Become a Mentor
The INSPYRE Mentor Program is designed to connect experienced professionals with the next generation of entrepreneurs and small business leaders. Mentors play a vital role in helping startups and early-stage companies grow by offering guidance, encouragement, and real-world insights. Whether you’re a subject-matter expert, seasoned founder, or business leader, your time and knowledge can make a lasting impact.
Meet the Mentors
Scroll to learn more about INSPYRE’s mentors, and click their names to connect on LinkedIn.
Are you interested in becoming a mentor? Apply here.
If you are a client, tenant, or taking part in one of INSPYRE’s programs and want to know more about how to connect with a mentor, contact Greg.
Todd Adelman
Corporate Development at SkyfireAI
20+ Years of Experience | MBA | Several Successful Startups
With more than two decades of experience across corporate development, strategic growth, and new market expansion, this mentor brings a strong track record of helping organizations scale with purpose. His background includes leading initiatives in SaaS, public safety, climate technology, consumer tech, and fintech, with deep experience in marketing development, sales, client engagement, partnerships, and product marketing. Having contributed to multiple successful start-ups, he understands how to align vision, strategy, and execution in fast-moving environments. He has mentored numerous emerging companies and founders, supporting students, graduate programs, clean-tech innovators, life sciences teams, and start-up leaders raising capital. His greatest strengths lie in assessing needs objectively, understanding customer engagement, and helping entrepreneurs adopt new technology effectively.
Why He Mentors:
“Helping entrepreneurs grow strengthens the entire community, supporting one another is essential. I hope to connect founders with relationships I’ve built, while continuing to expand my own network in meaningful ways.”
Alanna Abreu
Consulting Principal at UHY Advisory, Inc.
20 Years of Experience | CPA | Multiple Industry Certifications
Alanna brings two decades of advisory experience with a focus on startups and mid-size companies. Her expertise spans professional services, manufacturing, construction, and not-for-profits. She’s known for helping businesses strengthen internal controls, streamline accounting systems, and make strategic, data-driven decisions. She’s especially passionate about financial literacy and business growth, and she’s committed to helping entrepreneurs build strong foundations that support long-term success.
Why She Mentors:
“I love being part of someone’s journey,from vision to execution, and helping them navigate the challenges along the way. When entrepreneurs succeed, they strengthen communities and inspire others.”
Andrew Brechko
Senior Security Manager at Lockheed Martin
20+ Years of Experience | Defense & National Security
With more than two decades of experience in the defense industry, this mentor brings deep expertise in leadership and the management of classified and physical security operations. His background includes over 20 years of leadership and mentoring in the U.S. Military, where guiding teams and developing leaders was a core part of his work. He offers thoughtful, steady guidance grounded in real-world experience, especially for those looking to strengthen leadership skills or navigate complex environments.
Why He Mentors:
“I’m motivated by helping build a strong Upstate New York economy.”
Rachel Carpenter
Founder & CEO at Intrinio
15+ Years of Experience | Serial Entrepreneur | Fundraising & Investor Relations Expert
As the Founder and CEO of Intrinio, this mentor brings deep experience in building, scaling, and leading high-growth organizations. A serial entrepreneur and self-taught programmer, she has spent more than 15 years working across fintech, SaaS, B2B, B2C, startups, and nonprofit organizations, combining technical fluency with strong business and leadership instincts. Her expertise spans business strategy, innovation, fundraising, investor relations, marketing, sales, and product development. She is particularly passionate about helping leaders navigate early-stage growth and confidently step into the CEO role.
Why She Mentors:
“I’ve had a lot of help along the way and know how crucial mentorship is. I’ve made plenty of mistakes, learned a lot of lessons, and want to share that experience with others.”
Jamar Clarke
Executive Director at the Upstate Minority Economic Alliance
Stay tuned for more on Jamar!
Jody Frawley
Performance Consultant & Trainer at Dale Carnegie of CNY
4 Years of Experience | Dale Carnegie Certified Trainer
This mentor brings a people-first approach to leadership development, helping individuals build confidence, communication skills, and ownership in their growth. As a certified Dale Carnegie trainer, she works across industries supporting professionals at all stages of their careers. Her background blends formal leadership training with meaningful, long-term mentoring experience—creating an empowering style that helps mentees uncover their own answers and build self-belief.
Why She Mentors:
“It’s incredibly fulfilling to see a person grow in confidence.”
Matt Funiciello
Salesperson & Office Manager at JF Real Estate
9 Years of Experience | SIOR Member Associate
With nearly a decade in the real estate industry, this mentor brings a strong foundation in leadership, networking, and marketing. As both a salesperson and office manager at JF Real Estate, he’s built a reputation for connecting people, growing business, and making a positive impact in the Syracuse community. He’s passionate about helping others grow their businesses and believes in the power of mentorship to create lasting change, both professionally and locally.
Why He Mentors:
“I want to have a positive impact on the community and connect with other business leaders in the area.”
Laura Gates
President of Gates Group Consulting
30+ Years of Experience | ICF & EMCC Certified Executive Coach | Syracuse University Alum
Laura Gates brings nearly three decades of experience as an executive coach, leadership advisor, and entrepreneur. She has worked at the highest levels of corporate, startup, government, and academic organizations, guiding leaders and teams through growth, transformation, and times of uncertainty. Her career spans global leadership consulting, founding a marketing and PR firm during the Silicon Valley dot-com era, and advising corporate and VC-backed executives at companies such as Google, Visa, Shell, LinkedIn, and YouTube. She has also partnered with organizations including NASA, the Pentagon, national laboratories, and leading universities. After many years in Northern California, Laura has returned to Central New York with a deep commitment to supporting the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Why She Mentors:
“As an entrepreneur myself, I know how powerful it is to build something of your own. It can be a legacy-changing journey, and I want to help others find both joy and success in that process.”
Greg Georgiadis
Senior Program Manager, International Programs at Saab, Inc.
20 Years of Experience | B.S. Physics | Executive MBA
With two decades of experience spanning aerospace, aviation systems, and entrepreneurship, this mentor brings a powerful blend of technical expertise and business leadership. At Saab, he leads international programs focused on business execution, forecasting, risk management, and strategy, bridging engineering excellence with disciplined execution. In addition to his corporate leadership, he’s spent over 20 years as a founder and owner of a specialty food business, giving him firsthand insight into entrepreneurship across both startup and enterprise environments.
Why He Mentors:
“As a young entrepreneur, I was lucky to have people guide me. I enjoy giving that knowledge back.”
Sean Griffin
Head of Corporate Marketing & Communications at Arrcus
20 Years of Experience | Master’s in Communication – S.I. Newhouse School
With a dynamic career spanning media, education, and technology, this mentor brings a wealth of experience in marketing, communications, and leadership. He’s held roles at NBC, ESPN, OCC, JMA Wireless, and now leads corporate marketing and communications at Arrcus, where he’s part of the executive leadership team. He’s especially passionate about brand strategy and marketing, and has firsthand experience supporting funding rounds and scaling organizations in fast-paced industries.
Why He Mentors:
“I feel I have experience that could be helpful to draw from, and I believe in supporting local entrepreneurs. We learn from each other.”
Jim Jurista
Co-Founder, Co-Owner & Chief Technology Officer at Metis Consulting Group
35 Years of Experience | B.S. & M.S. in Computer Science | Certified B-Corp & Woman-/Disability-Owned Business Leader
With 35 years of experience across technology, business strategy, and organizational growth, this mentor brings deep expertise in aligning tech solutions with real business needs. As Co-Founder and CTO of Metis Consulting Group (a certified B Corp and woman/disability-owned company, he helps businesses evolve their systems, teams, and strategies while staying true to the core motivations of their founders. His background spans financial services, HR, and travel industries, and he has mentored countless individuals: career changers, technologists, founders, and leaders over several decades. His strength lies in translating people’s interests and aspirations into actionable insights that move businesses forward.
Why He Mentors:
“I’m energized by hearing what motivates and inspires others. It gives me perspective that enriches my own business and life.”
Zoe Koulouris
Founder, Executive Coach & Consultant at Transform with Irini, LLC
15 Years of Experience | Syracuse University Alum | Certified Product Owner & Leadership Coach
Zoe is an accomplished entrepreneur, product leader, and executive coach with 15 years of experience building and growing companies across tech, healthcare, and finance/crypto. She’s worn nearly every hat in a startup and now uses that hands-on experience to guide founders and leadership teams through growth, transition, and transformation. Her work focuses on aligning people, strategy, and execution, helping organizations scale thoughtfully while developing strong, self-aware leaders. From go-to-market strategy and product innovation to digital transformation and team development, Irini brings both strategic insight and practical know-how.
Why She Mentors:
“I’ve been there and know how much a strong support network can help. I want to make the journey a little easier for others—and help our community thrive.”
Jim Long
Founder & Managing Partner at The Long Law Firm, PLLC
15 Years of Experience | Juris Doctor | Former Software Developer
This mentor brings a unique blend of technical and legal expertise to the startup ecosystem. A former software developer turned attorney, he now represents startups and small businesses from formation through exit, guiding founders through each phase of growth with a strategic, business-minded approach. With deep experience in tech and software development, he enjoys helping entrepreneurs think through business models, product rollout strategies, marketing approaches, and the legal considerations that support long-term success.
Why He Mentors:
“I love talking shop with other entrepreneurs, staying connected to what’s happening in the startup world, and helping build a strong community around INSPYRE.”
John Peter
Owner & Operator at Peter’s Discount Liquor & Peter Family Holdings
8+ Years of Experience | B.A. in Marketing Communications & Advertising
As a hands-on entrepreneur and business owner, this mentor brings well-rounded experience across retail operations and commercial real estate. From accounting and taxes to merchandising, HR, and advertising, he understands what it takes to run and grow a business day-to-day, because he’s done it himself. His passion lies in entrepreneurship and practical problem-solving, supporting business owners wherever help is most needed and impactful.
Why He Mentors:
“I’m passionate about giving back in ways beyond financial support. I’ve learned a lot through experience, and I enjoy helping others who are open to mentorship.”
Rhiannon Perry
VP of Operations, PMO, Quality & Compliance at myPlace Health
10+ Years in Healthcare Startups | MPH in Healthcare Management & Policy
Rhiannon is a powerhouse operator and startup builder with a passion for turning bold visions into real-world impact. With over a decade of experience launching and scaling healthcare organizations, she’s helped grow teams from the ground up at trailblazing companies like Tia, Cityblock Health, and now myPlace Health—where she’s a founding executive team member. She’s known for designing high-performing systems, aligning cross-functional teams, and bringing clarity to complex challenges. Whether it’s strategy, operations, or culture-building, Rhiannon brings a thoughtful, mission-driven approach to everything she does.
Why She Mentors:
“I care deeply about supporting builders and leaders as they turn their visions into reality. By mentoring, I hope to help others make a meaningful impact, especially here in the Syracuse community.”
Shannon Reedy
Chief Brand Officer at Terakeet
16 Years of Experience | Syracuse University ’09 | Harvard Executive Leadership Certified
With over 16 years of experience, this mentor brings a broad and strategic perspective built from roles spanning analytics, account management, sales leadership, and now brand, PR, and communications. As a member of Terakeet’s executive team, she plays a key role in shaping organizational vision, strategy, and long-term growth while working with Fortune 500 brands across finance, retail, healthcare, and education. She’s deeply passionate about helping leaders and organizations scale with intention, balancing strong branding, people-first leadership, and mindful growth.
Why She Mentors:
“I love seeing others uncover their true potential and surprise themselves with what they’re capable of.”
Caprice Reader
President & HR Consultant at Reader HR Consulting
15+ Years of Experience | SPHR | SHRM-SCP | MBA | Certified Mediator
Meet one of our powerhouse mentors! With over 15 years in the HR field, she brings deep expertise in everything people-related—from building company culture and scaling businesses to hiring your first employee and navigating employee relations. She’s worked across a wide range of industries, from startups and tech to retail, hospitality, and women-owned businesses. Her versatility and warmth make her a go-to guide for entrepreneurs looking to grow with confidence.
Why She Mentors:
“I love giving back to the community. As an entrepreneur and long-time volunteer, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned.”
Joy Rinaldi
Chief Operation Officer of Sapphire Recruitment, Inc.
23 Years of Experience | Accounting Degree | Certified Staffing Specialist
With over two decades of experience in recruiting, sales, operations, and team leadership, this mentor knows what it takes to build a business from the ground up. Starting in public accounting, she developed a strong foundation in business and financial structure before diving into the fast-paced world of staffing and recruitment. She’s passionate about helping entrepreneurs tackle real-world challenges, whether it’s building a team, creating repeatable processes, or making smart business decisions. Her mentoring style is practical, adaptable, and rooted in experience.
Why She Mentors:
“I want to give back, share the lessons I’ve learned the hard way, so others don’t have to. We learn from each other, and that’s how we grow.”
Jonathan Runge
Partner at Upstate Advisors, LLC
8 Years of Experience | CPA
This mentor combines technical expertise with entrepreneurial spirit. After starting his career in public accounting, he launched his own practice and now serves as a partner at Upstate Advisors, LLC. He specializes in accounting for startups, tax strategy, and mergers & acquisitions, bringing clarity and structure to growing businesses. He’s passionate about responsible, data-driven growth and helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of compliance, governance, and financial planning.
Why He Mentors:
“I have a passion for impact and sharing real-world experience. I enjoy expanding my network and helping others succeed in business.”
Ralph Simone
Founding Partner at Emergent
34 Years of Experience | BBA in Accounting | Certified Professional Coach
With over three decades of experience and more than 20,000 hours of professional coaching, this mentor brings unmatched depth to leadership development and business strategy. As a founding partner at Emergent, he’s helped shape organizations across manufacturing, engineering, healthcare, higher education, and professional services. He’s not just a coach…he’s a builder, strategist, and trusted advisor who knows how to connect, listen, and guide others through challenges with clarity and purpose.
Why He Mentors:
“I have a genuine interest in helping everyone discover their innate greatness and true calling. Helping entrepreneurs grow helps our community grow.”
Matthew Van Ryn
Owner, Law Office of Matthew Van Ryn, PLLC
30+ Years of Experience | J.D. – Rutgers Law | B.A. – Cornell | Securities Law Certificate – Cornell Law
With over three decades of experience as a business attorney, and as a founder or partner in five businesses, this mentor brings a rare blend of legal expertise and entrepreneurial insight. He’s helped nearly 500 people start new businesses and has worked across industries like media, software, and local small businesses. Whether it’s forming a new venture, navigating commercial transactions, or crafting a marketing strategy, he offers practical, strategic guidance grounded in real-world experience.
Why He Mentors:
“To create a stronger local economy, so there is economic opportunity here for my daughter’s generation.”
Kurt Wheeler
Founder & Principal at Wheeler Leadership Solutions, LLC
36 Years of Leadership Experience | Harvard Graduate | Retired U.S. Marine Colonel
This mentor brings a lifetime of leadership to the table. With a career spanning the military, education, and government—including 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, 28 years as an educator and coach, and service as Mayor of Cazenovia, he’s a true example of service-driven leadership. Now leading his own consulting firm, he works with clients in manufacturing, sales, and local government, helping them build strong teams, solve problems, and grow with purpose.
Why He Mentors:
“As a local leader, I believe in growing our economy from the ground up. Watching my daughter grow her own business has inspired me to help others do the same.”
Mentor with Us
Join our dynamic mentor network and help shape the future of innovation and inclusive economic growth. Fill out the form below to get started, and a member of our staff will be in touch.