In this episode of Love Living Local 315, we sit down with John Calabrese, President and CEO of First Source Federal Credit Union, for a conversation about leadership, community and why he believes the future of Central New York has never been brighter. From a global career with Pfizer that took him around the world to building Express Employment Professionals from the ground up, John shares the pivotal moments that shaped both his career and his philosophy on leadership.

John opens up about the decision to leave a corporate career and return home to be closer to family. He also reflects on the challenges of starting a business from scratch, navigating the uncertainty of COVID and making difficult decisions when the people counting on you matter most. Throughout the conversation, one theme keeps surfacing: servant leadership. Whether he is talking about employees, customers, or the community, John believes success comes from helping others succeed first.

We also dive into the future of First Source, the importance of financial literacy and the opportunities emerging across the Mohawk Valley. From economic development and small business growth to attracting talent and building a more diversified economy, John shares an optimistic outlook on where the region is headed. This episode is packed with practical advice, local pride and a refreshing perspective on what makes the 315 such a special place to call home.

Thank you to First Source for being a major supporter of our platform.

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Welcome & Introduction
(0:45) - Leaving Pfizer & Returning Home
(2:15) - Transition to Express
(3:50) - Servant Leadership & Family
(6:15) - What Brought John to First Source
(7:30) - Expanding Charter
(9:15) - Growth vs. Service
(11:05) - Community Involvement & Financial Literacy
(13:00) - Herkimer County Projects
(15:30) - AI in the Industry
(17:30) - Beyond Banking
(18:55) - Budget & Habits
(23:30) - Why CNY is Special
(25:10) - When People Think of First Source
(26:30) - Human Connection
(27:30) - Locations & Future Plans
(28:25) - Biggest Opportunity
(30:10) - Rapid Fire Questions

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John & First Source Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-calabrese-ab8a6a7

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@LoveLivingLocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lovelivinglocal315
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Scott's FB - https://www.facebook.com/scott.grates.1
Scott's Website - https://www.scottgrates.com
Referrals Done Right - https://www.referralsdoneright.org