Caurie Putnam

Rochester

Writer - News & Special Publications at Rochester Business Journal

Freelance journalist @RBJDaily (past @DandC @Reuters) • @UofR BA & MS •1st Gen to Fulbright •USMC wife •@beaglefreedom @Duquesne Mom• BILLS

Articles

Rochester's small businesses should heed advisors on taxes, tariffs

1 week ago | rbj.net | Caurie Putnam

While the latest small business optimism index from the National Federation of Independent Business showed a slight increase in optimism from April to May 2025, its accompanying uncertainty measure rose two points, with taxes ranking as small business owners’ top concern – a first since December 2020.
Rochester's construction industry sees high demand

2 weeks ago | rbj.net | Caurie Putnam

Key takeaways:• Rochester construction leaders report high demand and project volume• Skilled labor shortage remains the industry’s top challenge• Firms like LeChase and Pike invest in internships and tech to adapt• Strong momentum in healthcare, housing, and infrastructure builds Despite continued and new challenges in the construction industry, Rochester’s building professionals are positive, busy and focused on the future.
Mental health support critical for senior leaders

3 weeks ago | rbj.net | Caurie Putnam

Key takeaways:• COVID-19 highlighted mental health struggles among executives. • NAMI‘s StigmaFree workplace initiative supports leadership wellness. • National campaigns encourage leaders to openly address mental health. • Chronic stress impacts executive performance and decision-making. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored why mental health and wellness awareness and initiatives are critically important for all workers, including those at the top.
Why executive mental health matters in the workplace

3 weeks ago | finance-commerce.com | Caurie Putnam

Listen to this article 55% of CEOs report experiencing mental health issues. NAMI‘s StigmaFree initiative supports workplace mental wellness. Leaders Go First campaign encourages executives to share openly. Nonprofit leaders adopt trauma-informed care and wellness tools. ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The COVID-19 pandemic underscored why mental health and wellness awareness and initiatives are critically important for all workers, including those at the top.
AI, DEI, non-competes reshape NY employment law

1 month ago | rbj.net | Caurie Putnam

Key takeaways:• AI in hiring and HR is prompting new compliance laws in NY• Employers face growing divergence between state and federal laws• Non-compete agreements under legislative threat in New York• DEI initiatives face federal rollback but remain a state priority As 2025 advances the pulse of activity in the labor and employment law sector remains incredibly strong — especially in New York State — according to six local attorneys who specialize in this work.
Business succession planning mistakes to avoid

1 month ago | finance-commerce.com | Caurie Putnam

Listen to this article Common mistake: failing to plan for succession early. Importance of using experienced advisers throughout the process. Tax and legal issues vary greatly between deal structures. ESOPs and gifting strategies require careful tax planning. ROCHESTER, N.Y. — When it comes to business succession planning, there are lessons to be found in the journeys of others.
Why trusted advisors are key to succession planning

1 month ago | rbj.net | Caurie Putnam

Key takeaways:• A core legal advisor helps align succession goals and team efforts• CPAs offer crucial tax strategy insight during succession planning• Key internal employees can help manage communication and dynamics• External consultants support cultural integration in M&A transitionsA critical component to business succession planning and ultimate success is an effective and experienced team of external advisors.
Avoiding pitfalls when planning for business succession

1 month ago | rbj.net | Caurie Putnam

Key takeaways:• Experts stress starting business succession planning early• Backup plans and deal simulations are often overlooked• Tax and entity structure decisions impact long-term outcomes• A strong advisory team is essential for a successful transition When it comes to business succession planning, there are lessons to be found in the journeys of others.
Rochester banks report mixed picture amid economic headwinds

1 month ago | rbj.net | Caurie Putnam

Key Takeaways:Inflation and tariffs drive cautious business borrowing behaviorConstruction, agri-business, and tech sectors show strong activityCommercial trucking sector struggles with costs and regulationLocal banks collaborate with incubators to spur innovationThe U.S. economy remains in a season of uncertainty, prompted in part by persistent inflation and heightened international trade tensions.
RGH’s Daniel P. Ireland talks tech & innovation in nursing.

1 month ago | rbj.net | Caurie Putnam

The use of technology and innovation in nursing continues to evolve at a rapid pace. We checked in with Daniel P. Ireland, EVP, Chief Nursing Executive and Patient Care Officer at Rochester Regional Health to find out how technology is helping both nurses and patients and where he sees innovation headed in his field. How have you personally seen technology and innovation evolve in the nursing industry throughout your career?