Polished grit. Refreshingly spicy. Casually iconic.
That’s Buffalo for you.
In this episode, I sit down with Patrick Kaler, President & CEO of Visit Buffalo, to explore the story behind Buffalo’s evolution and why the city continues to earn recognition as one of America’s most reimagined cities.
While many people know Visit Buffalo for helping attract visitors to the region, this conversation reveals a much bigger story. Tourism is a powerful economic driver for Western New York, supporting thousands of jobs, fueling local businesses, and creating opportunities for continued Growth across our community. As Patrick shares, every visitor who chooses Buffalo contributes to the momentum shaping the region’s future.
We also discuss the thinking behind Visit Buffalo’s recent rebrand and the story behind the “That’s Buffalo for You” campaign—one that captures the resilience, pride, and character that make this city unlike any other. From welcoming Great Lakes cruises and major sporting events to championing Buffalo’s growing reputation on a national stage, Patrick shares how Visit Buffalo is helping tell the story of a city that continues to surprise, inspire, and attract visitors from around the world.
From economic growth and tourism to architecture, waterfront development, and the spirit of the City of Good Neighbors, this conversation is a celebration of a city that continues to honor its roots while building an exciting future.
Because while Buffalo continues to grow and evolve, its greatest strength remains unchanged: the people who proudly call it home.
That’s Buffalo for you.
Thank you, Patrick, for such a great conversation. Truly value your time and breadth of discussion on all aspects of Buffalo!!
Links to Patrick and Visit Buffalo:
That’s Buffalo for You – Visit Buffalo
Great Lakes & Thousand Islands Cruise | Lakes Ontario and Erie
2026 NHL Draft: Round 1 – 06/26/26 | KeyBank Center – keybankcenter.com
About Patrick:
As the President & CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara, I oversee three tourism organizations: the destination marketing and management organization, the convention center, and the sports commission. I report to a 21-member board of directors and manage a workforce of over 150 employees and a combined budget of nearly $12 million. My mission is to promote and develop the Buffalo Niagara region as a premier destination for visitors, conventions, and events.
With over 30 years of experience in senior leadership roles in the tourism industry, I have a proven track record of leading organizational change and driving key strategic and measurable performance. During my career, I have successfully worked in diverse and politically driven environments, ranging from urban to rural settings. I pride myself as a dynamic, charismatic, and influential leader, speaker, and writer with expertise in marketing communications, social networking, and hospitality. I am passionate about creating and marketing tourism products that showcase the unique assets and attractions of the destinations I serve.
