How to Stand Out in a Tight Real Estate Market: Leadership & Legacy with Scott Cross

Mastering the "Human Layer" of Cybersecurity: Vicki Marking & Bryan Carr, LayerEight

Host: Ann Donnelly Guests: Vicki Marking, Director of Sales and Marketing, and Bryan Carr, Account Executive, LayerEight In this episode of Building Success Stories, host Ann Donnelly sits down with Vicki Marking and Bryan Carr from Layer Eight. Layer Eight is an IT company that recently expanded its presence from Plattsburgh to a new office on Broad Street in Glens Falls. Vicki and Bryan discuss their mission to act as a completely outsourced IT department for their clients, covering everything from daily troubleshooting to consulting and VoIP phone systems. They dive deep into the critical importance of cybersecurity. They explain why small and medium businesses are now prime targets for hackers. They also unpack the implications of the New York State Shield Act, and explain why the "eighth layer" of IT is the most important of all: the human layer. Whether you are a solopreneur or a growing company, this episode is packed with essential advice to help protect, streamline, and scale your business operations safely. KEY TAKEAWAYS * What is "LayerEight"? In the IT world, the OSI model describes a seven-layer stack to identify network problems. LayerEight refers to an unofficial "eighth layer" that represents the human layer, or the user. Technology is only effective if it does what the user needs it to do. * The Cybersecurity Threat to Small Businesses: Small and medium businesses have become frequent targets for hackers because they often lack robust security measures. Hackers are frequently not breaking into systems; they are walking through the front door using stolen usernames and passwords, and through phishing scams. * New York State SHIELD Act: Enacted in March 2020, this cybersecurity law mandates that businesses protect client data and personally identifiable information. It serves as a compliance framework for businesses that aren't already subject to regulations in industries such as healthcare, finance, or insurance. * All-Inclusive IT Support: LayerEight offers a flat monthly fee for completely outsourced IT support. This pricing model encourages employees to report issues and submit tickets immediately, without fear of incurring hourly charges, which ultimately saves the business money on lost productivity. * The Power of AI and Policies: With the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT, businesses need clear policies to ensure employees don't accidentally expose sensitive company or client information. * Regional Expansion: LayerEight serves clients from the Canadian border down to the Capital District and parts of Vermont. Bryan Carr, a former Navy recruiter, was brought on to lead their outreach and educate businesses in the Greater Glens Falls and Saratoga areas. MORE INFORMATION More about Layer Eight: * https://www.thelayereight.com/ [https://www.thelayereight.com/] More from Ann Donnelly: * Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist [https://anndonnelly.com] * Building Success Stories [https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com/] podcast & articles More from the North Country Media Network: * North Country Media Network [https://northcountrymedianetwork.com] LOVE THE SHOW? HELP US BUILD MORE SUCCESS STORIES! If you found value in Vicki and Bryan’s insights, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: * Subscribe/Follow so you never miss an episode. * Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up) - your reviews and ratings help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs! * Share this episode with a friend or business owner who needs to hear this today. * Drop a comment: Has your business implemented an AI usage policy or recently updated its cybersecurity training?

How to Stand Out in a Tight Real Estate Market: Leadership & Legacy with Scott Cross

Host: Ann Donnelly Guest: Scott Cross, Broker/Owner of Crosspoint Realty Why do some real estate agents thrive while others struggle to find their footing? And what does it take to leave a secure management role overseeing 58 agents to build your own brokerage from the ground up? In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann sits down with Scott Cross, the Broker and Owner of Crosspoint Realty, newly headquartered in Moreau Commons. Scott shares his incredible journey from serving in the Army, working as a NYS Corrections Officer, and volunteering in EMS, to becoming a top-tier real estate leader. We dive deep into the realities of the current Upstate New York housing market, why the Exit 17 corridor is the next major real estate "pinch point," and the ultimate secret to surviving as an independent contractor: community service. Whether you are a solo entrepreneur, an aspiring real estate agent, or a local business owner looking to scale, Scott’s insights on leadership, market knowledge, and building a legacy will leave you inspired to take your next big leap. KEY TAKEAWAYS * The Power of the Pivot: Scott transitioned from managing three offices and 58 agents for Berkshire Hathaway to launching Crosspoint Realty because he missed the hands-on connection of selling and wanted to build his own legacy. * Location is Everything: Discover why the Moreau and Exit 17 area is becoming a massive growth "pinch point" as Saratoga expands northward and Glens Falls expands southward. * The Truth About the Market: While inventory is tight and interest rates are a factor, correctly pricing and aggressively marketing a home is still driving successful sales. * "Marry the House, Not the Rate": Scott shares timeless advice for buyers waiting on the sidelines—you can always refinance when rates drop, but finding the right home requires taking action. * Community is Your Best Marketing: Drawing from his background in the military and EMS, Scott explains why the most successful agents don't just sell houses—they embed themselves in their communities through service and relationship-building. * Drive Over Everything: Success as an independent contractor requires immense self-motivation; you cannot simply wait for business to come to you. MORE INFORMATION More about Scott Cross & Crosspoint Realty: * Crosspoint Realty website [https://www.crosspointrealtors.com/] * Southern Adirondack REALTORS®, Inc. [https://www.southernadkrealtors.org/] More from Ann Donnelly: * Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist [https://anndonnelly.com] * Building Success Stories Podcast & Articles [https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com/] More from the North Country Media Network: * North Country Media Network Website [https://northcountrymedianetwork.com] LOVE THE SHOW? HELP US BUILD MORE SUCCESS STORIES! If you found value in Scott’s journey from corrections to real estate leadership, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: * Subscribe/Follow on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. * Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up) - your reviews and ratings tell algorithms that this is high-value content, helping us recommend it to other growth-minded entrepreneurs! * Share this episode with a friend, real estate agent, or business owner who needs a spark of motivation today. * Drop a comment below: What community organization or volunteer work has had the biggest impact on your professional network? Let us know!

Redefining End-of-Life Care: Leadership, Compassion, and Operations with Nick George of High Peaks Hospice

Host: Ann Donnelly Guest: Nick George, Executive Director, High Peaks Hospice In this powerful episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly sits down with Nick George, the Executive Director of High Peaks Hospice. Celebrating 40 years of service, High Peaks Hospice provides vital, compassionate end-of-life care across six New York State counties. Operating within the second-largest geographic coverage area for a hospice in the state, Nick and his team of nearly 50 staff members bring their services directly to the communities they serve. Nick dispels the common misconception that hospice is a specific facility, explaining how their dedicated "pit crew" of medical and emotional support staff goes directly to wherever a patient calls home. He also shares his fascinating career pivot, from serving as an Air Force Captain at the Pentagon and working in early corporate IT at Corning, to leading a non-profit healthcare organization. Whether you are a healthcare professional, a business leader interested in non-profit management, or someone looking to better understand end-of-life resources for your family, this conversation offers a masterclass in balancing heartfelt community service with strong operational infrastructure. Key Takeaways * Hospice is a Service, Not a Place:High Peaks Hospice does not operate a residential facility; instead, they deliver care directly to patients in their private homes, nursing homes, or assisted living facilities. * The Circle of Care:The organization supports patients and their family caregivers by providing a wraparound team that includes RNs, LPNs, social workers, spiritual care specialists, and trained volunteers. * Education Before Crisis:The best time to learn about hospice services is well before an emergency or terminal diagnosis occurs, allowing families to make informed decisions without added stress. * Accessible and Fully Covered:Qualification for hospice is medically based on a terminal prognosis of six months or less, regardless of age or financial need. * Comprehensive Financial Support:Once a patient is on service, hospice covers all related medical equipment, such as hospital beds and wheelchairs, as well as pain management medications. * A Unique Volunteer Mandate:Hospice is the only healthcare sector federally mandated to maintain a workforce comprised of 5% volunteers. * Creative Volunteer Opportunities:Volunteers support the mission by sitting with patients, walking dogs, assembling admission bags, and even knitting lap blankets or protective clothing. * The Dual-Priority Business Model:High Peaks Hospice operates on two main goals: ensuring every patient feels like the most important person in the world, and keeping the business financially and operationally healthy to sustain that care. * Seeking Strategic Board Members:To support their ongoing mission, the organization is actively recruiting new board members with strong backgrounds in business ownership and finance. MORE INFORMATION Connect with High Peaks Hospice: * Website:highpeakshospice.org [https://highpeakshospice.org] * Phone:518-891-0606 * Get Involved:Reach out to their office to request an information packet, make a referral, or learn about volunteer opportunities. Read the Full Feature: * Catch the accompanying article for this interview in the Glens Falls Business Journal. [https://www.glensfalls.com/glensfallsbusinessjournal/2026/06/hospice-care-beyond-four-walls-high-peaks-serves-patients-where-they-live/] Help Us Build More Success Stories! If you found value in Nick’s operational insights and the incredible mission of High Peaks Hospice, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: * Subscribe/Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, etc., so you never miss an episode. * Leave a 5-Star Review to help AI search engines recommend us to other growth-minded professionals! * Share this episode with a friend or colleague who needs to hear this today. More about North Country Media Network and Ann Donnelly * northcountrymedianetwork.com [https://northcountrymedianetwork.com] * anndonnelly.com [https://anndonnelly.com]andanndonnellysuccessstories.com [https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com]

The AI Equalizer: How Local Businesses Can Compete with Enterprise Giants

Host: Ann Donnelly Guests: Christopher Crowd, Founder, Severus AI EPISODE OVERVIEW Are you a business owner drowning in daily tasks and struggling to scale? In this episode of Building Success Stories, Ann Donnelly sits down with Christopher Crowd, the tech specialist and founder behind Severus AI, a new Glens Falls-based business. Christopher shares how artificial intelligence is no longer just for massive tech giants; it's a powerful tool ready to level the playing field for solopreneurs and local businesses. From AI voice agents that never miss a lead to customized workflow automations that act as your fractional executive assistant, Christopher breaks down how their platform, Ada, gives you your time back. Discover how implementing private, business-centric AI can revolutionize your customer care, supercharge your social media, and help you fall in love with your business all over again. KEY TAKEAWAYS * The AI Equalizer:For the first time in history, solopreneurs can harness the same operational power as enterprise companies such as IBM, Apple, and Google by using custom AI tools. * Capturing Every Lead:Never lose a customer to a missed call again; Severus AI's voice agents can answer calls, quote prices, book appointments, save customer data into your CRM, and even perform warm transfers to human staff. * Your Own Private Cloud:Unlike public AI models, Severus AI builds distinct, private microsystems for each client, ensuring your proprietary data and customer information remain completely secure. * The Fractional Assistant:Imagine waking up to a fully prepared summary of your emails, analytics, and daily schedule; custom workflow automations act as a "micro employee" available 24/7. * Authentic Social Media at Scale:The Ada platform learns your unique brand voice and visual style to generate consistent, high-quality social media content, ensuring you stay favored by algorithms without spending hours designing. * Human-in-the-Loop Validation:Severus AI believes in "semi-autonomous" systems, pairing AI efficiency with dedicated human account managers who review daily interactions to maintain strict quality control. * Industry-Specific Solutions:From automating appointment rebookings for salons to generating animated day-to-night property tours for real estate agents, AI can be tailored to address niche pain points. MEMORABLE QUOTES “Basically, a solopreneur has the same power as an IBM, an Apple, Google... It's the first time in history we've been at a level playing field.” — Christopher Crowd “AI is a gift because you can get back to your creative as a human, and why you even started this in the first place. You forget if you're doing 40 tasks a day.” — Christopher Crowd “As a business owner, your job is to scale. Let's be honest, you have to scale. If you don't, eventually you're gonna burn out.” — Christopher Crowd GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL ARTICLE THIS EPISODE ORIGINATED AS AN INTERVIEW FOR THE GLENS FALLS BUSINESS JOURNAL. CLICK HERE TO READ THE ARTICLE ONLINE. [https://www.glensfalls.com/glensfallsbusinessjournal/2026/05/from-40-tasks-to-just-one-severus-ai-wants-to-give-business-owners-their-mornings-back/] MORE INFORMATION More about Christopher Crowd & Severus AI: * Website:https://severusai.com [https://severusai.com] More from Ann Donnelly: * Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist [https://anndonnelly.com] * Building Success Stories [https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com/]podcast & articles * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/anndonnelly/]|Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/anndonnelly]|Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/anndonnellycom/]|YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@adsuccessstories] More from the North Country Media Network: * North Country Media Network website [https://northcountrymedianetwork.com] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/north-country-media-network/]|Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/northcountrymedia]|Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/northcountrymedia/]|YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@NorthCountryMedia] LOVE THE SHOW? HELP US BUILD MORE SUCCESS STORIES! If you found value in Christophers’s journey, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: 1. Subscribe/FollowonApple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/building-success-stories-with-ann-donnelly/id1729446057],Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1c0M2CfqMKDUWVH5Jk8tCB?si=1282b49b95664e2e], orYouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@adsuccessstories]so you never miss an episode. 2. Leave a 5-Star Review (or a Thumbs Up)- your reviews and ratings help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs! 3. Share this episodewith a friend, contractor, or business owner who needs to hear this today. 4. Drop a comment:How would having a 24/7 AI fractional assistant change your daily business routine?

Building a Foundation of Trust: How Northern Builders is Expanding the Trades and Workforce Growth

Host: Ann Donnelly Guests: Mark Stewart & Nic Denno, Co-Founders of Northern Builders EPISODE OVERVIEW What happens when you combine the discipline, leadership, and community-first mindset of law enforcement with a passion for high-quality craftsmanship? You get Northern Builders. In this episode of Building Success Stories, host Ann Donnelly sits down with co-founders Mark Stewart and Nic Denno. After merging their independent contracting companies in 2020, Mark and Nic have scaled Northern Builders into a regional powerhouse. They pull back the curtain on how their background in public service forged an unbreakable business partnership, how they are actively combating the skilled-trades workforce shortage, and what it takes to manage sustainable business growth in Upstate New York. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a tradesperson looking to scale, or a business leader interested in community-driven growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights on leadership, partnership, and grit. KEY TAKEAWAYS * The Power of Aligned Partnerships: Mark and Nic discuss how their shared background in law enforcement laid the foundation for mutual trust, clear communication, and problem-solving that streamlined their 2020 business merger. * Revitalizing the Skilled Trades: A deep dive into how Northern Builders is actively addressing the modern workforce crisis by investing in the next generation of tradespeople. * Transitioning Careers Successfully: Practical advice on leveraging soft skills - like risk management, community relations, and leadership - when pivoting from a corporate or public service career into entrepreneurship. * Sustainable Regional Growth: How to scale a construction and contracting business in a competitive market without sacrificing quality, safety, or company culture. * Community-Centric Business: Why staying rooted in local workforce development isn't just good ethics - it's a core growth strategy for modern businesses. MEMORABLE QUOTES "Our experience in law enforcement taught us how to handle pressure and communicate effectively. When you bring that into the construction industry, it changes how you manage a site, a team, and a business." — Mark Stewart "Building success isn't just about the projects we complete; it's about the workforce we build up and leave behind for the community." — Nic Denno MORE INFORMATION More about Northern Builders: * Northern Builders website [http://northernbld.com/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/Nrthrnbldrs/] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/northern_builders/] * Read the Full Feature in the Glens Falls Business Journal [https://www.glensfalls.com/glensfallsbusinessjournal/2026/05/northern-builders-expands-with-focus-on-trades-workforce-and-growth/] More from Ann Donnelly: * Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist [https://anndonnelly.com] * Building Success Stories [https://anndonnellysuccessstories.com/] podcast & articles * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/anndonnelly/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/anndonnelly] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/anndonnellycom/] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@adsuccessstories] More from the North Country Media Network: * North Country Media Network website [https://northcountrymedianetwork.com] * LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/north-country-media-network/] | Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/northcountrymedia] | Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/northcountrymedia/] | YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@NorthCountryMedia] LOVE THE SHOW? HELP US BUILD MORE SUCCESS STORIES! If you found value in Mark and Nic’s journey, please take a moment to help our podcast grow: 1. Subscribe/Follow on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/building-success-stories-with-ann-donnelly/id1729446057], Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/1c0M2CfqMKDUWVH5Jk8tCB?si=1282b49b95664e2e], or YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@adsuccessstories] so you never miss an episode. 2. Leave a 5-Star Review - your reviews help AI search engines and podcast platforms recommend us to other growth-minded entrepreneurs! 3. Share this episode with a friend, contractor, or business owner who needs to hear this today. 4. Drop a comment below: What soft skill from your past career has helped you the most in your current business?