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This is Beacon

by I Am Beacon

This Is Beacon offers a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of a city, told by those that call it home. Serving as the audio scrapbook of the community, join us as we discover Beacon's history, celebrate local heroes, and dive into issues impacting our community.Presented by I Am Beacon, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to serving and empowering the Beacon community.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Apr 16, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. Ep. 127| Untitled Podcast: Beacon Shows Up

    Beacon is back together after a busy fall. The hosts look back at the rescheduled I Run Beacon 5K, celebrate its 15-year history and community-funded scholarships, and thank the volunteers, local businesses, and city departments who helped make it happen. They also share ways to get involved,...

  2. EP. 126 #JoinTheConversation | Strong Dad's. Stronger Communities

    On a #JoinTheConversation episode of This Is Beacon, hosts Rueben, Brianna, and Brandon discuss creating real “spaces” that build community and reduce mental-health stigma, featuring guest Dave Eisenstadt, owner of CrossFit 845 in Wappingers and co-owner in Poughkeepsie. Dave shares his…

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  3. Ep. 125 | Untitled: The $10 Million Community Center Question

    Former Beacon Mayor Randy Casale joins the podcast for a deep dive into why Beacon, New York still lacks a full-scale community center despite decades of need. Drawing from his 26 years as Superintendent of Streets and two terms as mayor (2012–2019), Casale traces Beacon's community support…

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  4. Ep. 124| Roots, Resilience & Reinvention with Erika Ricottilli of Saint De La Rosa Hair Collective

    Born and raised in Beacon, Erika Ricottilli comes from a family deeply rooted in the community and in the beauty industry. As the owner of Saint Della Rosa Hair Collective, Erica has built more than a salon. She has created a space that reflects her passion, creativity, and commitment to the city...

  5. Ep. 123| Untitled, for Now: Keeping up with the City Council

    In this episode of “Untitled, for now”, Rueben, Brooke, Rob Lanier, and producer Brandon continue their ongoing discussion about city government, civic engagement, and the future of Beacon. The conversation begins with a passionate public comment from longtime resident Theresa Craft, whose…

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  6. Ep. 122| Untitled, For Now: What’s Really Happening in Beacon

    Beacon is changing fast. The question is, do residents fully understand how and why? In this first episode of a new series, the team breaks down what’s happening across the city and why so many people feel like decisions are moving faster than they can keep up with. Joined by longtime resident…

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  7. Ep.121 “Rooted, Unbothered, and Leading: Beacon’s Women Making History”

    In this special Women’s History Month episode of This Is Beacon, Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon welcome guest co-host Tara Simmons for a conversation celebrating the women shaping Beacon’s past, present, and future. The episode kicks off with the city buzzing after the Beacon High School Varsity…

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  8. EP. 120 ICYMI | Backpacks, Running Shoes, Community Fridges

    In this ICYMI episode of This Is Beacon, Reuben and Brandon are joined by Jamie from Faregrounds to recap a some community work in action. They highlight the Back 2 School Block Party, 138 supply kits distributed, and the 14th Annual I Run Beacon 5K securing their fundraising goal for their…

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  9. EP. 119 #Jointheconversation Series: Building Villages | Understanding Family Peer Advocacy with Shandi Speller

    In this episode of This is Beacon, hosts Reuben and Brandon engage in a deep and insightful conversation with Shandi Speller, a seasoned family peer advocate with CoveCare Center for over eight years. Shandi shares her journey from being a classroom teacher in the South Bronx to becoming a family...

  10. Ep. 118 #Jointheconversation Series| "Building Bridges in Mental Health: A Conversation with Courtney Rovere"

    This episode of 'This is Beacon' features Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon welcoming special guest Courtney Rovere, PhD, LCSW(NY), LICSW(MA) as part of the #Jointheconversation series. The conversation centers around the importance of mental health, wellness, and Courtney's journey in the field....

  11. Ep. 117 #Jointheconversation Series|Building Mental Wellness: Insights and Practical Strategies with JoAnne Streany

    In this episode of This is Beacon, part of the #Jointheconversation series, hosts Brooke, Rueben, and Brandon sit down with Licensed Mental Health Counselor JoAnn Streany, whose work spans New York, New Jersey, Florida, Connecticut, and Delaware. JoAnn brings over two decades of experience as a...

  12. Ep. 116 #Jointheconversation series| Building Voices: Rachel's Journey in Film and Disability Advocacy

    In this episode of 'This is Beacon's #jointheconversationseries, hosts Reuben, Brandon delve into an insightful discussion with actress, writer, and director Rachel Handler. As a disability advocate and a recent participant in the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, Rachel shares her inspiring...

  13. Ep. 115 ICYMI | Building Community One Basket (and Donut) at a Time

    Community Insights & Future Plans: Beacon's Q1 2025 RecapIn this episode of 'This is Beacon,' hosts Reuben and Brandon provide updates on community events, notable achievements, and future plans for Beacon, New York. The episode starts with shoutouts to community members Brooke and Brianna for...

  14. Ep. 114 ICYMI| "Reflecting on 2024 and Our Community's Future"

    In this episode of the 'This is Beacon' podcast, hosts Brooke, Ruben, Brianna, and Brandon recount the highlights of 2024, share personal growth stories, and discuss their organizational goals for 2025. They talk about the impact of events such as the Back to School Block Party, the I Am Beacon…

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  15. Ep. 113 "Empowering Through Adversity | Tara Simmons on Domestic Violence Awareness"

    In this special episode for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are honored to sit down with Tara Simmons, founder of Flip It for Life and a powerful voice for change. Tara shares her personal journey, shedding light on the challenges she has faced, the strengths she has discovered along the…

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  16. Ep. 112 This Anthony Amato| Leadership and Growth

    In this episode, Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon chat with Beaconite Command Master Chief from Submarine Squadron One. With a distinguished career in the US Navy, Command Master Chief shares his remarkable journey and offers deep insights into leadership and personal development. Discover how his...

  17. Ep. 111 "ICYMI August 1st,2024"

    On this episode of This Is Beacon, Reuben, Brooke, and Brandon are back with the latest updates from Beacon. They recap the I Am Beacon Making A Difference Scholarship, discuss the Elks 100th Celebration Parade, and the Brain and Body Coalition's Mental Wellness event. The team also explores the...

  18. Ep. 110 This is Teron and Devon| Safe Creative Synergy

    In this episode, Brandon and Brianna welcome two Beacon talents, Teron Wright and Devon Howard. Teron Wright, a visual artist, shares his journey from Beacon to rediscovering his passion for art. Follow his work on Instagram at thewrightexpressions. Devon Howard, also known as Noetic, discusses…

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  19. Ep. 109 This is Beacon’s Urban Planning with JC Calderon

    In this episode, we talk with JC Calderon, a Beacon resident and architect, about the critical role of good architecture and urban spaces in community development. JC shares his journey from Brooklyn to Beacon and discusses the importance of city planning that prioritizes public benefit. As chair...

  20. Ep. 108 This is Celebrating Beacon’s Heritage|Juneteenth with Bosco and Star

    In this episode, lifelong Beacon resident and music aficionado Bosco Faison, along with passionate community advocate and organizer Star Gorton, share their unique perspectives on growing up in Beacon and the importance of preserving community spirit. They reflect on the rich history and…

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  21. Ep. 107 #Jointheconversation | School & The Community with Michael Hanrahan

    Welcome back to another episode of "This is Beacon," part of our #JoinTheConversation series, where we break down the stigmas surrounding mental health. Today, we're joined by a very special guest, Michael Hanrahan. Michael's incredible journey from a diverse upbringing in Upper Manhattan to a...

  22. Ep. 106 #Jointheconversationseries| Breathe and Move with Jeff

    In this episode of our #jointheconversation series on "This is Beacon," aimed at ending the stigma surrounding mental health, we are thrilled to welcome Jeff Hartford. Jeff, a lifelong athlete and a professional dedicated to the study and teaching of wellness practices, brings over 20 years of...

  23. Ep. 105 #Jointheconversation| Mindfulness with Allyson

    In this compelling episode of "This Is Beacon," part of our #jointheconversation series aimed at ending the stigma surrounding mental health, we delve into the life of Allison, a holistic healer, registered nurse, Reiki practitioner, and spiritual life coach from Newburgh . Amidst lively…

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  24. Ep. 104 #JoinTheConversation| Functional Medicine with Aditya

    Join the conversation in this episode of This is Beacon as hosts Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon welcome special guest Aditya. Part of the #jointheconversation series, Aditya shares his fascinating journey from India to Harlem to Beacon, shedding light on the significance of names and the essence of...

  25. Ep. 103 ICYMI | Just the 2 of us

    In this special episode of the "This Is Beacon" podcast, hosts Reuben and Brandon engage in a reflective and candid conversation about the evolution of their podcast and its role within the broader mission of the "I Am Beacon" organization. They discuss the origins of the podcast, its development...

  26. Beacon's West End Story | Revisiting The Community Through The Voices That Once Called It Home

    📣 Welcome back to Beacon's West End Story! 🏙️ In this episode, Reuben and Brooke share their reflections on the enlightening discussion with Professor Hochfelder and Connie Whitener Perdreau. We take a trip down memory lane into the experiences of West End residents, offering a glimpse into the...

  27. Beacon's West End Story | Exploring Urban Renewal w/ Professor Hochfelder and Connie Whitener Perdreau

    Welcome to Beacon's West End Story! Join us on an extraordinary journey through time as we delve deep into the intricate history of Urban Renewal and its profound impact on the community of Beacon's West End. On this first episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with historian and…

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  28. Ep. 102 Celebrating BB Moore BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month with The Brain and Body Coalition

    Heather Ann Pitcher, founder of The Brain and Body Coalition, joins us to discuss the significance of BB Moore BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month. We explore the importance of self-care and upcoming events planned by the coalition to celebrate the month. Heather highlights the unique challenges...

  29. #JoinTheConversation | This is Brandon

    On this episode of the #JoinTheConversationSeries, we spotlight “This is Beacon’s “ own Brandon Lillard. Brandon shares his 20 year professional experience in mental health. We chat about his journey, his insight, working with youth and more.Without further ado, this is Brandon.

  30. Ep. 100 '' Keeping it 100''

    This is Beacons 100th episode!!!! Like Subscribe Review

  31. Ep. 99 Celebrating Our Veterans | This Is Tina

    Happy Veterans Day! In celebrating our local heroes, we sat down with Beacon's own Tina Grover to hear about her military career serving 30 years to our country and what she is up to in retirement. We talk about her decision to join, experience as a woman in the military, and learn about her new...

  32. Ep. 98 This is Christian with Beacon Bonfire: Music + Art Festival

    On this episode, Christian Campbell stops by! We discuss his background, journey to Beacon and dive in to learn about the upcoming Beacon Bonfire Music & Arts Festival happening November 4th and 5th! To find more information and to grab your tickets to Beacon Bonfire check out: beaconbonfire.com...

  33. Ep. 97 Part 3: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is Pastor Nikki

    In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party - Check out this episode as we hear from the Pastor Nikki with Open Arms Christian Ministries International - learn about their mission, services and ways you can be involved! #IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer

  34. Ep. 97 Part 2: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is Rombout Middle School

    In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party - Check out this episode as we hear from the Rombout Middle School! #IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer

  35. Ep. 97 Part 1: ICYMI | Back 2 School Block Party Spotlight: This is the Children's home of Poughkeepsie

    In case you missed us at the Annual Back 2 School Block Party - Check out this episode as we hear from the Children's Home of Poughkeepsie - learn about their mission and services and ways you can be involved! #IAmBeacon #Beacon #Community #Giving #Volunteer

  36. Ep. 96 Checking in with I Am Beacon

    On this episode, the team recaps the latest happenings with I Am Beacon. As we kick off our busy season here, listen in to learn about our Making A Difference Scholarship, iGotGame eGaming League, and Digital Art Program. The team also touches on our annual events Back to School Block Party and I...

  37. Ep. 95 #JoinTheConversation | This Is County Legislator Barrington Atkins

    On this episode of the #JoinTheConversation series, we are joined by mental health specialist and Dutchess County Legislator, Barrington Atkins. We learn about his journey into the field of mental health and dive in to hear his work in this space as both a practitioner and legislator. To get in...

  38. Ep. 94 #JoinTheConversation | The Slap! A Look at Black Men and Mental Health

    This Oscar's, we all witnessed Will Smith slap Chris Rock. On this episode, we get a look at Men and Mental Health from a male perspective. Listen in as the team gives their reaction on the incident, share their thoughts on the potential pressures that contributed to the incident and dive into…

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  39. Ep. 93 #JoinTheConversation | Good Vibes Wellness with Jessica Mills

    On this episode of the #JoinTheConversation series, we are joined by local "eclectic-therapist" Jessica Mills. We learn about her background, journey to Beacon and dive into hear her perspective on all things boundaries. To get in touch with Jess or view her bookshelf check out her website at:...

  40. Ep. 92 #JoinTheConversation | American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

    On this episode, we are joined by Megan and Mike with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. We discuss their background, the tough topic of suicide and their upcoming event Hike for Hope happening right here at Mount Beacon. To register for the Hike for Hope visit:...

  41. Ep. 91 #JoinTheConversation | Mental Health Awareness Month

    May is Mental Health Awareness month. With 1 in 5 adults experiencing mental illness and 18% of adolescents reporting the pandemic had a significantly negative impact on their mental health it is imperative that we come together to ensure all members of the community feel seen and supported.…

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  42. Ep. 90 Catching Up w/ I Am Beacon

    Curious about I Am Beacon and all they have going on, well this episode of for you! Listen in as the team checks in to discuss what they are proud of so far in 2022 and what they look forward to in the coming months. To learn more about I Am Beacon visit us: www.iambeacon.org Follow us at...

  43. Ep. 89 'Leadership in Action | This is Rob Part 2’

    Back with us this week, Rob Lanier drops by for a Part 2... So if you missed our first episode go back and check out Episode 74. One this episode, we get a glimpse of the great work Rob is involved with today and his role sitting on the board of the Highland Current. Without further ado, this…

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  44. Ep. 88 ‘Good Cause Eviction | This Is Councilwoman Paloma Wake’

    On this episode, councilwoman Paloma Wake drops in to help us unpack the new local law... Good Cause Eviction Listen in as Paloma and the team discuss just what exactly is in this new law, it’s intention and potential impact. If you are interested in learning more please reach out to your local...

  45. Ep. 87 'Traction Park…This is Seth’

    Remember Action Park? Well for those who do, this will be a trip down memory lane... for those of you who don’t, welcome to what was once... America’s scariest little water park! On this episode, director Seth Porges joins the team to discuss his documentary film Class Action Park now streaming…

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  46. Ep. 86 'You grow, girl...This is Mrs. Flowers'

    In this episode, it’s all things, Mrs. Flowers! The team is joined by local shop owner Sara Leonardo Taylor aka Mrs. Flowers and her husband, Jamie. We discuss their connection to Beacon and the journey that led them back, their business, and the services offered! Without further ado - this is…

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  47. Ep. 85 'Council Meeting Reaction 2-22-22'

    In this episode, the team reacts to the hot button topic of Good Cause Eviction and statements made at the recent council meeting. To view the full council meeting, check out The City of Beacon's YouTube channel at the link below. #ThisIsBeacon #IAmBeacon #BeaconNY #Community...

  48. Ep. 84 'Beacon's West End Story| This is Connie'

    In this episode, the team is joined by Connie Perdreau, the daughter of Henry and Mazie Whitener. Connie drops by to discuss her experience growing up in Beacon, how Urban Renewal efforts impacted her family, and the West End Story Project. Without further ado, this is Connie. West End Story…

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  49. *VIDEO Version* Ep. 83 'Black History Month 2022'

    On this episode the crew discusses the Joe Rogan fall out and review ways you can celebrate Black History Month locally. #ThisIsBeacon #IAmBeacon #BeaconNY #Community #BlackHistoryMonth

  50. *VIDEO Version* Ep. 82'This is EriK'

    On this episode, Erik Orquist drops by... We discuss his experience growing up bi-racial and how it has informed his parenting style today. Without further adue, this is Erik

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

This Is Beacon offers a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of a city, told by those that call it home. Serving as the audio scrapbook of the community, join us as we discover Beacon's history, celebrate local heroes, and dive into issues impacting our community.Presented by I Am Beacon, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to serving and empowering the Beacon community.

HOSTED BY

I Am Beacon

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does This is Beacon have?

This is Beacon currently has 127 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is This is Beacon about?

This Is Beacon offers a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of a city, told by those that call it home. Serving as the audio scrapbook of the community, join us as we discover Beacon's history, celebrate local heroes, and dive into issues impacting our community.Presented by I Am Beacon, a...

How often does This is Beacon release new episodes?

This is Beacon publishes regularly with 127 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.

Where can I listen to This is Beacon?

You can listen to This is Beacon on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts This is Beacon?

This is Beacon is created and hosted by I Am Beacon.
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