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

Comedian Steven Brown Talks Comedy Journey, Bombing Stories, and Golf Lingo In this episode of Good News York, Mike Brindisi and Matt Masur are joined by comedian Steven Brown. The show covers various topics, including Steven's journey into comedy, his experience with open mics, and his role in booking for Crooked Mouth Brewing. The conversation also touches on the psychology of comedy, the support of the local scene, and the intricacies of booking shows. Additionally, Mike and Matt engage in a humorous segment where Matt attempts to define golf terms, leading to some surprising answers. The episode wraps up with a discussion on Steven's involvement in music before comedy, his experiences at the Funny Bone, and his upcoming festival plans. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York 01:16 Special Guest: Comedian Steven Brown 01:46 Steven Brown's Comedy Journey 04:47 Booking and Performing Comedy Shows 05:00 The Crooked Mouth Comedy Scene 13:25 Steven's Upcoming Shows and Festival 19:48 Festival Tickets and Weekend Passes 20:07 Hosting at the Funny Bone 21:50 Bombing Stories and Comedic Resilience 23:36 Gimmicky Shows and Comedy Bets 26:07 Supporting the Local Comedy Scene 28:33 Golf Terminology Quiz 29:02 Tiger Woods and the Masters

Studio Overhaul and Savannah Bananas: A Deep Dive into Exceptional Fan Experience In this episode, Matt Mare and Mike Ndii discuss the recent upgrades to their recording studio, including the installation of new equipment and a complete rewiring of the setup. The conversation shifts to weekend activities, where Mike shares family bonding moments and attending his daughter’s dance competition. They then explore the unique fan-first business model of the Savannah Bananas baseball team, highlighting its innovative approach to providing unmatched entertainment. The episode also touches on insights into the company’s philosophy of constant growth and client-focused services in both IT and content creation under the Growth Mode umbrella. 00:00 Welcome and New Studio Setup 02:36 Weekend Family Time and Dance Competitions 06:27 Kids' Podcast and Logan Paul's Lunchables 09:56 Favorite Cookies and Sweet Tooth Confessions 13:00 Utica's Culinary Delights 17:23 Memories of McGill's and Local Eateries 20:31 The Evolution of Local Businesses 23:06 Navigating Economic Challenges 26:11 Growth Mode's Value Proposition 28:46 The Philosophy of Continuous Improvement 43:02 The Savannah Bananas Phenomenon 48:48 Closing Remarks and Humorous Anecdotes

Comedy and Chill: Brian Enck Discusses Upcoming Special and Overrated Trends In this episode of Good News York, hosts Mike Brindisi and Matt Maser welcome back their first-ever repeat guest, comedian Brian Enck. They discuss the ongoing cold April weather, Brian's upcoming comedy special 'Letters Are Hard,' and dive into the logistics of recording a stand-up show. Brian shares insights into the art of stand-up, including the importance of good takes, crowd engagement, and the struggles of joke perfectionism. The episode also delves into Brian's charitable initiatives tied to the show, supporting Syracuse Pride, the Patty Foundation, and ACR Health. The trio engages in a lively segment of 'Overrated/Underrated,' covering topics from pizza slices and beach vacations to Steve Buscemi's underrated roles. The episode wraps up with a discussion on how audience dynamics impact comedy performances and promotional details for Brian’s special taping. To listen or watch, subscribe on all major podcast platforms. 00:00 Welcome Back to Good News York 00:45 Introducing the Guest: Ryan the Comedian 01:05 Preparing for the Comedy Special 01:30 The Art of Stand-Up Comedy 04:11 The Creative Process and Deadlines 07:51 Recording and Distributing Comedy Specials 14:39 Charity and the Patty Foundation 27:05 Overrated and Underrated: Pizza and Video Games 32:14 Underrated Games Discussion 33:27 Trains: The Underrated Mode of Transport 35:13 Las Vegas Hidden Gem: Pinball Hall of Fame 37:31 Overrated and Underrated Movies 37:51 Superman vs. Batman Debate 39:08 The Genius of Batman: The Animated Series 44:30 Overrated Beach Vacations 45:18 The Joy of Doing Nothing on Vacation 50:41 Steve Buscemi's Versatility 53:41 Podcast Wrap-Up and Announcements

Good News York: Opening Day at Syracuse Mets Stadium In this episode of Good News York, the team celebrates the opening day of baseball at Syracuse Mets Stadium. They engage in lively conversations with the General Manager of the Syracuse Mets, discussing the excitement of the season and favorite ballpark foods, like the renowned pierogis. The hosts visit the team store, chat with employees about their roles and favorite aspects of working at the stadium, and share the thrill of the game day atmosphere. The episode wraps up with an interview with Ryan McMahon, Onondaga County Executive, about the significance of throwing the opening pitch and the positive economic developments in the region. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York: Opening Day of Baseball 00:52 Interview with the GM of Syracuse Mets 03:54 Exploring the Ballpark: Food and Fun 05:32 Inside the Team Store 11:48 First Pitch with Ryan McMahon 14:55 Conclusion and Farewell from NBT Bank Stadium

Good News York: Digital Mobile Billboards and Local Business Support In this episode of Good News York, hosts Matt Masur and Mike Brindisi introduce guest Zach Premo, president of Ads on the Go. Zach shares insights on his innovative digital mobile billboard business, which offers small businesses a unique advertising platform through mobile video screens on trucks. The conversation covers Zach’s business model, his motivations for supporting local businesses, and his history with the company. Additionally, Zach discusses future plans and the potential for expanding the service to other cities. The episode concludes with a brief mention of other show segments, including a job opportunity announcement and a fun tidbit about Mario Lopez filming a movie in Buffalo. 00:00 Welcome to Good News York! 00:23 Meet Our Guest: Zach Premo 00:42 The Greatest Entrance Ever 02:05 Inside the Mobile Billboard Business 02:59 The Power of Digital Advertising 07:52 Empowering Small Businesses 12:48 The Future of Mobile Billboards 15:50 Entrepreneurial Journey 17:20 Revisiting the Question on Digital Billboards 17:37 Innovative Advertising Strategies 19:32 Community Engagement and Regulations 20:19 Upcoming Events and Parades 21:25 Business Operations and Routes 23:26 Creative Advertising Ideas 26:57 Contact Information and Final Thoughts 29:35 Good News York Updates 31:28 Sports Talk and Closing Remarks

The Unplanned Sync: Mike Brindisi & Matt Masur Interview Mike Peters In this fun and engaging episode of 'Good News York,' hosts Mike Brindisi and Matt Masur sit down with comedian and promoter Mike Peters. The trio shares laughs over their accidental wardrobe sync, ponders whether comedian schedules are like synchronized cycles, and dive into a lively discussion about the comedy scene in upstate New York. Mike Peters shares his journey from starting as a stand-up comedian to becoming a successful comedy promoter, creating 'Home Brewed Comedy.' They discuss the challenges and rewards of booking shows, paying comedians fairly, and tailoring performances to different audiences. The episode also includes humorous anecdotes about tough gigs and the importance of adapting to different crowd sizes. With insights into the intricacies of the comedy business and the importance of promoting local talent, this episode is a must-listen for comedy enthusiasts. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter 00:53 Guest Introduction: Mike Peters 03:27 Mike Peters' Comedy Journey 06:37 Building a Comedy Scene 12:09 Challenges and Rewards in Comedy Promotion 25:12 Audience Engagement and Show Dynamics 34:52 Psychology of Comedy Shows 37:22 Dealing with Tough Crowds 38:07 Hosting Challenges and Surprises 39:39 Memorable Comedy Show Disasters 48:08 Upcoming Shows and Favorite Venues 53:40 The Comedy Community and Personal Stories 59:15 Mike Peters' Comedy Journey and Reflections 01:05:25 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts