In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host David Pfalzgraf welcomes his lifelong friend, creative force, and Buffalo native Pete McGennis. From childhood memories in Buffalo to the creation of Harley-Davidson’s only co-branded product, and now seven feature films and counting, Pete’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, storytelling, and following your joy.
They reflect on Pete’s early entrepreneurial adventures, including building a national brand (Cool Sack), and dive deep into his evolution as a filmmaker and creative entrepreneur. Along the way, Pete shares life lessons on adversity, creative risk, community-building, and why time - and joy - are the most valuable currencies.
Episode Highlights:
- Pete and David's lifelong friendship, growing up in Buffalo
- How childhood creativity and sports laid the foundation for storytelling
- From college theater to summers in LA, and a return to Buffalo with new perspective
- The birth of “Cool Sack,” transforming a family idea into a Harley-Davidson success story
- Lessons from 14 years working with Harley, manufacturing locally, and facing a corporate pivot
- How losing the Harley contract sparked Pete’s full leap into filmmaking
- The bold decision to shoot a feature film in New Orleans and the fear, risk, and joy that came with it
- Telling Buffalo’s stories: Crystal Beach, Queen City, and Bubble Girl
- Why storytelling is a service, and how Pete helps businesses share their purpose through music and film
- Sneak peek into his new film St. Peter Street, a Buffalo–New Orleans musical comedy
- Reflections on creative purpose, time as currency, and building a life centered on joy
- Pete’s next dream: a solo album, new films, and helping others find purpose through story
Key Takeaways:
- Adversity often hides opportunity. Pete’s biggest creative breakthroughs came after career challenges.
- Joy is the compass. Whether creating for film, business, or music, Pete’s north star is always joy and connection.
- Time is currency. Choose wisely where your energy goes - it’s your greatest creative asset.
- Buffalo is a muse. From storytelling to location filming, the Queen City is deeply embedded in Pete’s work and identity.
