How One Family Reversed the “Irreversible” | Jorge Urquiola on Autoimmune Disease, Functional Medicine & HopeThis episode of LocalBizCast is one of the most emotional, inspiring, and thought-provoking conversations we’ve had to date.Dr. Pete sits down with Jorge Urquiola, author of Lessons Learned From My Commute, to discuss a story that began with fear, uncertainty, and a devastating diagnosis—and evolved into a journey of discipline, healing, faith, and transformation.Jorge grew up in West New York, NJ and spent over 30 years working for major Wall Street banks, living the fast-paced corporate life. But everything changed in 2015, when his daughter—an elite student and athlete just one year prior—was diagnosed with Autoimmune Hepatitis.The diagnosis was severe.Doctors warned the family that she was headed toward a liver transplant, and the long-term medication options came with serious potential side effects, including:LymphomaInfertilityHair lossLifelong immune suppressionJorge and his wife faced an impossible decision.They were not trying to reject conventional medicine—but they needed to understand why this was happening. They wanted to search for the root cause.That decision changed their lives forever.In this episode, Jorge opens up about:Their search for functional medicine practitionersThe role of gut health and inflammation in autoimmune diseaseEnvironmental triggers and toxic exposuresAntioxidant therapies, supplementation, and detoxificationBuilding an anti-inflammatory lifestyleMindset, discipline, habits, and surrounding yourself with the right peopleAnd then came the outcome no one expected.Just one year after beginning this integrative approach, Jorge’s daughter was completely off all medications.And six years later, she had fully reversed the cirrhosis in her liver.Let that sink in.This episode is not about rejecting medicine.It’s about asking deeper questions, taking ownership of health, and refusing to give up when the odds feel impossible.Jorge’s book, Lessons Learned From My Commute, goes far beyond illness. It’s about:Creating healthy habitsMental toughness and self-disciplineNutrition and fitnessDetoxification and mindsetBecoming intentional about the people and environments around youThis conversation will challenge the way you think about healing, resilience, and what’s possible when people are willing to fight for their family.🎧 Listen now to hear Jorge Urquiola’s incredible story and the journey that inspired him to write Lessons Learned From My Commute, available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.👉 And if you’re enjoying LocalBizCast, please like, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms so we can continue bringing you powerful stories like this one.Some stories entertain you.Others stay with you forever.Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners,entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

From Corporate Beauty to Craft Bread | Kat Baharyan & the Rise of Sourdough by KatThis episode of LocalBizCast hits different—because it’s not just about business.It’s about purpose, family, health, and building something real from the ground up.Dr. Pete sits down with Kat Arsho Baharyan, founder of Sourdough by Kat, and her journey is as rich as the bread she bakes.Kat grew up in an Armenian household where bread was everything. But it wasn’t until later in life—after building a career in luxury beauty and marketing with brands like L’Oréal, Estée Lauder, Bobbi Brown, and Lancôme—that bread became her calling.The turning point?Her husband’s Crohn’s disease.His body couldn’t tolerate traditional bread, and instead of accepting that, Kat went to work. She researched, tested, failed, refined—and discovered that true sourdough, made the right way, is entirely different.That’s when everything changed.In this episode, Kat breaks down:Why real sourdough is not supposed to taste “sour”How ingredients, fermentation, and process completely change digestibilityThe gut health benefits of properly made sourdoughWhy mass-produced bread doesn’t even come closeThe time, precision, and patience required to do it rightThis isn’t baking. This is craft.Kat has perfected her process, but it comes with a tradeoff—time. Each loaf takes so long to produce that she’s intentionally capped on how many she can make each week. No shortcuts. No compromises.She even went through the rigorous process to become licensed to bake out of her home, passing a difficult certification to do things the right way from day one.And now, she’s building something bigger.Kat shares her vision of creating a community of “loavers”—people who care about quality, health, and connection. Her next step? A pickup window storefront, where customers can order ahead and grab fresh sourdough straight from the source.Oh—and wait until you hear about the cinnamon rolls.We even break bread live on the podcast, and yes… it’s as good as you think.If you care about:Gut health and real foodEntrepreneurship with purposeBuilding a brand from passionOr just want to understand what real bread is supposed to beThis episode is a must-listen.🎧 Listen now to hear how Kat turned a personal challenge into a growing brand—and why Sourdough by Kat is more than just bread.👉 And if you’re enjoying LocalBizCast, like, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.This is what happens when passion meets patience—and refuses to cut corners.Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners,entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Engineering a Smile—and a Business | Dr. Barry Elaahi of Align OrthodonticsThis episode of LocalBizCast is where precision meets purpose.Dr. Pete sits down with Dr. Barry Elaahi, founder of Align Orthodontics, and his story is a perfect blend of engineering, dentistry, and entrepreneurial grit.Barry grew up in Rockland County, NY, the son of a dentist and an engineer—and somehow, he became both.He attended Cornell University, earning a degree in engineering while quietly completing all the prerequisites for dental school. That dual path led him to Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine, where everything clicked.In his third year, he discovered orthodontics—and realized it was the perfect intersection of mechanics, biology, and aesthetics.From there, the path was set.But the real story begins after school.Barry worked as an associate across New Jersey and New York City, commuting from Rockland, even moving back in with his parents “for a few months”… which turned into years. And then—one moment changed everything.He walked into a practice in New City, NY, saw an opportunity, and asked the 80-year-old orthodontist a simple question:“Are you ready to retire?”The answer? Yes.That moment launched his journey as a business owner.In this episode, Barry breaks down:The leap from associate to owner—and everything that comes with itHiring, building, and leading a high-level teamThe ups and downs of growing a practice organicallyHow his success in Rockland led to opening a brand new, custom-built office in Montvale, NJDesigning a practice from scratch—layout, workflow, patient experience, even paint colorsBut this conversation goes deeper than business.Barry explains how orthodontics isn’t just about straight teeth—it’s about:FunctionConfidenceLong-term healthHe treats patients from age 7 to 70, tailoring care to each individual, and even dives into his residency thesis, where he began exploring how orthodontics can play a role in helping patients with sleep apnea.This is next-level thinking.If you’re into:Entrepreneurship in healthcareBuilding a business from nothingPrecision-driven work and systems thinkingOr understanding how orthodontics can impact your life beyond aesthetics…this episode is packed with value.🎧 Listen now to hear Dr. Barry Elaahi’s journey—from engineering student to orthodontist to business owner—and how he’s building something special with Align Orthodontics.👉 And if you’re enjoying LocalBizCast, like, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.This is what happens when skill meets opportunity—and someone is bold enough to ask the right question at the right time.Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners,entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

The Energy Shift Is Here | From Actor to Solar Expert with Andy Landsman (@solarandy4gs)This episode of LocalBizCast feels like a wake-up call.Dr. Pete sits down with Andy Landsman, better known as @solarandy4gs, and what starts as a story about career pivots quickly turns into a powerful conversation about the future of energy, the reality of our grid, and why solar is no longer optional—it’s inevitable.Andy didn’t start in solar.He was out in California chasing the acting dream, then made his way back east to the Catskills, where he worked in brewery sales and learned the fundamentals of communication, trust, and understanding people.When he eventually landed in Nanuet and now Englewood, he had a choice:Two industries he believed were about to explode—cannabis or solar.He chose solar… and hasn’t looked back.In this episode, Andy breaks down:How he landed his first job in solar (and why he’s still there)What most people don’t understand about the energy industryWhy he believes we are already in an energy crisis due to an aging gridThe real reasons homeowners hesitate—and how to think through themHow solar can lower costs while increasing independenceWhy solar adoption is not “if”… it’s whenAnd one of the biggest differentiators he explains:With Sunrun, homeowners don’t need to take on massive upfront costs.No buying the system outrightNo worrying about maintenance or repairsFully serviced and supported over timeThat model flips the biggest objections on their head and makes solar far more accessible than most people realize.Andy’s approach is simple. Educate first. No pressure. Help people make the right decision for their home, their finances, and their future.Whether you want:A full solar roofA partial systemOr just to understand your options without being sold…Andy meets you where you are.And he leaves you with a line you won’t forget:“In the next 5–10 years, your roof will be solar… whether you do it, or the next owner does.”If you care about:Saving money on energyUnderstanding where the grid is headedMaking smart long-term home decisions4G's (Go Green, Get Green)Or just hearing a real, unfiltered perspective on solarThis episode delivers.🎧 Listen now to hear Andy’s story and why the energy conversation is changing faster than most people think.👉 Follow Andy on Instagram: @solarandy4gs👉 And if you’re enjoying LocalBizCast, like, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.The future isn’t coming. It’s already here.Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

From School Psychologist to Scaling a Franchise | Ondrea Bertie & the Rise of Lice Clinics of America (Ramsey, NJ)This episode of LocalBizCast is a masterclass in reinvention, smart business decisions, and seeing opportunity where most people wouldn’t even look.Dr. Pete sits down with Ondrea Bertie, owner of Lice Clinics of America Ramsey, and her story is anything but typical.Ondrea didn’t start in business.She started in education and psychology—with two master’s degrees, a career as a guidance counselor in Montvale for 10 years, and then made the decision to step away to raise her three kids.Like many families, she and her husband reached a crossroads:Do we invest in real estate? Buy a shore house? What’s the smartest move?But they weren’t just thinking about money.They were thinking about legacy—something their kids could one day step into.That’s when everything shifted.They explored franchising… and landed on something unexpected:Lice Clinics of America.What most people would overlook, Ondrea saw clearly:A real problem parents deal withA service that’s needed immediately when it arisesA business with strong demand and the ability to scaleThey opened their Ramsey location in January… and the growth was immediate.By March, they had almost TRIPLED their business.In this episode, Ondrea breaks down:How they evaluated franchise opportunities and made their decisionThe strategy behind choosing location and privacy for clientsThe real challenges of starting a business from scratchHow she navigates problem-solving as a first-time business ownerWhat it takes to go from idea → open doors → rapid growthAnd one of the most interesting parts of this conversation…She dives into the psychology behind the business—understanding that clients don’t want to be seen, and designing the experience around comfort, discretion, and trust.That level of detail is why this business is working.Ondrea’s story is real, relatable, and incredibly valuable for anyone thinking about:Starting a businessTransitioning from a career into entrepreneurshipFranchising as a path to ownershipBuilding something meaningful for your family🎧 Listen now to hear how Ondrea Bertie turned a non-traditional idea into a fast-growing business—and what you can learn from her journey.👉 Follow: Instagram @liceclinicsramsey👉 If you’re enjoying LocalBizCast, like, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.This is how smart entrepreneurs think differently—and win because of it.

26 Years, One Reputation | Garrett Diamond on Sales, Service & Winning One Customer at a TimeSome people sell products.Others build trust so strong that people won’t buy from anyone else.On this episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Garrett Diamond, the man behind Shop with the Diamond—and a sales professional who has spent over 26 years mastering the art of relationships.Currently at P.C. Richard & Son in Nanuet, NY, Garrett has built a reputation that goes far beyond appliances and mattresses. His philosophy is simple, but rare:Take care of people first. Everything else follows.In this episode, Garrett breaks down what has allowed him to thrive for decades in a competitive, high-turnover industry:Why personalized attention is the ultimate differentiatorHow being available 24/7 builds unmatched trustThe importance of guiding—not pushing—customersKnowing when it’s time to buy… and when it’s notHow to handle problems and turn them into lifelong relationshipsWhy a positive attitude and zero judgment changes everythingHis mindset of “win one at a time”—and how that compounds into massive successGarrett doesn’t just sell. He educates, supports, and stands behind every customer long after the purchase is made. If something goes wrong, he’s the one picking up the phone and making it right.And here’s what makes this episode different…He’s so confident in the way he does business that he literally gives out his personal cell phone number—inviting anyone listening to reach out directly if they need help.That’s not marketing. That’s conviction.On top of that, Garrett is also a published author, currently working on his second book, continuing to expand his impact beyond the showroom floor.If you’re in:SalesCustomer serviceEntrepreneurshipOr just want to understand how to build a reputation that lasts decades…this episode is a masterclass.🎧 Listen now to hear Garrett Diamond’s story and why “Shop with the Diamond” has become more than a name—it’s a standard.👉 Follow Garrett:Instagram & Facebook: @shopwiththediamondWebsite: www.shopwiththediamond.com👉 And if you’re enjoying LocalBizCast, like, follow, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.This is how real trust is built—and why it never goes out of style.Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

From Idea to Empire at 26 | Angela Vargas & Nicole Wiebe of Bonded Lash BarThis is one of those episodes where you just know you’re watching something big happen early.On this episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Angela Vargas and Nicole Wiebe, the powerhouse founders behind Bonded Lash Bar—and what they’ve built in just a few short weeks is nothing short of impressive.At just 26 years old, these two didn’t wait, hesitate, or overthink. They took action.In a matter of weeks, they’ve:Opened TWO locations in New Jersey. Fair Lawn and FairfieldBuilt a team of 10 employeesGrown to over 5,000 Instagram followersLaunched major marketing campaigns including a billboard on Route 46Created real momentum with clients already coming through the doorAnd the best part? They figured it all out themselves.From choosing the name, branding, colors, and logo, to setting up scheduling software, pricing, and business structure, Angela and Nicole built this from the ground up—step by step, decision by decision.In this episode, we get into:What it really takes to launch a business fastHow they chose their locations based on client proximity and strategyTheir approach to marketing, branding, and visibilityWhy they leaned into local events and high-energy grand openingsHow they think about growth, expansion, and scaling earlyAnd here’s what stands out—these two get it.They understand attention, they understand consistency, and they understand that if you want to grow, you have to put yourself out there. The billboard, the social media, the presence—it’s all intentional.And they’re just getting started.They even hint at another location already on the horizon.If you’re an entrepreneur, thinking about starting something, or just want to hear what real hunger and execution sounds like—this episode delivers.🎧 Listen now to hear how Angela and Nicole turned an idea into a fast-growing brand in record time.👉 Follow them here:Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube: @bondedlashbarWebsite: www.bondedlashbar.com👉 And don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe to LocalBizCast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms so you never miss the next big story before it blows up.This is how brands are built today.Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

From North Dakota to Norway to NJ | Fitness, Nutrition & the Mind with Sarah Hansson of FitSarahThis episode of LocalBizCast is the kind that changes how you think about health.Dr. Pete sits down with FitSarah founder Sarah Hansson—a personal trainer who is so much more than a trainer. Sarah’s story is global, gritty, and deeply intentional, and her approach to health blends movement, nutrition, and mindset in a way few people truly master.Sarah grew up in a small town in North Dakota, then made a bold leap to Norway, where she spent 14 years and opened the first and second Curves franchises in the country. That’s where she began training people—especially women—and learning how confidence, strength, and consistency can change lives.When she returned to the U.S., Sarah opened her own private gym in Ramsey, NJ, and everything leveled up.One specific client pushed her to go deeper—not just into workouts, but into nutrition. While not a nutritionist by title, Sarah immersed herself in the science, designed her own meal plans, and helped that client achieve remarkable results. That moment became a new pillar of her work—and a defining part of her brand.In this episode, we dive into:Why nutrition is often the missing link in fitness resultsHow Sarah programs workouts intentionally—the “why,” not just the “what”Timing, exercise selection, and adapting training to the individualThe mental side of health, discipline, and long-term changeWhat it really takes to help people sustain results, not just chase themAnd then there’s the part most people don’t know…Sarah has competed in fitness competitions, qualified for nationals, and from 2013–2016 was the oldest fitness model signed to Wilhelmina Models NYC—rewriting the rules on age, strength, and what’s possible. She also speaks three languages, bringing a global lens to how she coaches and connects.Sarah’s mission is simple and powerful: keep finding new people to help, meet them where they are, and guide them toward a stronger, healthier life—physically and mentally.If you’re into:Smart, intentional fitnessNutrition that actually worksWomen’s strength and longevityMental resilience and disciplineReal-world coaching, not gimmicks…this episode is a must-listen.🎧 Listen now to hear Sarah Hansson’s incredible journey and how FitSarah is helping people transform their health from the inside out.👉 Like, follow, and subscribe to LocalBizCast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major platforms so we can keep bringing you conversations that matter.Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Building a Brand That Keeps the World Moving | Michael Delevante, CEO of RodoThis episode of LocalBizCast is a breakthrough moment.Dr. Pete sits down with Michael Delevante, CEO of Rodo, a next-generation fitness brand built around one simple but powerful idea: help people move more, feel better, and keep doing what they love—longer.Rodo isn’t just another fitness product company. It’s a movement brand, and Michael is one of the most thoughtful, passionate leaders we’ve had on the show.Originally from Clifton, NJ, Michael graduated from NYU Stern School of Business and built his career in consumer products, including formative years at OXO, where design, usability, and obsessive attention to detail aren’t optional—they’re the standard. That’s also where he first met Nick Reynolds, a mechanical engineer who would later become the founder of Rodo.Years later, their paths crossed again. What started as belief in an idea turned into investment, leadership, and a shared mission—Michael stepped in as CEO, helping transform Rodo from concept to brand with serious momentum.In this episode, we unpack:Michael’s journey from OXO to startup CEOHow Rodo was built with real people and real movement in mindWhy fitness tools must integrate seamlessly into daily lifeThe thinking, testing, and refinement behind Rodo’s 2-in-1 rollerMaterial science, innovative silicone, dirt-resistant design, and smart engineeringWhy details matter—from how the balls attach to how it feels in your handsWhat it takes to build products that are easy to use and hard to stop usingThis isn’t hype. It’s intentional design, thoughtful leadership, and genuine care for the end user.Michael’s passion for Rodo, his team, and the community they’re building comes through loud and clear—and he even teases what’s next: two new product concepts launching this year, with several more already in development.If you’re into:Fitness and recoveryProduct design and innovationEntrepreneurship and brand buildingConsumer products done rightOr simply staying active so you can live better…this episode is a must-listen.🎧 Listen to Michael Delevante’s story now and hear how Rodo is redefining movement, recovery, and everyday fitness.👉 Please like, follow, and subscribe to LocalBizCast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major platforms. It helps us grow the show and bring on even bigger conversations like this one.Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community.

Local Biz Cast Weekly Spotlight on Business LeadersDr. Pete Wohl of The Spine and Health Centers of New Jersey proudly presents the LocalBizCast, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with prominent business owners, entrepreneurs and influencers throughout the area. Tune in every week for new insights, stories, and success strategies from local entrepreneurs making an impact in the community. Building The Healing Hub: Modern Therapy, Real Conversations & Mental Health in a Digital World with Chelsea Hayet, LCSWIn this powerful and insightful episode of LocalBizCast, Dr. Pete sits down with Chelsea Hayet, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and the founder of The Healing Hub, to explore her journey from high-intensity clinical work to building a thriving, fully virtual private practice.Chelsea began her career in intensive outpatient and high-risk treatment settings, working daily with addiction, suicide ideation, and self-harm. While deeply meaningful, the emotional toll of that work was heavy. All along, she carried a dream—to open her own private practice, one that allowed for deeper connection, balance, and long-term impact.In December 2024, Chelsea finally took the leap. She started The Healing Hub part-time, and within just a few months, demand and momentum allowed her to transition fully into private practice. Today, she works primarily with adults in their 20s to 40s, especially those navigating major life transitions—new careers, relationships, marriages, identity shifts, and the anxiety that often comes with them.This episode dives into why anxiety and depression are more prevalent than ever, and how technology, constant connectivity, and social media have reshaped how people cope (and avoid). Chelsea explains how she helps clients build healthy coping mechanisms, reduce avoidance behaviors, and regain a sense of control—without judgment.She also pulls back the curtain on the business side of therapy: how she built The Healing Hub, how she navigated the leap from employee to entrepreneur, and how partnering with her sister on social media helped grow a modern, accessible, all-virtual therapy practice that meets people where they are—literally in their own homes.In this episode, you’ll hear:Chelsea’s transition from intensive outpatient care to private practiceWhy mental health challenges are rising in young adultsHow social media and devices impact anxiety and emotional regulationThe importance of coping skills vs. avoidanceBuilding a therapy practice from scratch in a digital worldWhy virtual therapy is changing access to mental health careChelsea speaks with clarity, compassion, and authenticity—and her passion for helping people live healthier, more grounded lives is felt in every minute of this conversation.🎧 Listen to this episode if you’re navigating change, feeling overwhelmed, curious about modern therapy, or thinking about building a purpose-driven business of your own.👉 If you enjoyed this episode, please like, follow, and subscribe to LocalBizCast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major platforms. It helps us continue sharing meaningful conversations with incredible local professionals.And get it OK whatever get into your head I need to get out of bed