Three Minutes Across the Counter With Gregg Balbera

"Three Minutes Across the Counter" is a new feature on Patch in which we chat with local business owners. If you would like to be featured, email adina@patch.com with the name of your business. 

Today we chat with Gregg Balbera, a Roslyn resident who, with his wife Eileen, owns Right at Home, a provider of home-care services, in Plainview.

Patch: How did you get your first start in business? 

Gregg Balbera: My wife Eileen and I have had several grandparents as well as aunts and uncles who had Alzheimers. We saw our parents becoming primary caregivers and witnessed excellent caregiving and what that meant to the family and the individual receiving that care. We decided we wanted to be part of helping other families who were also going through difficult times.

Patch: Tell us something about yourself that most of your neighbors don't know:

Balbera: I don’t drink any caffeine – no soda, coffee, tea.  All my energy is self-motivated

Patch: How long have you lived here? 

Balbera: We have lived on Long Island our whole lives and in Roslyn for the past 17 years.

Patch: How did your parents influence you as a business owner? 

Balbera: My parents taught me that no matter what you do, do it to the best of your ability.  They also taught me to try and learn something new every day and I am true believer in that. 

Patch: What's your favorite thing about living here? 

Balbera: Without a doubt, it's the four seasons.  Each is so distinct and helps you appreciate all the changes in our lives.

Patch: What's a business mistake you've made that later you were glad you did? 

Balbera: I once left a job I had for over 10 years for a new opportunity.  While the new opportunity wasn't exactly what I expected when I left, I learned to make the most of whatever opportunity is in front of you and not to be afraid to take chances.

Patch: What's the best business advice you've ever received? 

Balbera: Find a business/job you are passionate about and your job won’t feel like work.

Patch: What advice would you give to a small business owner just starting out? 

Balbera: I would say never stop asking questions. Great advice and ideas can come from so many different and unexpected places but often times it’s up to you to seek out knowledge.

Patch: What do you look for when you hire? 

Balbera: We look for truly caring and empathetic individuals looking to make a true difference in the lives of those we serve.