Peter McGennis, Multi-Media Storyteller
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.