COVER STORIES

Life Is A Runway: Natalie Rae of Panache

For Natalie Rae, fashion has always been more than fabric and trends — it’s been a form of self-expression, empowerment, and storytelling. In 2023, she stepped into the iconic shoes of Panache founder Joan Lincoln, taking the reins of one of Rochester’s most beloved luxury consignment boutiques. With a bold vision, deep entrepreneurial spirit, and a passion for sustainable fashion, Natalie has been carrying Panache into a new era while honoring the legacy that made it a staple in the community.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY BRANDON VICK PHOTOGRAPHY

When corporate America lost Heidi Lyndaker, the wellness world gained a force of nature. Her career began in psychology in New York City, where she saw how diet, especially sugar and food dyes, could dramatically affect children’s behavior. But it wasn’t until a severe health crisis left her unable to swallow even water that Heidi truly understood the body’s power to heal. Refusing a lifetime of prescriptions, she took her health into her own hands—researching, learning, and ultimately curing herself.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY BRANDON VICK PHOTOGRAPHY

Scott Spezzano: Rochester Radio Royalty & The Heartbeat of the Community

There are few names in Rochester radio more recognizable—or more beloved—than Scott Spezzano. For over four decades, Scott has been the voice that wakes us up, makes us laugh, and brings our community together. From the halls of MAGIC 92 in the early 1980s to his wildly popular morning show on 98.9 The Buzz alongside longtime co-host Sandy Waters, Spezzano has done far more than just “spin the hits.” He’s become a trusted friend, a media trailblazer, and a powerful advocate for those who need it most.Continue reading

When the Body Betrays, the Spirit Rises
Marisa Zeppieri: A Voice for the Voiceless, A Light in the Darkness

We are incredibly honored to welcome Marisa Zeppieri as the latest cover woman for Rochester Woman Online—a woman whose story exemplifies strength, advocacy, and purpose. As we mark Lupus Awareness Month, it is only fitting that we celebrate someone who has not only lived with this invisible illness for decades, but who has transformed her pain into a platform, her suffering into strength, and her silence into a rallying cry for millions.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY MICHELE ASHLEE-MEADE

With grace, grit, and a passion for holistic wellness, the founder of breathe has spent the past two decades building more than just a business—she’s built a movement. What started in 2002 as a unique fusion of yoga, nutrition, and retail has blossomed into one of Rochester’s most beloved wellness destinations. Guided by authenticity, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to community, this visionary woman has proven that entrepreneurship doesn’t always begin with a business plan—it begins with heart.

As a registered dietitian, yoga instructor, keynote speaker, and mother, she wears many hats, yet manages to remain grounded in purpose. At 65, she is redefining what it means to age, lead, and live fully. Her story is one of passion meeting perseverance, and of staying true to one’s purpose even when the path is uncertain. For this Women Entrepreneurs Edition, we are honored to feature her on our cover and share the inspiring journey behind breathe—a space where wellness isn’t just practiced, it’s lived.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY BRANDON VICK PHOTOGRAPHY

Introducing Our Latest Cover Woman: Sandy Waters

Rochester Woman Online is thrilled to feature radio personality Sandy Waters as our latest cover woman. A beloved voice in the community, Sandy has been a staple of morning radio for over 25 years as one half of the dynamic duo on Spezzano and Sandy on 98.9 The Buzz. Her journey from a reserved college student to a confident and engaging morning show host is a testament to passion, perseverance, and embracing the unexpected.

Beyond her impressive career, Sandy is a devoted wife and mother. Married to fellow radio personality Mike Danger, co-host of The Sports Bar on 95.7 The Fan Rochester, she balances a thriving career with family life, raising two daughters, Leah and Alexa, along with their adorable mini schnauzer, Walter. Throughout her years in the industry, she has not only adapted to the ever-changing landscape of radio but has also cultivated deep connections with her listeners, making Spezzano and Sandy one of the longest-running morning shows in Rochester and beyond.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY ALBERT JONES

As we celebrate Black History Month, Rochester Woman Online is honored to feature an extraordinary woman whose resilience, passion, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the Rochester community. Khadija Yawn is more than just a leader—she is a visionary, a mentor, and a trailblazer who has dedicated her life to uplifting others. From her beginnings in the entertainment industry to founding ROC ROYAL INC. and inspiring countless young people through 585 DREAM, Khadija has turned her personal hardships into a mission to empower and uplift. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and community.

In this exclusive interview, Khadija shares her story, her inspirations, and the driving force behind her relentless pursuit of change.Continue reading

Photos by Mike Dinardo & Josh Carruba

From Struggles to Success: How a Determined Woman Built a Multi-Million-Dollar Business While Transforming Lives

In the heart of Rochester, NY, Shaina Zazzaro stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of a dream. As the founder of Effortlessly Healthy, a multi-million-dollar meal prep business that revolutionizes the way people think about nutrition, her journey is anything but ordinary. From humble beginnings, battling setbacks, and navigating personal and professional challenges, she has risen to become a beacon of inspiration for entrepreneurs, women, and families alike.

Her story is not just about building a successful business; it’s about redefining what it means to fail, persevere, and ultimately triumph. Raised by a single mother, she learned early on the value of hard work and the importance of giving back. Whether it was working her way through college or turning a side hustle into a thriving enterprise, Shaina has continually shown that resilience is the key to unlocking success.Continue reading

PHOTOS BY JULIO MONTALVO

A Legacy of Love and Leadership: Courtney Cornell Ushers in a New Era at Cornell’s Jewelers

As the holiday season draws near, Rochester Woman Online is proud to spotlight Courtney Cornell as our 2024 Holiday Edition cover woman. Representing the next generation of excellence at Cornell’s Jewelers, Courtney embodies a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and heartfelt commitment. As part of a family legacy spanning nearly a century, she and her husband, Michael, have seamlessly stepped into leadership roles, carrying forward a cherished brand that has become synonymous with elegance, craftsmanship, and community trust.Continue reading

COVER PHOTO BY CHRIS JOHNSON

Introducing Maisha Beard: I am Cheryl’s Daughter

We are thrilled to present Maisha Beard, the latest cover woman for Rochester Woman Online, whose story is one of profound resilience, transformation, and purpose. Maisha’s journey has been shaped by both great loss and extraordinary love, serving as an example of how life’s challenges can mold us into our truest selves. Driven by her mother’s indomitable spirit and memory, Maisha describes herself as “Cheryl’s Daughter,” a title she holds with deep pride and reverence. It signifies her mother’s strength and legacy, qualities that continue to guide Maisha as she carves out her own impactful path.Continue reading