The Montclair Pod

This week, we are celebrating Montclair as a “Creative Island.” We sit down with legendary drummer Kevin March (Guided by Voices, The Dambuilders) to discuss his journey from Brooklyn to the heart of the Montclair music scene and his mission to help the next generation find their “Honest Noise.” We also explore the high-stakes world of fashion with former Vogue editor and author Caroline Palmer, whose debut novel Workhorse is taking the literary world by storm.But it’s not all rock stars and fashion icons—we have some heavy lifting to do in the local news department. We investigate the “toxic garbage snow” and break down the staggering $179.8 million school budget proposal that includes a massive tax hike and deep cuts to student programs.Kevin March (Guided by Voices / School of Rock)Kevin March has played with everyone from The Breeders to Jeff Buckley, but his journey to Montclair is one of “kismet.”Caroline Palmer (Workhorse)Former Vogue and Amazon Fashion editor Caroline Palmer joins us to talk about the “spell” of the fashion industry and the discipline required to transition into the writing life.“What the Hell is Going On With That?”: The Toxic Snow FiascoIt started with February’s 19-inch blizzard. We investigate why the town dumped massive piles of salt, chemicals, and road debris in Essex and Erie Parks.In The News: The $179.8M School BudgetThe Board of Education held its vote on the 2026–27 spending plan, and the numbers are staggering.One Big Thing: The Bellevue’s 104th BirthdayThis Saturday, May 9th, The Bellevue Theatre is throwing itself a birthday party from 10 AM to 2 PM.Links & ResourcesGuest: Follow Kevin March and Rocking for Inclusion at rockingforinclusion.org.Guest: Buy Workhorse by Caroline Palmer at Watchung Booksellers.Book Review: Read the New York Times review of Workhorse.Music: Look out for the new GBV record, Crawl Space of the Pantheon (Out May 29).The Toxic Snow FiascoOfficial Document: Township Recovery Plan for Local ParksOfficial FAQ: Erie & Essex Parks Snow Masses FAQNJ.com: Will this trash-covered pile of snow ever disappear?NJ.com: Officials scramble to clean up trash-filled swamp in NJ parkNews 12: Trash-filled snowbanks remain in Montclair parksPatch: Montclair’s remediation plan for local parksSchool Budget & Local NewsSchool Budget: Full breakdown of the $851 tax increase and planned cuts.Budget Docs: Review the 2026-27 User Friendly Budget on the Montclair Schools website.Follow UsWatch the Show: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel.Join our weekly newsletter and stay in the knowFollow us on Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re looking at what happens when the budget crisis hits the playing field. With freshman sports on the chopping block at Montclair High, we sit down with the parents leading the charge to save the program. We also hear from a graduating senior about his journey through the MHS athletic system and take a stunning trip back in time to the 1960s "Golden Age" of Montclair football.The Fight for Freshman Sports: The Blue & White ClubThe elimination of freshman sports at MHS isn't just about missing games; it’s about a loss of community and socialization. We speak with Kevin Price and Laura Quiros, leaders of the newly formed Montclair Athletics Blue & White Club. Learn more and donate at MontclairBlueWhite.org.Student Spotlight: Dylan Kaelin PanicoGraduating MHS senior Dylan Kaelin Panico (Football/Lacrosse) joins us to talk about his path from a nervous freshman to a collegiate athlete heading to NJIT. He provides a crucial "primary source" perspective on why those early high school years in the athletic department changed his life.Living History: The Raccoon Coat EraIn partnership with the Montclair History Center, we air a 2018 oral history from Brenda Smith Williams who shares memories of standout players, raccoon coats and more."What the Hell is Even Happening with That?": The CornerFarnoosh went undercover (well, she just had breakfast) at The Corner (Grove & Walnut) to get the latest intel on their much-anticipated expansion.Special Ed Town Hall (April 22 Recap)The Good News: IEP and 504 services are federally mandated and cannot be cut.The Reality: The Montclair Counseling Services (MCS) program is being eliminated due to budget constraints.Accountability: The district committed to fixing "unintelligible" numeric-coded progress reports for the 2026-27 school year.Analilia Mejia Sworn InOn April 20th, Analilia Mejia officially took her seat in Congress (NJ-11), filling the vacancy left by Mikie Sherrill. Amid chants of "Sí, se puede," she delivered a powerful floor speech invoking her roots as the daughter of factory workers and calling for a just economy. Read more at Morristowngreen.com. Mountainside Medical Center Wrongful Death LawsuitA family from East Orange has filed a $40 million wrongful death lawsuit against Mountainside Medical Center, alleging that a liver biopsy killed their 65-year-old loved one, Phyllis Burrell, a civil servant. More: NJ.comAlso in the showOddfellows Ice Cream: Coming to 450 Bloomfield Ave. Get ready for 500+ flavors, including Miso Cherry and Chorizo Salted Caramel.Oggi Gelato: Opening at 40 Church St. This creates a "Gelato War" with the longtime staple Benvenuti just steps away.Ju-Ichi Japanese: Expanding their Morristown success to 512 Bloomfield Ave with their signature 24-hour pork bone ramen broth.Montclair Literary Festival: (May 2-11). 60+ authors including Colm Tóibín and Joyce Carol Oates. Most events are free! Full Schedule Here.Walnut Street Fair: (Sunday, May 3, 11am-4pm). 250 vendors, food trucks, and Touch-a-Truck.Mike’s Gigs: Catch Bard at Cricket Hill Brewery on Friday night, or see Mike and Jamie sit in with Workingman's Jed on Saturday.Watch and subscribe to The Montclair Pod on YoutubeJoin our weekly newsletter and stay in the know Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we’re clearing the air on the school budget "heist" rumors and diving into the incredible backstories of two women with ties to Montclair. We sit down with Jennifer Tripucka, the founder of The Local Girl Media Group (and our own The Montclair Girl), to talk about building a local media empire in a shifting landscape. Then, we hear a story that sounds like a movie: Nikki Mammano joins us to discuss her memoir, Breaking Good, which follows her journey from the criminal underworld in Hawaii to finding a new life in Montclair. Plus, we investigate that unfinished eyesore on Church Street and celebrate a major national win for our favorite local bookstore, Watchung Booksellers.The $20M Deficit: Heist or Overspending on Credit?Following our "Supper with the Super" session with Ruth B. Turner, Mike and Farnoosh address the persistent rumors that the school district's $20 million deficit was a "heist." We break down why the "credit card analogy" is the most accurate way to describe years of overspending, uncollected bills, and structural math problems that date back to previous administrations."What the Hell is Even Happening with That?": 65 Church StreetYou’ve seen it—the five-story building near Park Street that’s been sitting half-finished for years. We dig into the 35-year history of development limbo at the old Hahne’s parking lot, from the failed hotel plans to the recent foreclosure. We look at where the building stands now.Guest: Jennifer Tripucka (Founder, The Local Girl Media Group)How do you build a hyperlocal news empire with 4 million readers and no outside investors? Jennifer Tripucka shares her journey from being a school counselor in Bloomfield to running six regional outlets. We discuss the demise of traditional print media like the Jersey Journal and why the demand for local information is actually higher than ever.Guest: Nikki Mammano (Author, Breaking Good)Standing in line at the Montclair supermarket, you’d never guess Nikki Mammano’s history. She joins us to discuss her raw and inspiring memoir, Breaking Good, detailing her past as a cocaine dealer on Hawaii army bases, her time in prison, and her ultimate redemption as a Montclair mom.Local Beat: Awards & ElectionsBookstore of the Year: A massive congrats to Watchung Booksellers for being named Publishers Weekly’s 2026 Bookstore of the Year! We discuss the legacy of Margot Sage-El and Maddie Ciliotta-Young.NJ-11 Results: Analilia Mejia soundly defeated Joe Hathaway in the special election to fill Mikie Sherrill’s seat. We discuss what this progressive victory says about the current political climate in the suburbs.One Big ThingThe College Women's Club of Montclair Semi-Annual Book Sale (April 24-26). With 100,000 items and most books under $3, it's a treasure hunter's dream that has funded over $1.5 million in local scholarships. Meet Mike at 26 Park Street!Links & ResourcesGuest: Follow Jen Tripucka and the team at The Montclair Girl. Learn more about their courses and coaching here. Guest: Buy Nikki Mammano’s memoir, Breaking Good. Book Sale: Get the details for the College Women's Club Book Sale. School Budget: Read Andrew Rice's deep dive into the math at My Montclair Education. Watch and subscribe to The Montclair Pod on Youtube Join our weekly newsletter and stay in the know Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this second installment of Supper with the Super, Montclair Public Schools Superintendent Ruth B. Turner joins us for a candid, wide-ranging conversation—this time over Ethiopian comfort food at Mesob, a beloved local institution on Bloomfield Avenue.We dig into the realities behind the district’s budget crisis, the difficult decisions shaping the next school year, and what it will take to rebuild trust with families. Turner speaks openly about the pressure of the role, why transparency matters more than ever, and how she’s approaching leadership in one of Montclair’s most challenging moments.We also get specific about what parents and students can expect - from middle school consolidation and cuts to sports and clubs, to changes in language offerings, transportation, and more. Plus, we bring your questions directly to the table, covering everything from “Where’s the money?” to the forensic audit timeline, the search for a new business administrator, and whether a state monitor could still step in.Beyond the numbers, we talk about the human side of this story: the students advocating for their schools, the parents stepping up in meaningful ways, and the superintendent’s own commitment to seeing this through.Plus in this episode:A closer look at how budget cuts will impact elementary, middle, and high school studentsWhy the “missing money” narrative persists—and what’s actually trueUpdates on the forensic audit and key district hiresThe debate over Lackawanna Plaza PILOT funds and school fundingWhether another school tax vote could happenLocal news, including the NJ-11 election and Renaissance Middle School deadlinesA deep dive into Montclair’s oldest restaurantsAnd a classic Montclair “One Big Thing,” from pizza debates to weekend plansWatch and subscribe to The Montclair Pod on YoutubeJoin our weekly newsletter and stay in the know  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spring break is over and we have stories.In this episode of The Montclair Pod, Farnoosh and Mike recap their very different getaways. From delayed flights and unforgettable meals in Los Angeles to a low-key beach escape in Miami, it is a tale of two trips and a reminder that sometimes the best part of traveling is coming home.Then, we shift gears and head into town for a spring shopping adventure with The Montclairnista, Wendy Tiburcio. We explore local boutiques, standout finds, and what makes Montclair’s retail scene feel so personal.Plus, we go inside the booming resale economy with the founders of Jersey Girl Thrift, a sold-out clothing swap that is turning secondhand shopping into a full-on community experience.And in local news, Mikie Sherrill is officially leaving Montclair for the governor’s residence at Drumthwacket. What it means, what comes next, and what voters need to know ahead of the upcoming special election.In This EpisodeSpring Break RecapFarnoosh shares highlights from a family trip to Los Angeles, including standout meals, theme park takeaways, and the reality of navigating LA traffic.Mike breaks down his Miami Beach escape, from the Fontainebleau experience to great food and a much-needed reset.Shopping Montclair with The MontclairnistaA walk through downtown Montclair with Wendy Tiburcio, aka The Montclairnista, spotlighting local shops, spring trends, and why shopping small still delivers a different kind of joy.The Rise of ThriftingInside Jersey Girl Thrift, a fast-growing clothing swap redefining how people shop, save, and connect.Why resale is booming and what it says about how people want to spend today.Ask an AgentSponsored by Karin Diana of Compass Real Estate.What real estate agents actually do day to day and how Montclair’s housing market compares to national trends.Local NewsMikie Sherrill prepares to move to Drumthwacket in PrincetonSpecial election for New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District is underway, with early voting now openA proposed World Cup sales tax hike could impact dining, hotels, and transportation across the stateOne Big ThingFarnoosh and Mike preview their next Supper with the Superintendent featuring Montclair Schools leader Ruth B. Turner at Mesob Ethiopian restaurant.Links & ResourcesDownload our free guide to shopping small in MontclairLearn more about Jersey Girl Thrift and upcoming eventsFollow The Montclairnista on InstagramConnect with sponsor and real estate agent Karin Diana of Compass  Early voting details for NJ’s 11th Congressional District election Watch and subscribe to The Montclair Pod on YoutubeJoin our weekly newsletter and stay in the know Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Spring Break, Montclair. While Mike and Farnoosh are away, we are opening the archives to revisit two significant segments that explore the unique history and the evolving economy of our town.This special compilation includes a deep dive into the Magnet School Explainer and an update on the local cannabis industry with Genuine Grow.Segment 1: The Magnet School ExplainerMontclair’s school system is unique and often misunderstood by those outside the district. Born from a landmark 1970s desegregation plan, the magnet system avoided the "forced busing" conflicts seen in other cities by offering specialized themes—from STEM and the arts to global studies—to incentivize voluntary integration across the township. In this comprehensive package, we break down the history of this educational model and explore the current fiscal crossroads, examining how a structural $20 million deficit and the controversial shift toward universal Pre-K are forcing the community to rethink the future of its schools.Listen to the original full episode: The History of the Magnet SystemSegment 2: Genuine Grow UpdateWe first interviewed Andrew Marshall of Genuine Grow when the local cannabis industry was in its early regulatory stages. Now that his products are officially available in local dispensaries, we are re-airing his original interview regarding his vision for craft cultivation in Montclair and its impact on the local economy.Listen to the original full episode: The Genuine Grow InterviewOn the News Front: Montclair’s Town Council has approved a 30-year PILOT agreement for the Lackawanna Plaza redevelopment, a major milestone that moves the project—featuring 300+ apartments, a grocery store, and expanded retail—closer to final approvals and construction. Meanwhile, Oso Felipe has closed after just over a year, marking the second recent shutdown tied to chef Damon Wise, as rising costs and declining alcohol sales continue to challenge local restaurants.Links & ResourcesLocal Business: Learn more about Genuine Grow at genuine-grow.com.Lackawanna Plaza: The Latest on the Redevelopment and Tax Deal & Listen to our recent interview with David Placek of BDP HoldingsThrowback! (Sponsored): Farnoosh and Mike Eat Food: Oso Felipe Watch the Show: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel.Newsletter: Sign up for the Montclair Pod Weekly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you feeling "squeezed"? This week, we’re tackling the "Sandwich Generation"—that unique, often exhausting stage of life where you’re simultaneously caring for aging parents and raising young children. We’re joined by Senator Andrew Kim, who shares his firsthand experience navigating his father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis while parenting two young boys.We also bring in the experts: Elder Law attorney Laurie Hauptman gives us the "Sandwich Generation" survival guide for estate planning, and psychotherapist Maris Pasquale Doran teaches us how to regulate our nervous systems when the world feels like it’s on fire. Finally, we sit down with Lynda Hollander, President of Aging in Montclair, to discuss how our town is (and isn't) supporting its seniors.Senator Andy Kim: The Personal Side of PolicySenator Kim opens up about the "catastrophic" financial reality of elder care. He discusses the emotional weight of moving his father out of his home and why he’s fighting for policy changes that support the millions of families currently being squeezed by the healthcare system.The "Granddude" OdysseyMike shares the deeply personal story of his father, the "Granddude." Ten years ago, a fainting spell led to a decade-long medical journey involving brain bleeds, multiple surgeries, and the staggering expense of long-term care. It's a raw look at how these life-changing events never happen on your own schedule.Expert Advice: Pockets & PresenceLaurie Hauptman: Why you shouldn't wait for a crisis to start elder care planning. She breaks down VA benefits and the five things every family needs to do now.Maris Pasquale Doran: How to handle the "fight or flight" response when a parent is in decline. Plus, her advice on having the "Being Mortal" conversation with your parents before it's too late.Local News: The BOE Meltdown & LackawannaThe Results are (Finally) In: After weeks of legal challenges and manual recounts, the March 10th school referendum results are officially certified. We break down the final tally and what this means for the district's borrowing power.Renaissance Closes: We recap the emotional "meltdown" at the last Board of Education meeting where the vote to close Renaissance Middle School was finalized.Lackawanna Delay: Why the tax deal for the Lackawanna Plaza redevelopment is stalled again—and the potential for PILOT money to be diverted to our schools.Porchfest 2026: Mark your calendars for May 16th!Links & ResourcesGuest: Learn more about Senator Andy Kim at kim.senate.gov.Legal Help: Find resources and free articles at HauptmanLaw.com.Wellness: Connect with Maris Pasquale Doran at marispasqualedoran.com.Senior Support: Join the conversation at AgingInMontclair.org.Lifelong Montclair: Access Township senior services, the Do-Drop-In schedule, and the Senior Bus at MontclairNJUSA.org/Senior-Services.The MILL: High-level classes for adults 55+ at PartnersFDN.org.BOE Coverage: Read the full story about the reaction to the Renaissance closure at TAPinto Montclair.Read: My Mother’s Money by Beth Pinsker, CFPWatch the Show: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel.Newsletter: Sign up for the Montclair Pod Weekly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a candid sit-down interview, Montclair Public Schools Superintendent Ruth B. Turner joins us for the first installment of a new series we’re calling “Supper with the Super.” Over pizza and pasta at Italiana by Zod, we talk about the controversial school referendum, the district’s financial challenges, a potential school “reinvestment”, and what comes next for families, students, and taxpayers.We also share Part Two of our interview with U.S. Senator Cory Booker, where the conversation expands beyond Montclair schools to the cost of living, immigration policy, healthcare costs, political fundraising, and the future of independent media.Plus in this episode:Why some Montclair voters supported the “Yes–No” referendum outcomeThe district’s plan to convert Renaissance Middle School into a Pre-K centerA student walkout at Montclair High School protesting ICE policiesA visit to a local wellness business, Mend, for our sponsored series, “Farnoosh & Mike Get Healthy”A very Montclair “One Big Thing” featuring comics, retro sci-fi, and a hometown artistLinks & ResourcesWatch the Show: Subscribe to The Montclair Pod on YouTubeSubscribe to our weekly newsletter (no spam, just the good stuff.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, we bring you one of our most important episodes yet.We tackle a deeply emotional and urgent issue: street safety. NPR's David Folkenflik joins us to share the heartbreaking story of losing his mother to a preventable traffic collision right outside his Upper Montclair home, followed by a conversation with Montclair’s new Complete Streets Director, Jacob Nieman. Then we sit down with Senator Cory Booker to discuss his new legislation, independent media, and his time under a state monitor in Newark. Plus, we break down the district-wide school lockdown, the results of the massive school referendum (and the lawsuit trying to stop it), and Mike shares a brilliant YMCA membership hack.The Tragic Reality of Street SafetyWe sit down with NPR media reporter and longtime resident David Folkenflik, who experienced the unthinkable in October 2023 when his mother was killed crossing the street outside his house. He shares his warnings about Montclair's dangerous intersections, the aggressive driving culture plaguing our residential neighborhoods, and the frustration of warning the town before tragedy struck. We follow this up with a discussion featuring Jacob Nieman, Montclair’s new Complete Streets Director, about how the town plans to fix a broken system.We Booked Booker!Senator Cory Booker joins the pod! In Part 1 of our interview, we talk about the power of independent local media, his new bill to raise the standard deduction to $75,000 for families, and his experience dealing with a state educational monitor back when he was Mayor of Newark.Local Beat: Lockdowns, Lawsuits & The YMCA HackIt was a chaotic week in Montclair schools. We cover the terrifying district-wide lockdown sparked by a threat to the high school. We also dive into the results of the long-awaited school referendum—which might be on hold thanks to a new lawsuit by David Herron alleging electioneering by district principals. Plus, we talk about the search for a new, permanent Business Administrator, and Mike reveals the ultimate "money coach" hack for joining the Montclair YMCA.Links & ResourcesWatch the Show: Subscribe to The Montclair Pod on YouTubeSubscribe to our weekly newsletter (no spam, just the good stuff.)Guest: Follow David Folkenflik's reporting at NPR.Guest: Learn more about Senator Cory Booker’s Keep Your Pay Act.Street Safety: Learn more about Montclair's Complete Streets Department.School Lawsuit: Read Matt Kadosh's coverage on the principals and the electioneering allegations.YMCA: Learn about the Montclair YMCA.Party @ Lackawanna: Soniashyk, Burgers • Donuts • Potatoes & Ironbound Farm Market Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the high-stakes school vote looming—or maybe not, thanks to a new lawsuit—we sit down with New York Magazine journalist Andrew Rice to figure out exactly where the school district's money went. We also talk a bit about local news collaboration and why it benefits everyone. Plus, a heartbreaking preview of next week's street safety episode with NPR's David Folkenflik, and a packed local news roundup.The "Missing" Money: Andrew RiceNew York Magazine contributing editor and local dad Andrew Rice joins us to discuss his new Substack, My Montclair Education. We dive deep into his look at the district's budget crisis, exploring the structural math, the impact of COVID-era hiring sprees, soaring transportation costs, and the chaotic tenure of the former Business Administrator.A Tragic Warning: Street SafetyWe share a powerful preview of next week's interview with NPR media reporter and longtime resident David Folkenflik, who experienced the unthinkable when his mother was killed crossing the street outside his house. He shares his warnings about Montclair's dangerous intersections and the aggressive driving culture plaguing our residential neighborhoods.Local Beat: Gill Won’t Seek Reelection, Fire Cuts & FestivalsIn our news roundup, we cover Brendan Gill’s announcement that he won't seek re-election to the Essex County Board of Commissioners after 15 years. We also break down the controversial staffing cuts hitting the Montclair Fire Department, driven by a massive $3.7 million spike in municipal health insurance costs. Finally, mark your calendars: we've got the dates for Montclair Pride, the Jazz Festival Downtown Jamboree, and the African American Heritage Parade.Links & ResourcesSubstack: Subscribe to Andrew Rice's deep dive into the schools at My Montclair Education.New York Mag: Read Andrew's recent piece on schools in America and another one how a new Hollywood is being built in New Jersey. Here’s more about his book, The Year That Broke America Commissioner News: Read about Brendan Gill not seeking re-election; The Montclair Local also covered this.Fire Department: Read the Montclair Patch coverage of the Township's fire department cuts.Summer Festivals: Find all the dates for Montclair Pride, the Jazz Festival, and more at montclairpod.com/festivals/. You can also visit the official sites directly: Montclair Pride and the Montclair Jazz Festival.Sponsor: Need real estate advice? Reach out to Karin Diana of Compass and her team at thehomecollectivenj.com.Tribute: Remembering Coleman McCarthyNewsletter: Subscribe and join our email community at montclairpod.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch and subscribe on YoutubeThis week, so much is in flux.First, Mike has to face the music after literally falling asleep at a recent Town Hall meeting. He also issues a formal apology to the MSU Men’s Basketball team for jinxing their perfect season.But it’s not all fun and games—we get down to serious business with three major interviews. Superintendent Dr. Ruth Turner invites us into her office to discuss the high-stakes March 10th special referendum, while developer Dave Placek gives us an update on the long-awaited Lackawanna Plaza project and addresses his critics. Plus, we hear part two of our conversation with Montclair legend Lonnie Brandon, detailing his civil rights activism in college. Finally, Farnoosh confronts her fears of injectables in our latest installment of Farnoosh and Mike Get Healthy, this week sponsored by SkinSplendid, and we break down a massive news week including a new lawsuit trying to stop the upcoming school vote.The Superintendent SPEAKSWe sit down with Superintendent Dr. Ruth Turner at the District offices on Valley Road. After busting Mike for snoozing, we dive deep into what’s at stake on March 10th: the cuts, the potential for a State Monitor, the bond referendum, and why she believes the schools deserve a cut of the town’s PILOT tax revenue.LACKAWANNA UPDATE WITH Dave PlacekLackawanna Plaza has felt a bit more alive lately, but the massive redevelopment—complete with housing and a grocery store—is still creeping along. We check in with developer Dave Placek about the timeline, the PILOT program, and how he handles the intense public scrutiny.Living History: Lonnie Brandon (Part 2)Former Montclair Parks & Rec Director Lonnie Brandon returns to share an incredible story from his days at Wagner College. He recounts his time with the student group “Black Concern,” a building occupation, expulsions, a federal court case, and a run-in with the Students for a Democratic Society.Farnoosh & Mike Get Healthy: SkinSplendid (Sponsored)In our newest segment, we head to Skinsplendid in Upper Montclair. While Mike chickened out, Farnoosh sits down with founder Nurse Christy to rethink her stance on aesthetics, learning about the “Sprinkle-tox,” ultrasound safety, and why skin care is healthcare.News Roundup: Lawsuits, Hacks & PoolsHold onto your hats: Local activist David Herron is suing to stop the March 10th referendum. We also cover the town’s massive $2.3 million tech upgrade (a lingering hangover from recent cyberattacks) and the new SwimQuest aquatic school proposed for Valley Road that has the local business association concerned about parking.Links & ResourcesExtended Interviews: Watch our full conversations with Dr. Turner and Dave Placek on YouTubeSchool News: Read Andrew Rice’s new Substack, My Montclair Education.Tech Upgrades: Read the Montclair Local story on the $2.3M Township Tech Upgrades.Development News: Read about the SwimQuest proposal on Valley Road.Sponsor: Visit SkinSplendid at One Bellevue Plaza, Suite 5, or online at skinsplendid.com. Follow them on IG: @skinsplendid & @nursechristynyc.Newsletter: Subscribe and don’t miss out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch and subscribe on Youtube!This week, we welcome back Township Manager Stephen Marks to discuss how the town might intervene in the school budget crisis and the latest on Lackawanna Plaza. Then, we take a trip back in time with Lonnie Brandon—historian, former Parks & Rec director, and Montclair High football alum—who shares a powerful story from the 1960s involving legendary coach Clary Anderson.We also cover the "Cutover"—the month-long disruption to the Montclair-Boonton train line as work begins on the Portal North Bridge (hope you like the ferry!). We also break down the latest MPACT report on what a State Monitor actually does (spoiler: nobody really knows).Links & ResourcesMPACT report: Read about state monitorsMike Crowley's coverage of the recent School Budget Town HallYMCA History: Join the Zoom on March 26thEvent: Saturday Night Bard at Luna StageNewsletter: Subscribe at montclairpod.com.The History of Our Magnet System on The Montclair Pod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch and subscribe on Youtube!Montclair is freezing - literally and politically.This week, Mike and Farnoosh break down the surprise NJ-11 primary win by Analila Mejia, and take a deep dive into growing immigration fears across Montclair. Immigration law expert Dr. Jackie Vimo, a professor at Montclair State University, joins the show, alongside local leaders Masiel Rodriguez-Vars, President of the Montclair Fund for Educational Excellence and Emily Kraft, founder of Craftivists, to separate rumor from reality and explain what families need to know right now.Plus: student walkouts over ICE, Paterson’s school closures and what they could mean for Montclair’s March 10 referendum, and a burst pipe that displaced MESH at the height of winter.Links & ResourcesRegister: Farnoosh and Mike's Free Podcasting Webinar (Feb. 13)Donate to support MESH relocationTickets for February 12th's Montclair Story SalonRSVP for Craftivists' Melt the ICE Knit Night on Feb 19th at Lackawanna Plaza Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the show on YouTubeIn this episode, Farnoosh reports from a packed preschool info session at the Montclair Public Library, where parents of young children are weighing rising pre-K costs, the Mini Mounties lottery, and what comes next for kindergarten and beyond.We hear directly from families, admissions leaders, and new data showing a surge in interest from Montclair residents exploring private and alternative school options — and we unpack what a public-to-private pivot could mean for enrollment, funding, and equity across the district.We’re also joined by tech founder-turned-educator Anand Sanwal, who’s launching a new private school in New Jersey and asking a bigger question: if we were designing school for today’s kids — and tomorrow’s world — would it look anything like what we have now?Plus, we cover the rest of the week in Montclair: ICE presence in the area and the state’s response, snow removal rules, the closing of a beloved BBQ spot, a look ahead at the spring housing market in our sponsored Ask an Agent segment — and yes, we finally get to the bottom of #Slushiegate with a real review!Learn more about Forge PrepLearn more about Acton AcademySnow Removal: Read Councilwoman Susan Shin Andersen's updateSponsor: Order from Pendragon’s Smokehouse for the Super Bowl!Deal: Use code MONTCLAIR-POD for 10% off (Min order $100).Order Deadline: Thursday, Feb 5 at 10 pm ETSponsor: Karin Diana, Compass Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the show on YouTubeThis week on the Montclair Pod, Mike and Farnoosh are back to tackle the snowy aftermath and a whirlwind of local news. From the high stakes of the NJ-11 Special Primary—where a crowded field of 12 candidates is vying for your vote—to the sugar-fueled controversy of "Slushiegate" in our school cafeterias, we’re covering the stories that have the town talking. Grab your coffee (or a Walking Taco) and settle in for a jam-packed episode on everything happening in Montclair right now.The Special Election BreakdownFirst up, we get serious about the upcoming Special Primary Election. Terrence McDonald of the New Jersey Monitor returns to help us navigate the incredibly crowded field of 11 Democrats and 1 Republican vying for the NJ-11 congressional seat. We discuss why this seat matters, who is actually running, and what to expect on Thursday.Slushiegate & "Walking Tacos"Is "Slushiegate" the distraction we didn't know we needed? Mike and Farnoosh dig into the latest school cafeteria controversy—from slushies in the lunch line to the "Walking Taco" phenomenon. We break down the new Sodexo menu and the parents' reactions to the sugar rush.Local Beat: Budgets, Buses & BansWe check in on the school budget (spoiler: we aren't the only ones with a deficit). We compare notes with Perth Amboy and the breaking news out of Hackensack, where the school district revealed a shocking $17 million deficit. Specifically, we discuss the major development that the town is stepping in with $6.5 million in emergency funds to help stop immediate layoffs—a move that has sparked conversation about how municipalities support their schools.We also touch on the latest Board of Education friction points: the debate over the upcoming school calendar and the controversy surrounding the new volunteer ban. Plus, we cover the final days of the Montclair Transit Survey.One Big Thing: Milestones & PreschoolsWe wrap up with a shoutout to Cousin Honey, who is celebrating her 97th birthday (sparking a debate on legal names!). Plus, we share critical dates for parents looking into Montclair's upcoming preschool information sessions.Run of Show00:00 - Snow days and basement leaks.03:10 - The NJ-11 Primary: A field of 11 candidates (and 1 Republican).05:00 - School Updates: Calendar debates and the volunteer ban.13:00 - Slushy Gate: The new Sodexo menu, sugar rushes, and "Walking Tacos."22:00 - Guest: Terrence McDonald on why this seat matters and who is actually running.40:40 - News: Transit Survey deadline & The Perth Amboy deficit comparison.46:18 - One Big Thing: Cousin Honey’s 97th Birthday & Preschool Info Sessions.Links & ResourcesElection Day: The Special Primary is Thursday, Feb 5th.ROUTE Questionnaire: Read the NJ-11 Candidate ResponsesMontclair Transit Survey: Fill Out the SurveyMontclair Public Library's Preschool Fair is Saturday, Jan 31st.Guest: Follow Terrence McDonald at the New Jersey Monitor.Support the Show: Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!Newsletter: Subscribe at montclairpod.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the show on YouTubeThis episode of The Montclair Pod moves between local crisis and statewide context.School Budget Crises: Montclair and HackensackWe dig into the growing reality that Montclair is not alone in facing financial trouble in its school district. We look closely at what’s unfolding in Hackensack, where an independent audit revealed a staggering $15 million budget deficit, prompting lawsuits against former administrators and vendors.State Power, Schools & SegregationFormer New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin helps explain how the state approaches oversight of local governments, consumer protection and fraud, and ongoing legal challenges tied to school segregation, including litigation involving district boundaries and magnet systemsWe also ask the uncomfortable but necessary question:Are we still operating a true magnet school system—or has that promise quietly eroded?New Jersey Politics: A Transition MomentWe preview our upcoming conversation with Terrence McDonald, editor of New Jersey Monitor, including a brief tease of our discussion about Mikie Sherrill’s first week as governor—and what her early moves could signal for education, oversight, and state-local relationships.Local News & One Big ThingAni Ramen’s tutoring initiative for students and teachersA look at Montclair’s shuttle bus survey results—and why even drivers want another optionNew restaurant renderings, new town hires, and old intersections that keep causing accidentsGrab tickets for Ian Frazier and Jamaica Kincaid, in conversation at Watchung Booksellers (Children’s Room)  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the show on YouTubeFollowing last week’s episode on the origins of the magnet system, we pick up the conversation at a critical crossroads—one where values, finances, and state oversight collide. We attend the latest school budget town hall, where Superintendent Ruth B. Turner and district leaders lay out the long road ahead, explain the district’s structural deficit, and address growing anxiety around the possibility of a state monitor and what that would mean for local control.We break down what we heard at the meeting, including important clarifications about the revised ballot questions, the limits of state aid, and why a “no” vote does not guarantee relief. We also reflect on powerful public comments from parents—particularly around transportation—and why buses are not a luxury, but a cornerstone of access and inclusion in Montclair.A recording of the town hall is available here, and the presentation shared during the meeting can be found here .To help put the moment in national context, we’re joined by Richard Kahlenberg, one of the country’s leading experts on school integration, education policy, and economic inequality. We talk candidly about why magnet schools emerged in the first place, what decades of research actually show about integration and student outcomes, and the real risks districts face when the cost of integration comes under pressure.We also share a preview of our upcoming conversation with outgoing New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin, where we ask the questions many parents and taxpayers are wondering about: when does financial mismanagement cross into fraud, who has the authority to investigate, and what accountability can realistically look like.Plus, we round out the episode with local news—from new statewide cellphone restrictions in schools, to staffing shakeups at Town Hall, to a one-year look back at the school closure that shocked the community.RSVP for free for tonight's event with Farnoosh and Hannah Cole, author of Taxes for Humans, at Lackawanna Plaza. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Watch the show on YouTubeMontclair has long defined itself by its district-wide magnet system—a model built on choice, diversity, and integration by design. But today, that system is under unprecedented strain. Facing a $20 million budget deficit and rising transportation costs, Mike and Farnoosh go back in time to explore the system's roots in activism and legal battles, while asking hard questions about its future. Is the promise of equity being met, and what happens when our ideals stay the same but our resources don’t?Show Notes & LinksWatch Our Schools, Our Town: A Short History of the Montclair Magnet School System produced by Masiel Rodriguez-Vars.UCLA Civil Rights Project Report: A 2017 analysis finding New Jersey is the 7th most segregated state for Black and Latino students.Patricia Hampson Eget’s Research: "Challenging Containment: African Americans and Racial Politics in Montclair, New Jersey, 1920-1940"The Lonnie Brandon Story: Read the Wagner College article by Lee Manchester detailing the history of athletic recruitment and institutional hurdles in the 60s and 70s.1960s Legal History: The New York Times article on the 1960s Glenfield suit and the State Supreme Court’s 7-0 ruling on integration.Significant Achievement Gap Persists in Montclair - Asad Jung's article in the Montclair Local Budget Feedback: Weigh in on the future of school funding via Superintendent Turner’s Budget Survey (Deadline: January 30th).New Branded Series: Farnoosh & Mike Get HealthyThis installment is sponsored by The Bar Method Montclair.Offer: Get a FREE CLASS using code MONTCLAIRPOD at checkout on the Bar Method website or download the app. (Code expires Feb 28, 2026). Limit one per person. The studio is also running a winter promo: Receive 30 days of unlimited classes for $78.Local Headlines & Weekend PlansMunicipal Complex Forum: Public forum regarding the new $50M town hall proposal on Wednesday, Jan 14 at 7 PM at 205 Claremont Avenue.Lunar New Year Performance: Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company presents "Red Firecrackers" at Jersey City Theater Center on Sunday, January 18 at 4 PM.Live Music at Tierney's: Join Mike’s band BARD and special guests Ümläüt this Saturday night.7 PM: Ümläüt8 PM: BARDLate Night: 80s Danceteria Dance Party with DJ Rafe Gomez (Twitch: DanceteriaRewind).Proceeds benefit Toni’s Kitchen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy New Year, Montclair! This week, we replay one of our hottest shows from 2025 that may inspire new connections in 2026 -- our field guide on modern love in Montclair.Featuring insights from:Junie Moon, relationship expert and Montclair’s own love coachElizabeth and Jason, single parents share their experiences dating in MontclairGrace L. Williams, journalist and Montclair Pod special assignment reporterMishiko Passikoff, therapist on tension in relationships over politicsReubena Spence, co-founder of Out Montclair, on the LGBTQ+ dating scene Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, we revisit one of the most consequential and talked-about episodes of the year: a deeply reported look at homelessness in Montclair and the growing tension between compassion, public safety, and limited resources. As rents rise and safety-net funding faces new pressures, this episode asks a hard but necessary question: what kind of town do we want to be—and what kind of town can we realistically be?At the center of the episode is Montclair Emergency Services for Hope (MESH), a frontline nonprofit providing meals, clothing, hygiene supplies, job support, and shelter to people experiencing homelessness. We speak with Executive Director Joe Granger, staff, clients, town officials, police, business owners, and longtime residents to understand how homelessness is experienced from multiple vantage points—and why there are no easy answers.We take listeners inside MESH’s Bloomfield Avenue location, where dozens of people gather daily not just for resources, but for stability, dignity, and connection. For many, MESH is the difference between spiraling and surviving.We break down:• Why Montclair’s unhoused population is growing, with 93 people currently counted, making it the fourth largest unhoused population in Essex County. This is according to a study by Monarch Housing.• How MESH has evolved from a rotating winter shelter into a near-daily operation, providing food and services six days a week and helping 27 people secure employment in the past year alone.• Why rising rents, food insecurity, mental health challenges, and substance-use disorders are colliding, stretching local nonprofits beyond capacity.• What unhoused residents say they need most right now—and how community, not just services, plays a critical role in survival.• The concerns from nearby business owners who say increased foot traffic, aggressive panhandling, and public disturbances are affecting customers and livelihoods.• Why police say homelessness is not a law-enforcement problem, and what limits officers face without victims, charges, or appropriate mental-health infrastructure.• The township’s efforts to address the issue, including a strategic plan to end homelessness, increased foot patrols, coordination with nonprofits, and the hiring of a housing liaison focused on long-term solutions.• The failed attempt to create permanent housing for unhoused residents, and what community pushback revealed about fear, proximity, and political will.• The uncomfortable reality that Montclair’s generosity—its feeding programs and services—may be drawing unhoused individuals from neighboring towns that provide fewer resources.Throughout the episode, we wrestle with the broader systems at play: shrinking federal assistance, cuts to SNAP and social programs, and a national lack of mental-health and addiction infrastructure that leaves towns like Montclair trying to fill enormous gaps with limited budgets.Beyond the main story, we also cover:• Local headlines, including a New Jersey Transit train collision near Bay Street, updates on school budget pressures, and why Montclair schools may face annual cuts for the next five years.• The viral rumor that Alec and Hilaria Baldwin may be house-hunting in Montclair—and how the story helped push the podcast’s Instagram past 10,000 followers.For your listening pleasure, check out Farnoosh's *other* podcasts Leading By Example and So Money.And Farnoosh on Mel Robbins' podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the season of giving, and this week on The Montclair Pod we step away from school budgets and deficits to focus on something just as important: how we show up for each other. From financial support to time, attention, and presence, this episode explores what meaningful giving looks like in Montclair and why generosity doesn’t have to feel heavy, performative, or transactional.We’re joined by Ray Graj, co-founder of Montclair Helps, an organization built around a simple but powerful idea: neighbors helping neighbors in moments of acute need. Montclair Helps works behind the scenes with local nonprofits to step in quickly when a family or individual hits an unexpected crisis, whether that’s a car repair, a rent gap, medical debt, or emergency transportation.We also break down:• How December is the biggest month for charitable giving and why need doesn’t disappear after the holidays.• How Montclair Helps provides rapid, one-time assistance, often within 12 to 48 hours, paying bills directly so people can stabilize and move forward with dignity.• What “ALICE households” are and why nearly 40 percent of New Jersey families are asset-limited, income-constrained, and employed, meaning one emergency can trigger a crisis.• The kinds of urgent needs local nonprofits are seeing right now, including a surge in requests for coats, rent assistance, and car-related emergencies.• How small, well-timed acts of support can prevent short-term setbacks from becoming long-term crises.• Why giving isn’t only about money, and how volunteering, organizing, donating goods, or simply paying attention can be just as impactful.We also share specific ways to get involved right now, including a local toy drive through Reach Out Montclair, ongoing coat donations for the Human Needs Food Pantry, and resources for discovering dozens of Montclair-based nonprofits doing hands-on community work.Beyond the conversation on giving, we also bring you:• A recap of a community holiday outing to Elf at the Bellevue Theatre and what makes shared local experiences matter.• A new experiment in local advertising with the Montclair Pod’s first “audio coupon,” spotlighting The General Store at Cornerstone Montclair and its mission of inclusive employment. (From now until the end of the year, mention The Montclair Pod at checkout and receive 15% off your purchase.)• A neighborhood soundbite segment from recent transplants on what surprised them most about life in Montclair, from walkability to community warmth.• Local headlines, including a tribute to Montclair native actor Peter Greene, an update on sidewalk citation enforcement, and where to find our holiday shopping guide for buying local. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why is Montclair nearly 20 million dollars in the red, and how did no one stop it? This week, we peel back the curtain on one of the most consequential crises the town has ever faced, examining how years of rising costs, missed warning signs, and avoided hard decisions brought the school district to this moment.We also break down:• The Superior Court ruling that invalidated the December 9 special election, the superintendent’s new plan for a March vote, and what immediate cuts mean for families, staff, and classrooms.• What the judge found legally insufficient about the ballot language and why March 10 is now the target date for a new referendum.• The district-wide reductions are rolling out on January 5, from eliminated programs to lost staff positions.• What the state will and will not fund while Montclair waits for a new vote.• A rare, in-depth conversation with Tenafly Business Administrator and Montclair resident Stephen Frost, who explains how much power a BA really has, what should have been caught, why personnel cuts were unavoidable, and whether a forensic audit would actually reveal anything new.• Why New Jersey’s 2 percent tax cap, rising health care costs, and declining enrollment created a structural squeeze years in the making.Also, the NBC I-Team tracks down former BA Christina Hunt in person, and we react to the footage that has now been viewed tens of thousands of times.We then dig into the psychology of giving and receiving feedback as part of a series sponsored by Twocents. We talk with the owners of Dan and Day’s Burgers and Shakes and Paper Plane Coffee Co. about the reviews that changed their businesses, why specific feedback matters more than praise, and how Twocents’ anonymous option is helping shape everything from aioli recipes to café seating layouts.In our Ask Our Agent segment, we flip the script. At sponsor Karin Diana’s holiday party, we ask recent transplants the same question: What surprised you most about life in Montclair? The answers span parking, walkability, community warmth, suburban culture shocks, and the Ring notifications everyone eventually turns off.We wrap with local headlines, including free holiday parking, a township toy drive, a resident-run report called MPACT, exposing why MPS budget documents are nearly impossible to analyze, and a note to complete the school district’s new Budget Priorities Survey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why doesn’t Montclair have any legal weed stores? This week on The Montclair Pod, we tackle a question that has floated around town for years, with a deep look at Montclair’s cannabis landscape, tracing how a town that once hosted New Jersey’s first medical dispensary now has zero open shops. Farnoosh and Mike walk through the long, complicated road to legalization in New Jersey, the zoning bottlenecks in Montclair, and the Catch-22 of opening a dispensary in a system where you need a lease before you have a license.We unpack:• How state and municipal approvals have slowed Montclair’s cannabis rollout.• Why the town may be missing out on hundreds of thousands of dollars in annual tax revenue.• The real numbers behind dispensary sales in New Jersey.• An in-depth conversation with Jake Kushner, founder of Kush Connection on Bloomfield Avenue, who shares the multi-year, financially draining journey to opening a dispensary in his hometown.• A behind-the-scenes look at Genuine Grow, Montclair’s first legal cultivation facility, with founder Andrew Marshall explaining the three-and-a-half-year road from idea to harvest, and why he’s betting on small-batch, craft cannabis grown right on Pine Street.Also: Montclair’s special election is off. A Superior Court judge has invalidated the December 9 ballot questions, ruling the wording unclear and legally insufficient. We break down what the ruling means, why the ballot language failed, and how the district might navigate a shortfall with layoffs already underway.In lieu of Farnoosh & Mike Eat Food this week, we explore the psychology of giving and receiving feedback, as part of our series sponsored by Twocents. The hosts chat with Montclair customers and business owners about what makes helpful feedback, how often people leave reviews, and why private, measured comments often matter more than public criticism.In Ask Our Agent segment, sponsor and real estate agent Karin Diana of Compass returns to explain what sellers should actually look for during a bidding war. She breaks down why the highest price doesn’t always win, which terms matter most, and how contingencies, lenders, and even an agent’s reputation influence a seller’s decision.We wrap with local headlines, including a state grant to redesign Church Street, a new community survey on weekend transit service to New York City, and the Montclair-born musical Spiral Bound heading to Lincoln Center. Plus: Farnoosh’s long-awaited tickets to see Conan O’Brien and Stephen Colbert, and Mike’s search for a gym that won’t leave him gasping on day one. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, we drop the episode a little early because Montclair’s school deficit story is moving at warp speed, and because some of us need something to listen to while hiding from relatives in the bathroom.In our roundtable, we bring in Matt Kadosh and Asad Jung, two Montclair Local reporters who’ve been working around the clock to cover the town’s $19.6 million school deficit, the December 9 special election, and the sudden flurry of lawsuits, claims, and shifting narratives.We unpack:The human side of reporting the crisis. What it’s been like to chase constant updates, untangle confusing information, and manage the temperature of the town.The lawsuit challenging the December 9 ballot, which alleges the wording is “confusing” and “misleading.” Could it derail the vote?The new claim against former Business Administrator Christina Hunt, including allegations she mishandled a food-services contract.The broader systemic issues: years of turnover, fragile financial controls, and the question of whether it’s fair, or even correct, to pin this moment on one person.What comes next, including more litigation, more scrutiny, and how residents might better understand the scale and origins of the crisis.Farnoosh & Mike Eat Food, sponsored by Twocents, takes you inside Qahwah House, the Yemeni coffee spot drawing crowds for its honey-soaked desserts and cardamom-spiced brews. And in Ask Our Agent, Compass agent (and pod sponsor) Karin Diana breaks down the most common bidding mistakes that cost buyers homes in Montclair’s ultra-competitive market. Learn about Montclair's Budget Hearings Here. And donate to Toni's Kitchen here and here.More from The Montclair Local:Lawsuit Challenges Montclair School Referendum, Calls Questions "Misleading"Former Montclair School Official's Action Cost District Over $500K, Claim SaysSignificant Achievement Gap Persists in Montclair Schools, Data Shows Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected] Mikie Sherrill sits down with The Montclair Pod for one of her first interviews since the election. She delivers a candid, forceful take on Montclair’s deepening school budget crisis. Sherrill, a longtime Montclair resident and parent of public-school students, voices fury and frustration over what she calls a “breakdown in fiscal management,” questioning how the district ended up with a $20+ million deficit and why taxpayers are being asked to contribute more without a full accounting of what went wrong. Note: This conversation was recorded before the district’s major plot twist this week: the state signaling it will extend an advance on next year’s state aid if Question 2 on the December 9th ballot fails — avoiding immediate catastrophic cuts but triggering long-term consequences, including reduced future aid and the likely arrival of a state fiscal monitor.We break down what the new scenario means for taxpayers, schools, staffing, extracurriculars, and the future of Montclair’s magnet system. We also clarify key points from the interview, including the difference between a forensic audit and a fiscal monitor.Beyond education, Sherrill discusses the state’s affordability crisis, her plan to freeze utility rate hikes on day one, school district consolidation, and the economic pressures facing families across New Jersey.Later in the episode, Farnoosh and Mike head to Jalwa on Glenridge Avenue for their latest “Farnoosh & Mike Eat Food” segment, sponsored by Twocents, the app lets you leave feedback for any NJ business—anonymously if you want. Then in “Ask Our Agent,” sponsor Karin Diana of Compass Montclair shares how to begin prepping for a home purchase in 2026. Plus: The Montclair Bridge Fund launches to support neighbors following the referendum. Local sports and arts highlights, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In her most candid interview yet, Superintendent Ruth B. Turner discusses accountability, fiscal discipline, and the tough choices facing Montclair schools, as the district faces a $19.6 million deficit and a pivotal special election on December 9.In the interview, Turner explains:Why Question 1 leaves out mention of the state loan and monitorWhy Question 2 makes the tax hike permanentWhat a fiscal monitor could and couldn’t do in MontclairWhy the forensic audit is tied to Question 2Whether teachers and nurses could be reinstated if new funds passHow the district plans to avoid another deficit and restore transparencyPlus, a look at where the “missing $12 million” actually went and what happens if the town must take a short-term bridge loan just to make payroll.Later in the episode, Farnoosh and Mike head to Bao Dumplings and Bao Tea in Verona for their latest “Farnoosh & Mike Eat Food” adventure, sponsored by Twocents, the app lets you leave feedback for any NJ business—anonymously if you want.Then in “Ask Our Agent,” Karin Diana of Compass Montclair shares how smart, high-impact staging can make a home shine—even in a brisk market—and what today’s HGTV-raised buyers are really looking for.Plus: a quick round of Montclair headlines, from Board of Ed election results and the Imani 25th Anniversary Gala, to the town’s latest openings and events.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected] week on The Montclair Pod, Farnoosh and Mike put two of Montclair’s favorite topics under the microscope: schools and real estate. With a nearly 20 million dollar school deficit, a December 9 referendum, and talk of a possible state monitor, they ask the question everyone is whispering at open houses: Could this hurt Montclair’s reputation and even our property values?They revisit their interview with Town Manager Stephen Marks, who says the housing market is still strong by the numbers, then layer in fresh data and social media reactions. Local real estate attorney and 18 year Montclair resident Jen Metzger joins to explain what she is seeing in contracts, buyer behavior, and how much school headlines really factor into closing day.NJ also has a new governor. Political reporter Terrence McDonald of the New Jersey Monitor stops by with quick reactions to Mikie Sherrill’s decisive statewide win, why flipping several Trump leaning counties matters, and how a governor who raised her family here might show up for towns like Montclair that are wrestling with school funding and affordability.Farnoosh and Mike then pull back the curtain on their decision to run an anonymous No No op-ed about the referendum on MontclairPod.com.In Ask Our Agent, sponsor and Compass agent Karin Diana answers a question many Brooklyn and Manhattan buyers have: What is the toughest part of adjusting to Montclair life and how do you ease the shift from walkable city to car seats, commutes, and home repairs?For Farnoosh and Mike Eat Food, brought to you by Twocents, the hosts head to La Fontaine, a charming café blending French, Italian, and Turkish flavors, and talk about why it has become a neighborhood favorite.And if you have ever wanted to rent your house to a movie crew, this one is for you. Former Upper Montclair homeowner Kim Amirata shares what it was like to have her house used in the new Bruce Springsteen biopic, and Glenn Schuster of Film Friendly Locations explains how productions find Montclair homes and what homeowners can expect.The episode wraps with a quick local news rundown, from township email scams to school clubs losing funding to the upcoming Montclair Comedy Festival, plus the one big thing each host is doing this weekend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected] week on The Montclair Pod, Farnoosh and Mike head straight into Montclair’s creative heart, from film to storytelling to live theater, before zooming out to the pressing issue shaping our town right now: the future of our schools.Montclair Film FestivalWe begin at the Montclair Film Festival, where Farnoosh and Mike hosted a live conversation with the filmmakers behind Brenda, a moving short documentary about a Montclair woman’s journey from Honduras seeking asylum for herself and her children.Montclair Story SalonFarnoosh catches up with actor and storyteller Liz Samuel, the founder of Montclair Story Salon, a growing community event where residents share personal stories, songs, and art, all in support of local nonprofits. Liz shares how creativity, connection, and giving back intertwine in these intimate gatherings that have become a Montclair favorite.At Luna StageMike brings us to Luna Stage in West Orange for a look at Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian Library, a riveting play inspired by philosopher Hannah Arendt’s arrest in 1933 Berlin. He connects the story’s themes of courage, censorship, and resistance to our current cultural and political moment.Farnoosh & Mike Eat FoodIn this week’s Eat Food segment, sponsored by Twocents, the hosts grab breakfast at Ray’s Luncheonette on Walnut Street. Expect iced coffee, secret menu finds, and some serious bacon envy.The School Deficit DebateFinally, Farnoosh and Mike break down the latest on the district’s $19.6 million budget shortfall and the upcoming December 9 referendum with insights from Essex County Commissioner Brendan Gill, who shares how Montclair’s crisis fits into the wider county picture and what’s at stake for local control.Ask Our AgentCompass real estate agent Karin Diana answers whether renting your home to a film crew is worth it, and how to tap into New Jersey’s booming production scene without losing your sanity (or your floors).Episode Credits:Hosted by Farnoosh Torabi and Mike SchreiberEdited by Bob Raynor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected] episode dives into how residents are navigating modern relationships in all their forms: gay, straight, open, and swinging. The hosts examine how political views, community culture, and midlife realities shape connection and commitment in town.The pod also continues its coverage of Montclair’s ongoing school budget crisis, unpacking what’s at stake in the upcoming “Yes-Yes” vs. “No-No” vote and how it could reshape the district’s financial future.This week's Farnoosh and Mike Eat Food features La Couronne, an Italian restaurant in Watchung Plaza.And in Ask Our Agent, we learn why some homes have a much harder time selling than others.Junie Moon, relationship expert and Montclair’s own love coachElizabeth and Jason, single parents share their experiences dating in MontclairGrace L. Williams, journalist and Montclair Pod special assignment reporterMishiko Passikoff, therapist on tension in relationships over politicsReubena Spence, co-founder of Out Montclair, on the LGBTQ+ dating sceneRich Reynics and Corey Pierson, organizers behind SaveMontclairSchools.com, advocating for a “Yes/Yes” vote on the school budgetHosted by Farnoosh Torabi and Mike SchreiberEdited by Bob RaynorSponsored by Twocents, Glen Ridge Taekwondo, Luna Stage, and Karin Diana, Compass Montclair Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected] week, Montclair’s financial story gets real. We sit down with Town Manager Stephen Marks to talk candidly about the township’s budget, his first six months on the job, and why he believes a state fiscal monitor might be “warranted” for Montclair’s schools, given a nearly $20 million deficit.Then: What can Montclair learn from our neighbors in Nutley, who are currently experiencing the effects of a state takeover of their school district? We unpack the lessons, the trade-offs, and the emotion behind what it means to lose (or preserve) local control.Plus:Why are some residents voting Yes/Yes to fund both deficits, and others are saying No to send a message?Montclair principals send letters to families outlining potential cuts and encouraging a YES vote on December 9, which raises flags.A new resource SaveMontclairSchools.com, is a grassroots group urging residents to vote Yes/Yes in the upcoming special election.A lighter break: Farnoosh & Mike Eat Food (sponsored by Twocents) heads to Libélula Café for empanadas that might change your day.“Ask Our Agent” with sponsor Karin Diana of Compass: Options for Montclair homeowners who want to downsize but stay local.And your favorite local pod just got some hardware. The Montclair Pod is officially a Signal Awards winner for Best Local News Podcast!Join for a special live taping of The Montclair Pod at The Montclair Film Festival. Reserve your seats.Episode Credits:Hosted by Farnoosh Torabi and Mike SchreiberProduced by The Montclair PodEdited by Bob RaynorSponsored by Twocents and Karin Diana, Compass Montclair Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected] this episode, we dig into the cost of living in Montclair and ask, is it worth it? We start at the Farmers Market, where residents share how rising prices are changing their day-to-day lives. Then, we meet a renter who dreams of buying in town but feels priced out, and hear from Councilor-at-Large and Deputy Mayor Susan Shin Andersen on what the township is doing to address affordability.In our Ask Your Agent series with Karin Diana of Compass, we uncover the hidden costs of homeownership. At the same time, our Montclair grocery showdown—Kings vs. ACME vs. Whole Foods—reveals a surprising winner. Plus, a rooftop visit to The Splendid at the MC Hotel, local election updates, and One Big Thing to end the week.Our SponsorsTwocentsKarin Diana of Compass MontclairResources and LinksDeputy Mayor Susan Shin Andersen on InstagramSeedArtistsOur IG Post on The Cost of Living in Montclair Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, it’s a jam-packed episode:Montclair Schools Budget Town Hall. We take you inside last Friday night’s meeting at Buzz Aldrin Middle School, where Superintendent Ruth B. Turner and Interim Business Administrator Dana Sullivan laid out the reality: the district is facing nearly $20 million in debt. Parents pressed for answers, students spoke out, and hard choices are on the table, from closing schools to eliminating Chromebooks. We break down what’s really at stake and the options ahead, from state loans with oversight to a possible special election on a tax increase.Montclair Pod Makes the Finals. The Montclair Pod has been nominated for a Signal Award for Best Local News Podcast alongside NPR, WHYY, and Colorado Public Radio. Here's where you can vote for us to win the People’s Choice Award.Dinner at Sushi Koshi. In our “Farnoosh and Mike Eat Food” series sponsored by Twocents, we visit Watchung Plaza’s Sushi Koshi, learn about the restaurant’s culture of care, and even invent a new roll (yes, we’re pitching the Montclair Pod Roll). Twocents is an app that makes it easy to give real feedback to New Jersey businesses - anonymously if you prefer. Montclair Film Festival Preview. Montclair Film's Artistic Director Tom Hall gives us the scoop on this year’s lineup, including The Sound of Music opening at the newly restored Bellevue Theater, George Clooney’s Jay Kelly as the opening night film, and a Spike Lee–Stephen Colbert conversation at the Wellmont.Love It or List It: Montclair Edition. Compass real estate agent and Montclair Pod sponsor Karin Diana tackles one of the toughest homeowner questions: should you renovate your house (dust, costs, and all) or sell and buy a new one in town? Her practical advice may surprise you. To reach Karin and receive her free Love It or List It worksheet email [email protected] remember to subscribe and leave us a review! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected] our Season 3 debut, we are talking all-things schools.First, as we reported, Montclair Public Schools’ deficit is closer to $18M than $11M. We replay part of our conversation with Superintendent Ruth B. Turner, unpack what’s fact vs. speculation, and talk about oversight, a possible forensic audit, and what a “hard reset” could look like.Then: Is Montclair still a smart move for families seeking a great education for their kids? We kick off our "Ask Our Agent" series brought to us by Compass Montclair real estate agent Karin Diana who breaks it down.Plus: We get practical on phones in middle school with Screen Aware Montclair, a sponsored spotlight the Montclair Cooperative School’s middle-school approach, decode this year’s college admissions twists (hello, Michigan ED1/ED2), summarize all five BOE candidates, and launch our new food series brought to us by Twocents, with brunch at Oso Felipe (watermelon salad = star). We close with town news and “One Big Thing.”Visit Montclair Cooperative School during their October 10th Open HouseSign up for a special evening with Dr. Sheryl Ziegler who wrote The Crucial Years. Montclair Cooperative School, October 13thThanks to our special co-host guest Danielle Neff, founder of The Montclair Moms, Dads, Parents FB group. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod News:Councilor-at-Large Carmel Loughman has resigned just over a year into her term. We break down what happened, what it means for the council, and hear directly from Deputy Mayor Susan Shin Andersen on what comes next.The Montclair school deficit grows to $18 million. We revisit our conversation with Superintendent Ruth B. Turner and the state’s response to the district’s financial troubles.A new bagel shop is here — O’Bagel opened on Bloomfield Avenue to lines around the block. We talk to fans and the second-generation owner about what makes this cult-favorite spot so beloved.And we sit down with Montclair’s own Bobbi Brown. The beauty mogul opens up about her new book, Still Bobbi, why she launched another cosmetics company in her 60s, and the local life that has grounded her for more than three decades.Reserve for Bobbi Brown's book debut in Montclair, Friday 9/19 at 18 Label StudiosReserve for the live pilot taping of Your Best Life with Junie Moon on October 8.Subscribe, leave a review below. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a frank and revealing interview on The Montclair Pod, Montclair's new schools superintendent, Ruth B. Turner, announced that the district’s financial deficit has swelled to approximately $18 million. The startling figure combines inherited debts with a newly discovered $4 to $5 million shortfall in the current budget. Compounding the crisis, Turner revealed that after a direct appeal for help, the Township of Montclair has declined to provide any financial support to the schools.The interview, coming just two-and-a-half months into her tenure, casts a harsh light on the deep-seated fiscal and procedural issues plaguing a district that has struggled for years with leadership instability. Be sure to subscribe to The Montclair Pod to be the first to listen to new episodes. Season 3 kicks off September 25 with a deeper look at the health of our schools. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the September 11, 2025, edition of The Montclair Pod News, Mike and Farnoosh open with reflections on 9/11 and how it shaped their early journalism careers. Then it’s:A fast tour through first-week-of-school headaches (and why better district communication is an equity issue)A sneak peek inside the revived Bellevue TheaterA tense car-theft chase on Porter PlacePaper Plane Coffee’s expansionThe quirks of World Cup ticketingA playful pitch for HBO to film The White Lotus in Upper Montclair.In “The One Thing,” they spotlight a new Italian restaurant on the way, Bob Ross originals at Lackawanna, and the town-wide garage sale benefiting the Human Needs Food Pantry. Season 3 lands September 25 with a school-focused kickoff.Links mentioned:Farnoosh's 529 Deep-Dive on So Money Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Montclair Pod, Mike and Farnoosh dive into the first week of September in town, with plenty of local updates and a few personal confessions.Highlights include:Back to School Drama – Montclair renews its $1.5M contract with food service provider Southwest Food Service Excellence. Will new “healthier” options and salad bars outweigh student complaints?Gas Below $3? – Prices hit five-year lows in Montclair, with one Valley Road station leading the way. Plus, what’s next for electric car buyers as the federal tax credit winds down?Dining Outdoors – Montclair ranks #102 on a national survey of best places for al fresco dining. Princeton and Cape May beat us out—but Farnoosh and Mike share their own dining adventures.Town Borrowing Plans – Montclair considers a $10 million bond for roads, pools, and even a new firetruck. Why can’t these be budgeted for in advance?Fleet Feet Returns – After a devastating fire and $600K in losses, the local running store reopens thanks to insurance.Real Estate Talk – A neighbor’s home hits the market at $2.375M—$700K above its 2016 purchase price. Will buyers bite? Taxes alone top $57K a year.Weekend Plans – From a Jets game at MetLife to Bard’s performance at the South End Business District Festival, Montclair’s social calendar is full.All this plus: skipping to the bus stop, Uber Eats in the high school lunchroom, lobster rolls (or lack thereof), and Mike’s new fitness commitment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod News, we’re covering a packed lineup of local stories and some irresistible neighborhood gossip. Montclair High School slipped in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, falling from #55 to #95 in the state — sparking debates about test scores, funding, and what really defines success in our schools.We also take a peek inside a jaw-dropping $7.5 million listing for a two-family home once tied to Kool & the Gang — is it worth the price tag? Over in Watchung Plaza, renovations are nearly complete, promising a safer and more welcoming space for the community.And in the rumor mill: beloved sushi spot Daikichi might be making a comeback. Plus, we share the quirky story of how a New Jersey rest stop meant to honor Toni Morrison ended up bearing Bruce Willis’s name instead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, Farnoosh, Mike, and political correspondent Terrence McDonald from the New Jersey Monitor break down the stories making waves in Montclair and beyond:Lead Pipe Replacements Coming: Homes built before 1940 may still have lead service lines. Montclair will begin replacing them in 2026 under a statewide mandate to eliminate all lead pipes by 2031. The Montclair Water Bureau has created an online inventory of all known service lines here.New Power Substation on Valley Road: PSE&G plans to replace the nearly 100-year-old facility to prevent failures and meet modern codes, though residents are raising questions about transparency and community input.Mail Heist in Montclair: A postal truck was smashed open, and two trays of mail were stolen, along with the carrier’s lunch. Authorities are treating it as a federal crime.School Budget Fallout: Former Montclair school business administrator Christina Hunt, tied to the district’s $11 million deficit, has landed a new role in the Penns Grove – Carnys Point Regional School District.Hate Crime Charges: A Montclair man faces serious charges for sending racist and antisemitic threats through a Fort Lee apartment building’s system.Car Theft Surge: Multiple vehicle thefts and break-ins across Montclair highlight the growing problem of brazen auto crimes.Statewide & National Headlines: From baby blood sample lawsuits to immigration controversies shaping New Jersey’s governor’s race, we connect the dots on issues with local impact.Send us your ideas for season 3 at [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning journalist Terrence McDonald, editor at the New Jersey Monitor, joins Mike and Farnoosh for a deep dive into state politics, local news, and Montclair's ever-evolving dining scene.We kick off with a look at the New Jersey governor’s race and why polls might not tell the whole story. Terrence breaks down the latest political flashpoints, including the tragic Lakewood DUI case that’s become a national talking point, the Trump administration’s investment in the state race, and how bail reform and sanctuary status are entering the conversation.From there, we pivot to home turf: Montclair’s proposed shuttle bus service. Will it solve transportation woes or create more questions than answers? We also celebrate a fundraising victory for Clary Anderson Arena, discuss the school district’s $11 million budget gap, and what it might mean if the state steps in.On the lighter side, we taste-test the town’s culinary news: a veggie-forward restaurant coming to Bloomfield Avenue, thoughts on Ani Ramen’s wing prices, a taco tour, and the arrival of Pendragon's Smokehouse. Plus: a quirky rest stop closure mystery, Cory Booker’s Senate floor theatrics, and why one U.S. Attorney appointment is turning into a political chess match.Highlights:Governor’s race breakdown: The stakes, the polls, and the political strategies at play.Lakewood DUI case: How one tragedy is fueling a statewide political debate.Shuttle bus proposal: Will Montclair residents hop on board? Take the survey: Montclair Shuttle Bus SurveyDining buzz: From the veggie-forward Sam's Table to The Saint Clair on Church Street to smoked brisket dreams at Pendragon's SmokehouseClary Anderson comeback: How the rink hit its fundraising goal.Political side stories: Cory Booker’s filibuster, Trump’s U.S. Attorney pick under fire, and the Connie Chung rest stop saga.What's going on at the Connie Chung service area? **Subscribe, leave a review below, and please follow on Instagram. Send us a story idea or tip: [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As summer winds down and Montclair empties out, The Montclair Pod is here with a jam-packed Season 2 finale to help you make the most of August, whether you’re staying put or sneaking in one last getaway.Co-hosts Farnoosh and Mike share their personal plans (pork shoulder rotisserie, anyone?), surprising listener hotspots, and clever ways to spend your August locally, including music, comedy, beaches, workouts at Brain and Body Method, and yes…MedievalFest.Plus:A fire closes two Bloomfield Ave. businesses—how to helpMontclair Public Schools’ $11M budget shortfall (check out the Reddit Thread)Updates on QuickChek's replacementMontclair’s own spy scandal and true crime loreA very sweaty trip to the astronaut-inspired fitness studio, Brain & Body MethodLive music picks from Forest Hills to Iridium Jazz ClubMontclair’s pool drama—and whether you can crash Glen Ridge or MaplewoodEVENTS + ACTIVITIESMontclair Art Museum's Wine & WheelMontclair Jazz Festival Soundcheck Series Montclair Comedy FestivalAziz Ansari at the Wellmont Theater Lady Gaga at Madison Square Garden MedievalFest Websites MentionedBrain & Body Method – Mention The Montclair Pod for 3 Free SessionsLOCAL SPOTS & DESTINATIONSThe FunPlex Waterpark Montclair Public Pools InfoMUSIC VENUES & BANDSForest Hills StadiumHeadhunters Jazz Band Iridium NYC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Farnoosh and Mike explore sustainability with a Montclair lens. What does it really mean to “live green” in our town—and is it affordable, practical, or even possible?You’ll hear:A solar reality check from Montclair local Ivy Sheibar, who breaks down the truth behind “free” solar panels, what the upcoming federal tax credit deadline means for homeowners, and how to decide if solar is worth it for your house. Plus, she’s offering a free guide for listeners.A trip to American Royal Hardware with longtime staffer Cliff Proven, who shares the top energy-saving tips he's learned from over 30 years on the job, including one easy trick that could save you hundreds.A new take on secondhand shopping with Lacey Triplett Thistle, founder of Middle Child, an online kids’ consignment boutique based in Montclair. She explains how her circular economy model is helping families save money and reduce waste, while keeping kids dressed in style.A crash course in beekeeping from Verona-based Jim Feeney, who shares why bees love Montclair, and how bees might be the original sustainability ambassadors.Plus:A local QuickChek closes, and the town holds an impromptu vigil.MM by Morimoto officially opens, and the crew gets a sneak peek—with Iron Chef Morimoto himself.Our weekend event roundup, featuring Montclair Flea: Tales & Treasures Edition and the grand opening of the Montclair Creative Reuse Project Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back by demand: It’s our second deep dive into the world of Montclair arts: bigger, bolder, and possibly haunted.  Dance phenom Sharron Miller takes us from flat feet to Broadway, and back to Montclair where she’s mentored generations of dancers at her namesake academy. The Montclair Dance Festival has arrived. Hear from founder Donna Scro Samori about its community roots and big dreams.Step into Ria Frame Shop x Art Gallery, where frames meet fine art. Owner Ria Mulvey shares how her dual business helps emerging artists and protects pieces from $5 to $500,000.We visit Tiny Gallery, a network of mini exhibitions that’s turning heads and stopping dog-walkers in their tracks.Co-host Alex Pavljuk of the Montclair Art Museum and host of Maybe, Actually, Museums Are For Me, joins us again with stories from inside the museum—including a new ghost sighting, summer discounts, and fall preview of Tom Nussbaum: But Wait, There’s More.Plus, in the news:– Bellevue Theatre gets a second act– Farewell to Colbert on CBS– QuickChek closes, Milk & Mayhem opens– And Mike’s birthday gets wrecked by a rogue tow truckListen now, and check out more at montclairpod.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Montclair is facing a growing crisis: homelessness. As of the latest count, there are 93 homeless people (sheltered and unsheltered) in Montclair, according to a study by Monarch Housing. That's the fourth highest number in Essex County. And while the need for help has never been more urgent, the community’s response has never felt more complicated.In this episode, co-hosts Farnoosh and Mike take listeners deep into the story behind MESH (Montclair Emergency Services for Hope), a local nonprofit operating out of a former restaurant on Bloomfield Avenue. MESH provides meals, shelter, and vital services six days a week. But its presence in Montclair’s Bloomfield Avenue has become a flashpoint, sparking praise, concern, and a larger reckoning with how the town addresses visible poverty and mental health on its streets.You’ll hear from:Joe Granger, MESH’s Executive Director, who shares stories of struggle, hope, and the hard choices he and his team face daily.Letrice and Tammy, two guests of MESH, who open up about losing stability and what dignity and community look like now.Local business owners, Eddie Peralta of Powerhouse Tattoo and Matt Jenkins of Smoke and Mirrors, who say they’re sympathetic but feel unsupported as public disturbances increase near their storefronts.Montclair Mayor Renee Baskerville and Deputy Mayor Susan Shin Andersen, who speak to the town’s efforts to balance compassion with public safety.Lt. Tyrone Williams Jr. of the Montclair Police Department, on their role in addressing street-level crises, and why enforcement alone isn’t the answer.More: 10 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Montclair's 2025 BudgetEvents:Montclair Flea Dazed and ConfusedBard Band at Ironbound FarmFIT FRIDAYS at Lackawanna**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected]. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's show highlights some of the nonprofits doing critical, often unsung work to support our community. With over 210 registered nonprofits in town, we hear from some of the most impactful organizations responding to food insecurity, domestic violence, and urgent financial crises. Guest co-host is Tom Hall, Artistic Director/Co-Head of Montclair Film, who also provides insights into how the arts fit into the nonprofit landscape.Guests include:Ray Graj, co-founder of Montclair Helps, on how his group delivers emergency financial aid within 48 hours via a unique partnership model.Kristin Wald of SOFIA (Start Out Fresh Intervention Advocates), on how her organization supports survivors of domestic violence with autonomy and access to trusted resources.Mike Bruno of the Human Needs Food Pantry, who explains how rising demand and budget cuts are straining vital services.We also dig into Montclair’s profound legacy of giving, from the Shumans and Van Vlecks to modern grassroots efforts.Upcoming events:Montclair’s First-Ever French Shopping DayNatsu Pop Con at Montclair Public LibraryMontclair Film Summer ScreeningsSOFIA's 15th Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected]. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Montclair has a new superintendent—and she’s stepping into the role at a critical moment. In this episode, Farnoosh and Mike sit down with Ruth B. Turner, the newly appointed head of Montclair Public Schools, for an unfiltered conversation about the district’s financial audit, recent staffing cuts, and her vision for rebuilding trust in the community. To learn more about Turner's upcoming Listen and Learn sessions check out our site.Turner shares how her background in social work informs her leadership style, what “equity” means to her in practice, and how she plans to engage with families, teachers, and taxpayers.Also in this episode:Adam Sandler is spotted shooting hoops in town.The Montclair Brewery's big plans for FIFA World Cup.Montclair’s CFO departs after a $1.25M whistleblower settlement.A new bakery opens in Upper Montclair (arrive early for croissants!)What’s happening this July 4th weekend.And: Farnoosh and Mike call on listeners to help shape future episodes on dating, climate, and the arts in Montclair.**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected]. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, we’re taking a closer look at how safe it feels to get around Montclair and what’s being done to improve it.We sit down with Laura Torchio, the town’s new Complete Streets Director, in her first public interview since stepping into the role. Torchio shares her vision for making Montclair’s streets safer and more accessible for everyone, whether they’re walking, biking, or driving. She also talks candidly about the obstacles: slow change, coordination, and the need for community trust.You’ll also hear from residents about how safe they feel moving through town and what they'd like to see change. And we take a joyful ride with the Montclair Bike Bus, the weekly event that’s turning the morning school commute into something kids and parents actually look forward to.Events this weekend:Montclair Film's Summer ShowcaseAuthor Event at Montclair Book CenterCaribbean Fete at Montclair BreweryNew Jersey Symphony with Fireworks Spectacular in Newark **Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected]. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, The Montclair Pod goes deep on all things food. First up, the pizza crawl. We hit five of Montclair’s most talked-about pizza spots, all within walking distance of downtown Bloomfield Avenue. Along the way, we debate what makes a true Jersey slice, swap pronunciation tips and crown a surprise winner.Stops include:My Little Pizza Heaven – Food truck nostalgia and Jersey-style prideLuigino Parmigiana – A gourmet lamb flatbread that sparks debateAh’ Pizz – A rustic pie with big flavorTeglia Pizza Bar – Thick sourdough squaresLeone’s – A buffalo chicken slice with hot honey and old-school vibesAlso in this episode:Ironbound Farm Market at Lackawanna Plaza Charles Rosen, the visionary behind Ironbound Farm, talks about the market’s bold mission to bring regenerative agriculture and economic equity to Montclair through a revolutionary “farm stop” model. Bonus: no pesticides, no middlemen, and some pretty incredible cider apples.Pendragon's Smokehouse BBQ (Delivery Only) Co-owner Charlie Holbech shares how he’s building a hyperlocal barbecue business in Montclair—with no apps, no shortcuts, and recipes rooted in community. Plus: last-minute tips for hosting a Juneteenth cookout, including how to make smoky chicken thighs without a smoker.Special thanks to our sponsors:Sarah Elizabeth of Sarah Elizabeth DesignKarin Diana, Montclair Real Estate Agent with The Home Collective **Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected]. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Montclair’s red-hot real estate market finally cooling down? In this episode, we dig into the latest local housing trends with longtime agent Karin Diana from Compass, who says even the best listings aren’t flying off the market like they used to. Why? Think rising interest rates, nervous buyers watching their stock portfolios, and fewer outlier bids. Plus: one Montclair renter shares what it’s really like to compete in the town’s high-stakes rental scene, and one co-host shares why her family decided to sell and head west. With special thanks to our brand partner Sarah Elizabeth Design for tips on remodeling with intention — and on a budget.**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected]. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Education takes center stage .We’re tackling three hot-button issues on the minds of Montclair families: why some parents are pulling their kids from public school in favor of private, what’s behind the heated debate over the newly approved 2025–26 school calendar (with insights from Danielle Neff of the Montclair Moms, Dads and Parents Facebook page), and how one local teen, Carla Osbourne, beat the odds to land a summer job at Egan’s amid a drop in youth employment.Plus, we feature a powerful moment from Danny Marcketta, president of the Montclair Education Association, during a recent Board of Education meeting.Special thanks to our sponsor, Montclair Cooperative School.Download our free guide to shopping local here.Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.