Hearin' New York

The cultural impact of the 1997 film Men in Black is undeniable, especially if you’re a New Yorker. The film highlighted one of the most iconic New York City settings, one that has a nearly forgotten history. In today’s episode, Ginni shares the very 90s-esque plot behind the movie hit, Men in Black, and the important scenery that influenced the film. You’ll hear about the memorable scenes that we...

The foster care system is a difficult reality to bear. But it hits hardest for the kids who spend their lives moving through it. But, one New York organization is trying to make the lives of these children a little brighter.  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the story of Together for Youth, and a local hero who’s going above and beyond for kids. You’ll hear how a former foster is helping kids...

Psssst ….did you know that New York’s Grand Central Station has a secret? It’s called the Whispering Gallery, and it’s been the site of more than just secrets.   In today’s episode, Ginni shares the unique, little-known phenomenon of the Whispering Gallery.  You’ll learn where to find it and how to arrange yourself and your friend’s ear in order to experience the strange audible phe...

Trick or Treating is rewarding, but if you’re looking for a little more than bite-sized candy bars this Halloween, then we’ve got the event for you!  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the history of the Village Halloween Parade, a hugely popular event that commands crowds of up to 2 million people- and that’s not even counting the ghosts!  You’ll hear how it all began back in the early 19...

Remember childhood, that time before you had to work for a living?   When the biggest decisions you had to make were Barbie’s outfits, which boardgame you were in the mood for, and which popsicle flavor you’d have after lunch? In today’s episode, Ginni shares the story of a New York museum where you can go back in time and rediscover all of your childhood favorites.   You’ll hear wh...

Breakdancing is an Olympic sport.  Graffiti artists are legitimate “artists”.  And rap is mainstream. But none of that would have happened if it wasn’t for a party in a New York apartment in 1973.   In today’s episode, Ginni shares the story of how New York became the birthplace of Hip Hop.  You’ll hear how a summer party made music history when DJ Kool Herc got creative and bl...

Ever feel like a Bridge Over Troubled Water? Do you stop to appreciate The Sound of Silence? Have a favorite trio of herbs you love to collect from Scarborough Fair? Can you see where this is going? In today’s episode, Ginni shares how the legendary folk duo Simon & Garfunkel helped save New York’s most beloved park and concert venue.  You’ll hear how today’s tourist-flocked patch of gree...

Drinking and ironing go together like peas and carrots.  Ok, sounds strange, but this is New York. In today’s episode, Ginni shares the story of a peculiar and unexpected brand of generosity from a Brooklyn resident.  You’ll hear about Brooklyn’s “Iron Man”, and learn exactly what motivates him to iron the clothes of strangers in the back corner of a dive bar. You’ll learn where to find...

The sound of a musical truck coming down the street brings up fond memories for just about any kid. It’s your cue to jump up and quickly and run to your parents for spare change! Will it be a Bomb Pop or a Strawberry Shortcake today?  But not everyone loves that jingle familiar jingle. Some people loathe it. In today’s episode, Ginni shares the history of that iconic Mr. Softy sound- and why...

When it comes to the Rom-Com genre, the 90s definitely made their mark.  Especially if your name was Tom Hanks or Meg Ryan.  But as we all know, in Hollywood, things aren’t always as they appear.  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the truth about the most iconic storybook romance scene to grace the big screen in the 1994 hit, "Sleepless in Seattle". You’ll get a recap of the romance...

As we age, our bodies just aren’t up for walks in the park with friends or meetups at coffee shops.  But physical limitations don’t have to hold us back from human connection.  In today’s episode, Ginni shares how One Community, a Brooklyn organization, is helping seniors from around the country connect- and learn something new. You’ll hear the effects of loneliness on our brains as we a...

When someone cuts you off in traffic, doesn’t want to let you merge into their lane, or makes an otherwise rude move from behind the wheel, there’s a button for that.    A rather annoying one, actually. Especially if you’re anywhere in New York City.    In today’s episode, Ginni reveals the most iconic sound of New York, and why making this particularly prevalent noise is actua...

If you’re a fan of Law & Order, then that signature sound between scenes probably gets your blood pumping.    But where did it come from? And WHO is behind it??    In today’s episode, Officer Ginni Saraswati is on the case. This investigation uncovers the truth behind one of television's most recognizable tones.   You’ll hear how many seasons the New York City crime dr...

Riding the subway doesn’t really sound like something you do for entertainment, does it?   But here in New York, there’s actually a LOT to see underground.   In today’s episode, Ginni explains what makes the ride special and who’s to thank for the unexpected beauty you’ll find in New York City's subway system.   You’ll learn how the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has be...

Once upon a time, it was the tallest building in the world. Today, it’s the most popular tourist attraction in New York. But for the Empire State Building, the early days of this towering skyscraper weren’t easy.  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the surprising history behind one of New York's biggest cultural landmarks and most popular tourist attractions, the Empire State Building.  Yo...

Even if you’ve never physically stepped foot inside Central Park, it probably feels familiar.  That’s because the big screen loves this patch of nature in the middle of bustling New York City. But why is that, exactly…and what makes it so appealing for cinema?  In today’s episode, Ginni reveals why Central Park has been such a popular filming location, and what makes this nature lovers p...

Who doesn’t love a fun day out, perusing quirky shops, and making pit stops at locally-owned cafe’s and coffee shops?  If that’s your idea of the perfect day, then there’s one New York neighborhood that you’ve got to add to your “must-see” list. In today’s episode, Ginni shares her love for her New York neighborhood, Sunnyside, by highlighting one of her favorite local shops. Lockwood is a Ne...

“All the single ladies, put your hands up!” “Now put your hands up, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh”  Beyonce sure wrote an empowering song for the yet-to-be-matched-up, but how long should one keep your hand up, exactly? Well if you’re made of copper and steel, then you might be holding that hand up for a while.  In today’s episode, Ginni regales the storied history of New York’s tallest, an...

If asked about the biggest building in New York City, you’d probably say it’s the Empire State Building.  Well, you’d be wrong. Technically, it’s One World Trade Center. But metaphorically, it’s a studio by the name of 30 Rock .   In today’s episode, Ginni shares a few of the many, many TV hits that have been filmed in this iconic studio in Rockefeller Plaza. And, the one that wasn’...

The spookiest time of the year is almost upon us, and that means it’s time to plan your costume. And, decide which direction your Halloween plans will take you.  In today’s episode, Ginni points you toward two of the most exciting All Hallows Eve events that are happening right here, in New York.  You’ll hear how long this pair of events has been spooking locals and visitors alike, and w...

Elvis Presley, John Lennon, Elton John, the New York Knicks.  What do all of the above have in common?  Or more specifically, where do they have in common? In today’s episode, Ginni reveals the important cultural and historical legacy of a very special venue in New York City.  You’ll hear how Madison Square Gardens became THE place to perform.  Whether it’s belting out mega hit...

If you’re a fan of the comedic hit show Only Murders in The Building , then the creepy melody at the beginning of each episode has probably caught your attention. In today’s episode, Ginni shares the composer's inspiration for this uniquely New York sound, which surprisingly didn’t originate in New York.   You’ll hear how the artist sourced his global inspiration for the New York-based s...

Are you a sucker for a heartwarming story about dogs?  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the beautiful story of a rescued pup by the name of Dipper. His life may have started out a little ruff, but the future had brighter plans! You’ll hear how Jon Stewart, host of The Daily Show , met his future furry friend. You’ll shed a tear or two over this rescue story that not only made an impact on the...

Hearin’ New York, there are few things as normalized as the announcements we hear in the subway. The tone of that recorded reminder to “Stand clear of the closing doors” is something we all know by heart. But do you know the story behind the voice? In today’s episode, Ginni shares the true story of Charlie Pellett, the iconic voice of the New York Subway. You’ll hear about Charlie and learn the im...

Those who risked their lives as First Responders during the events of 9/11 had no idea what they were walking into. It wasn’t only burning buildings and dust particles. They were bravely walking into the unknown. And many of them suffered for it. For years.   First Responders who were at Ground Zero have not only been dealing with long-term health problems. But for nearly two decades, they’ve...