topics. Mikey recounts a humorous story from a Syracuse Crunch hockey game involving a passionate fan. The hosts delve into various subjects including the Kentucky Derby and the MET Gala. They also touch upon a surprising speeding ticket Mikey received through the New York State Work Zone Speed Enforcement Program. The big announcement of a new segment, 'Every Town in New York,' which aims to spotlight the unique features of every town in the state, is made. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about Matt's desire for a fainting goat farm, complete with humorous video clips of fainting goats. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:29 A Wild Hockey Game Experience 04:31 The Passionate Fan Theory 09:38 Celebrating Shawnee Davis 14:33 Fun with Horse Names 18:29 Understanding the Met Gala 21:26 Chain Wallet Chronicles 22:37 The Pickpocket Incident 24:27 Front Wallet Solution 26:00 Central Park Renovation 29:46 Speeding Ticket Surprise 37:00 Every Town in New York 41:35 Fainting Goat Farm Dream 44:13 Upcoming Interview Teaser

Good News York: Comedy, Injuries, and Friendship with Paul Valenti In this episode of Good News York, host Mike Brindisi reunites with an old friend, Paul Valenti, a multi-talented comedian, actor, and podcast host. They discuss their early days in comedy, the importance of classic comedians like the Three Stooges, and Paul's journey in the comedy world. Paul shares stories from his performance career, including his time on NBC’s ‘Bring the Funny’ and the physical challenges he has faced along the way, such as breaking his wrist on stage. The episode also highlights Paul’s foray into teaching comedy workshops and his current projects, including his play at the Curtain Call Theatre. Tune in for a mix of humor, touching moments, and behind-the-scenes insights into the life of a working comedian. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:21 Meeting Paul Valenti 01:24 Reminiscing About Comedy Beginnings 04:01 Paul's Journey in Comedy 12:20 The Chris and Paul Show Origins 14:18 Managing ADHD as a Comedian 19:31 Performing and Evolving 28:30 Impact of COVID on Comedy 32:18 The Impact of Social Media on Live Shows 33:03 Navigating the Modern Music Scene 33:59 The Importance of Human Connection 34:18 Chris and Paul's Comedy Workshops 35:02 The Challenges of Viral Fame 42:32 Paul's Injury and Dedication to Comedy 42:52 Journey to NBC's 'Bring the Funny' 52:03 The Impact of COVID-19 on Their Career 58:36 Paul's Recent Projects and Future Plans

Inside the Syracuse Mets: An Exclusive Interview with GM Jason Smorol In this episode of Good News York, hosts Matt and Mike sit down with Jason Smorol, the General Manager of the Syracuse Mets. They discuss the unique challenges and rewarding experiences of running a minor league baseball team, from creative promotional events to maintaining a top-notch stadium experience. Jason shares insights into the team's operations, community engagement, staff dedication, and how they manage to stand out in the minor league circuit. The conversation also touches on proposed changes to MLB, the impact of large businesses like Micron moving into the area, and the excitement surrounding unique baseball entertainment like the Savannah Bananas. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a minor league baseball newbie, this episode offers an inside look at the passion and teamwork that drive the Syracuse Mets. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:40 Meet the Guest: Jason Smorol 01:31 Fun at the Stadium 02:11 The Minor League Experience 04:04 Stadium Renovations and Improvements 05:36 Game Day Challenges 07:00 Unique Promotions and Events 18:41 The Off-Season Workload 20:25 Staff and Operations 23:38 The Resilient Syracuse Chiefs 24:14 Lean and Mean Operations 25:09 Staying True to Our Vision 26:35 Community Collaboration 29:39 Unique Fan Experiences 34:11 The Savannah Bananas Phenomenon 42:55 Mets Fans and Family Ties 45:09 Conclusion and Farewell

Revitalizing Herkimer: A Culinary Journey with Chef Robbie Cirillo In this episode of Good News York, host Matt Major and co-host Mike Festive welcome Robbie Cirillo, a talented chef and business owner, to discuss his journey and latest venture: Stone Soup American Bistro and Beer Garden in Herkimer, New York. Robbie shares stories from his career, leading from fast food beginnings to running restaurants across the country. Now back in his hometown, Robbie is dedicated to revitalizing Herkimer's Main Street with his new restaurant, promoting local growth, and fostering a sense of community. Robbie's plans include expanding his restaurant and collaborating with other local businesses to transform Herkimer into a thriving, vibrant town once more. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:44 Robbie's Journey: From McDonald's to Culinary Passion 04:49 Revitalizing Herkimer: A Community Effort 11:53 Stone Soup American Bistro: Concept and Inspiration 14:40 Menu Highlights: Lunch, Dinner, and Cultural Fusion 19:11 Setting Yourself Apart in Business 19:26 The BOA Grant and Community Investment 20:13 Revitalizing Main Street 21:10 The Importance of Community Support 27:46 Future Plans for Stone Soup 30:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Good News York: Interview with Gregg Ordon and a Humorous Take on Headlines In this episode of Good News York, hosts Matt Masur and Mike Brindisi kick off Tuesday Newsday with a lighthearted introduction, followed by an engaging interview with guest Gregg Ordon, a headshot photographer with an impressive resume. Gregg shares insights about his career journey, his focus on niche photography, and his mission to make clients comfortable and capture their best selves. The episode also spotlights a prank involving a football player's draft, an award-winning snow and ice control effort by Syracuse Hancock International Airport, and the unexpected news that Chubby Checker won't be performing at the New York State Fair. The hosts close with a heartfelt shoutout to fellow local content creator Alex and her podcast, highlighting the importance of community support in the creative industry. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 00:31 Introducing Gregg Ordon: Photographer Extraordinaire 02:39 Gregg's Journey to Specialization 04:00 The Art of Headshot Photography 10:06 Booking and Session Details 20:53 Celebrating Phil's Birthday at Two Cousins Pinball Arcade 28:26 Nostalgic Arcade Memories 29:25 Arcade Road Trip Idea 30:44 Golden Tee and Bar Games 33:01 Prank Call Controversy 38:20 Youth Hunting Debate 41:18 School Hunting Day Memories 43:54 Syracuse Airport Snow Award 45:59 Chubby Checker Controversy 50:39 Shoutout to Local Content Creators 56:43 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Guests

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