The Up Beat Podcast

In this powerful episode, Trisha Sena recounts the terrifying ordeal of her daughter’s abduction and the heart-wrenching days that followed. She shares the emotional rollercoaster they’ve been on and how her family is healing and finding unexpected strength. Plus, you won’t believe the heartwarming gesture Trisha made to the kidnapper’s daughter.

In this powerful episode, Trisha Sena recounts the terrifying ordeal of her daughter’s abduction and the heart-wrenching days that followed. She shares the emotional rollercoaster they’ve been on and how her family is healing and finding unexpected strength. Plus, you won’t believe the heartwarming gesture Trisha made to the kidnapper’s daughter.

Find comfort, practical guidance, and hope for your own journey of healing on this episode of The Up Beat. Mark sits down with Father Scott VanDerveer, a Catholic priest whose compassionate counsel has touched countless lives. Father VanDerveer shares his perspective on navigating grief, offering profound wisdom.

The Tompkins family was blindsided by the sudden death of their beloved father and husband, Mike, from an unexpected heart attack. On this episode of The Up Beat, discover how Mike’s wife and sons have found strength in the face of overwhelming loss by keeping his memory alive and leaning on support from others.

We’re joining forces with Jake’s Help from Heaven to hear how Heather Straughter and her husband, Brian, and their family have turned the heartbreaking loss of their beloved little boy into a force for good—improving the quality of life for those who suffer from debilitating illness. We ask questions of each other, sharing how we’ve turned personal tragedy into triumph for others.

On this episode of The Up Beat, we talk to former Lake George Mayor Bob Blais who earned the title of the longest serving mayor in America. Hear what motivates him to keep giving back to the community after all these years. Plus, hear what he’s got planned for the Lake George Summer-Lovin’ Funfest to benefit Kelly’s Angels.

On this episode of The Up Beat, Jukebox Rebellion singer Keri Alonzo opens up about her battle with cancer and where she is finding strength. Hear her uplifting story of hope and perseverance. 

In this episode of The Up Beat, hear about Camp Stomping Ground and how deserving kids from the Kelly's Angels community can apply for a scholarship to spend 2 weeks at this amazing camp in upstate New York. From traditional camp activities to programs that teach kids to be empathetic decision-makers, the uplifting camp is helping to build character while making kids smile.

Combining a successful business with a sense of compassion. In this episode of The Up Beat we are joined by dynamic people -- Robert Nemer and Bill and Lucie Kane. We hear how these local people and philanthropists are making a lasting impact on the lives of local children. A feel-good conversation that we all need to hear in the middle of challenges in the world right now.

On this episode of The Up Beat, hear from Olivia Allen, an incredible young woman from Saratoga Springs, New York who turned a cancer battle into a rallying cry to “Live Like Liv.” Listen to be touched by Olivia’s inspiring story of hope and perseverance that will leave you with much-needed perspective and many reasons to smile.

The pain of losing a spouse can be unbearable; however, in time, new beginnings are possible. On this episode of The Up Beat, listen to our conversation with Mike and Tricia Billok of Saratoga Springs, New York. You’ll want to hear their story of finding love after loss and tips for building a strong foundation when blending families. 

He runs hundreds of miles every year carrying the American flag as a way to keep the memories of those who have passed away alive. On this episode of The Up Beat, meet Mike Newhouse and learn about the special mission of Flags 4 Fallen. Mike will be running in the 2023 Mother-Lovin’ 5K to celebrate cancer survivors and honor loved ones who lost their cancer battles. 

On this episode of The Up Beat, Mark Mulholland talks to a mom and daughter from Ukraine who have relocated to upstate New York because of the war in their homeland. Hear their inspiring story of perseverance and their reaction to receiving a Hugs for Ukraine grant from Kelly's Angels. 

As a physical education teacher, Majiel Baker teaches her students how to play sports and develop skills such as mental and physical strength, determination, character, teamwork, and a positive mindset. As a cancer warrior, she’s showing them how to apply those skills in the face of real-life adversity. Listen to Mark Mulholland’s conversation with Majiel and a special guest for a reminder that winners never quit.

A colon cancer diagnosis has been a daunting challenge for Diane Zazzaro of Stillwater, New York. Yet, surprisingly, she says it has brought her blessings she never expected. Hear how her family, faith, and a supportive community are filling her with strength and gratitude on this episode of The Up Beat.

Harry Styles, supportive friends and family, and a positive personality. Those are the driving forces that are helping 18-year-old Nahviya Chapple in her battle against non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Hear Mark Mulholland’s heartwarming conversation with Nahviya and her teacher. Plus, discover the surprise that Mark reveals to support Nahviya as she makes plans for the next chapter in her life.

Bob Kovachick has been a friend of Kelly’s Angels for years. Now, as he retires after nearly 50 years as the go-to meteorologist in New York’s Capital Region, Bob is making his commitment to Kelly’s Angels formal as a new member of our board of directors. In this episode Bob reflects on his illustrious career and opens up about the next chapter in his life.