The Strong New York Podcast

In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, Kenny sits down with Sebastien Silvestri, CEO of The Dinex Group — the renowned restaurant group founded by Chef Daniel Boulud.As the leader shaping the next chapter of one of the world’s most respected culinary empires, Sebastien is redefining hospitality through innovation, global expansion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.This conversation dives deep into the art and business of hospitality — uncovering what it takes to create and sustain world-class dining experiences. Sebastien shares powerful insights into Chef Daniel Boulud’s enduring legacy, the values behind true hospitality, and the passion that drives success in the restaurant world.From Paris to London, Las Vegas to New York, Sebastien reflects on his remarkable career, offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship, care, and culture that make hospitality one of the most inspiring industries in the world.

In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with acclaimed chef and restaurateur Scott Conant to explore his remarkable journey through the culinary world.With over 35 years in the industry, Scott has built a legacy rooted in passion, precision, and purpose — from humble beginnings as a dishwasher at 15 to becoming a celebrated Food Network personality, bestselling author, and owner of multiple award-winning restaurants.Scott opens up about the importance of doing what you love, surrounding yourself with the right people, and staying grounded through spirituality and self-care. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at his latest ventures — including his new line of sauces, Martone Street, and his soon-to-open restaurant Leola at Baha Mar.This conversation goes beyond food — diving into leadership, resilience, and what it really takes to build something meaningful. Whether you’re in hospitality or any other field, this episode is packed with wisdom from one of the best in the business.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:20 Meet the Guest: Scott Conant01:16 Scott's Culinary Journey02:15 The Philosophy of Success04:16 The New York City Challenge05:20 Overcoming Adversity and Staying Focused09:48 Spirituality and Personal Growth21:09 The Importance of Family and Relationships24:31 Creating the Ideal Restaurant Experience29:24 Exciting Events at the New York Food Festival30:16 Creating a Service-Oriented Culture31:02 Hiring for Heart, Not Skillset36:19 The Importance of Self-Improvement37:44 The Americano: A Culinary Journey41:34 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People54:15 Launching Martone Street and Future Plans57:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This week on the Strong New York Podcast, Kenny Santucci is joined by Harley Pasternak — New York Times bestselling author, celebrity trainer, and professor at the University of Toronto.  Harley is the author of six acclaimed health and fitness books, including The Body Reset Diet and The 5-Factor Diet. With a master's degree in exercise physiology and nutritional sciences, and an extensive background in kinesiology, Harley brings both academic rigor and real-world experience to the table.In this episode, Kenny and Harley explore his dynamic career — from training Hollywood’s biggest stars to designing cutting-edge gyms around the world. They unpack common myths around carbs, exercise, and dieting, while offering no-nonsense insights into what truly works in the wellness world.Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a nutrition nerd, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of celebrity wellness, this episode delivers an honest, informative, and inspiring conversation.  Tune in now for a deep dive into the science — and reality — of living strong.00:00 Introduction and Event Promotion00:38 Guest Introduction and Initial Conversation02:49 Discussing Fitness Events and Community05:14 Career Beginnings and Influences09:06 Hollywood Training Experiences16:33 Challenges and Successes in the Fitness Industry26:49 The Decision to Sell the Company27:23 Evolution of Gym Equipment27:40 A Tour of Classic Gyms29:46 The Rise of Dual Cable Pulley Systems30:29 Favorite Workout Spots33:43 Building a Fitness Business42:09 The Importance of Carbohydrates49:39 Myths and Misconceptions in Fitness51:34 Coffee and Personal Reflections52:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This Week on The Strong New York Podcast host Kenny Santucci sits down with entrepreneur, top podcast host, and founder of Grow The Social LLC, Ayesha Sehra. Based in both Los Angeles and New York City, Ayesha has built a powerhouse PR and branding agency that works with global brands, celebrity clients, and industry-leading voices.  Originally from Toronto, Ayesha moved to LA at just 22, navigating the challenges of securing a U.S. visa, and building her business from the ground up. Her podcast and live events brand, Coffee & A Good Vibe, and has become a staple for community, connection, and entrepreneurship.In this episode, Kenny and Ayesha dive deep into the highs and lows of event planning, working with sponsors, and staying authentic in an image-driven world. They explore the value of real, in-person connections post-pandemic, and the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into creating impactful experiences.Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or just looking to level up your mindset, this episode offers valuable insights, honest stories, and motivation to keep going—even when the hustle gets hard.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout00:15 Strong New York Event Announcement00:46 Guest Introduction: Ayesha's Journey02:02 Challenges in the Business World03:35 Event Planning and Execution04:39 The Rise of Community Building Post-Pandemic05:15 The Hamptons Dilemma06:35 Brand Collaborations and Event Success14:49 The Matcha Craze19:28 Reflections on Personal Growth and Career24:45 Dating and Personal Anecdotes31:47 Introduction to the Social Club Concept32:11 Navigating Brand Collaborations and Free Promotions32:38 Event Planning Challenges and Success Stories35:21 The Impact of Personal Interactions and Feedback37:37 The Evolution of Reality TV and Social Media Influence40:32 Dream Collaborations and Event Planning42:18 Highlighting Influential Brands and Their Events48:08 The Importance of Coffee and Merch in Branding53:41 Upcoming Events and Personal Projects01:00:47 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

Dom Iacovone, Co-founder and CEO of Raw Nutrition, shares his remarkable journey from medical school to a thriving supplement brand. He discusses the trials of the industry, the power of community support, and innovative marketing strategies. Dom reveals how strategic partnerships, like his collaboration with Gymshark, have propelled his brand, while emphasizing the importance of authenticity in entrepreneurship. He also reflects on the balance between personal life and business, and the necessity of building a strong, resilient team.

In this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, Kenny Santucci sits down with modern day adventurer and motivational speaker Tom Fabbri. From piloting jets and helicopters to climbing the Seven Summits and diving with great white sharks, Tom has built a life around pushing limits and embracing fear. He shares how overcoming challenges like bullying and addiction led him to discover purpose through fitness, aviation, and personal growth.  Tom discusses the mindset shifts that fueled his transformation, the power of gratitude, and his innovative fitness tool, Total Motion 360. Tune in for a powerful conversation on resilience, preparation, and living life with passion and authenticity.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:15 Strong New York Event Details00:39 Podcast Welcome and Event Promotion02:08 Guest Introduction: Tom's Background03:18 Tom's Fitness Journey and Overcoming Bullying05:44 Discussion on Art, Creativity, and Personal Expression13:08 Tom's Troubled Past and Military Experience16:57 Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle Choices18:02 Flying Career and Life Lessons37:11 Client Accountability and Fitness Realities38:54 The Importance of Consistency and Effort40:24 Personal Fitness Journey and Product Development44:03 Finding Purpose and Overcoming Adversity57:34 The Role of Mindset in Health and Success01:01:27 The Power of Authenticity and Preparation01:10:59 Networking and Business Expansion01:12:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Sam Miller, a health and nutrition expert with 15+ years of experience, dives into the fascinating world of metabolism and gut health. He discusses how generational habits influence modern dietary choices and the impact of pharmaceuticals on metabolic health. Listeners learn about the critical role of gut health in fitness and recovery, along with individualized strategies for optimal wellness. Sam also touches on the debate around GLP-1 medications and the potential benefits of microdosing for cognitive function, providing a balanced view on contemporary health trends.

In this episode of the Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci welcomes back Functional Medicine Nutritionist Rachel Scheer—the very first returning guest on the show. With a background in Nutrition Science and Dietetics from Baylor University and certification from the Kalish Institute, Rachel brings science-backed expertise and real-world insight to the table.Together, Kenny and Rachel dive deep into essential health and wellness topics, including the critical role of gut health, common misconceptions around plant-based diets, and the best ways to build and maintain muscle mass. They also explore the latest thinking on supplements, metabolic health, and the gut microbiome.Whether you're an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or just looking to level up your health, this episode is packed with practical tips and no-nonsense advice. Tune in and get stronger from the inside out.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout00:15 Strong New York Event Announcement00:38 Podcast Milestone and Guest Introduction01:48 Guest's Recent Activities and Peter Hurley02:53 Discussion on Plant-Based Diets and Gut Health11:42 Cholesterol, Blood Tests, and Diet Recommendations16:11 Testosterone and Hormone Optimization21:12 Women's Health and Thyroid Issues27:14 Metabolic Issues and GLP-1 Medications28:22 The Risks and Benefits of GLP-128:55 Gut Health and GLP-129:51 Responsible Use of Medications32:14 Post-Menopause Health Tips33:27 Essential Supplements for Everyone36:10 The Importance of Blood Work40:07 Muscle Mass and Aging41:12 Probiotics vs. Prebiotics45:03 Dietary Changes and Gut Health46:26 Personal Experiences with Diet and Fitness49:43 The Impact of Bodybuilding on Health53:32 The Truth About Instagram Fitness Models55:07 Conclusion and Contact Information

Max Siegelman, founder of Siegelman Stables, shares his journey from a pandemic passion project to an iconic apparel brand. He discusses the power of authenticity and storytelling in brand-building. The conversation delves into the challenges of growing a business in a competitive market, the importance of collaborations with sports teams, and the symbiotic relationship between fashion and culture. Max also reflects on personal growth through fitness and the need for resilience in entrepreneurship, all while embracing good energy and humility.

In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with Dr. Jordan Shallow—a global authority in sports performance, biomechanics, and athletic education. Known for his work with elite athletes, professional teams, and major corporations, Dr. Shallow brings a cutting-edge, holistic approach to optimizing human performance—from the treatment table to the training floor and onto the field of play.Jordan shares his remarkable journey from living out of his car to becoming one of the most respected voices in fitness. He opens up about the challenges he's faced, the lessons he's learned, and the evolution of the industry—especially as AI and technology begin to reshape how we train.This episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real talk for anyone passionate about fitness, wellness, and pushing human potential. Don't miss it.00:00 Introduction and Event Promotion00:43 Welcome to the Strong New York Podcast01:00 Guest Introduction: Dr. Jordan Shallows01:25 Dr. Shallows' Journey: From Struggles to Success06:32 The Turning Point: Strong New York Event12:29 Training Shaquille O'Neal16:53 Working with Andrew Schultz and Akosh Singh23:56 The Evolution of Personal Training26:17 Impact of COVID-19 on Business33:41 Advanced Training Techniques and Certifications40:14 The Influence of Science in Bodybuilding40:35 The Importance of Knowing Industry History41:48 Early Inspirations and Influencers44:18 The Evolution of Fitness Trends45:01 The Role of Digital Media in Fitness53:13 The Impact of AI and Technology in Gyms58:53 Personal Training Experiences and Gym Culture01:05:32 Tattoo Stories and Personal Reflections01:15:22 Advice on Steroid Use and Longevity in Fitness01:18:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts