Advertise on podcast: Rochester Living with Mark Siwiec and Corey James Moran

Elaine Spaull brings decades of leadership, perspective, and passion to a conversation centered on impact, resilience, and the future of Rochester. From her work leading The Center for Youth to launching initiatives that directly support vulnerable populations, Elaine shares what it really takes to create lasting change in a community.Along the way, we discuss philanthropy, the challenges facing young people today, and how small, consistent acts of kindness can still make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. 

Dave Dollinger is back on Rochester Living for a wide-ranging discussion on the challenges shaping Rochester’s real estate market. From the ongoing inventory shortage to the emotional realities buyers are facing, this conversation highlights what it takes to navigate today’s environment.We also discuss Rochester’s growing appeal to out-of-town buyers and why the region may be positioned well for the future.

WHEC meteorologist Stacy Pensgen joins us for an inside look at forecasting in Rochester, from tracking fast-moving lake effect storms to communicating critical weather updates to the community. Stacy shares what it takes to deliver accurate forecasts in one of the most unpredictable regions in the country, along with the pressure and responsibility that comes with it. We also get into how weather impacts daily life across Rochester, what viewers may not realize about the forecasting process, and the evolving role of local meteorologists in today’s media landscape.

Sheriff Todd Baxter joins Mark and Corey for a thoughtful discussion about the realities of public safety in Rochester today. The conversation touches on emerging technology, changing expectations in law enforcement, concerns around scams and retail theft, and the importance of maintaining trust between officers and the community. It is an insightful look at what has changed, what still needs attention, and what local leadership looks like in a complicated moment.

In this episode of Rochester Living, Rev. Jen Crow joins us for a powerful conversation about compassion, community, and how people respond in moments of crisis. From stories of clergy and neighbors standing together to protect vulnerable members of their community, to reflections on fear, courage, and moral leadership, this episode explores what happens when people choose connection over division. At its core is a simple but powerful idea: in difficult moments, communities often move toward each other rather than away. Rev. Crow also shares how acts of solidarity in places like Rochester have inspired people across the country to stand up for their neighbors and tell the stories that bring humanity back into the conversation.

Kate McBride joins the show to talk about the planning, history, and community impact behind the Tops Rochester St. Patrick’s Day Parade. What looks like one afternoon of celebration actually takes a full year of preparation from a dedicated team of volunteers. Each year, the parade draws tens of thousands of spectators, features more than 100 entries, bands from across New York State, Irish dancers, community organizations, and floats that fill downtown Rochester with music and celebration. The parade kicks off Saturday, March 14 at 12:30 PM, starting at East Avenue and Alexander Street and ending at Main and Fitzhugh. 

When Mark Cuddy took the helm at Geva Theatre in 1995, the organization was facing a $1.3 million deficit and a shrinking subscriber base. What followed was nearly three decades of steady leadership, artistic risk, and institutional stability that helped preserve one of Rochester’s cultural jewels. In this episode, Mark opens up about audience habits, post-pandemic recovery, artistic courage, and why he chose to launch his new venture, The Classics Theatre Company.

Rochester is now home to one of the nation’s 60 NCI-designated cancer centers. Dr. Jonathan Friedberg explains the eight-year journey, the 1,400-page applications, and why this achievement positions our region as a leader in cancer research and treatment. From immunotherapy and precision medicine to cellular therapies and AI, the future of cancer care is being built right here in Western New York.

What started as one man’s bold idea to preserve historic buildings has grown into the third-largest living history museum in the country. Becky Whaley shares how her grandfather’s vision became Genesee Country Village & Museum and what it means to lead it into its 50th year. Joined by Matt Walls and Jess Duma, we talk maple traditions, 19th century brewing, War of 1812 reenactments, and a powerful Fourth of July reflection that connects Rochester’s past to its present.

Meghan Mundy’s journey through fashion has taken her from Madison Avenue boutiques to some of Rochester’s most memorable runway shows. She opens up about building Rochester Fashion Week, raising millions for local charities, and why treating people with respect has been the foundation of her success. A thoughtful look at creativity, reinvention, and community impact.

Professor and education leader Shaun Nelms brings decades of experience into a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, systems change, and educational equity. Shaun reflects on his work transforming East High School, why culture must come before metrics, and how leaders can balance urgency with patience. 

Pauly Guglielmo returns for a wide-ranging conversation on entrepreneurship, leadership, and building something that lasts. From scaling Craft Cannery and navigating long-term growth decisions to lessons learned from early career setbacks, Paul shares what it really takes to build a sustainable business. 

Supporting children and families during their most difficult moments takes compassion, coordination, and a deep understanding of the systems involved. Mary Whittier of the Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester joins the show to share how their team works alongside law enforcement, medical professionals, and social services to create safer outcomes for children across our community. We also discuss prevention, education, and why early intervention plays such a critical role in long-term well-being.

Nick Mancuso, owner of Elevate Gym, joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on fitness, wellness, and what it actually takes to build habits that last.Nick shares why most New Year fitness goals fall apart, how Elevate approaches total wellness beyond the traditional gym model, and why culture and community matter just as much as training. We also get into recovery trends like cold plunges and infrared saunas, plus what Nick is building next as Elevate continues to grow in Rochester.

Congressman Joe Morelle joins Rochester Living for an in-depth conversation on leadership, governing during unprecedented political division, and what his role in Congress means for Rochester. From national policy and election integrity to securing real investment for our region, Joe offers a thoughtful look at how decisions in Washington directly impact our community.