Your Hometown Podcast

Kindness may seem like a small gesture, but its impact can reach far beyond the moment. A helping hand, a thoughtful act, or simply letting someone know they’re not alone can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to do the same and making our communities stronger and more connected. Sometimes, one simple act of kindness is all it takes to make a meaningful difference in someone’s day—and perhap...

World War II changed the lives of millions of people across Europe, forcing families to confront unimaginable choices—whether to stay and risk their lives, or leave behind their homes, their families, and everything they had ever known in the hope of finding safety somewhere else. For those who fled, the journey to a new country was filled with uncertainty. Many arrived knowing no one, speaking li...

What happens when the values you live by as a person of faith meet the realities and responsibilities of governing? And how does faith shape the way an elected official approaches the people and issues he serves? Nicholas Veliky has a unique perspective on those questions. He is both a public servant and a man of deep faith - and he brings those two worlds together in his daily life. Nick talks ab...

Politics is personal and it starts at the local level. Local elected officials are the ones who make decisions that affect our everyday lives and impact communities. Little Falls Mayor, James Damiano, talks about why he ran for mayor and how the role has impacted his life. Mayor Damiano is a lifelong Little Falls resident who was recently elected to another term as the Township’s leader. Also in t...

In her younger years, Woodland Park Mayor, Tracy Kallert, never imagined she would one day be running her home town. As a lifelong resident, she loved  Woodland Park , but when she pictured the mayor, she didn’t see someone who looked like her. After being encouraged to try her hand at politics, she learned that even though she didn’t have experience, she had a knack for the job and she uncovered...

Life doesn’t always unfold the way we planned. Sometimes a major life change—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, divorce, illness, or another unexpected challenge—forces us to begin again. But those difficult moments can also become the start of an exciting new chapter. After the death of her beloved husband, Jim, Donna Scancarella chose to say “yes” to life, followed a longtime dream, and launc...

Success rarely happens by accident. More often, it’s built through years of discipline, sacrifice, and a willingness to keep going even when the road feels uncertain. Following a dream asks something of us — focus, resilience, and the courage to stay committed long before the rewards ever show up. Dr. Domenick Randazzo is a respected cardiologist whose work has placed him at the center of some of...

Entrepreneurship is about more than building a business — it’s about vision, resilience, and the willingness to take risks in pursuit of something meaningful. Behind every successful venture is a story of hard work, perseverance, and passion. Joe Aquino, owner of Evolution Restaurant and Bar, talks about what it takes to build and sustain a thriving business, the lessons he’s learned along the way...

Community is built by the people who step up and give their time, energy, and resources to support and strengthen the lives of people around them. Through volunteering and fundraising, individuals can make a lasting impact and inspire others to do the same. Joseph Siano talks about the importance of community involvement, volunteerism, and how fundraising efforts can bring people together to make...

Raising and caring for a child with intellectual or developmental disabilities often comes with unique challenges, important decisions, and the need for strong support systems, resources, and advocacy. For many families, navigating healthcare, education, and long-term planning can feel overwhelming, but having the right guidance can make a meaningful difference. Iris Rivera, a lifelong advocate fo...

Immigration has long been woven into the fabric of the American story. Behind every immigrant family is a journey marked by courage, sacrifice, hope, and the pursuit of opportunity. The decision to leave behind familiar surroundings and start over in a new country requires resilience and an unwavering belief in the possibility of a better future. Adam Chaabane discusses his family's immigration jo...

There’s something deeply human about feeding one another. It goes beyond nourishment, it’s connection, comfort, and care all served on a plate. Across cultures and communities, food has always been one of the most powerful ways we express love. Whether it’s a home-cooked meal during hard times or a shared table during celebration, food reminds us that we’re not alone. And when that instinct to fee...

So many of us believe that the biggest decisions of our lives are behind us—that at a certain point, the path is set. But what if the most defining chapter is still waiting to be written? What if one bold choice, made later in life, has the power to change everything? Toni Belford Damiano has spent decades at the forefront of family law, advocating for clients through some of life’s most difficult...

Autism is a spectrum that touches millions of individuals and families, yet it’s often misunderstood. As awareness continues to grow, so does the importance of deeper acceptance, better support systems, and more meaningful conversations about what it truly means to live with and love someone on the spectrum. Amy Pellegrini is an advocate for autism. She talks about raising awareness, supporting fa...

What happens when the place that once inspired you almost becomes the reason you walk away—and how do you turn that moment into a mission instead? Billy Pinckney shares his journey from batboy for the New Jersey Jackals to becoming an author and speaker dedicated to inspiring the next generation. Through his story, Billy reveals how challenges in the game he loved led him to a greater purpose—empo...

There is a profound difference between simply living in a community and actively shaping it. True community impact isn't built overnight; it is the result of people who show up, volunteer their time, and remain steadfast in their commitment year after year. This kind of unwavering dedication does more than just maintain programs—it builds a lasting legacy. Sam Yodice, the borough administrator for...

Sometimes the people who impact us most aren’t the loudest in the room. They’re the ones who listen, who care, and who quietly step in when something needs to be done. And often, it’s life’s hardest moments that shape that kind of character. Real difference is rarely about recognition — it’s about perspective, compassion, and the willingness to show up for others even when your own world feels sha...

Working as a first responder is one of the most selfless ways a person can serve their community. EMTs and paramedics are often the first on the scene during someone’s worst moment — bringing skill, calm, and compassion when it matters most. Tami Hajbi talks about what it’s really like to serve as an EMT and paramedic: the realities behind the sirens, the heart behind the uniform, and the calling...

Libraries are so much more than shelves of books. They’re places where curiosity is sparked, lifelong learning begins, and people of all ages find connection, resources, and support. From early readers to adults reinventing themselves, libraries help ensure that knowledge, opportunity, and imagination are accessible to everyone. Jeffrey Machno, the Liaison of Community Engagement and Adult Program...

Healing doesn’t always happen in a doctor’s office. Sometimes it happens on a stage, through story, music, or the courage to begin again. Dr. Joan Liman is a physician, public health leader, producer, and performer whose journey took her from healing bodies in medicine to healing hearts through the performing arts. After holding senior leadership roles in medical education and hospital administrat...

Following a dream usually starts with a feeling you can’t quite shake, and then a whole lot of persistence along the way. Singer, songwriter, and musician, Stella Crispo, has been following that pull through music for most of her life. From early lessons to performing on stages both near and far, Stella’s journey is a powerful example of resilience - staying true to your passion while pushing thro...

Suzanne Trauth is a talented novelist, playwright, and former theatre professor. She is the author of the Dodie O’Dell mystery series, the suspense novel The First to Die, and the award-winning historical romance What Remains of Love. Her plays have been performed across the country, sharing powerful stories of resilience and hope. In addition to writing, Suzanne coaches actors and mentors creativ...

Organ donation is one of the most powerful gifts a human being can offer. For thousands of people living with advanced kidney disease, that gift is not just meaningful … it’s essential. Behind every successful transplant is the compassion of a donor and the tireless advocacy of people who fight to give patients hope. Donna Tissot dedicates her life to supporting individuals whose kidney disease ha...

The media has always played a powerful role in shaping how we see the world, but over the past few decades, that role has changed dramatically. From the trusted voices of evening newscasts to the endless scroll of social media, the way we get our news — and who we trust to deliver it — has evolved beyond recognition. These changes have left many of us wondering about the cost of this constant floo...

It’s never too late to chase a dream, rewrite your story, or start something entirely new. For many, the second act of life is where the real magic begins. Christine Hablitz is someone who’s living proof that reinvention isn’t just possible, it’s powerful. Christine has returned to school, serves as a councilwoman, organizes events that bring the Little Falls community together, and is constantly...