In this episode, Lauren Lewis sits down with MarioRodriguez, President of Forseti Protection Group, a full-service security company that’s redefining what it means to keep people, property, and organizations safe.

Founded in 2012, Forseti Protection Group was born from the belief that clients deserve more than box-checking and basic protection—they deserve peace of mind. With a team built on military and law enforcement experience, Forseti approaches every challenge with the mindset that security is ultimately built on trust.

In this conversation, Lauren and Mario dive into:

• The Pain Points of reactive vs. proactive security - and why most businesses call after something bad happens
• Innovation over intimidation: how new technology like ballistic doors and biometric access is changing the landscape
• Navigating compliance-heavy industries like cannabis and nonprofits while keeping people safe
• Cybersecurity Pain Points: phishing, scams, AI-driven threats, and human errors that put businesses at risk
• The entrepreneurial journey: payroll panic, proposal turnaround times, SOPs, and scaling across state lines
• Why networking, community, and authentic relationships are just as critical to success as any business strategy

From handling multi-million-dollar security grants to training over 1,000 employees in a week, Mario shares how Forseti has grown into a trusted partner for schools, nonprofits, manufacturers, and national brands. He also gets real about the Pain Points of running a business - wearing too many hats, building the right team, and staying organized under pressure.

Connect with Forseti Protection Group & Mario Rodriguez:

• Website: https://forsetiprotection.com

• LinkedIn: Forseti Protection Group

This episode highlights the reality that everybusiness has security Pain Points and ignoring them can be costly. Tune in for insights into leadership, entrepreneurship, and keeping your organization secure in a rapidly changing world.

In this episode, Lauren Lewis sits down with Beth Clark, third-generation owner of Bridal Chateau, a beloved local bridal shop that’s been serving brides for nearly 50 years.

Beth shares the evolution of the business her grandmother started—from a small in-home operation to a leading bridal destination that’s focused on experience, inclusion, and authenticity.

Together, they explore the Pain Points of keeping a legacy business relevant, creating space for every bride, and adapting to the ever-changing bridal industry.

This episode covers:      

• The Pain Points of shifting business models after COVID
• Why true size inclusivity means carrying 500+ dresses in sizes 0–40 
• What really goes into customizing a dress for a perfect fit
• The challenges of sourcing quality over quantity in a fast-fashion world
• How Bridal Chateau supports neurodivergent and disabled brides     
• Strategies for standing out in a saturated and highly emotional industry
• Building trust through transparency, education, and hands-on care

Beth gets honest about evolving expectations, pressure from mass-market retailers, and how she balances tradition with progress.

Whether you're a bride, in retail, hospitality, or just love a good family business story, this conversation is full of insight, heart, and real behind-the scenes perspective.

Connect with Bridal Chateau:

Williamsville, NY

https://bridalchateauinc.com

Instagram: @bridalchateau

Appointments preferred – book online or call the shop!

Connect with StaffBuffalo:https://staffbuffalo.com

Career Chats: https://staffbuffalo.com/career-chats

Open Jobs: https://staffbuffalo.com/jobs

Don't miss this episode on how a local bridal shop is redefining confidence, connection, and what it really means to say “yes to the dress.”

In this episode, we sit down with Janna Willoughby-Lohr, the creative mastermind behind Papercraft Miracles, an eco-friendly, handmade paper art company that brings magic and joy to people's lives through unique creations. 

Janna takes us on a journey from her unexpected start in the art world, beginning with navigating her college major, to discovering her passion for paper art, and finally building a thriving art business in Buffalo, NY. 

We discuss: 

• The challenges of becoming an artist and the journey of self-discovery 
• The pain points of starting and managing a sustainable art business 
• The importance of community connection and social work in art 
• How Papercraft Miracles differentiates itself by creating unique, handmade paper art 
• The behind-the-scenes reality of running a business and balancing work-life demands 
• Tips for aspiring artists on turning their passion into a sustainable business 

Want to bring some magic into your life?

Explore Papercraft Miracles for custom handmade paper art, unique gifts, and more! 

Find Janna and Papercraft Miracles: 

Visit the Studio: 1888 Niagara St. Buffalo, NY 14207 

Website & Custom Orders: papercraftmiracles.com 

Follow on Instagram: @papercraftmiracles 

Book a Custom Art Piece: papercraftmiracles.com/custom-orders 

Subscribe & Follow Pain Points Podcast for more expert insights into entrepreneurship, business challenges, and industry deep dives! 

In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Winkler, a certified Level 2 Sommelier and owner of Winkler & Samuels, a boutique wine and spirits shop offering curated wine classes, a premium wine storage facility, and a passion-driven approach to wine education.  

Melissa takes us on a journey from her unexpected start in the wine industry—beginning as a nanny, to discovering her passion at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, and finally building a thriving wine business in Buffalo, NY.  

Episode Highlights:  

• The challenges of becoming a sommelier and the rigorous certification process  
• The pain points of starting and managing a niche winebusiness  
• The importance of terroir, how to truly taste wine, and why there’s no wrong way to enjoy it  
• How Winkler & Samuels differentiates itself by curating unique, small-batch wines  
• The behind-the-scenes reality of running a business with a spouse and balancing work-life demands 
• Tips for choosing better quality wines, avoiding headaches, and understanding the difference between Champagne & Prosecco  

Want to take your wine knowledge to the next level?  

Join Winkler & Samuels’ Wine Club for hand-selected bottles, expert pairing recommendations, and a one-of-a-kind experience delivered to your door!  

Find Melissa and Winkler & Samuels:  

Visit the Store:  500 Seneca St, Buffalo, NY  

Website & Wine Club Info: https://winklerandsamuels.com/  

Follow on Instagram:

 https://www.instagram.com/winklerandsamuelswine/  

Book a Wine Class: 

https://winklerandsamuels.com/collections/wine-class  

Visit StaffBuffalo Website: https://staffbuffalo.com/  

 Subscribe & Follow Pain Points Podcast for more expert insights into entrepreneurship, business challenges, and industry deep dives! 

In this episode, Lauren Lewis sits down with Larry Mietus ('Leadership Larry') — author, business consultant, and founder of Speaking of Strategy. Larry has spent decades helping businesses obliterate excuses, build strong cultures, and lead with strategy. 

Pain Points We Tackle in This Episode: 

• Why businesses get stuck – and how to break free 
• The #1 excuse that kills growth (and how to overcome it) 
• Culture vs. Strategy – which one really matters more? 
• The truth about employee engagement and workplace morale 
• How to be a better leader and make real business impact 

Guest Information:

Check out Larry’s book: We Tried That Once: https://a.co/d/ckbfQ22 

Follow Larry Mietus:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrymietusspeakingofstrategy/

Website: https://speakingofstrategy.com/

🎧 Hit LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into real business struggles and solutions! 

Tune in to another episode of The Pain Points Podcast, where we explore how Impressia Bank is changing the game for women entrepreneurs and the financial struggles that they face! 

In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Schellinger, VP/Regional Relationship Manager at Impressia Bank to discuss the financial roadblocks women-owned businesses encounter, the funding gap in traditional banking, and how relationship-based banking can be a game changer. Women are underfunded, underserved, and underestimated—but they’re also powerful economic drivers when given equal opportunities. 

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Pain Points Podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of Saverio “Sam” Marrazzo, Chief Innovation Officer at the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC), as he shares his incredible story from his early days in the Navy, how he found his love for technology, and to his transformative role in the non-profit sector. Hosted by Maggie Shea, this episode uncovers the Pain Points and challenges faced by Sam throughout his career and how he overcame them to achieve a balanced and fulfilling life!

Join us as we explore the highs and lows of Sam's career, the lessons learned, and the strategies he used to navigate through various Pain Points. You’ll learn how the lessons from his past roles are informing his current work and discover the strategies he uses to turn challenges into opportunities.

Welcome to another episode of the Pain Points Podcast, where we dive deep into the critical challenges that businesses face in scaling and sustaining growth. Today, we’re excited to feature Mike Belin, Executive Growth Strategist at Nacre Consulting, a firm renowned for helping businesses grow their top-line revenue, optimize sales processes, and build sustainable growth strategies.

With over 5 years at Nacre Consulting, Mike has worked with diverse companies—from startups to enterprises exceeding $100M in revenue—spanning industries like SaaS, Manufacturing, Professional Services, and Telecommunications. He brings decades of hands-on experience in sales management, customer experience design, and leadership coaching.

Join us as Mike unpacks real-world solutions to business challenges, including how to build sales playbooks, design effective growth strategies, and create a company culture that fosters continuous development. His actionable insights will provide you with the tools you need to overcome your company’s growth obstacles and unlock its full potential.

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Pain Points Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with a dynamic leader in B2B sales and corporate innovation—Sondra Vidal—to explore the challenges and successes that have shaped her remarkable career. From driving growth at Favordrop to leading multiple ventures, including RelPro and Luc and Lyla LLC, Sondra brings a wealth of experience in turning Pain Points into powerful sales opportunities. 

Sondra shares her journey through the highs and lows of B2B sales, digital gifting, and entrepreneurship. We dive deep into the Pain Points that have defined her path, from balancing multiple roles to driving innovation in a competitive market. Discover how she overcame these challenges to deliver exceptional results across industries. 

Whether you're a seasoned professional in B2B sales, a budding entrepreneur, or someone looking to understand how to navigate the complexities of modern marketing, this episode is for you. Sondra offers actionable insights on how to turn Pain Points into avenues for growth and innovation. Learn from her experience in building successful teams, driving sales, and fostering collaboration across various industries. 

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Pain Points Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Bill Boulden, a seasoned technology leader and serial startip CTO for multiple innovative companies. Bill brings over 15 years of experience navigating the complex landscape of B2B technology, product design, and artificial intelligence. 

As a visionary in technology management, Bill has successfully led teams through the intricate process of product development and technology deployment across various industries. His ability to identify and overcome Pain Points has been instrumental in his journey from a Junior Developer to a Chief Technology Officer, and now as a Fractional CTO for forward-thinking companies like Favordrop and Edgeli, Inc. 

Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a business leader, or someone navigating the challenges of growth and innovation, this episode offers invaluable insights into turning Pain Points into powerful solutions. 

Welcome to another episode of The Pain Points Podcast! In this engaging conversation, we’re diving deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Len Morrissey, Managing Partner at Morrissey Metcalfe and Associates, and published author of "Cursed Gift". With over 16 years of banking experience across two countries and a dynamic transition into entrepreneurship, Len Morrissey shares the key Pain Points he faced while scaling businesses, building high-performing teams, and navigating complex financial landscapes, and ultimately pursuing his dream of writing a book!

As we explore Len Morrissey's career path—from banking at institutions like Citizens Bank, Bank of America, and TD Bank, to leading RAPID_ to a successful sale—we uncover the hidden challenges behind major growth phases. We also dig into how Morrissey Metcalfe and Associates helps small-to-medium businesses tackle some of their biggest Pain Points in securing funds and achieving sustainable growth.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the journey of overcoming obstacles, transforming challenges into opportunities, and turning Pain Points into power moves. Join us as we sit down with the remarkable Nicholle Overkamp, a powerhouse entrepreneur, financial guru, and AI-driven business strategist, to uncover the lessons learned from the toughest moments in her career.

Nicholle Overkamp is the visionary and founder of Wilcox Financial Group LLC and The MoxAi Co., two dynamic companies that are reshaping the way we think about financial empowerment and AI-enhanced business coaching. With a strong commitment to transparency, integrity, and expert execution, Nicholle has dedicated her career to helping individuals and businesses overcome their own Pain Points to achieve success.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with actionable insights, real-world examples, and the wisdom of a leader who has turned every Pain Point into a steppingstone for success. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or simply looking to level up your life, this episode is packed with value for you.

In this episode, Maggie Shea sits down with Steve McMorrow, Founder of the Buffalo Cannabis Network (BCN) and longtime advocate for cannabis normalization and education. 

Steve shares his cross-country journey from LA film schoolto launching a cleaning company for grow facilities in Colorado, to ultimately returning to Buffalo to build an inclusive and informed cannabis ecosystem. Together, Maggie and Steve dive into the real Pain Points of trying to grow something meaningful in a space that’s still misunderstood: 

• How outdated stigma and public confusion keep people from engaging 
• The hidden hurdles of shadow banning and restricted cannabis marketing 
• Why so many businesses don’t realize they can - and should - serve this industry 
• The challenge of building trust and consistency throughevents 
• How to connect the dots between policy, access, andopportunity 
• Turning small meetups into a real movement of support and visibility 
• Why Buffalo’s cannabis scene needs community more than ever 

Steve also shares real feedback from growers andentrepreneurs whose pain points were solved by just showing up - and why that’s the whole point.

If you're trying to enter the cannabis space, support it, orsimply understand it better, this episode is your invitation in. 

Connect with Steve McMorrow & Buffalo CannabisNetwork: 

Website: https://buffalocannabisnetwork.com 

Instagram: @buffalocannabisnetwork 

Email: steve@buffalocannabisnetwork.com 

Connect with StaffBuffalo & CannaWorkforce Solutions: 

StaffBuffalo: https://staffbuffalo.com 

CannaWorkforce Solutions: https://cannaworkforcesolutions.com 

Career Chats: https://staffbuffalo.com/career-chats 

Open Jobs: https://staffbuffalo.com/jobs 

Welcome to another episode of the Pain Points Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories behind the successes and challenges of industry leaders. In this episode, we're thrilled to host Nhi Kha, the CEO and Co-founder of Sativa Remedy Hemp Dispensary in Buffalo. Sativa Remedy is a pioneering force in the cannabis space, dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable hemp products while advocating for education and accessibility.

Tune in to gain insights, find inspiration, and learn how industry leaders navigate their Pain Points to achieve success. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more engaging content!

Join us on the Pain Points Podcast for an enlightening conversation with Matthew K. Pelkey, Partner at Colligan Law LLP, who brings a wealth of experience in high-growth ventures, technology, and business law. In this episode, Matthew shares his remarkable career journey, offering insights into the legal challenges he faced and overcame along the way. Discover how Matthew's practical approach to business law has made him a trusted advisor for startups, entrepreneurs, and established businesses across New York State.

Matthew delves into the major Pain Points he encounters in his practice, from raising capital and structuring deals to navigating regulatory compliance and managing internal investigations. Learn how he helps clients tackle these challenges with strategies that balance legal considerations with business needs.

We also explore Matthew's active involvement in the Western New York startup ecosystem, where he mentors and supports organizations like Upstate Venture Connect, TechStars, and 43North. Hear his perspectives on the Pain Points startups frequently face and the solutions that can drive their success.

In addition, Matthew discusses emerging practice areas such as privacy law, cannabis, autonomous vehicles, and artificial intelligence, highlighting the Pain Points these industries face and how Colligan Law LLP is preparing to address them.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or legal professional, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips for navigating the complex world of business law. Don't miss this engaging conversation with one of the leading voices in the field!

Welcome to another episode of The Pain Points Podcast, where we delve into the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned by leaders across various industries. In this episode, we're thrilled to have Brian Lehman, President of EmergenceTek Group (ETG), join us for an insightful conversation about his 20-year journey in executive management and the IT industry.

Whether you're an aspiring leader in the IT sector, an entrepreneur facing startup challenges, or simply interested in how innovative companies like ETG overcome obstacles, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world examples.

In this episode of the Pain Points Podcast, we sit down with Ryan O’Connor, a Founding Partner and Wealth Management Advisor at Primacy Financial, a multi-specialized wealth management firm. 

Ryan’s path to success is nothing short of inspiring. As a certified Financial Planner professional, he has built a career by offering tailored financial advice and written plans to business owners, high-net-worth individuals, and professionals like physicians and dentists. But like any great success story, Ryan’s journey wasn’t without its Pain Points. Ryan navigates the complexities of scaling a business and the critical decisions that drive growth. He also emphasizes the importance of setting high expectations to ensure you attract the right talent for your business. Lastly, he discusses balancing talent gaps with client satisfaction, ensuring that both client needs, and business objectives are met effectively. 

If you’re looking to gain valuable insights on wealth management, business development, and overcoming your own hiring hurdles, this episode is a must-watch!

In this episode of the Pain Points Podcast, we sit down with Amy Fogle, CEO of one of the fastest growing companies in Buffalo ~ Milestone’s dedication and innovative approach has propelled them into this prestigious ranking, solidifying their position as a leading force in the Settlement Administration and Planning Industry.

We explore how Milestone is transforming post-settlement solutions and streamlining mass tort distribution for law firms with their groundbreaking Pathway platform.

Pathway is restoring transparency in the legal process, bridging the gap between claimants and law firms.

Tune in to learn how Milestone is turning Pain Points into opportunities and paving the way for a more efficient future in legal settlements!

This week we tackle the pain points and challenges that arise in the world of recruitment technologies. Drawing from their extensive experience in the recruitment industry, Partner at StaffBuffalo, Lauren and Talent Optimization Specialist, Hilario explore the various platforms and tools that are essential for modern recruiting. They cover everything from navigating popular job posting sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, Handshake, and LinkedIn, to the nuances of recruitment marketing and the intricacies of applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Tune in as we share insights, tips, and strategies to help you streamline your recruitment process and leverage technology to attract top talent more effectively. Whether you're a seasoned recruiter or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable information to enhance your recruitment toolkit!

Working remotely offers flexibility, but it also comes with pain points. This week, we discuss how to overcome those pain points and build a strong, connected team – no matter where everyone is located! We explore strategies like using video calls for face-to-face connection, leveraging asynchronous communication, voice messages, and staying organized with multiple clocks and planners. We even cover how Hilario, are recruiting support specialist who works 6 hours ahead, keeps projects moving smoothly for the entire team. Whether you're navigating remote work yourself or managing a dispersed team, this episode offers practical tips to foster collaboration and stay engaged, no matter where you work.

We interviews Dr. Jackie, a double-boarded physician in internal medicine and hospice and palliative care, who owns Green Philosophy 716, a local cannabis dispensary. Dr. Jackie discusses her journey into cannabis medicine, sparked by her husband's use of cannabis for PTSD and his desire to move away from pharmaceuticals. This personal experience led her to explore the benefits of cannabis, ultimately opening Green Philosophy 716 to serve the community. 

This conversation highlights the potential of cannabis as an alternative to opioids and other pharmaceuticals, the ongoing fight against stigma, and the dedication required to establish a cannabis business. Dr. Jackie calls for continued education and research to shift public perceptions and deepen the understanding of cannabis' medical benefits. 

This week's episode is all about recruitment. We have provided insights for both job seekers and hiring managers. We discuss the importance of being upfront with recruiters about your goals, and the pain points that arise when job seekers fail to do so. We also explore the benefits of working with a recruiter, especially with a StaffBuffalo recruiter, who can provide guidance and useful resources to job seekers. Moreover, we shed light on the pain points that companies face when hiring and how recruiters can help bridge the gap between their needs and the ideal candidate pool. To help listeners on their job search journey, the episode concludes with a list of valuable resources for job seekers.  

In this episode, we continue our conversation about the pain points faced by startups. We tackle the nitty-gritty of user experience in a growing startup. How having a rock-solid foundation for your team by aligning everyone on your vision and core values is a key element to success. We emphasize the importance of having agile and flexible people on your team who can facilitate growth and implement necessary processes. Additionally, the use of technology such as Microsoft OneNote, Planner, and Teams for training and documentation is highlighted as a strategy for organizational development. Tune in now and learn how to navigate the exciting, yet challenging, world of startups! 

In this episode, Maggie Shea sits down with creative strategist and community leader Lindsay Taylor (Director of Advancement & Development, Buffalo PAL; Founder, Beau Fleuve Music & Arts). 

Lindsay shares his journey from organizing school trips andparties to launching multi-city festivals, community programs, and one of Buffalo’s most dynamic “third spaces.” Together, Maggie and Lindsay dig into the Pain Points of scaling big ideas, sustaining energy, and buildingorganizations that last: 

• The pain points of communicating your mission so everyone “gets it” 
• Fundraising and partnership hurdles in tough economic times 
• Balancing a demanding “day job” with creative pursuits and nonprofit leadership 
• Building authentic relationships that go beyond networking—and why they’re crucial to success 
• Why creatives need both vision and execution to move forward 
• Learning to “marinate” on ideas and focus on what matters most 
• Creating new opportunities for connection and culture in Buffalo’s post-pandemic landscape

Lindsay shares practical advice on navigating setbacks,staying persistent and making real impact through collaboration. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, growing a business, or dreaming up your next project, this episode brings actionable insight from someone who’s been in thetrenches. 

Connect with Lindsay Taylor, His Work, and His Projects: 

• Lindsay Taylor (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseyltaylor/
• Buffalo PAL: https://buffalopal.com
• Beau Fleuve Music & Arts:@beaufleuvemusicarts 

Don’t miss this real look at the Pain Points—and thepayoffs—of building community, connection, and creative endeavors in Buffalo! 

In our latest episode of the Pain Points Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Missy Fogarty. She is an advocate of plant medicine, entrepreneurship, and holistic wellness. As the visionary owner of the Pothead Parent® brand, Missy has spearheaded a movement that celebrates cannabis culture and responsible parenting, challenging stereotypes and fostering informed dialogue. 

During this episode, we discuss several pain points in the cannabis industry, including strategies for marketing oneself and one's business, the challenges of starting a business in the cannabis space, and the vital role of small mom-and-pop, legacy cannabis businesses in competing with larger organizations. Emphasizing the importance of knowing one's audience for successful advertising, Missy advocates for a less formal and more fun and authentic approach, ensuring resonance and connection with consumers. 

Join us as we explore these pressing topics with Missy within the cannabis culture. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment.

This week we welcome our very first guest, Nikki Lawley, Cannabis patient advocate, speaker, and founder of Nikki and the Plant!! Nikki shares her insights and experiences within the Cannabis industry, from the frustrating pain points of securing event permits in New York State to the unpredictable lottery system for business openings. Nikki, also, shares valuable tips for navigating the cannabis community, finding top Cannabis talent, and creating positive customer experiences. Hear from Nikki to learn about her captivating journey firsthand and how cannabis has changed her life. This episode is very informative for anyone interested in the cannabis industry, offering valuable insights from both a business and customer perspective. 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment.

Starting a business is exciting, but navigating the challenges of being a startup can be overwhelming. In this episode, we explore the unique pain points faced by startups and offer valuable insights on finding the perfect talent, building a team with limited resources, and much more. Tune in to gain the knowledge and confidence you need to take your startup to the next level.

In this episode, Carolyn and Sheri, Talent Acquisition Specialists, tackle the staffing pain points confronted by manufacturing companies. We discuss the industry's labor shortage and the impact of temporary workers on productivity. Safety concerns and the need for competitive salaries and diversity in the workforce are also touched upon. Carolyn and Sheri discuss how to address these issues, highlighting the importance of proactive measures for sustained success in manufacturing. 

Welcome to the Pain Points Podcast! Our goal is to engage in meaningful conversations about topics such as Talent Acquisition, Recruiting, Marketing, Human Resources, and more, drawing upon our expertise to offer practical advice and strategies. By delving deep into these issues, we aim to help businesses navigate through their challenges more effectively and ultimately improve their overall success.

In this episode, Lauren Lewis of StaffBuffalo sits down with fellow woman-owned business leader Danielle Bickel, founder of Strokes Painting & Contracting.  

Danielle shares her journey launching Strokes during the height of the pandemic, from working around the kitchen table to managing 14 crews and opening a dedicated shop. With a commitment to integrity, transparency, and culture, Danielle is redefining what it means to lead in the trades.  

You’ll hear:  

• What it really takes to launch and grow a trades business as a woman  
• The pain points of building trust in an industry full of “Dan in a Van” stories  
• Why culture fit beats experience—and how to hire accordingly  
• How offering PTO, 401(k), and options for career growth change employee retention  
• The benefit of building a business with your values—and your family—at the center  
• This is a powerful conversation between two women-owned businesses working to build inclusive, forward-thinking teams that lead with impact.  

🔗 Connect with Danielle Bickel and Strokes Painting & Contracting  

Website: https://paintwithstrokes.com  

Phone: 1-833-GET-STROKES  

Instagram: @strokespaintingwny  

🔗 Connect with StaffBuffalo (Women-Owned Staffing & HR)  

Website: https://staffbuffalo.com  

Jobs: https://staffbuffalo.com/jobs  

Podcast: https://staffbuffalo.com/painpoints  

Instagram: @staffbuffalo  

LinkedIn: StaffBuffalo  

YouTube: @StaffBuffalo  

Don’t miss this inspiring look at how women-owned businesses are changing the game—one Pain Point at a time.

In this transparent and compelling episode, host Maggie Shea visits East Leaf Dispensary, a woman- and family owned, New York State licensed adult-use cannabis retailer in Cheektowaga, NY. Maggie sits down with co-owner, Gina Miller, and team member, Taylor Smith, to dive deep into the real Pain Points of navigating a brand-new cannabis dispensary from scratch. 

From opening a thriving liquor store to opening one of Buffalo’s first fully legal dispensaries, Gina and Taylor share the ups and downs of launching a cannabis business — all while combatting stigma, building customer trust, educating first-time buyers, and managing shifting state regulations. 

We cover: 

• The legacy-to-legal journey and what it really took to launch 
• Pain Points of misinformation, compliance chaos, and stigma 
• How East Leaf educates customers overwhelmed by 500+ brands 
• Creating community connections in a misunderstood environment 
• The reality of vendor selection, inventory decisions, and product variety 
• Competing with the illicit market while staying compliant and transparent 
• Supporting small NYS cultivators and staying rooted in WNY values 
• Building a team that represents the brand — and the community 

Whether you're cannabis-curious, an industry insider, or simply love a great small business story, this episode highlights resilience, grit, and purpose in action. 

📍 Visit East Leaf Dispensary: 

2442 Clinton Street, Cheektowaga, NY 14225 

Shop Online + Order Delivery: 

https://www.eastleafdispensary.com 

Download the East Leaf App on iOS & Android 

COMING SOON: New location opening in East Aurora, NY – Fall 2025! 

Watch the classic 1936 film Reefer Madness: Reefer Madness (1936) Cult Classic | Full Movie | Subtitled 

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposesonly and is not a substitute for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. 

In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode, host LaurenLewis sits down with Tom Akers — founder of Renew Bath + Body and Junk Free Skin — for a raw and insightful discussion on the real Pain Points behind sustainability, innovation, and scaling a purpose-driven business. 

After leaving the fast-food world (yes, he once ownedmultiple Taco Bell and KFC locations), Tom found himself at a crossroads. With a passion for clean skincare and a desire to do something meaningful, he opened Renew Bath + Body in Buffalo, NY. What started as a storefront soon evolvedinto a full-blown manufacturing operation creating water soluble, zero-waste personal care pods designed to eliminate plastic waste. 

We cover: 

• The personal Pain Points that sparked a skincare revolution 
• The staggering truth: by 2050, there may be more plastic in the ocean than sea life 
• How Renew Bath + Body’s pod-based hand soap and body wash is disrupting outdated models 
• Innovating through failure — and how persistence (and donuts) won over international partners 
• The challenge of educating consumers and creating behavior change 
• Landing top-shelf placement at Wegmans and scaling manufacturing operations in Buffalo 
• Why compostable packaging and refillable dispensers matter more than ever 
• The future of sustainable production and how manufacturing consultants and strategy Shift are helping them scale effectively 

If you care about clean products, plastic-free living, andgame-changing innovation from passionate founders, this episode is a must-watch. 

Explore Products: https://www.renewbathandbody.com 

Learn More: https://www.jfskin.com 

Follow Renew Bath + Body’s journey:

 https://www.instagram.com/renewbathandbody 

Connect with Tom Akers:  Tom Akers | LinkedIn 

📍 Based in WNY? Find Renew Bath + Body's products in 100+ Wegmans locations! 

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe soyou never miss a new Pain Points Podcast episode. 

In this episode, Lauren Lewis and Maggie Shea dive deep with Dustin Snyder, founder of Wayforward Associates, to uncover the most common Pain Points that keep companies stuck in cycles of disengagement, turnover, and missed opportunities. 

Dustin shares his journey from labor relations to consultingand reveals the game-changing strategies he uses to help companies identify and resolve the root causes of their biggest Pain Points. You’ll learn how to spot warning signs before they spiral out of control, build a culture whereemployees thrive, and leverage feedback as a powerful tool for growth. 

Ready to stop bleeding talent and start building a winningteam? 

Tune in now for actionable insights and fresh perspectivesthat could transform how you do business. 

🔗 Connect with Dustin Snyder 

🔗 Discover StaffBuffalo’s Recruiting andHR Services 

In this deep and engaging conversation, Maggie sits down with Elle Musialowski, CFO of the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, to talk about the real Pain Points that arise along a high-powered finance and accounting career — and how to move through them with intention, reflection, and authenticity. 

From early beginnings in public accounting to traveling the globe with Praxair/Linde, Elle shares her journey through corporate growth, imposter syndrome, burnout, boundary-setting, and ultimately rediscovering purpose in mission-driven nonprofit work. 

Topics covered include: 

• Finding your career path through internships and networking 
• Navigating Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance and global mergers 
• Identifying the moment when your Pain Points signal a needed change 
• Transitioning from Public Accounting to private sector to nonprofit sectors 
• Setting healthy workplace boundaries (hello, Desk Day Fridays!) 
• Aligning your career with your Life Vision 
• The unique financial and philanthropic operations of the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo 

This episode is for every professional who's ever questioned their trajectory, battled burnout, or tried to balance passion and practicality. Don’t miss Elle’s wisdom about becoming your best advocate, recognizing the signs of change, and embracing your own unique “green zone”!

Connect with Elle: 

Learn more about the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo 

Follow Ellen Musialowski on LinkedIn 

In this episode, Maggie sits down with Melissa Moore, Horticulture Program Co-Coordinator and Cannabis Instructor at SUNY Niagara, to explore the Pain Points of transitioning from the legacy cannabis market to the legal landscape — and what it means for cultivators, educators, and aspiring professionals in the space. 

From Monkeys to Marijuana – Melissa takes us on her unique career path from biological research in Panama to farming in Northern California, where her hands-on work with organic crops and cannabis ignited a passion that brought her back to New York to educate the next generation. 

The Legalization Learning Curve – Discover the real-life struggles of cannabis farmers navigating the harsh realities of compliance, taxation, and limited financial resources in the post-legalization world. 

Building a Cannabis Curriculum – Learn how SUNY Niagara’s cannabis program is providing hands-on experience in cultivation, processing, and culinary applications, setting students up for success in this growing industry. 

Key Pain Points Discussed: 

• The emotional and financial toll of legalization on legacy growers 
• The differences between California and New York cannabis regulations 
• Why small cannabis businesses face steeper barriers than other startups 
• How educational institutions are stepping in to bridge the gap 

Whether you're in cannabis, education, agriculture, orpolicy, this episode is packed with personal insight, professional growth, and thought-provoking conversation around the real Pain Points of the cannabis industry. 

🎓 Learn More About SUNY Niagara’s Cannabis Program: https://niagaracc.suny.edu/academics/cannabis/