When you hear Buffalo, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
Wings.
We think so too.
But we also think about the person who helped put them on the map in a whole new way… the Wing King himself, Drew Cerza.
And, this was a conversation the Powered by Authenticity team couldn’t wait to have.
Getting to spend time with Drew was something we truly appreciated. What he has built in Buffalo, and the way he has brought attention to our community, is something we are proud of.
To quote Drew, “It’s been about giving back since day one.”
And as the festival has grown, so has the impact he’s been able to make.
Drew shares the Growth of the National Buffalo Wing Festival, now celebrating its 25th anniversary and recognized as one of the top specialty food festivals. What stands out most is how that growth has created a platform to give back and support the community in meaningful ways.
We also talk about how he became the “Wing King,” including his win on Throwdown with Bobby Flay, and how that moment helped elevate both his platform and the festival.
This conversation also dives into Drew’s entrepreneurial spirit and the mindset that has shaped his journey.
From identifying a niche and going for it, to staying focused and continuing to evolve, Drew shares what it takes to build something that lasts. There is a clear passion for entrepreneurship throughout this conversation, and a respect for those willing to take an idea and turn it into something real.
He also shares his commitment to mentorship, including his work with local colleges and reinforces what makes Buffalo so special… people showing up for people.
At its core, this episode is about building something meaningful, supporting your community, and creating impact along the way.
Be sure to join us in Buffalo on August 29 & 30, 2026 for the National Buffalo Wing Festival. You’ll find Drew, Producer Ken and I there taking in all of the wings and community engagement.
Find more information about Drew:
Home – The National Buffalo Wing FestivalDrew Cerza | LinkedIn
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Emily Carlson is a trailblazing executive, mentor, and international #1 best-selling author in the Healthcare IT and technology consulting industry. With a 30-year career spanning Information Technology, Project Management, and Digital Transformation, Emily has been at the forefront of leveraging technology to drive innovation, optimize healthcare operations, and enhance patient outcomes. She is recognized for her expertise in leading complex IT initiatives, delivering best-in-class solutions, and helping organizations achieve strategic growth through technology-driven transformation.
Beyond her executive leadership, Emily is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion in technology. She is the creator and host of Powered by Authenticity, a podcast on a mission to elevate equity and inclusion for women everywhere. Each episode delivers insightful, inspiring conversations with remarkable individuals who are redefining success on their own terms. The show dives into their stories, shares valuable resources for those ready to start or re-start their professional journeys, and explores the unique challenges and triumphs they’ve encountered along the way. Join us for empowering stories and actionable insights that remind you that your path forward is as bold as you make it.
Emily’s thought leadership extends beyond the microphone—she is a highly sought-after keynote speaker at national and international technology and leadership conferences. Her keynote topics address not only emerging tech trends, digital transformation, and mentorship, but also the broader needs for leaders in every career vertical. She provides valuable insights into adaptive leadership, workplace innovation, and strategies for driving inclusion, engagement, and long-term success across industries. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences and inspire action makes her a transformative voice in leadership conversations.
Among her many accolades, Emily was honored as one of Consulting Magazine’s Top Women Leaders in Technology, Excellence, and Innovation in 2021. In 2022, she was named Mentor of the Year, recognizing her unwavering commitment to supporting and uplifting women in technology. She is also an international #1 best-selling author, further solidifying her role as a thought leader and advocate for meaningful change.
When she’s not leading in the tech space, Emily channels her creative innovation into crafting wildly inventive cocktails, extreme charcuterie boards, and outlandish pies. A lifelong Buffalo Bills fan, she cherishes every moment spent with her family.
