Meet Ajmal Ismail, founder of Reduce Costs Now, a Long Island–based company helping families and businesses lower their everyday expenses — from car insurance and property taxes to mobile plans and internet bills.
What started as Ajmal giving friends and clients financial advice while working in the mortgage industry evolved into a thriving business that has saved families an average of $1,000 a year — and some much more.
In this episode, we talk about:
How he built a “no-risk” business model where clients only pay after they save
The psychology of trust and how to overcome skepticism in a new industry
The surprising ROI of old-school marketing like yard signs and festivals
Scaling strategy, specialized hiring, and his plans to open an insurance brokerage by 2026
What causes most people to overpay — and how companies quietly profit from it
Ajmal’s story is proof that innovation isn’t always about technology — sometimes it’s about solving a real-world problem better than anyone else.
🎙️ New York’s Business Podcast — by business owners, for business owners.
#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #LongIslandBusiness #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessGrowth #CostSavings #ReduceCostsNow #BusinessInnovation #FinanceTips
Before becoming a business coach, Jessica Moloney spent nearly two decades as a licensed mental health counselor. Today, she uses that same deep understanding of human behavior to help women master visibility, messaging, and mindset inside her business-building mastermind, Boss Babes Who Brunch.In this episode, we talk about how she turned her personal growth journey into a professional mission — helping female entrepreneurs overcome visibility blocks, refine their messaging, and step into a confident “dynasty leader” identity. Jessica also shares what it really takes to invest in mentorship, the psychology behind buying behavior, and how to create lasting impact beyond income.Business Takeaway:Jessica’s story shows how powerful business becomes when you integrate mindset, messaging, and purpose. Growth isn’t just about strategy — it’s about who you become in the process. When you master visibility, communicate with authenticity, and lead with conviction, your business naturally evolves into something greater than you — a legacy.#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #JessicaMoloney #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #LongIslandBusiness #FemaleEntrepreneur #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessStrategy #PersonalDevelopment #PodcastInterview #LegacyBuilding #WomenWhoLead #MindsetMatters #VisibilityCoaching
He Started a Media Company with Zero Experience — and Is Already Crushing It
Meet Luke Citarelli, the 21-year-old founder of Citarelli Media Co., a fast-growing social media and advertising agency helping businesses scale through strategic content, lead generation, and ads that actually convert.
Luke’s story is pure entrepreneurial grit. With no videography or editing background, he built his company by focusing on what he does best — sales, networking, and creating genuine relationships — and surrounding himself with a team that fills the gaps. His philosophy is simple: you don’t need to know everything; you just need to know people who do.
In our conversation, Luke shares how he went from running a landscaping business in high school to becoming a professional pickleball player and now a media company owner. We talk about:
Why most businesses fail at social media (and how consistency and discipline fix it)
How to turn ad spend into a predictable ROI machine
The mindset shift from “spending” to “investing” in marketing
Why building relationships beats chasing transactions every time
Luke embodies the next generation of business owners — hungry, strategic, and focused on helping others grow while scaling his own success.
🎙️ Watch the full episode of New York’s Business Podcast with Luke Citarelli of Citarelli Media Co.
#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurMindset #SocialMediaStrategy #BusinessGrowth #AdvertisingTips #CitarelliMediaCo #LongIslandBusiness #MarketingStrategy #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship
From Healing Others to Healing HerselfMeet Rebecca Perry, owner of The Shen Den, an oasis for massage therapy and relaxation based in Patchogue, NY. Rebecca’s journey is one of transformation — from 11 years in healthcare to building a space where people can slow down, breathe, and reconnect with themselves.In this episode, we talk about:– The power of unplugging in a world addicted to busyness– How vulnerability and imperfection build stronger client connections– Why holistic wellness is reshaping modern business culture– Rebecca’s transition from medical assistant to successful entrepreneur– The art of slowing down while scaling upRebecca shares how perfectionism, anxiety, and vulnerability have shaped both her business and her approach to healing. The Shen Den isn’t just a spa — it’s a reminder that rest isn’t laziness, it’s preparation.🎧 Listen to this powerful story of balance, growth, and the courage to redefine success.#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #TheShenDen #RebeccaPerry #MassageTherapy #PatchogueBusiness #Entrepreneurship #HolisticHealth #BusinessMindset #SelfCare #WellnessCommunity #LongIslandBusiness #WomenInBusiness #MindBodyConnection #BusinessGrowth #VulnerabilityInBusiness
From Combat Veteran to Business Coach: Geoffrey Costa’s JourneyWhat does it take to rebuild your life, redefine success, and create a business around clarity and purpose?
This week on New York’s Business Podcast, I sit down with Geoffrey Costa, Founder of Lead Forward Strategies and author of the Amazon best-seller Forged in Armor, Freed by Love. Geoffrey’s journey is nothing short of remarkable — from West Point graduate and decorated combat veteran, to corporate success story, to now helping entrepreneurs and business owners find alignment in both business and life.In this conversation, we cover:
• The story behind Lead Forward Strategies and why he built it around clarity, systems, and purpose
• How his book became a mirror for readers to reflect on their own lives
• Breaking free from the “owner-operator” trap and learning to think like a CEO
• The role of equine therapy, coaching, and spirituality in shaping his mission
• Redefining success as presence, freedom, and purpose — not just money or status
Geoffrey’s story is powerful, raw, and full of lessons for business owners, leaders, and anyone searching for alignment.🎧 Watch the full episode now on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms.
On this week’s episode of New York’s Business Podcast, we sat down with Kristina DeMarco, owner of Harbor & Co Esthetics in Woodbury. Kristina never set out to own a business—but when her work environment left her unfulfilled, she took a leap. Two years later, she’s built a thriving practice focused on natural alternatives like lymphatic drainage and buccal massage, while proving that social media and smart mentorship can fuel massive growth.
In our conversation, Kristina shares:
How she went from solo esthetician to six figures in her first year
Why she chose natural methods over Botox and fillers, and how the beauty industry pendulum is swinging back
The role of Instagram and storytelling in building her business
How business mentorship shaped her mindset and strategies
Why transparency and sharing knowledge builds more trust (and more clients) than gatekeeping
The importance of networking, community, and thinking long-term about scaling
If you’re a business owner—or even just someone curious about where the beauty industry is headed—this episode is full of insight on growth, branding, and taking risks when the timing is right.
🎧 Listen now on New York’s Business Podcast—link in bio.
Taxes Don’t Have to Be Scary — They Can Be Strategic.
Most business owners dread taxes. Rachel Michaelov built her career by making them a pathway to growth.
Rachel is the Founder and President of Empire Tax Advisors and Practice Wealth Partners Inc. She started her journey nearly 20 years ago, sparked by a deeply personal family experience, and scaled from working alone to leading a 25-person team and running a 7-figure company.
What makes her different? Rachel doesn’t just file returns. She helps business owners transform the way they think about money, structure, and strategy. Instead of losing profits to the IRS, her clients learn how to reinvest those dollars into growth — from marketing to hiring to expanding operations.
💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:
This isn’t just a conversation about taxes — it’s a masterclass in thinking like a true business owner. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling into seven figures, Rachel’s insights will challenge the way you run your business and inspire you to dream bigger.
On this week’s episode of New York’s Business Podcast, I sit down with Andrea Sarjoo, founder of Panier Cadeau, a modern concierge gifting company that transforms the way we think about giving.Andrea shares her story of growing up in Guyana, the cultural values of community and resourcefulness that shaped her, and how a simple suggestion from her sister-in-law sparked the creation of her business. What began as a thoughtful gesture has grown into a luxury gifting brand known for its intentionality, design, and personalized touch.In our conversation, we dive into:✔️ The psychology of gifting and why sensory experiences create lasting memories✔️ How Andrea balances minimalism with meaningful luxury✔️ The importance of community and the role Babes in Business played in her journey✔️ Her innovative “Year of Gifting” subscription model that ensures no important date is missed✔️ Why corporate gifting is more than a transaction—it’s about building relationshipsAndrea’s approach goes far beyond items in a box; she creates gifts that nurture bonds, reflect culture, and carry deep intentionality.Listen now and discover how she’s redefining what it means to give.🎧 Available on all platforms.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panier.cadeau/?hl=enWebsite: https://paniercadeau.com/
This week on New York’s Business Podcast, I sit down with Nick LaPoma, (AKA NickTheTutor), founder of Curvebreakers Test Prep in Garden City, NY. Nick’s journey is unique—he went from being a top student and Division 1 soccer recruit, to a licensed attorney, to launching one of Long Island’s fastest-growing test prep companies.In this episode, we talk about:✔️ Why the college process is really an information battle, not just about grades and test scores✔️ How Nick negotiated hundreds of thousands in law school scholarships with one phone call✔️ The shift to the digital SAT and what that means for today’s students✔️ How Curvebreakers partners with schools, parents, and students to make prep affordable and accessible✔️ The role of social media in scaling his mission to reach students nationwideNick’s story is about more than test prep—it’s about leveling the playing field, using technology and knowledge to give students opportunities they might not otherwise have. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or business owner, there’s something in this episode for you.#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #EducationBusiness #TestPrep #CollegeAdmissions #Curvebreakers #LongIslandBusiness
This week on New York’s Business Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Publio Silfa, founder of Silfa Dental Aesthetics in Commack, NY. A third-generation dentist, Dr. Silfa is transforming the way patients experience dental care by blending cutting-edge technology with purpose-driven connection.
In this episode, we dive into:
✔ How he uses 3D digital avatars so patients can “test drive” their new smile before treatment begins
✔ Why he walked away from the high-volume, insurance-driven model to build a practice focused on relationships and impact
✔ The lessons he learned during COVID that reshaped his “why” and put family and balance at the center of his work
✔ The intentional design behind his practice—from the scent in the office to a culture built on collaboration
✔ Why true success in business comes from education, value, and teamwork, not cutting corners
🎙️ This conversation isn’t just about dentistry—it’s about building a modern business that connects with people on a deeper level.
#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Dentistry #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #LongIslandBusiness #HealthcareBusiness #BusinessStrategy #DentalInnovation #EntrepreneurLife
This week on New York’s Business Podcast, we sit down with Samantha Teran, founder of Samter Cleaning Services, to explore how a side hustle born out of necessity grew into one of Long Island’s most respected residential and commercial cleaning operations.
Samantha started cleaning homes to bring in a little extra income while pregnant—but when she realized how much trust her clients placed in her, she took the leap. Today, she manages a 35-person team, services over 500 rotating clients, and has built a reputation for white-glove service backed by training, systems, and professionalism.
In this episode, we cover:
How she went from banking to business ownership
The leap from side hustle to full-time CEO
Why in-house operations give her more control
The value of early systems and scheduling software
Building trust through insured, reliable service
Growing through word-of-mouth and Facebook mom groups
Expansion plans, team-building, and knowing your worth
Whether you’re just starting out or scaling a service-based business, this one is packed with lessons in growth, trust, and long-term thinking.
🎧 Full episode now streaming.
#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurStory #CleaningBusiness #SmallBusinessGrowth #ServiceIndustry #BuiltInNewYork #LongIslandBusiness #FounderInterview #FromSideHustleToCEO
Meet Siobhan Ainsworth, co-owner and founder of Long Island Igloos. What started in 2019 as a unique way to celebrate her own December birthday has now grown into a business with over 150 igloos across New York and beyond. From intimate backyard milestones to major corporate activations with brands like MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, Penn State, and the Buffalo Bills, Long Island Igloos has become a go-to for unforgettable experiences.
In this episode, we dive into:
Siobhan shares not only her entrepreneurial journey but also lessons in adaptability, branding, and the power of referrals. From college tailgates to luxury rooftop lounges, Long Island Igloos proves that innovation and customer experience are everything.
🎙️ Catch the full conversation on New York’s Business Podcast.
"From Therapist to Marketing Maven: Melissa Ingino’s Fearless Journey"
Meet Melissa Ingino — CEO & Founder of Grit and Grace Design Studio and Co-Founder (with Gena Vitale Bradshaw) of Fearless Founders | Network Community.
In this episode, Melissa shares her incredible pivot from a decade-long career as a psychotherapist to becoming a creative branding agency owner helping impact-driven companies go “from mediocrity to impact in 90 days or less.” She opens up about building a purpose-driven business, creating a networking group that fills a “white space” on Long Island, and balancing grit with grace in both entrepreneurship and life.
We dive into:
How her background in therapy shapes her client relationships today
The creation of Fearless Founders and why authenticity drives its community
Building Grit and Grace Design Studio into a one-stop shop for branding, content creation, and web design
The impact of AI on creative industries (and how to actually leverage it)
Why success starts with aligning your values, your “why,” and your business strategy
This is a conversation about intentional growth, the power of pivots, and creating work that leaves a legacy.
#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #Branding #ContentCreation #Networking #BusinessGrowth #PodcastInterview #MarketingStrategy #FearlessFounders #GritAndGraceDesignStudio
From Surviving to Thriving: How Gena Bradshaw Vitale is Changing the Game in Holistic Health & Business
Meet Gena Bradshaw Vitale — two-time cancer survivor, owner of Holistic Human Performance, and co-founder of Long Island’s Fearless Founders | Network Community. Her journey from overcoming life-threatening illness to building a business that blends ancient healing practices with modern science is nothing short of inspiring.
In this episode, we cover:
How surviving leukemia at 3 and thyroid cancer at 20 shaped her life’s mission
The spiritual awakening that inspired her first book and a new business direction
Building a methodology that unites holistic health, energy medicine, and spirituality
The creation of her all-in-one wellness app for coaching, courses, and tools
Why she believes entrepreneurship is a spiritual game and health is the foundation
The launch of Fearless Founders and how in-person connection fuels business growth
Practical breathing and mindset tools for busy, stressed business owners
Gena’s story is about resilience, purpose, and creating a life and business in full alignment. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn personal trials into powerful transformation—for yourself and your clients—this is a must-listen.
#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #HolisticHealth #Entrepreneurship #FearlessFounders #BusinessMindset #EnergyMedicine #LongIslandBusiness #WomenInBusiness #BusinessGrowth #MindBodySoul #SmallBusinessTips #EntrepreneurLife #PodcastInterview
Why Most Airbnbs Miss the Mark — Tyler Wojcik
“We’re not just trying to be a checkbox on your vacation list.” — Tyler Wojcik
Tyler Wojcik, co-owner of Adirondack Lakeside Getaways, shares how their boutique cabins go beyond what most short-term rentals offer. From the start, Tyler and Erin wanted their guests to feel cared for — not just accommodated. They personally stayed in every cabin to fix creaks, test Wi-Fi, and tweak the experience before a single guest arrived. That mindset is why guests keep coming back season after season.
Their mission? To make sure the stay isn’t just a place to sleep, but a core memory for families. While other Airbnbs shut down in the off-season, they saw winter as an untapped opportunity — and they’re growing because of it.
🎯 Business Takeaway: Most Airbnb operators focus only on occupancy — but Tyler focuses on experience. That mindset turns a stay into a story, builds word-of-mouth momentum, and creates long-term demand even in slow seasons. Experience, not just availability, is what drives retention.
#AirbnbTips #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentalBusiness #LakeGeorgeNY #BusinessPodcast #AirbnbHostLife #STRsuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #NYBusinessPodcast #BoutiqueCabins
How a Scientist Turned a Hidden Property Into One of Lake George’s Best Boutique Cabin Getaways
Meet Erin Joyce, the cofounder and co-owner of ADK Lakeside Getaways (Adirondack Lakeside Getaways). Alongside her partner Tyler, Erin has built a collection of boutique cabins in the heart of Lake George, NY—designed to give families a nostalgic, one-of-a-kind Adirondack experience.
In this episode, we cover:
Erin’s unexpected path from teaching and neuroscience research at Columbia University to running a hospitality brand.
The wild story of spotting a restaurant for sale that led to uncovering eight hidden cabins and creating a thriving getaway destination.
Balancing full-time careers, entrepreneurship, and wedding planning while building a business from the ground up.
Creative marketing tactics for vacation rentals and why influencer partnerships have been a game-changer.
Why short-term rentals aren’t as “passive” as people think—and what it really takes to make them work.
🎧 Whether you’re dreaming of running your own vacation rentals or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.
#LakeGeorge #Adirondacks #ShortTermRental #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPodcast #HospitalityBusiness #VacationRentals #BusinessOwners #NewYorkBusiness #NYBP #NewYorksBusinessPodcast #ADKLakesideGetaways #BoutiqueCabins #EntrepreneurLife #LakeGeorgeNY
"What if every business loan came with a CFO to guide you?" – Devin Gambino, CEO & Founder of Lendefied
Devin Gambino saw a major gap in the lending industry and built Lendefied to fill it. Instead of just handing over capital, Lendefied provides lending bundled with fractional CFO, CMO, and CTO services — a combination almost no one else in the country offers. Their model helps small businesses not only access funding but also use it strategically to grow long-term and avoid the common trap of high-interest, short-term loans.
In this episode, Devin shares insights that every business owner needs to hear, including:
• Why combining lending with executive-level guidance can change your entire business trajectory
• How most owners miss out on massive opportunities like the R&D tax credit
• The right way to borrow so you scale instead of survive
• Why personal credit is one of the most dangerous ways to start a business
• How giving more upfront to clients can actually lead to exponential long-term growth
Business takeaway:
Access to capital is only half the battle — knowing how to deploy it effectively is what separates thriving businesses from struggling ones. Devin shows how combining smart lending with fractional executive services helps small business owners make better financial decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and set up sustainable growth. Leveraging credits like R&D, protecting your business credit early, and focusing on long-term strategy can completely change the trajectory of a company.
#NewYorksBusinessPodcast #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #BusinessFunding #SmallBusinessTips #BusinessStrategy #FractionalCFO #Lendefied #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessLending #PodcastForBusinessOwners #FinancialStrategy #BusinessOperations #BusinessOwnerTips #ScaleYourBusiness
Meet Jessica Bianculli, the owner and founder of Skin Bar New York!Jessica built her business with a unique approach: combining the science of medical aesthetics with a holistic, wellness-driven philosophy. After working for plastic surgeons and med spas, she took the leap toMeet Jessica Bianculli, the owner and founder of Skin Bar New York!
Jessica built her business with a unique approach: combining the science of medical aesthetics with a holistic, wellness-driven philosophy. After working for plastic surgeons and med spas, she took the leap to open her own studio—while pregnant with her second child—and turned it into a thriving business over the past eight years.
In this episode, we talk about:
Why gut health and diet are often at the root of skin issues like acne and pigmentation.
How Skin Bar NY stands out by focusing on education, results, and treating clients as whole individuals.
Jessica’s journey from an unsupportive relationship to building a business that empowers others.
Her insights on navigating the “TikTokification” of the aesthetics industry and staying rooted in expertise.
Lessons for entrepreneurs about automating systems and investing in marketing to grow a loyal client base.
If you’re in the aesthetics world—or simply want inspiration from a bold entrepreneur redefining her industry—you’ll love this conversation.
📍 Skin Bar NY is now located in Dix Hills on Jericho Turnpike.
🎙️ Tune in to this episode of New York’s Business Podcast for the full story!
#NewYorkBusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #HolisticAesthetics #SkinCareBusiness #WomenInBusiness #LongIslandBusiness open her own studio—while pregnant with her second child—and turned it into a thriving business over the past eight years.In this episode, we talk about:- Why gut health and diet are often at the root of skin issues like acne and pigmentation.- How Skin Bar NY stands out by focusing on education, results, and treating clients as whole individuals.- Jessica’s journey from an unsupportive relationship to building a business that empowers others.- Her insights on navigating the “TikTokification” of the aesthetics industry and staying rooted in expertise.- Lessons for entrepreneurs about automating systems and investing in marketing to grow a loyal client base.If you’re in the aesthetics world—or simply want inspiration from a bold entrepreneur redefining her industry—you’ll love this conversation.🎙️ Tune in to this episode of New York’s Business Podcast for the full story!#NewYorkBusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #HolisticAesthetics #SkinCareBusiness #WomenInBusiness #LongIslandBusiness
Why Experiential Marketing Works (And How to Do It Differently)
On this episode of New York’s Business Podcast, I sat down with Sarah Stone, author, entrepreneur, and the founder of Intentional Living Magazine. Originally from the UK, Sarah made a bold leap to New York in 2018 and turned a season of uncertainty into a thriving, purpose-driven brand.
Sarah shared how she built her magazine from the ground up, focusing on intentionality in both life and business. She talked about launching her book Live What You Love, breaking into Amazon’s bestseller list in seven categories, and creating a boutique publication that prioritizes connection over mass distribution.
We also explored powerful business lessons:
Why experiential marketing builds trust and loyalty in ways traditional ads never will.
How being intentional with your energy and decisions impacts success.
The importance of embracing small beginnings and trusting the process.
Sarah’s story is an inspiring reminder that success is more than numbers—it’s about creating something meaningful and memorable.
🎙 Listen to her full story on this week’s episode of New York’s Business Podcast!
#NewYorkBusinessPodcast #IntentionalLiving #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #MarketingStrategy #PodcastGuest #BusinessOwner #ExperientialMarketing #SmallBusinessTips
The Business Growth Tool You’ve Probably Never Heard Of: A PEOOn this episode of New York’s Business Podcast, we’re joined by Andy Lubash, Founder and CEO of PrestigePEO, a company helping small and mid-sized businesses access the HR services, benefits, and support typically reserved for massive corporations.Andy built PrestigePEO over nearly three decades by combining innovation with a people-first mindset. His mission? To let business owners focus on growth while Prestige handles the complexities of HR, compliance, and employee benefits.Here’s what we cover in this episode:- Andy’s journey from owning a benefits agency to founding PrestigePEO- How PEOs (Professional Employer Organizations) help small businesses access big-company healthcare, 401(k)s, and HR support- Andy’s clear explanation of what a PEO is and why most business owners haven’t heard of it (Professional Employer Organization)- Why Prestige’s broker-first model is a game changer in the industry- The leadership mindset Andy uses to grow without losing company culture- The growing recognition of PEOs and why more businesses are adopting them- How Prestige delivers personalized service with a unique five-person team model🎙️ If you’re a business owner ready to scale smarter, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible.#NewYorkBusinessPodcast #PrestigePEO #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessGrowth #BusinessLeadership #HRStrategy #NYBusiness