Talking Cities with Matt Enstice And Friends

Welcome to this week's episode of Talking Cities! Join us as Juweria Dahir, the Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at BNMC, engages in a captivating conversation with Raquel Calhoun, the CEO and owner of Calhouncustomcreations LLC Bakery and Event Boutique. Raquel Calhoun leads a registered NYS Home Based Bakery in Western New York, specializing in crafting beautiful, tasty, and trendy custom cakes, cookies, and desserts. Her business isn't just about providing sweet treats; it's about adding an extra spark to life's special moments. Beyond baking, Raquel and her team are on a mission to spread the joy of celebrating life's milestones. They actively support local small businesses, emerging entrepreneurs, and Buffalo's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Calhouncustomcreations is more than just a bakery—it's a hub for cultural creatives to learn, grow, and celebrate their successes together. Join us as we delve into Raquel's journey, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her dedication to building a thriving community. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that will leave you craving both sweet treats and entrepreneurial empowerment. Welcome to Talking Cities! To learn more about Talking Cities Podcast visit www.BNMC.org

Join us on this week's episode as Juweria Dahir, Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at BNMC, sits down with Shantelle Patton, the visionary behind That Brown Bag Minority Business Directory in Buffalo, NY. Shantelle Patton is a true champion for minority-owned businesses, exemplifying dedication and passion in her mission to uplift marginalized entrepreneurs. In 2018, she took her advocacy a step further by creating Buffalo's renowned Minority Business Directory, affectionately known as 'That Brown Bag.' As the driving force behind this initiative, Shantelle has tirelessly worked to bridge the gap between minority business owners and essential resources, empowering them to thrive in their respective industries. Through 'That Brown Bag,' Shantelle has not only provided a vital resource for consumers eager to support Black-owned businesses but has also catalyzed increased visibility and recognition for these enterprises across Western New York. Tune in as we delve into Shantelle Patton's inspiring journey and her invaluable contributions to the local business community. Welcome to Talking Cities! To learn more about Talking Cities Podcast visit www.BNMC.org

Welcome to this week's episode of Talking Cities, where innovation and entrepreneurship take center stage! Join our host, Juweria Dahir, the Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at BNMC, engages in a captivating conversation with Mariam Sadawi, the dynamic founder of Hint Juice & Smoothie Bar. In this inspiring episode, we delve into Mariam's incredible journey, starting as a first-year MBA student with a vision rooted in personal health challenges. Mariam's commitment to health and wellness shines through in the story of Hint Juice & Smoothie Bar, showcasing unparalleled resilience and entrepreneurial prowess. Notably, Mariam's achievements have reached new heights, earning her a well-deserved feature in Buffalo Business First among the prestigious 'Inno 5 Under 25.' This recognition highlights her significant impact as one of the young entrepreneurs shaping the future. Educationally, Mariam brings a wealth of knowledge, having graduated from the University at Buffalo with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, concentrating in Entrepreneurship. Her life path, marked by extraordinary resilience, unfolds from being born in Iraq to seeking refuge in the United States in 2011, escaping a civil war in Syria. Join us as we uncover Mariam's remarkable story, exploring the intersection of education, entrepreneurship, and personal resilience. Welcome to Talking Cities, where extraordinary journeys inspire and innovative minds converge. Tune in now to gain insights from Mariam Sadawi! To learn more about Talking Cities Podcast visit www.BNMC.org

On this week episodes the BNMC Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Juweria Dahir sits with Jillian Hanesworth Founder of Literary Freedom LLC and Former Poet Laureate of Buffalo NY Jillian Hanesworth, founder of Literary Freedom LLC, is making waves in the literary world for her Emmy-nominated collaboration with the Buffalo Bills on the “Choose Love: Buffalo Bills Honor East Buffalo” video. An IC Success Business Accelerator Alum, Hanesworth is dedicated to expanding literary access to communities of color and historically excluded communities. Her business Literary Freedom LLC was established by Hanesworth in 2021 with the aim of providing educational tools and empowering individuals to use the arts to share their stories and uplift their experiences. Recognizing the pivotal role that poetry, music, visual art, dance, and traditional storytelling have played in sharing Black stories, Literary Freedom strives to uphold these traditions. Let’s listen in as we learn more about Jillian Hanesworth, welcome to Talking Cities

On this week episodes the BNMC Director of Inclusion & Community Initiatives, Kyria Stephens sits with Trina Burruss the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County President and CEO. Trina Burruss brings to the role a wealth of experience in the financial services industry, along with over 30 years of serving in community and volunteer leadership roles. During her banking career, Burruss led community initiatives that developed relationships with nonprofits and invested millions of dollars in philanthropic support into helping community members build the financial well-being they need to thrive. Her efforts led to, among other things, the opening of a new Northwest branch office in East Buffalo, launching new community financial wellness initiatives and shepherding internal and external practices to advance diversity, equity and inclusion. Burruss’s professional and personal accomplishments led United Way to invite her to serve on its Strategic Planning Task Force in 2019 and afforded her an opportunity to help shape the organization’s future direction. From there, she served on the Board of Directors until she saw an opportunity to align her leadership skills and passion for the community and pursued the Chief Operating Officer role at United Way, which she assumed in July of 2021. Let’s listen in as we learn more about Trina Burruss, welcome to Talking Cities.

On this week's episode the BNMC Director of Inclusion & Community Initiatives, Kyria Stephens sits with David Rust Chief Executive Officer and founding Executive Director of Say Yes Buffalo. Since accepting the post almost eight years ago, he has steadily built a coalition of staff and partners focused on fulfilling one of the most significant community renewal efforts undertaken in the region’s history. Through the promise of a free-tuition scholarship program, Say Yes Buffalo scholars are eligible to attend more than 150 private and public institutions, including Harvard, Columbia, Notre Dame, Northwestern, and the University at Buffalo, as well as many two-year community colleges, trade schools, and certificate programs. In addition, Mr. Rust has recruited and then empowered a dedicated and talented staff and built a coalition of public- and public-sector partners. Under his leadership, Say Yes Buffalo has grown into an economic development engine and a best-in-class non-profit organization that serves as a national educational partnership model. Listen, Learn, Share! For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week's episode the BNMC Director of Inclusion & Community Initiatives, Kyria Stephens sits with Tayrin Tapia, Visionary and Chief Empowerment Officer of Latinas Evolving. Tayrin Tapia is a well-respected business consultant and an advocate for Latinas' empowerment and progression. Through her work, she strives to make a significant and positive impact on their lives and the community as a whole. Tayrin is also the visionary behind Latinas Evolving. Her mission with this initiative is to empower Latinas by offering them resources, opportunities for access, safe spaces, and inspirational programs. She aims to address topics that directly impact the growth and development of Latinas, fostering their personal and professional advancement. Let’s listen in as we learn more about Tayrin Tapia, welcome to Talking Cities. Listen, Learn, Share! For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week episodes the BNMC Director of Inclusion & Community Initiatives, Kyria Stephens sits with Dr. Stephen J. Turkovich, President and Chief Medical Officer, Oishei Children's Hospital and Maternal & Child Health. Stephen J. Turkovich, MD, was named president of Oishei Children’s Hospital in November 2022. He maintains his title as chief medical officer of Oishei Children's Hospital and Maternal & Child Health, a role he has held since September 2021. As president, Dr. Turkovich leads one of only 43 freestanding hospitals in the United States and the only freestanding children's hospital in New York State. He is responsible for managing daily hospital operations, including clinical, ancillary and support services, community physician relations and so much more! Join the conversation as Kyria and Dr. Turkovich discuss his journey to be a Doctor, his why and the importance of humanity in the medical field. Listen, Learn, Share! For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week's episodes the BNMC Director of Inclusion & Community Initiatives, Kyria Stephens sits with Talia Rodriguez Associate Director of the West Side Promise Neighborhood, and Rachael Ireland Social Impact & Community Engagement Specialist. As anchors in the fight against hunger Talia and Rachael sat with Kryia and discussed their roles at the intersection of food access, understanding that food is culture and that there is another language spoken by almost all community residents: the language of food. As a fifth-generation Buffalonian, Talia is responsible for facilitating the relationships that help feed those in need throughout the West Side. And because of her upbringing, she understands that the issue of food insecurity is often compounded by certain social realities. Listen in as the ladies discuss ways they are helping to improve access to food for those who need it most. Listen, Learn, Share! For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week's episode, the BNMC Director of Inclusion & Community Initiatives Kyria Stephens sits with Zeneta Everhart Director of Diversity & Inclusion for New York State Senator Tim Kennedy of the 63rd District. Zeneta B. Everhart is a Buffalo native, born and raised on the East Side. She holds an Associate’s Degree from Villa Maria College and a degree from Canisius College, where she studied TV Production and Interpersonal Communication. She graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Upon graduation, she accepted a position with Spectrum News Buffalo, as a breaking news photographer, and eventually became a Producer. After six years of working in news and media, Everhart made the career leap into politics, accepting a position with New York State Senator Tim Kennedy of the 63rd District. She now serves as his Director of Diversity and inclusion, focusing on ensuring equity through legislation, policy, and the equitable distribution of resources. Zeneta story is not done and she has so much more happening. Listen in as Kyria and Zeneta discuss where she is now, what’s new and how life activities has changed her life completely. Let’s listen in as we learn more about Zenta Everhart, Welcome to Talking Cities For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week's episodes the BNMC Director of Inclusion & Community Initiatives, Kyria Stephens sits with Hon. April N.M. Baskin, Chair Erie County Legislator District 2. As a Buffalo native April N. McCants-Baskin is a devoted community advocate for equity and social justice. In 2017 April was elected to represent District 2 of the Erie County Legislature. District 2 is the most diverse district in Erie County, as it contains the region’s wealthiest and poorest neighborhoods, as well as being home to immigrants and refugees from dozens of nations from around the world. Immediately upon taking office Baskin was selected to serve as the Majority Leader. A year later, her colleagues elected her Chairperson of the Legislature in the spring of 2019, making her the youngest person and the first freshman to serve as Chairperson in the history of the Erie County Legislature. Join in on the conversation with Kyria and Hon. April N. M Baskin. Let’s listen in as we learn more about Hon. April N. M. Baskin, welcome to Talking Cities For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week's episodes, the BNMC Director of Community Wellbeing Beth Machnica sits with Julie Blackman, owner and operator of Farmers & Artisans. Julie is the sixth generation working at her family’s business, Blackman Homestead Farm. Their farm was established in 1852 and continues to be owned and operated by her parents. Julie went back to the farm and gave up her healthcare career to expand the retail opportunities at their farm. She developed a value-added product line including fruit butters, sauces, and juices. She started participating in the summer and winter Elmwood Bidwell Farmers Markets, where the network of farmers and producers was formed. Julie continues to work to connect the community to NY family farms. Let’s listen in as e learn more about Julie Blackman, welcome to Talking Cities For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week’s episode we sit down with Juweria Dahir, The BNMC’s Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Juweria is a dynamic leader in the world of innovation, entrepreneurship. She is also an adjunct professor of Business and Entrepreneurship at Daemen University, where she shares her expertise with the next generation of leaders. Listen in as we discuss her journey to Buffalo, experience of working in government and why working with entrepreneurs is her passion and more! Let’s listen in, welcome to Talking Cities. Listen, Learn, Share. For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week episodes the BNMC Director of Community Wellbeing Beth Machnica sits with Gizelle Hinson Gizelle Hinson is the Principal Consultant of the Mindful Institute and Co-Owner of the Rooted Lounge in Buffalo, NY. And a longtime partner with the BNMC Health and Well-being department. The ladies dive right in to the conversation on why Gizelle decided to start the mindful institute, why mental health is important, especially in the community and what was her driving force behind creating the Rooted Lounge and more! Let’s listen in, welcome to Talking Cities. Listen, Learn, Share. For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

On this week episodes the BNMC Director of Community Wellbeing Beth Machnica sits with Allison DeHonney, Founder and Executive Director of Urban Fruits and Veggies/Buffalo Go Green. ​Allison has 20 years of professional service in key areas of Executive leadership, Project Management and Business Development. Allison has spearheaded four business endeavors; the latest of which is Urban Fruits & Veggies LLC. & Buffalo Go Green Inc. which is a non-profit organization. Urban Fruits & Veggies (UFV) has been in operation for five years and is involved in several projects throughout the city of Buffalo and Erie County. UFV has an urban farm, mobile produce market that services food apartheid areas and underserved communities bringing access to healthy fruits & vegetables and nutrition education. UFV sells at local farmers markets weekly from June to October, has a corporate wellness division where they imbed their services into local companies and partner with organizations on wellness initiatives, and offer programming for elementary and high school students where we teach nutrition education and urban farming. The ladies dive right in to the conversation about why Urban Farms are important, what is food system, food access and more! Let’s listen in, welcome to Talking Cities. Listen, Learn, Share. For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

Welcome back to the BNMC Podcast Talking Cities with Matt Enstice and Friends! We are happy to be getting back to providing you with cultivating conversations as we discuss healthier, more sustainable communities and exploring the beauty and creativity in it all. As you can see we’ve added friends to the podcast so Matt Enstice will not be your only host but you will be educated and entertained by some of our team thought leaders. On this episode the BNMC President and CEO Matt Enstice sits with the Health and Well-Being team Marla Guarino, Purnima Mohan and Elizabeth Machnica as they discuss the importance of health and well-being in our community, the most recent White House Conference on Hunger Nutrition and Health, and the BNMC 2 Annual Food as Medicine Symposium. Listen, Learn, Share. For more information about the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus visit www.BNMC.org Stay connected with us on social media! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BnmcInnovates Twitter: https://twitter.com/BnmcInnovates Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bnmcinnovates/

With Buffalo Homecoming just around the corner, today we're featuring Jack Connors, event co-director and former president and publisher of Buffalo Business First. We cover everything from Jack's long career in the news businesses and the story behind launching Buffalo Business First to his latest gig spurring investment in the city he loves.

In this episode, Craig talks about The World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara and the extensive network of the World Trade Centers Association; his varied career in media, PR, economic development and government relations and how these experiences shaped him for the job he has today; and how blockchain technology is the future of trade and moving product.

In this episode, Matt chats with Wayne Roberts, history buff and food policy expert from Toronto, ON. Wayne shares his thoughts on what makes a great food city and how immigration is the secret sauce; the importance of youth's voices on councils and in decision making; and the various food movements he's seen throughout the world.

In this episode, Matt talks with Bridget Niland, Director of Project Play, about the impact of youth sports and how they help prepare kids for the 21st century economy; ways to encourage youth in the city to think about their play spaces differently, particularly through "free play"; and her thoughts on the role of technology and the future of sports.