The Lee and Ian Show

Not only is he the first African American to make fire captain in West Orange but he's also a local Democratic political chair and a labor leader too! Meet Abdur Yasin, a top candidate to become An Essex County Commissioner-at-Large. He has big plans for New Jersey!

Martin Ceperley, a first time candidate for the Maplewood Township Committee has kicked off his campaign with a rather negative video that targets not only the Maplewood Democratic Committee, its members, his opponents and even this podcast and its hosts. Lee & Ian respond to Ceperley's laundry list of complaints.

One is a singer songwriter, the other a drummer and sound engineer who have been staples on the NJ music scene for years. Nat's new album, mastered by Matt, is music to the ears of their fans. Hear their music and their story. Good dudes who know how to make great music! Be sure to check out their album release party at the South Orange ELKS Club, Friday, May First!

A Rock 'n' Roll warrior who now calls SOMA home. You may know her from her years with the Nashville Pussy or hard charging Jane Lee Hooker, or perhaps you saw her doing her thing back at CBGB's where she so impressed legendary owner, Hilly Kristal, he even managed her early 1990's band, The Wives! Meet the guitar goddess who's doing things a little differently nowadays but still making her music her way! Check out her new single. Tracy's New Single "Drive You Home" : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bN36NsUQ_1Y

From the operating room to the Mayor’s office, Shawn Klein knows what it means to serve. This week, we sit down with the ophthalmologist and Mayor of Livingston to discuss his run for Essex County Executive at-large. Tune in to meet the doctor dedicated to improving the lives of his fellow New Jersey residents. Klein4commissioner.com

This "Jersey girl" wants in the House! — Analilia Mejia, she's tough but fair, and ready to fight for the 11th district of New Jersey. A candid conversation with the congressional candidate who doesn't pull punches.

Meet the Candidates 2026!Christine McGrath doesn’t lose elections—at least not in Verona! Now, the councilwoman is taking her energetic brand of leadership to the big stage. Join us for a candid conversation with the candidate for Essex County Commissioner At-Large about affordability, transparency, and what it takes to lead in NJ. You can learn more about Christine's campaign at https://christineforessex.com

Meet the visionary founder of the prominent Writer's Circle, a vibrant community for aspiring and established authors. Founded in SOMA, Judith has grown her business and unique approach to much of the Garden State. When not teaching other's the tricks of the trade, Judith is writing her very own works including the highly acclaimed historical fiction novels, The Thrall's Tail and Akmaral. A fascinating woman who loves to laugh and we think you will too!

According to Warren Haynes, no journalist knows the ins and outs of the Allman Brothers Band better than Alan Paul. The best selling NYTimes author, perhaps the finest rock writer alive, today joins the Lee & Ian Show to discuss all things music from Southern Rock to the Grateful Dead. From Bob Weir's death to Jimmy Carter's rock themed presidential run! Check us out!

A prominent Democratic Party strategist, you've likely seen her on CNN (battling it out with Scott Jennings) Fox News, CNBC & MS NOW. Known for her sharp political commentary, she delves into topics with us including the war in Iran, the 11th district special election and her mission to combat workplace mechanisms such as NDA's used to silence women.

Not sure where to dine or where to celebrate a birthday? Meet the LTown Food Czar whose hit podcast introduces her listeners to restaurants from Soma, to Livingston, to Madison, to Newark, to Jersey City, to Hoboken and even Hackensack! If dining out is your thing, Heidi gives you the lowdown! Meet the funny lady behind the hottest eatery themed show in New Jersey!

Brendan Gill, an Essex County Commissioner is one of the leading contenders to become the 11th district's next congressional representative. Brendan joins the podcast to discuss his unique qualifications plus his thoughts on negative campaigning and disinformation in journalism.

With just a few days left before the 11th district special primary this two term Morris Township Mayor and first ever Democrat is used to bucking the odds. A proud Jewish candidate, he's also not afraid to confront hate and bigotry in all forms. His thoughts on AIPAC, Israel, ICE, Minneapolis and so much more on this special second episode in our three part coverage of the election on February 5th. Stay tuned this afternoon for part 3!

With just a few days before the Democratic special primary the congressional candidate returns to the Lee & Ian Show. Topics include AIPAC's dark money arm, Israel, Trump, ICE, Minneapolis, Mamdani, Epstein and so much more!

For decades, the major oil companies have covered up the link between burning fossil fuels and climate change. Americans are now paying for that deception thanks to rising insurance premiums. Industry expert David Robinson joins the show to discuss what we need to know and what can be done about it.

She's the former president of the SOMA BOE, but that's not all! As a writer, activist, speaker and publicist Nubia DuVall Wilson breaks the silence around sexual abuse by empowering others to share their stories and reclaim their strength. Tune in to learn of her remarkable journey from adversity to advocacy and discover how she inspires healing and resilience.

J-L Cauvin may be a hilarious comedian with a huge following but when it comes to politics, he's not goofing around. Known for his brilliant Trump impersonation, his goal is to make sure this nation never again feels the wrath of a Trump style administration. With New Jersey's 11th congressional district up for grabs, he's asking for your vote.

She's not only an immigration attorney but also a former Department of Homeland Security supervisor, Kate Reilly is horrified by what we're seeing in Minnesota. It's not what ICE was created to do. Her thoughts on how we got here and what we need to do to protect our friends, family and nation from this overreach of authority.

New Jersey's dynamic Lieutenant Governor, wants to take her progressive politics to the national stage, trading Trenton for D.C. With a background in grassroots activism and a track record of driving change, she's ready to shake things up in Congress. From championing affordable healthcare to fighting for economic justice, this "Giants football" wife and mom gets the job done! Hear her story and her plans only on The Lee & Ian Show!

From helping pass the Affordable Care Act in President Obama's White House to building a national nonprofit that made clean energy affordable to Americans, Cammie Croft knows how Washington D.C. works. Today, she is asking for New Jersey's vote so she can spearhead lowering costs while fighting corruption, just two of the issues near and dear to this hard working Mom of 3. 

She sees a country in dire need of change and that's exactly what this 27 year old congressional candidate plans to focus on if elected. Tackling insurance, home affordability and college debt are just some of the issues that drive Anna Lee Williams. Hear her story, like us, you will be impressed! 

He's the county commissioner of Passaic County who has secured over $600 million for among other things, transportation and schools. A voting rights attorney by trade who has also protected thousands of families from being unfairly evicted. Now he's aiming to join the United States Congress. 

Born in Texas but with a love of all things New Jersey, meet a candidate for the congressional 11th district who never quits. He grew up with little but achieved the American dream and now he wants to give back to a country he knows can do better.

SOMA royalty is in the house! If you don't believe me, ask him! The co-founder of  Rent Party, a local organization that feeds the needy while providing some legendary parties, Chris Dickson's commitment to community is second to none! A fun listen!

He may not have the political pedigree that some of his opponents do, but his service as a U.S. Army paratrooper, and his lifelong desire to serve his nation, makes this 34 year old candidate for the 11th district, a rather imposing figure. Meet the Princeton grad who went on to help free the city of Mosul from ISIS.

Step into the whimsical realms of memory and imagination with artists Rob and Jake curated by SOMA legend, Jeremy Moss! An exhibit not to be missed. Meet the artists, learn their story, their passion and their secrets to a life searching for that unique dimension. 

The son of hard working Greek immigrants who owned a Philly diner,  Dean Dafis understands challenges, and with Mikie Sherrill's Congressional seat up for grabs, the former Maplewood Mayor plans on making New Jersey state history. SOMA pride could very soon be in the House of Representatives! Check us out! 

He's the Essex County Commissioner and a leading candidate to become Mikie Sherrill's replacement in the U.S. Congress. The Montclair native joins the podcast to talk about all things New Jersey from his spearheading Gov. Phil Murphy's successful first campaign to being the leading proponent of the Essex Hudson Greenway, the single largest conservation project in the state's history. Check us out!

The former and perhaps future N.J. Congressman joins the podcast! The Obama era diplomat shares his journey from being a child behind the "Iron Curtain" to his years in D.C. His views on Mikie Sherrill, Donald Trump and so much more. No stone is left unturned! Check us out!

A 40 year vet with the Essex County Clerk's office, few understand NJ politics better than Nick. Raised in Maplewood and the First Gentleman to Millburn Mayor, Annette Romano, Nick remembers a very deep red SOMA, something his family led the charge to change. From Mikie Sherrill  to Zohran Mamdani to Fred Profeta, so much is covered, even Seton Hall basketball!

Meet the Artistic Director at Luna Stage where Broadway meets West Orange! A gem of a theater with so many wonderful performances, it's also a place where you or your children can develop your acting chops under the professional guidance of some award winning talent!  

Another SOMA Board of Education Election Coverage Special!  Meet the candidates! From turf, to Triple I, to the busing crisis and so much more!  3 candidates, one slate and they are asking for your vote!

Another SOMA Board of Education Election Coverage Special! Meet the candidates! From Intentional Integration Initiative to artificial turf to even national politics, so much is covered! 3 candidates, one slate and they are asking for your vote! 

The Columbia High School graduate who is about to become a proud member of the New Jersey State Assembly! Today we're sitting down with Chigozie Onyema, whose road to success was paved by hard work, dedication and a commitment to community!

A SPECIAL REPORT! ICE is in SOMA making arrests! Your friends and neighbors are potential targets. Ian Grodman, an immigration attorney with decades of experience explains what you can do and should do to protect the community from this hideous process

In SOMA, The Community Coalition on Race has spent decades building relationships across racial and cultural barriers, and to celebrate differences. The times may have changed but the mission and the hard work continues. Meet the CCR’s long time Executive Director! 

As the director of planning and redevelopment for Asbury Park, Michele has helped turn the once crumbling beachside community into one of the hottest destinations in the state. A SOMA resident and elected leader, she is no stranger to the changes in her community too. Check her out!

After Sarah Hodd & The Drive blew up Maplewoodstock with their powerhouse 8 piece band, festival goers were left wanting more! Meet Sarah, whose voice, songwriting and stage presence are unmatched. You may be shocked to learn that it was SOMA who actually reminded her that making music is her life's mission.

Meet Maplewood’s Municipal Prosecutor! She’s also the the town’s Director of Community Development. Annette has quietly served her community for decades doing so with an appreciation for its history but with an eye towards his future. The New Jersey native is true SOMA treasure!

The New Maplewood Memorial Library, a $24 Million state of the art, LEED Gold certified thing of beauty will be the pride of the community for decades to come. Meet library director, Sarah Lester, whose hard work and dedication led the way in making this dream a reality!

Meet the co-founders of The Maplewood Film Society who have led the fight to save the Maplewood Theater. They also organize screenings and talkbacks, inviting some of the most prominent filmmakers to the community to discuss their projects. Also, learn how you can get involved!

He's a SOMA legend who adores his community. The former Maplewood Mayor shares his life in town as early as WWII to the South Orange/Maplewood we know today. Fred still believes in making a difference.

Meet the long time Mayor of South Orange who has been chosen by gubernatorial candidate Steve Folup to be his Lt. Governor. From a popular local Mayor to a voice now being heard throughout New Jersey, Collum has big plans for the Garden State.

He may only be 20 but Max is quite serious about politics, so much that he's running to become Maplewood's next Township Committee member. With a who's who of local supporters fully behind him, he is asking for your vote on June 10th. The future is now! 

The New Jersey Assemblywoman, in a heated 3 way battle for  re-election joins the show. Garnet Hall has spent a career standing up for the SOMA community, giving back to her hometown and now she's asking once again for our votes. 

He’s Jersey City’s very popular mayor and a frontrunner to become New Jersey’s next  governor. A man of conviction who has made a career, making a difference. His views on the LBGTQIA+ community, antisemitism, taxes, Sheena Collum and so much more!

Meet Maplewood Mayor Nancy Adams as she discusses life in SOMA, redevelopment, environmental concerns, Trump, the race to become the next NJ Governor and her love for both Ian and Lee! A podcast by SOMA for SOMA!

The bubble that is said to be SOMA could decide the next NJ Governor. Plus, the Trump Tariffs, the turbulent financial markets and so much more! Check us out! 

SOMA psychotherapist, Amy Cox-Martins joins the broadcast to discuss her areas of specialization: Transgender, gender non conforming, LGBTQ, depression, trauma and anxiety. Much of her work is with our most valuable assets, our children, helping shape a better life for them and their families. Please check us out!

A Gold Winning champ at the 2024 Paris Olympics joins the podcast! Meet Jackie Dubrovich and her coach, Columbia High School grad Brian Kaneshige. Jackie, a foil fencer and her team electrified the nation doing something no Americans have ever done! Spoiler alert! She loved her coach so much that she married him! Together they now run a local fencing academy. Check us out ...