Lost in Jersey

Tune in to meet Jo LaMarca Mathisen, a former executive producer for the Today Show and current leadership coach. We discuss Jo's impressive career journey and her transition into coaching and menopause awareness mentoring. Jo shares her personal experiences and the importance of raising awareness about this often overlooked stage of life.  She also provides valuable resources and tips for ma...

How did Jorge Aguirre become a writer for popular kids' shows on PBS, Nick Jr., Netflix, Amazon, Fred Rogers Productions, and Disney Junior and author of celebrated graphic novels all kids love? Join us as we delve into his unique path that includes a few wrong turns.  Memorable Quotes: "Every time I step outside of my comfort zone, I get rewarded." "Everything happens when you...

Michael D. Stifelman, MD, is an expert in robotic surgery and the chair of urology at Hackensack University Medical Center. Michael shares insights into robotic surgery and its advancements in treating cancer. So sit back, relax, and prepare to get educated on robotic surgery in New Jersey. The episode delves into the increasing use of robotics in surgery, specifically focusing on robotic surgery...

Meet Montclair Art Museum's Executive Director! With an MFA in Photography and a sterling business background, he masterfully blends art and leadership. Discover his journey to New Jersey and his passionate mission to foster community.  Tune in TODAY and ignite your inspiration!  Topic & Links: You say Yonkers, I say Riverdale Banking to Photography Teacher to Executive Director Montclair...

Ever felt like you're on a path that doesn't quite feel right? Allison, our guest for this episode, knows that feeling. With a riveting journey from the dot com boom to hosting TV shows, onto becoming a life and career coach, she's had her fair share of twists and turns. Allison's journey is a testament to taking the road less traveled and finding your true calling. If you&apos...

Meet Sarah Damaskos, a practical Midwesterner in New Jersey who inspires with her get-things-done approach to family, friends, and community. Self-described 'ordinary person,' Sarah Damaskos, takes us on an inspiring journey that is extraordinary. She's an Ohio native who found herself in New Jersey, raising kids, becoming an unofficial foster parent, navigating  IEPs in the school...

Just outside New York City, there's a gem of a film festival, the Montclair Film Festival!  We talked with Tom Hall, the festival artistic director and co-head who shared some of this year's exciting featured films, his film festival background, and what it takes to pull off a festival that appeals to everyone. Don't miss out on this cinematic conversation! PODCAST TOPICS: 📽️ Buildi...

The Wire, The Deuce, True Detective, Treme, and Law & Order have been his stomping grounds.  Tune in to meet our good friend Alex Hall and how he went from being a PA to editing, directing, and producing shows like Law & Order. Plus, he's very cool and the nicest! Lots of laughs in this one. Enjoy! Takeaways: ⭐ Philly to RI to Brooklyn to Montclair ⭐ How to make it in Hollywood! The...

The founder of Craigslist, Craig Newmark shares his remarkable transition into philanthropy dedicated to helping veterans, ethics in journalism, cyber security and so much more. In our interview, he revealed that the journey hasn't been easy. Telling us that learning your weaknesses can be traumatizing but if you're lucky, you grow. Tune in to hear this very inspiring story from a tech l...

Meet Kimberly Latortue, the President of Friends of the Howe House, an organization that came together to save and preserve this house built in 1780, the first home owned by a former slave in Montclair, New Jersey.   Unbelievably, it was for sale on Zillow! Join us as she shares with us how they saved the house from disappearing and the history and significance of the James Howe House. From the or...

Liz George has successfully led Montclair, New Jersey's beloved and longstanding news blog Baristanet . And now there's an exciting new chapter as Baristanet , the renowned news outlet, has merged with Montclair Local News , and Liz assumes the role of Publisher, overseeing this dynamic union. With her at the helm, the future of local news promises to be even more compelling. Tune in for...

Feeling a whirlwind of emotions as you prepare to send your child off to college? We certainly did. Join us as we reflect on our recent experiences of pushing out our fledglings from the nest and into the world of dorm living and dining halls. A heartfelt conversation, filled with laughter and useful advice.  We unearth our own college memories, exploring the lessons we learned and the valuable in...

Learn the basics of creating a perfect cheese board in this delicious chat with Mary Connolly, a cheese expert and food columnist known as Marie Fromage. The French Culinary Institute graduate shares insights into cheese-making history and offers tips for crafting the perfect cheese board to delight both the cheese aficionado (Rachel) and their less adventurous friend (Janette ) at the party.  Top...

No spoilers but in the movie Barbie, Ken's character storyline is connected with a conversation we have been having behind the scenes. What is going on with boys today? College enrollment is low, gym memberships are up, and social influencers are guiding many young men. This thought-provoking topic has been making waves lately, even reaching the big screen with the movie "Barbie." ...

 Meet Dr. Mary Thomas, a friend and phenomenal doctor at NuHeights Pediatrics in Clifton and Montclair, NJ. 🤗 Join us in discovering her journey, experiences, and challenges in caring for our little ones from birth to college.  Plus, she'll share some valuable recommendations and introduce exciting new services for new parents! Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!  TOPICS:...

In this episode, Rachel and Janette delve into the rich history of their own town, Montclair.  They are joined by Angelica Diggs, the executive director of the Montclair History Center, who shares insights into the work of the historical society and the fascinating stories behind the town's houses and landmarks. From the settlement of Montclair to the history of Church Street and the cemetery...

There's a new mode of transport in these parts! We spoke with Joe Colangelo, the very nice CEO of Boxcar, who introduced us to a more comfortable bus ride that takes commuters from the New Jersey suburbs all the way to Manhattan's EAST SIDE. It's the only bus service we know of from New Jersey that offers this route, and people are loving it! But that's not all they do. Tune in...

How does someone react to their first press interview? Join us for this mini episode to hear how we dealt with a reporter reaching out to interview us about our new podcast. Thank you to NJ Monthly! Article Link: https://njmonthly.com/articles/arts-entertainment/lost-in-jersey-podcast/ Follow us:    Website   |    Apple   |    Spotify |    Audible   |    Youtube   |    Youtube   |  Instagram   | ...

Get fit and stronger faster! Join us on this episode as we chat with Lex LeBlanc, owner of Brain and Body Method gym in Montclair. Discover the impressive machines with monitors that track your progress and provide two-way resistance for maximum results in minimal time. From her successful career on HGTV's Listed Sisters to her work as a production designer for renowned brands, Lex's jou...

He recently achieved an astounding feat by selling his Hello Products LLC company to Colgate Palmolive for $351 million according to Time Inc. and he did it all while operating from the suburbs of New Jersey! Tune in to discover the inspiring journey of this innovator, entrepreneur, and designer who was born with an innate entrepreneurial spirit. Learn how his friendly and amiable approach to both...

In this episode, award-winning journalist Eric Rosten joins hosts Rachel and Janette to discuss the pressing issue of climate change. They delve into the challenges of climate denial, the importance of democracy in addressing the problem, and the need to transition away from fossil fuels. Eric shares insights on the role of land management in preventing wildfires, the progress made in repairing th...

GOOOAAAALLLLL!!! Meet the fantastic Yael Averbuch West, General Manager of NJ/NY Gotham FC, a top-ranked women’s professional soccer team this year, credits her family and life in New Jersey for shaping her successful career in women's professional soccer. Join us for this great conversation as she shares inspiring insights. Episode Topic Growing up in New Jersey Parents helping Chapel Hill C...

A town known for its top chefs was asked to spotlight a plant-based meal for one month. The results were delicious!  We spoke with the delightful Annette Batson about the surprising results of her work on this project in Montclair, NJ. Follow us:    Website   |    Apple   |    Spotify |    Audible   |    Youtube   |    Youtube   |  Instagram   |    Facebook   |    Tiktok

Discover how parents are spearheading an exciting initiative that's gaining momentum. In this episode, we chat with Jessica Tillyer, Co-Founder of Bike Bus Montclair, who inspires us to envision our community as a cycling haven akin to Amsterdam. Follow us:    Website   |    Apple   |    Spotify |    Audible   |    Youtube   |    Youtube   |  Instagram   |    Facebook   |    Tiktok

We dive into the inspiring work of AAPI Montclair. From their Lantern Festival to Love Your Lunch Join us as we explore their mission to create a more inclusive community for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in New Jersey. Our guests, board members Amber Reed and Meredith Nahra, share their insights on the organization's impactful cross-sectional outreach efforts. Discover how AAPI Montc...