Anthony Spiratos is an entrepreneur and community-driven business builder whose work spans hospitality, real estate, and mission-based consumer brands. After more than two decades creating impactful ventures in Rhode Island, he is now based in Charleston, South Carolina, where he is expanding his next chapter of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

In Rhode Island, Anthony helped steward his family’s historic oceanfront estate—held for 77 years—located directly across from the world-famous Cliff Walk in Middletown. Under his leadership, the four-acre property, known as Sea View Villa, was thoughtfully revitalized and transformed into a record-setting luxury short-term rental destination before its $15 million sale in 2023, marking one of the region’s notable coastal real estate transactions.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Anthony founded Dine Out Life, Rhode Island’s largest independently owned restaurant delivery platform. Supporting more than 40 local restaurants across Newport County, the initiative generated over $1 million for the local restaurant economy while uniquely taking no commission from participating establishments. The model also created employment for more than 30 displaced workers, reflecting Anthony’s belief that business leadership and community impact should advance together.

Anthony’s newest venture, Riley & Co., was inspired by his rescue dog Riley—originally from South Carolina before being adopted through the Potter League for Animals in Rhode Island. The company donates 50% of all profits from gourmet dog treats directly to animal shelters, uniting entrepreneurship with measurable compassion. Now rooted in Charleston, Anthony is focused on growing Riley & Co. into a nationally recognized, mission-driven brand that supports shelters while strengthening the communities it serves.

I am Sir Riley. I am armed with cuteness. I am an adorable four-legged canine super spy who spies on rabbits and squirrels at my waterfront cottage in West Ashley.

Born May 10, 2011, in South Carolina, I was adopted from the Potter League for Animals, located in Middletown, Rhode Island in April 2012 by my best friend and partner in adventure, Anthony. Now 14 years young, I’ve become quite the well-traveled gentleman.

I love staying in dog-friendly hotels all along the Eastern Seaboard and throughout New England, and charming everyone I meet. Hotel staff everywhere I go can’t help but fall in love with me—I’m a big charmer who never misses a chance to make a new friend or snag a belly rub.

When I’m not supervising my humans that work for Riley & Co, you’ll find me taste-testing the treats for Riley & Co. I’m also an enthusiastic explorer. I love visiting all the dog-friendly shops in every town we travel to on our road trip adventures—especially the boutiques and local stores in my hometown of Newport.

I believe in supporting the local hospitality industry and small businesses everywhere we go. Every town Riley & Co. expands to is a chance to build community and help the places that welcome dogs like me with open arms.

Since I was once a shelter pup myself, it’s my dream that every treat we sell helps other dogs waiting for their forever homes.

Aaron J. Ferro is a forward-thinking marketing and communications executive, currently serving as Chief Marketing & Communications Advisor at Riley & Co Dog Treats. In this role, he leads the brand’s storytelling, digital strategy, PR, and customer engagement, driving emotional resonance with dog lovers and scaling Riley & Co’s presence in an increasingly humanized pet market.

Aaron’s leadership is grounded in over a decade of strategic branding and media production experience as the founder & CEO of Creative Ventures, where he crafted compelling content and campaigns for diverse clients. He also founded Hope for Providence Organization, a Rhode Island–based nonprofit focused on harnessing the power of storytelling, community engagement, and education to amplify underrepresented voices across the state.

Recognized for his ability to fuse narrative and data, Aaron has consistently elevated brand impact and community connection. Whether launching social-first dog treat campaigns or spearheading mission-driven nonprofit initiatives, his work reflects a deep understanding of audience, empathy, and strategic positioning.

Across for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Aaron’s leadership style is characterized by authenticity, creativity, and results. He is uniquely positioned to build Riley & Co’s brand identity—supercharging customer loyalty, digital growth, and emotional storytelling.

Larry Gillheeney is the Director of Advocacy for the Rhode Island Center for Freedom & Prosperity. He holds an advanced degree in International Relations from Salve Regina University, where he focused extensively on economic development and individual rights. A lifelong resident of Cranston, Rhode Island, Larry is the Managing Editor of the Ocean State Current, the New England Hub Director for America’s Future, Past Grand Knight of KoC Council #4331, and sits on the Leadership Council of the RI Catholic Foundation.

He brings his expertise and background to Riley & Co. Dog Treats, where 50% of all our profits go to local animal shelters in the communities we serve—making a meaningful impact for our partners and their guests.

In his spare time, he enjoys swimming, hiking, and Clint Eastwood movies.