Westchester Talk Radio

Leadership. Heart. Grit. And all under the age of 40. Those are just some of the defining traits of the 2025 Class of Westfair Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty honorees. Nearly 200 guests gathered on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Serafresca at The IC in Stamford, Connecticut, to celebrate these rising stars, recognized for their resilience, innovation, and community impact. The event, launched in 2006 by Westfair Communications, shines a spotlight on young leaders making a difference across Fairfield County. Westchester Talk Radio was on site, with host Joan Franzino speaking with 40 Under Forty honoree Jarred Barnes, Major Gift Strategist with the Connecticut Humane Society, about his work and what the recognition means to him. 

Leadership. Heart. Grit. And all under the age of 40. Those are just some of the defining traits of the 2025 Class of Westfair Business Journal’s 40 Under Forty honorees. Nearly 200 guests gathered on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Serafresca at The IC in Stamford, Connecticut, to celebrate these rising stars, recognized for their resilience, innovation, and community impact. The event, launched in 2006 by Westfair Communications, shines a spotlight on young leaders making a difference across Fairfield County. Westchester Talk Radio was on site, with host Joan Franzino speaking with 40 Under Forty event coordinator Natalie Holland, Events Director at Westfair Business Journal, about the planning that goes into creating a meaningful and inspiring evening for honorees and attendees alike.

 On Monday, June 2, 2025, Leros Meetings and Incentives hosted a Customer Appreciation Industry Bash at Kanopi Events, high above White Plains, NY, to kick off the summer season. Guests enjoyed a delightful "Dinner by the Bite" prepared by Chefs Anthony and Andreia Goncalves. The event also featured Westchester Talk Radio, where host Joan Franzino interviewed Tony Pec, known as the Godfather of Instagram, who shared insights into his life and experiences. 

On Monday, June 2, 2025, Leros Meetings and Incentives celebrated the start of summer with a Customer Appreciation Industry Bash held high above White Plains, NY at Kanopi Events. Attendees savored a delicious "Dinner by the Bite" prepared by Chefs Anthony and Andreia Goncalves. Westchester Talk Radio was on site, where host Joan Franzino had an engaging conversation with Scott Mautner, a transactional attorney, who shared insights about his legal practice and experiences in the field. 

On Monday, June 2, 2025, Leros Meetings and Incentives hosted a lively Customer Appreciation Industry Bash high above White Plains, NY at Kanopi Events to celebrate the start of summer. Guests enjoyed a delicious "Dinner by the Bite" crafted by Chefs Anthony and Andreia Goncalves. Westchester Talk Radio was on site, where host Andrew Castellano interviewed Michael Nyikos, author and son of Leros Point to Point owner Jeff Nyikos, who shared insights about his writing journey and personal experiences. 

It was an afternoon of excitement at the Pop Up Market on the Plaza, held Saturday, May 17, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the scenic Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla! In partnership with 914 Pop Ups, this lively event featured a dynamic mix of local vendors, tasty food trucks, and live music in a beautiful outdoor setting. Westchester Talk Radio host Andrew Castellano catches up with Victoria Rose, CEO of JV Custom Threads, to talk about her company’s journey and what makes this market a must-visit experience. 

In this episode of Westchester Talk Radio, host Joan Franzino recaps the Hospital for Special Surgery’s Day of Wellness, held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the Scarsdale Golf Club in Hartsdale, NY. It was an outstanding day filled with healthy competition, interactive wellness workshops, delicious food, and a strong sense of community. Joan sat down with Nick Wirth, Assistant VP of Strategy and Business Operations, to discuss the event’s goals, the growing emphasis on wellness in healthcare and business, and how HSS is leading the way in promoting healthier lifestyles through meaningful engagement and innovation. 

In this episode of Westchester Talk Radio, host Joan Franzino covers the Hospital for Special Surgery’s Day of Wellness, held on May 19th, 2025 The Scarsdale Golf Club, at 1 Club Way in Hartsdale, NY. The event was an outstanding celebration of health and community, featuring a day full of healthy competition, hands-on wellness workshops, delicious food, and much more—culminating in a lively evening cocktail reception. Joan sat down with Gemma Hart, Senior VP of Corporate Affairs at Danone, to discuss the importance of wellness in both personal and professional settings and how events like this help build a culture of well-being across the community. 

In this episode of Westchester Talk Radio, host Andrew Castellano interviews Phillip Antunes, owner of Longford’s Ice Cream and Frannie’s Goodie Shop, and a proud member of 914INC.’s 15th class of Wunderkinds. Each year, 914INC. honors a group of Westchester’s most talented and innovative professionals under 35 who are making a difference through creativity, leadership, and community engagement. Phillip is featured in the May/June 2025 issue and was celebrated along with his fellow honorees at a special awards cocktail reception on May 20 at the Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club. Listen to hear how Phillip turned sweet ideas into thriving local businesses. 

In this episode of Westchester Talk Radio, host Andrew Castellano speaks with Miranda Bucciero, owner of Flour Power and one of the standout honorees in 914INC.’s 15th annual Wunderkinds class. Each year, 914INC. recognizes a select group of Westchester’s most talented and forward-thinking professionals under 35 who are making a meaningful impact in their industries and communities. Miranda is featured in the May/June 2025 issue and was celebrated alongside her fellow honorees at a special awards cocktail reception held on May 20 at the Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club. Listen to hear her story, entrepreneurial spirit, and what’s baking next at Flour Power. 

In this episode of Westchester Talk Radio, host Andrew Castellano chats with Hugo Velazquez, Founder and CEO of Home Thesis and The Gentleman’s Lab in New Rochelle, and one of this year’s 914INC. Wunderkinds. Now in its 15th year, the Wunderkinds program honors Westchester’s most dynamic young professionals under 35 who are making waves with their innovation, leadership, and community impact. Hugo and his fellow honorees are featured in the May/June 2025 issue of 914INC. and were celebrated at a special cocktail reception on May 20 at the Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club. Listen to hear Hugo’s inspiring journey and entrepreneurial insights. 

In this episode of Westchester Talk Radio, host Andrew Castellano sits down with Kyra Brunner, chief of staff for Assemblyman Matt Slater and one of 914INC.’s 2025 Wunderkinds. Celebrating its 15th year, the Wunderkinds program honors Westchester’s most talented and innovative young professionals under 35. Selected by the editors of 914INC. for their leadership, creativity, and community impact, this year’s class is featured in the May/June issue and was recognized at a special cocktail reception on May 20 at the Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club. Listen to hear Kyra’s story, insights, and what drives her passion for public service. 

In this episode, Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone sits down with Angel Herrera, Unified Administrator for Montefiore Einstein Rehabilitation Medicine and Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, who was honored at Westchester Magazine’s Healthcare Heroes Luncheon on May 15th, 2025, held at Mulino's at Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester, NY. The event celebrated exceptional individuals making a meaningful impact on healthcare in the community. Angel shares insights into his role in rehabilitation medicine and the importance of leadership and teamwork in delivering compassionate patient care. Tune in for a conversation celebrating dedication and excellence in healthcare. 

In this episode, Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone interviews Dr. Arnar Geirsson, Director of the Cardiovascular Institute and the Surgical Heart Valve Program at NYP Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Dr. Geirsson was one of the honorees at Westchester Magazine’s Healthcare Heroes Luncheon on May 15th, 2025, held at Mulino's at Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester, NY - an event that brought together outstanding individuals who have made remarkable contributions to healthcare in the community. Dr. Geirsson shares insights into advancements in cardiac care, his passion for patient-centered innovation, and what this recognition means to him. Don’t miss this conversation celebrating healthcare leadership and excellence. 

In this episode, Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone speaks with Dr. Vikas Grover, Chair of Rehabilitation Sciences at New York Medical College and one of the distinguished honorees at Westchester Magazine’s Healthcare Heroes Luncheon on May 15th, 2025, held at Mulino's at Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester, NY. The event celebrated individuals who have made a profound impact on healthcare in the community, with stories of dedication and compassion showcased in the May issue of Westchester Magazine. Dr. Grover shares his perspective on rehabilitation sciences and the importance of education and innovation in patient care. Tune in for an inspiring conversation from a day dedicated to recognizing healthcare excellence. 

In this episode, Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone takes you inside Westchester Magazine’s Healthcare Heroes Luncheon, held on May 15th, 2025 at Mulino's at Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester, NY. The event honored exceptional individuals who have made a lasting impact on healthcare in the community. Bob sits down with honoree Dr. Dean Straff, Director of Emergency Services at White Plains Hospital, to discuss his frontline experiences, leadership in critical care, and what it means to be recognized for his service. Their conversation offers a glimpse into the dedication and resilience that define this year’s Healthcare Heroes.

In this episode, Westchester Talk Radio host Bob Marrone brings you highlights from Westchester Magazine’s Healthcare Heroes Luncheon, held on May 15th, 2025 at Mulino's at Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester NY. The event celebrated outstanding individuals who have made meaningful contributions to healthcare in the community. Bob speaks with Brittaney Jones, Healthcare Services Director for Broadview Senior Living at Purchase College, about her role at Broadview, and the importance of compassionate care, 

Join Westchester Talk Radio for a special episode highlighting The Nick Loeb Foundation’s 4th Annual "Party With The Police," happening Saturday, June 28, 2025 in Purchase, NY. WTR host Andrew Castellano sat down with founder and event host Nick Loeb.This inspiring event brings the community together in support of our local police officers and their families. All proceeds go toward scholarships that help cover college costs for the children of first responders—many of whom don’t qualify for financial aid and struggle to afford out-of-state or top-tier schools. The foundation believes every child deserves access to the education they dream of, and this event is all about giving back to the families who give so much to our communities. Tickets and more information about the 2025 "Party With The Police" event found at thenickloebfoundation.com.

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Westchester Talk Radio was on-site at the New Rochelle YMCA for Healthy Kids Day - a nationwide initiative focused on promoting mental and physical health and safety for families. This vibrant community fundraiser welcomed the public for a day of fun, fitness, and education, with games, food, local vendors, and engaging activities for all ages. Host Bob Marrone spoke with Jessica Antonini Remillard, New Rochelle YMCA Franchisee

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Westchester Talk Radio was on-site at the New Rochelle YMCA for Healthy Kids Day—a nationwide initiative focused on promoting mental and physical health and safety for families. This vibrant community fundraiser welcomed the public for a day of fun, fitness, and education, with games, food, local vendors, and engaging activities for all ages. Host Bob Marrone spoke with Jennifer Ryan Safsel, New Rochelle YMCA CEO