Pain Points

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Aug 2026

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About the show

Welcome to StaffBuffalo’s Pain Points Podcast, your go-to source for insightful conversations around the pain points businesses and people face in today's workplace! Our staffing, recruiting, and human resources firm delves deep into the pain points that organizations encounter across various domains. We tackle business pain points head-on, leveraging our knowledge and expertise to talk through potential solutions and explore the intricacies of Talent Acquisition, Recruiting, Marketing, Human Resources, and more! Join us as we engage in real world discussions that not only shed light on the many hurdles businesses encounter, but also on how you can overcome hurdles through the People side of your business. Hear from our team of seasoned professionals, industry experts, thought leaders, and guests! We bring you real stories, practical strategies, and the latest trends in the world of recruiting, staffing, and human resources!

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57 recent

August 18, 2026Episode 601 hr 19 min

Plan Before the Pain: Pain Points of Taxes, Transitions, and Business Ownership

In this episode, Maggie Shea sits down with Ashley Gerhard, CPA, Partner at Sixt Gerhard & Associates CPAs, for a conversation about accounting, entrepreneurship, leadership, succession planning, and the realities of advising small business owners through some of their biggest decisions. Ashley’s path to leadership was anything but linear. She began as a math major, transitioned into accounting and finance, gained experience in managerial accounting, helped her husband operate a business, and eventually returned to the accounting firm where she had first worked as an intern. After years of learning the business from different perspectives, Ashley was approached about stepping into a leadership role and helping carry the firm into its next chapter. That transition officially took place at the beginning of 2020, bringing an unexpected challenge almost immediately. Ashley found herself navigating new ownership at the same time the pandemic disrupted businesses everywhere. From rapidly implementing remote work to helping small business clients understand PPP, ERC, and constantly changing regulations, the experience reshaped both her leadership and the firm. Maggie and Ashley discuss: The Pain Points of transitioning from employee to firm leadership Growing up around entrepreneurship and how it shaped Ashley’s career Why succession planning should begin long before a business owner is ready to leave Buying and selling a business and why the numbers only tell part of the story Taking emotion out of major financial decisions The importance of involving accountants, attorneys, financial advisors, and other professionals early Leading a firm through the uncertainty and burnout of 2020 Hiring the right people instead of simply filling open seats Training younger accountants to understand where the numbers actually come from Helping employees discover the work that energizes them Knowing when a client has outgrown your firm and helping them make the right transition Retirement planning for business owners Estate planning, trusts, beneficiaries, and preparing for the unexpected Why business owners should communicate with their accountant throughout the year, not just during tax season One of the biggest themes throughout the conversation is planning before you are forced to react. 💼 Connect with Ashley Gerhard & Sixt Gerhard & Associates CPAs, PLLC Website: sixtcpa.com Sixt Gerhard & Associates CPAs, PLLC is located in West Falls, New York, between East Aurora and Orchard Park. The firm works closely with small businesses and individuals, with an emphasis on finding the right client fit and providing planning and consulting alongside traditional accounting services. 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

August 4, 2026Episode 5938 min

From the Financial Crisis to Managing Partner: Pain Points of Growing Through Change

In this episode, Maggie Shea sits down with Tina Hassler, Managing Partner at Sandhill Investment Management, for an insightful conversation about career growth, financial planning, leadership, and why relationships will always matter more than market headlines. Tina shares her journey from starting her career in Finance during the 2008 financial crisis to helping lead one of Western New York's premier investment management firms. Along the way, she reflects on the lessons she learned from starting at the ground level, embracing every opportunity, and building a career through hard work, curiosity, and exceptional client service. Together, Maggie and Tina discuss: The Pain Points of starting a Finance career in NYC during the 2008 financial crisis Why every role teaches valuable lessons, even the ones you didn't plan for Building trust with clients during uncertain economic times How emotions influence financial decisions and why having a trusted advisor matters Leadership, mentorship, and growing into new opportunities Why great customer service is still a competitive advantage Navigating market uncertainty without reacting emotionally The importance of finding work that aligns with your strengths and values Preparing the next generation of leaders in today's workplace Tina also shares what it was like stepping into leadership at Sandhill Investment Management and why the firm's success has always been built on long-term relationships, thoughtful planning, and helping clients make confident financial decisions. One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is that success rarely happens overnight. Whether you're building a career, growing a business, or planning for your financial future, consistency, patience, and surrounding yourself with the right people make all the difference. If you're interested in leadership, investing, career development, or simply hearing the story of someone who worked her way from the ground up, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 💼 Connect with Tina Hassler & Sandhill Investment Management Website: sandhillim.com LinkedIn: Tina Hassler 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

July 21, 2026Episode 5833 min

Helping Buffalo Grow: Pain Points of Workforce Development and Community Impact

In this episode, StaffBuffalo recruiter Sam Spizuoco sits down with Russell Bassarath, Professional Development Manager at the Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology (BCAT), to talk about workforce development, career transitions, and the life-changing impact of education. Russell shares his own journey from teacher to leader at BCAT and explains how the organization helps both youth and adult students build the confidence, skills, and support they need to pursue new opportunities. Together, Sam and Russell discuss: The Pain Points of changing careers and starting over Why confidence is just as important as technical skills Helping students prepare for interviews, resumes, and the workplace The impact of mentorship and community partnerships How BCAT connects education with real career opportunities Why creating a safe and supportive environment matters The importance of adapting to today's workforce and technology How volunteers and local businesses help students succeed Russell also shares how BCAT has expanded its programs in healthcare, technology, and the arts while continuing to build strong partnerships throughout Western New York. From mock interviews to career panels and internships, the organization is focused on preparing students for long-term success. One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that everyone's path looks different. Whether someone is changing careers, returning to school, or exploring a new opportunity for the first time, having the right support system can make all the difference. If you're thinking about a career change, looking to build new skills, or simply want to learn more about one of Buffalo's most impactful nonprofits, this episode is well worth the watch. 💼 Connect with Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology (BCAT) Website: Homepage - Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology (BCAT) LinkedIn: Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: StaffBuffalo More Episodes: Pain Points Podcast 🎙 | StaffBuffalo

July 7, 2026Episode 5730 min

Turning Challenges into Purpose: Pain Points of Living Without Limits

In this episode of the Pain Points Podcast, Maggie Shea sits down with Kay Devealt, better known as the Palsy Power Chick, keynote speaker, disability advocate, and founder of Palsy Power Chick Innovations. Kay shares her incredible journey from growing up with cerebral palsy to becoming a nationally recognized advocate for inclusion, accessibility, and workplace equity. She opens up about the barriers she faced entering the workforce, starting her own business, and learning that sometimes the biggest changes begin with one simple conversation. Together, Maggie and Kay discuss: Why inclusion starts with communication, not assumptions The importance of workplace accommodations and open conversations How employers can create more accessible and inclusive environments Building confidence through mentorship and advocacy Turning personal challenges into a mission that helps others Why networking looks different for everyone The value of relationships over transactions Kay also shares how a high school mentor helped her discover the power of her voice, inspiring her to become the Palsy Power Chick and dedicate her career to helping organizations create workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. From speaking on stages to competing in powerlifting events, Kay continues to challenge expectations while encouraging others to embrace possibility instead of limitation. This episode is filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and an important reminder that creating inclusive workplaces starts with listening, learning, and being willing to have honest conversations. 💼 Connect with Kay Devealt & Palsy Power Chick Innovations Website: palsypowerchick.com LinkedIn: Kay Devealt Instagram: @PalsyPowerChick 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

June 23, 2026Episode 5643 min

153 Years of Impact: Pain Points of Meeting a Community’s Changing Needs

In this episode of the Pain Points Podcast, Lauren Lewis sits down with Mary Czopp, Chief Communications and Development Officer at Child and Family Services, for a conversation about the evolving needs of families, the power of storytelling, and the life-changing work happening across Western New York. For more than 150 years, Child and Family Services has been helping children, families, and individuals navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Mary shares how the organization has evolved over time while staying true to its mission of protecting, supporting, and empowering those in need. Together, Lauren and Mary discuss: • The Pain Points of serving a community with constantly changing needs • How Child and Family Services has evolved over its 153-year history • The critical role of foster care, adoption, counseling, and family support services • The growing need for Haven House, Erie County’s only licensed domestic violence shelter • Why storytelling is so important in nonprofit work • Supporting children through some of life’s most challenging circumstances • The importance of employee wellness and supporting those who do difficult work every day • Building awareness around services that many people do not realize are available • How community partnerships help create opportunities for children and families Mary also shares some of the stories that have stayed with her throughout her 16-year career, including the moments that remind her why this work matters and the incredible resilience shown by the families Child and Family Services supports every day. One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that healing and growth rarely happen alone. Whether through counseling, foster care, education, shelter services, or community support, meaningful change happens when people have access to the resources and relationships they need to move forward. If you are passionate about community impact, nonprofit leadership, mental health, family services, or making a difference in the lives of others, this is an episode you will not want to miss. 💼 Connect with Mary Czopp & Child and Family Services Website: cfsbny.org LinkedIn: Mary Czopp 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

June 9, 2026Episode 5544 min

Illuminating Brilliance: Pain Points of Helping Others Reach Their Potential

In this episode, Lauren Lewis sits down with Patti Stephen, President of Buffalo Prep and CEO & Co-Founder of C3 Community, for a conversation about leadership, educational equity, workplace culture, and what it means to truly help people thrive. Patti shares her incredible journey from joining Buffalo Prep nearly two decades ago as a part-time special events coordinator to leading one of Western New York's most impactful nonprofit organizations. Along the way, she discovered a passion for creating environments where people feel valued, connected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Together, Lauren and Patti discuss: The Pain Points of stepping into leadership before feeling fully prepared Building a culture rooted in kindness, trust, and connection Why people want to know they matter and that their work has value The role positive psychology plays in leadership and well-being Supporting employees, students, and families as whole people Creating workplaces where people feel cared for, capable, and connected The importance of educational equity and expanding opportunities for students How C3 Community is helping organizations build stronger workplace cultures Patti also shares the story behind Buffalo Prep's incredible growth, from serving a few hundred students to supporting nearly 800 scholars through academic, wellness, leadership, and equity-focused programming. One of the most powerful themes throughout this conversation is the idea of "illuminating brilliance." Patti believes everyone has unique strengths and potential. Sometimes people simply need the right environment, support system, and encouragement to discover it. Whether you are leading a team, navigating a career transition, or looking for ways to create a stronger culture within your organization, this episode is full of practical insights and inspiring perspective. 💼 Connect with Patti Stephen, Buffalo Prep & C3 Community Website: buffaloprep.com Website: c3community.com LinkedIn: Patti Stephen 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

May 26, 2026Episode 5440 min

Career Growth, Culture and Community: Pain Points of Building Purposeful Work

In this episode, Lauren Lewis visits Say Yes Buffalo and sits down with Collin Gehl, Chief Human Resources Officer, for a conversation about career growth, nonprofit leadership, workforce development, and the importance of helping people see what is possible for themselves. Collin shares his journey from earning an English degree at UB to finding his way into human resources through nonprofit work, organizational leadership, and a passion for helping people grow. His path was anything but traditional, and that is exactly what makes this conversation so relatable. Together, Lauren and Collin discuss: Why career paths are rarely linear The importance of mentorship and professional development Building trust as an HR leader How workplace culture impacts retention and employee satisfaction Why employees need career conversations, not just job descriptions Supporting staff as people first, workers second The importance of leadership development inside organizations How Say Yes Buffalo is helping students from early education through workforce development The impact of apprenticeship programs and career exposure opportunities Collin also talks about how Say Yes Buffalo has grown over the years and the incredible work the organization is doing to support students and families throughout Buffalo and now Niagara Falls. What really stands out in this episode is the focus on people. Whether it is supporting employees, mentoring emerging leaders, or helping students discover career opportunities, the conversation keeps coming back to the same idea: people thrive when someone believes in them and gives them the tools to succeed. If you are navigating your own career path, leading a team, or thinking about workplace culture and employee growth, this episode is packed with insight and perspective. 💼 Connect with Say Yes Buffalo & Collin Gehl Website: sayyesbuffalo.org LinkedIn: Collin Gehl 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

May 12, 2026Episode 531 hr 1 min

International Business, Risk and Reinvention: Pain Points of Evolving Through Change

In this episode, Maggie Shea sits down with David Herer, former CEO of ABC-Amega, for a conversation that spans generations of business, international expansion, family dynamics, and what it really takes to lead through uncertainty. David shares the incredible story of how his family business started during the Great Depression and eventually evolved into an internationally recognized company serving major organizations around the world. From building relationships overseas to navigating leadership transitions inside a family business, David gives an honest look at the highs and lows that came with leading a company for decades. Together, Maggie and David discuss: The challenges of working in a multi-generation family business Growing a company internationally before modern technology existed Building trust and relationships across different countries and cultures Navigating conflict between family and business decisions The importance of bringing in outside advisors and leadership support What happens when major clients suddenly disappear Managing through difficult economic periods and uncertainty Knowing when it is time to step away and sell a business David also shares stories about traveling internationally with his father, building global partnerships, and eventually helping lead ABC-Amega to national recognition, including receiving the President’s “E Star” Award for export service excellence. What makes this episode so interesting is how honest it is. It is not just about success. It is about pressure, responsibility, family relationships, and learning how to adapt over time. If you are part of a family business, leading a company through change, or thinking about long-term succession planning, this conversation is full of lessons you can take with you. 💼 Connect with David Herer & ABC-Amega LinkedIn: David Herer 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

April 24, 2026Episode 5237 min

Building Thurgood: Pain Points of Creating Opportunity in the Trades

Lauren Lewis sits down with Darnell Epps, founder of Thurgood, for a conversation that is both inspiring and incredibly real. Darnell shares his journey from growing up in New York City, facing early challenges, and eventually working his way to Cornell and Yale Law School. But what makes his story stand out is what happened next. Instead of following a traditional legal path, he made a decision most people would never consider. He enrolled in trade school while still in law school. That experience opened his eyes to a much bigger problem. There is a huge gap between skilled workers and the opportunities available to them, and not enough tools to connect the two. That is where Thurgood comes in. Together, Lauren and Darnell talk about: Why more people are starting to take careers in the trades seriously The gap between education, training, and real job opportunities What made him step outside the traditional path and take a risk The challenges of building a tech platform from scratch Why exposure and awareness matter for younger students How Thurgood helps people actually show their skills, not just list them The importance of community, mentorship, and second chances What it really looks like to build something while learning on the fly Darnell also shares how Thurgood is helping students create portfolios, connect with employers, and build real career paths in industries that are in high demand. This episode is a great reminder that success does not always follow a straight line. Sometimes the best opportunities come from doing something completely different. Connect with Darnell Epps & Thurgood Website: thurgood.work Email: darnell@thurgood.work LinkedIn: Darnell Epps Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints

April 1, 2026Episode 5139 min

Why Money Feels So Emotional: Pain Points We Don’t Talk About

In this episode, Lauren Lewis sits down with Christine Mathieu, B. Msc., CMC®, Wealth Coach and Certified Money Coach at Note Advisors, for a conversation that goes way beyond numbers and into how we actually think and feel about money. Christine shares her journey from spending 20 years as a financial advisor to shifting into wealth coaching after realizing something important – logic alone does not drive financial decisions. A lot of the time, fear is what takes over. Together, Lauren and Christine talk through: Why our relationship with money starts earlier than we think How fear and past experiences shape financial decisions The difference between financial planning and wealth coaching Why mindset plays such a big role in how we handle money What scarcity vs. abundance really looks like in everyday life How slowing down decisions can lead to better outcomes The connection between money, identity, and self-worth Why money is not just about numbers, but about behavior Christine also explains how she works alongside financial advisors to support clients in a different way. While advisors focus on the numbers, her focus is on the person behind them and what is driving their decisions. This episode is a reminder that money is not just a financial topic. It is personal, emotional, and often tied to experiences we may not even realize are influencing us. If you have ever felt stressed, unsure, or stuck when it comes to money, this conversation will give you a different perspective. 💼 Connect with Christine Mathieu Website: noteadvisor.com LinkedIn: Christine Mathieu 🤝 Connect with StaffBuffalo & Pain Points Podcast Website: staffbuffalo.com More Episodes: staffbuffalo.com/painpoints