Capital Connect

About Capital Connect

Welcome to Capital Connect, the official podcast of GTM Payroll & HR. Hosted by GTM Business Sales Manager Kito Delgado, we bridge the gap between high-level strategy and local success. Our mission is simple: to empower organizations through exceptional service and trusted advice, turning every client into an HR Hero. Each episode features deep-dive interviews with the Capital Region’s most influential industry and business thought leaders. We go behind the scenes to "pick the brains" of those who have built successful organizations while maintaining a culture that values both high performance and work-life success. From local entrepreneurs to industry titans, Kito explores the pivotal moments and strategies that led our guests to the top. We discuss how to empower your team, support a thriving culture, and achieve "Work-Life Success" without sacrificing results. Whether you’re a business owner, an HR professional, or a team-minded leader, Capital Connect provides the insights you need to build a better workforce and find your own path to success. Tune in to learn how you can apply these lessons to your own organization and become the Hero your company deserves.

Publisher

GTM

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 May 2026

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Oct 2026

   Jon Foshee of Concord Pools & Spas

   How do you double a 50-year-old family business during a pandemic, keep 35 employees intact, and turn a traditional pool company into a technology-powered growth machine? In the latest episode of the Capital Connect podcast by GTM Payroll and HR, we are joined by Jon Foshee, President and CEO of Concord Pools. Jon unpacks the leadership decisions, modernized systems, and people-first culture behind his company’s recent surge in growth. Drawing from a highly diverse career path—including time spent as a recording engineer, radio professional, sales representative, and home builder—Jon shares how his unique background shaped his approach to earning trust, handling rejection, and leading through severe market uncertainty. In this episode, Jon discusses: Taking the Leap: How an unexpected opportunity led him to acquire Concord Pools. Crisis Management: The strategic decision to keep his team together and fully employed when COVID-19 disrupted the business landscape. Tech-Driven Scaling: How implementing modern systems—from ERP and route optimization to digitized records and AI—helped Concord scale efficiently. Workplace Culture: Why hiring for attitude, investing in staff, and connecting with employees' families builds an unbreakable team. Operational Growing Pains: How rapid expansion exposes operational challenges, and how agile leaders can respond. Passing the Torch: His practical approach to succession planning and developing future leaders from within. Jon also highlights what makes the Capital Region a uniquely special place to build a business. He leaves listeners with actionable advice for handling the weight of leadership: stay calm, believe in your team, and never take your role’s impact on people's lives for granted. *Links & Resources:* * https://concordpools.com/ (https://concordpools.com/) * https://www.gtm.com/business (https://www.gtm.com/business) * https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitodelgado/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitodelgado/)

2. 

   25 Sept 2026

   Frank Annicaro of the CDTA

   A reliable transportation network isn't just about getting people from point A to point B—it’s a critical driver of workforce development, employee retention, and regional economic growth. In this episode of Capital Connect, GTM Business Sales Manager Kito Delgado sits down with Frank Annicaro of the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA). Frank shares an inside look at how the CDTA is actively connecting the Capital Region's workforce with local businesses, breaking down the direct link between accessible transit and a thriving local economy. Kito and Frank explore how the CDTA is adapting to the changing commute habits of modern employees, upcoming infrastructure expansions, and how local employers can leverage transit partnerships to attract and retain top talent. Whether you’re a business owner looking to solve employee commuting challenges or just curious about the future of infrastructure in the Capital Region, this episode delivers valuable insights into the systems keeping our community moving. Links & Resources: Learn more about the CDTA and employer programs (https://www.cdta.org/albany) Streamline your HR and payroll with GTM (https://www.gtm.com/business) Connect with Kito Delgado on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitodelgado/)

3. 

   11 Sept 2026

   Tricia Rogers of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce

   In this episode of Capital Connect, presented by GTM Payroll & HR, we sit down with Tricia Rogers, President & CEO of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce (ARCC). Tricia shares insights into the Adirondack region's economic pulse, the essential role local chambers play in advocating for small-to-midsize businesses, and how community-focused leadership drives sustainable growth. Whether you're an established business owner, an HR professional, or an aspiring entrepreneur, Tricia highlights actionable advice on networking, workforce development, and leveraging regional resources to help your organization thrive. Key Takeaways: The Role of the ARCC: How the chamber serves as a voice for regional businesses across Warren, Washington, Saratoga, and Essex counties. Workforce & Economic Trends: Key strategies local employers are using to attract, retain, and develop talent in upstate New York. Community Connection: Why regional collaboration and networking remain vital for business longevity. Connect & Resources: Learn more about GTM Payroll & HR: gtm.com/business (www.gtm.com/business) Explore the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce: adirondackchamber.org (http://adirondackchamber.org) Subscribe to Capital Connect on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen!

4. 

   28 Aug 2026

   Gary Dake of Stewarts

   On this episode of Capital Connect, host Kito Delgado sits down with Gary Dake, CEO of Stewart's Shops, to explore the leadership principles behind one of Upstate New York's most iconic brands. Since stepping into leadership, Gary has helped double annual sales to over $1.6 billion, but the company's true hallmark is its profound commitment to its workforce. We go behind the counter to uncover how Stewart's Shops scaled from a single dairy shop in Ballston Spa to a network of over 400 locations across New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire—all while maintaining a close-knit, family-business culture. Gary breaks down the mechanics and philosophy of their famous Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), which has transferred more than 40% of the company's ownership to its employees and created roughly 90 millionaires in the process. Whether you are scaling a business or looking for ways to boost employee retention, this conversation offers a masterclass in how investing in your human capital pays the highest dividends.

5. 

   14 Aug 2026

   Mark Eagan of the Capital Region Chamber

   In this episode of Capital Connect, we sit down with Mark Eagan, President and CEO of the Capital Region Chamber and the Center for Economic Growth. With decades of experience advocating for businesses across Upstate New York, Mark shares his insights into what makes the Albany capital region a thriving hub for innovation, workforce development, and enterprise. We dive into the current economic landscape of the Capital Region, how local businesses can leverage the Chamber’s resources to scale, and the ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening the regional economy. Whether you're a startup founder, an established business owner, or simply interested in the economic future of our community, this conversation provides a strategic roadmap for growth and regional success. Key Takeaways: The Vision for the Capital Region: Mark’s perspective on the area's economic trajectory and competitive advantages. Chamber Resources: How the Capital Region Chamber supports local businesses through networking, talent attraction, and pro-business policy advocacy. Workforce & Innovation: Strategies being deployed by the Center for Economic Growth to attract and retain top talent in Upstate New York. Advocacy in Action: A look at recent pro-business initiatives and how state budget agreements impact the local economy. Links & Resources: Learn more about the Capital Region Chamber: capitalregionchamber.com (http://capitalregionchamber.com) Explore the Center for Economic Growth: ceg.org (http://ceg.org) Contact Mark Eagan: meagan@capitalregionchamber.com (mailto:meagan@capitalregionchamber.com)

6. 

   31 Jul 2026

   Jennifer Lawrence of the SEAT Center

   How do we bridge the gap between untapped local talent and the businesses that need them most? In this episode of Capital Connect, we sit down with Jennifer Lawrence, Founder and CEO of the SEAT Center (Social Enterprise and Training Center). Jennifer shares her journey of bringing opportunity to underrepresented young adults across the Capital Region, detailing how her organization equips the next generation with in-demand skills—from culinary arts in downtown Albany to green construction and healthcare. For HR leaders, executives, and small business owners, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on workforce development. Discover actionable ways your organization can partner with community programs to build a more resilient, inclusive, and vibrant workplace without the corporate jargon. Key Takeaways: The SEAT Center Mission: How the organization transforms lives in Schenectady and Albany through education and sustainable wage jobs. Removing Barriers: Identifying and dismantling the systemic hurdles that keep talented youth out of the workforce. Employer Integration: Practical strategies for local businesses to connect with trained, credentialed, and ready-to-work young adults. Resources & Links: Learn more about the SEAT Center and their mission: seatcenter.org (http://seatcenter.org) Explore SEAT's employer partnership opportunities: seatcenter.org/about-us (http://seatcenter.org/about-us) Streamline your workforce management with GTM Payroll & HR: gtm.com/business (http://gtm.com/business) Subscribe to Capital Connect for more thought leadership and actionable advice designed to help Capital Region employers thrive.

7. 

   17 Jul 2026

   Ryan M. Hungershafer of Spring Street Financial

   In this episode of the Capital Connect podcast, we sit down with Ryan M. Hungershafer, Founding Partner and Private Wealth Advisor at Spring Street Financial. Ryan shares his expert insights on wealth management, strategic financial planning, and how business owners and professionals can navigate today’s economic landscape to secure their financial futures. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to optimize your company's financial health or an individual focused on long-term wealth building, this conversation is packed with actionable advice you can start applying today. 🔗 Connect with our Guest: https://springstreetfinancial.nm.com/ (https://springstreetfinancial.nm.com/) 🏢 About GTM Payroll & HR: Capital Connect is brought to you by GTM Payroll & HR. We help businesses streamline their operations with customizable payroll, human resources, and benefits administration solutions. https://gtm.com/business/ (https://gtm.com/business/) LinkedIn (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqazR3RE9nbmxibjRCTENzWDlCeXotNUZhb2I0UXxBQ3Jtc0tsNE54RENlWm9FZmh4N2Rxakh0YVBBUXJHRGV4aFdxcGlmM0RKOTVlbUg5bEhlNVd1T1NveTNrSGc0OVpBS3VRODBZNDE3UmFSZm5FZkFGcmhVS1BPYjl2cS15QkQtN1NRa2dydTJNd3lHWkxCR0pXMA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fgtm-payroll-services%2F&v=eC83O7Gc6pA) Subscribe to our podcast for more insights! #CapitalConnect (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/capitalconnect) #WealthManagement (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/wealthmanagement) #FinancialPlanning (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/financialplanning) #BusinessGrowth (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/businessgrowth) #SpringStreetFinancial (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/springstreetfinancial) #GTMPayrollAndHR (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/gtmpayrollandhr) #Podcast (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/podcast) #Finance (https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/finance) Ask

8. 

   3 Jul 2026

   Matt Scarchilli of Sandler Training

   How does a pharmacist with zero business experience end up founding a software company that gets acquired by Time Inc.? On this episode of the Capital Connect podcast, brought to you by GTM Payroll & HR, host Kito Delgado sits down with Matt Scarchilli, Franchise Owner of Sandler Training in Albany. Matt shares the incredible 15-year story behind Sports Sign Up, a company born out of a desperate need to modernize a cumbersome paper registration process for the Latham Soccer Club. What started as a volunteer passion project turned into a massive leap of faith, requiring Matt to walk away from a stable career and rely on the unwavering support of his wife to build a tech business from the ground up. Matt opens up about the realities of bootstrapping a startup, the critical self-awareness required to eventually hand over the reins to an outside CEO, and the surreal experience of negotiating a major acquisition. Today, Matt draws on his hard-earned entrepreneurial experience to coach Capital Region sales teams through the Sandler Selling System, emphasizing why a structured, disciplined approach is the key to long-term success. Key Takeaways The ROI of Giving Back: How volunteering and following a lifelong passion for soccer unexpectedly uncovered a scalable business opportunity. The Power of Naivety: Why overthinking can lead to paralysis, and how sometimes taking a leap of faith is exactly what you need to seize an opportunity. Knowing When to Let Go: Why founders must detach from their "baby" and recognize when it’s time to bring in external leadership to push past revenue plateaus. Mastering the Pivot: Navigating the transition from tech founder to the corporate world, and eventually stepping into franchise ownership and sales coaching. Links & Resources Connect with Matt Scarchilli: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattscarchilli/) Get Connected with GTM and Learn More About our Services (https://gtm.com/business/)

9. 

   19 Jun 2026

   Erin Napoleone of Choice PT

   Welcome back to the Capital Connect Podcast, brought to you by GTM Payroll & HR! In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Erin Napoleone, Doctor of Physical Therapy and Co-Founder of Choice PT. While her husband and fellow Co-Founder, Dr. Joe Napoleone, couldn't make it to the mic for this recording session, Erin provides an incredible behind-the-scenes look into the journey they’ve shared building a premier physical therapy practice right here in the New York Capital Region. In this episode, we explore: The Origins of Choice PT: The shared vision that led Erin and Joe to launch their own practice and redefine patient care. Building a Business: The unique challenges and immense rewards of managing a growing healthcare clinic as a husband-and-wife team. Community Wellness: How Choice PT is making a tangible impact on the health and mobility of the Capital Region. Entrepreneurial Insights: Actionable advice for other local business owners navigating growth, staffing, and community engagement. Whether you're a fellow entrepreneur seeking inspiration, a healthcare professional, or simply a Capital Region local interested in the businesses shaping our community, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways. Connect & Learn More: Choice Physical Therapy (https://www.choiceptny.com/) GTM Payroll & HR (https://bit.ly/3QM7qKJ) If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave us a review!

10. 

    5 Jun 2026

    David W. Dussault of P1 Industries

    In this episode of Capital Connect, a GTM Podcast, host Kito Delgado sits down with David Dussalt of P1 Industries. In our signature value-first format, Kito and David dive straight into what it takes to build, operate, and scale a thriving business right here in the Albany area. They explore the unique challenges of the modern industrial landscape, strategies for developing a highly skilled local workforce, and why the Capital Region remains a prime hub for economic growth. What you’ll learn in this episode: Local Leadership: How P1 Industries is innovating and adapting within the Capital Region's business ecosystem. Workforce Development: Actionable strategies for attracting, training, and retaining top-tier talent in competitive markets. Scaling Up: Real-world lessons learned from driving sustainable business growth in Upstate New York. Whether you're a local entrepreneur, an established business leader, or just passionate about the economic engine of the Capital Region, this packed conversation delivers actionable insights you can apply directly to your own organization. Host: Kito Delgado, Business Sales Manager Powered by: GTM HR & Payroll 🎧 Subscribe to Capital Connect so you never miss an episode featuring Upstate New York’s top business leaders! 👉 Learn more about how GTM can support your growing team (https://bit.ly/4oiwRju) 👉 Connect with David Dussalt and P1 Industries (https://www.p1ind.com/)

11. 

    22 May 2026

    Nick and Garrett Bernardo of Novus

    On this episode of Capital Connect, we sit down with brothers Nick and Garrett Bernardo, co-founders of Albany’s own NOVUS. What began as a college side-hustle printing tank tops for their university baseball teammates has evolved into a premier custom sportswear brand that outfits athletic programs, local businesses, and professional athletes nationwide. Nick and Garrett share the inspiring story behind their brand’s driving mantra, “Claim Your Crown,” and how living with passion, conviction, and perseverance fueled their entrepreneurial journey. Because our mission at GTM HR & Payroll is to help organizations build thriving, engaged workforces, we take a special deep dive into the internal culture at NOVUS. The brothers discuss the principles of servant leadership, how they maintain a tight-knit "family feel" while rapidly scaling their operations, and the intentional strategies they use to build a truly great place to work right here in the Capital Region. Whether you're a local business leader, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just a fan of community-driven success stories, tune in to discover how to empower your team to chase their dreams both on and off the field! Links & Resources: Learn more about NOVUS: novuscustom.com (http://novuscustom.com) Discover how GTM HR & Payroll can help elevate your workplace culture. (https://gtm.com/business/)

12. 

    21 May 2026

    Andy Heck of Alpin Haus

    Welcome to another episode of Capital Connect! This week, recorded from our newly built video studio here in Clifton Park, we're diving into what it takes to cultivate a thriving, employee-first culture right here in the Capital Region. We are thrilled to sit down with Andy Heck, President and co-owner of Alpin Haus, an outdoor recreation powerhouse that has been a local staple since 1964. Andy shares the incredible story of his start in the family business—founded by his father, Bud Heck, as a single ski shop in Amsterdam, NY—and how it evolved into a massive, multi-location operation. Beyond the impressive growth, Andy reveals the specific leadership strategies, HR practices, and core values that have consistently earned Alpin Haus the title of one of the Best Places to Work in the Capital Region. Whether you are looking to elevate your company's hiring and retention strategies, or simply want to learn how a historic local business scales without losing its family feel, this episode is packed with practical takeaways. In this episode of Capital Connect, we cover: From Ski Shop to Super Center: Andy’s early exposure to the business, working his way up, and his journey to becoming President. Scaling Company Culture: The intentional systems, training playbooks, and leadership tactics Alpin Haus uses to maintain a close-knit environment across its 250+ employees and seven locations. The HR Perspective: Actionable advice on employee engagement, recognizing talent, and why prioritizing your team's well-being is the ultimate driver of business success. About Our Guest: Andy Heck is the President of Alpin Haus, a premier outdoor recreation retailer specializing in RVs, boats, skis, and pools across upstate New York and New Jersey. A Siena College graduate and dedicated community leader, Andy runs the business alongside his family, continuing a multi-generational legacy of outstanding workplace culture. LINKS & RESOURCES: Alpin Haus (https://www.alpinhausboats.com/) Connect with Andy Heck (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-heck-9750035/) Connect with Kito Delgado (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitodelgado/) Learn More about GTM (https://gtm.com/business/) Make sure to subscribe to Capital Connect so you never miss an episode, and stay tuned for more conversations with the leaders shaping our local business community!

13. 

    21 May 2026

    Darrin Jahnel of The Jahnel Group

    What does it actually take to build a company culture that wins awards year after year? In this episode of Capital Connect, we sit down with Darrin Jahnel, CEO and Co-Founder of the Schenectady-based software development firm, Jahnel Group. Known throughout the Capital Region and beyond for their high-energy environment and exceptional employee retention, Jahnel Group consistently ranks as a "Best Place to Work." Darrin takes us back to the early days, sharing the origin story of how they built the company from the ground up. We dive deep into the intentional strategies, leadership philosophies, and HR practices that drive their incredible workplace culture today. Whether you are a founder scaling a startup, an HR professional looking to boost engagement, or a leader wanting to inspire your team, Darrin’s insights offer a masterclass in putting people first. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The Origin Story: How Jahnel Group started and the early challenges Darrin faced while scaling a tech firm in the Capital Region. Defining Culture: Why a "great place to work" is about more than just office perks and ping-pong tables. Hiring for Fit: The specific traits Jahnel Group looks for to protect and enhance their team dynamic. Engagement & Retention: Actionable strategies to keep high-performing talent motivated, loyal, and excited to come to work. Leadership’s Role: How founders and HR teams can partner to ensure the company's core values are actually lived out daily. Links & Resources: Learn more about Jahnel Group (https://www.jahnelgroup.com/) Connect with Darrin Jahnel on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrin-jahnel/) Discover how GTM HR & Payroll can help elevate your workplace culture (https://gtm.com/business/) Don't forget to subscribe to Capital Connect on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review!

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Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.