In this episode we talk with the Editor, Louis Hochman and the Sports/Community reporter, Andrew Garda from Montclair Local. They are two of the many dedicated people who make up the team that serves our community with their award-winning newspaper. Founded by Heeten Choxi, the paper operates as a non-profit and relies on this community to support their efforts to create a cohesive and informed community about local matters.  Montclair Local won 34 New Jersey Press Association awards for work done in 2020. For the third year in a row, Montclair Local has garnered the New Jersey Press Association's General Excellence award.

In this episode we talk with the Editor, Louis Hochman and the Sports/Community reporter, Andrew Garda from <a href="https://www.montclairlocal.news/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Montclair Local</a>. They are two of the many dedicated people who make up the team that serves our community with their award-winning newspaper. Founded by Heeten Choxi, the paper operates as a non-profit and relies on this community to support their efforts to create a cohesive and informed community about local matters.    Montclair Local won 34 New Jersey Press Association awards for work done in 2020. For the third year in a row, Montclair Local has garnered the New Jersey Press Association's General Excellence award.

Episode 102:  Montclair Local

In this episode, Andrew Garda of the Montclair Local newspaper interviews Joanna Seltzer, Tracey Diamond and Margo Bruton of Podclair discussing how the podcast came to be, the need to share stories about our community, and the last three rewarding years producing a podcast for and about Montclair. Andrew is an experienced journalist who is a Member of the Pro Football Writers Association of America with a decade of experience writing about the NFL and 15+ years of writing in various other formats, including blogs, screen and teleplays, short stories and standard newsprint articles.During his time on the sports beat for the Montclair Local, he has covered things like the high school’s first African-American female basketball coaching staff, an undefeated state championship football season. In our Covid year, he's been lending his considerable talents to other stories for the paper.

In this episode, Andrew Garda of the Montclair Local newspaper interviews Joanna Seltzer, Tracey Diamond and Margo Bruton of <a href="http://www.podclair.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Podclair</a> discussing how the podcast came to be, the need to share stories about our community, and the last three rewarding years producing a podcast for and about Montclair.  Andrew is an experienced journalist who is a Member of the Pro Football Writers Association of America with a decade of experience writing about the NFL and 15+ years of writing in various other formats, including blogs, screen and teleplays, short stories and standard newsprint articles.During his time on the sports beat for the Montclair Local, he has covered things like the high school’s first African-American female basketball coaching staff, an undefeated state championship football season. In our Covid year, he's been lending his considerable talents to other stories for the paper.

Episode 101:  Podclair, 3 Years & 100 Episodes Later

In today's episode, Joanna speaks with Dr. Doris Walker-Bennett and Lisa White of the local non-profit organization Sister to Sister. The organization works with the Montclair Board of Education to provide free mentorship to girls to support them from 4th grade through high school, including the college admissions process. In town for over 20 years and serving hundreds of students in their after school programs, they have had 100% of their graduate on time and accepted to college, mostly as first generation college students - and in a testament to the cohesive community they create, many alumni of the program return to be guest speakers mentors themselves for the next generation of mentees. 

In today's episode, Joanna speaks with Dr. Doris Walker-Bennett and Lisa White of the local non-profit organization <a href="https://www.sistertosisterofmontclair.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sister to Sister</a>. The organization works with the Montclair Board of Education to provide free mentorship to girls to support them from 4th grade through high school, including the college admissions process. In town for over 20 years and serving hundreds of students in their after school programs, they have had 100% of their graduate on time and accepted to college, mostly as first generation college students - and in a testament to the cohesive community they create, many alumni of the program return to be guest speakers mentors themselves for the next generation of mentees.

Episode 100: Sister to Sister

In this episode, Joanna speaks with Zina Floyd, the lively and dynamic serial entrepreneur and owner of Cafe MOSO on Orange Road. Coined MOSO, for Montclair South, Zina and her husband, Michael, a native Montclairian, sought out a chef to partner with to open the space in July 2019. Together they crafted seasonal menus with elevated comfort food and BBQ classics that has become a staple both in Montclair's South End VIllage and beyond. Zina explains what called her to the restaurant business, the surprising pivots of adapting to the pandemic, and the impact of Black Lives Matter as they approached their first year anniversary.

In this episode, Joanna speaks with Zina Floyd, the lively and dynamic serial entrepreneur and owner of <a href="https://www.cafemoso.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cafe MOSO</a> on Orange Road. Coined MOSO, for Montclair South, Zina and her husband, Michael, a native Montclairian, sought out a chef to partner with to open the space in July 2019. Together they crafted seasonal menus with elevated comfort food and BBQ classics that has become a staple both in Montclair's South End VIllage and beyond. Zina explains what called her to the restaurant business, the surprising pivots of adapting to the pandemic, and the impact of Black Lives Matter as they approached their first year anniversary.

Episode 99: Cafe Moso

In today's episode, we are featuring a guest that would be helpful to the many businesses in town that are rethinking their business approach as they gear up for the post-Covid world. And if you are just starting a business, being clear about your process and goals can help your marketing strategy succeed in the new future we're facing. Arnie Amir has helped many big and small businesses go through the process of analysing and clarifying their business plan to make the most of their opportunities. He's the owner of Growth Point Business Consulting. He has a clear and practical approach to planning and implementing clear strategies that will do the things that will be most effective in reaching your goals. We also about what it takes to get a business or organization in shape for the challenges of today's business environment.

In today's episode, we are featuring a guest that would be helpful to the many businesses in town that are rethinking their business approach as they gear up for the post-Covid world. And if you are just starting a business, being clear about your process and goals can help your marketing strategy succeed in the new future we're facing.  Arnie Amir has helped many big and small businesses go through the process of analysing and clarifying their business plan to make the most of their opportunities. He's the owner of <a href="https://www.growthpointbusinessconsulting.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Growth Point Business Consulting</a>. He has a clear and practical approach to planning and implementing clear strategies that will do the things that will be most effective in reaching your goals. We also about what it takes to get a business or organization in shape for the challenges of today's business environment.

Episode 98: Growth Point Business Consulting

In today's episode, Joanna speaks with John Sullivan of the advocacy group, Bike &amp; Walk Montclair.  In town for 17 years, the non-profit organization has been dedicated to creating bikeable and walkable options in town.  Through their determined efforts, they were able to have the town agree to a "SAFE" street framework for the upcoming town master plan, which will consider ways to ensure the "streets are for everyone" when designing and planning new streets and developments starting in 2021. John discusses the work of the non-profit over the years and what keeps the organization going both before and after the pandemic.    New Jersey Bike Walk Coalition:https://njbwc.org Safe Streets Initiative: https://www.state.nj.us/transportation/business/localaid/safe.shtm

In today's episode, Joanna speaks with John Sullivan of the advocacy group, <a href="http://www.bikemontclair.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bike &amp; Walk Montclair</a>.  In town for 17 years, the non-profit organization has been dedicated to creating bikeable and walkable options in town.  Through their determined efforts, they were able to have the town agree to a "SAFE" street framework for the upcoming town master plan, which will consider ways to ensure the "streets are for everyone" when designing and planning new streets and developments starting in 2021. John discusses the work of the non-profit over the years and what keeps the organization going both before and after the pandemic.  New Jersey Bike Walk Coalition: <a href="https://njbwc.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://njbwc.org</a> Safe Streets Initiative: <a href="https://www.state.nj.us/transportation/business/localaid/safe.shtm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.state.nj.us/transportation/business/localaid/safe.shtm</a>

Episode 97:  Bike & Walk Montclair

In this episode, Joanna speaks with Emilio DeLia, owner of Dream Martial Arts. Emilio details what brought him into martial arts, the inspiration behind opening his studio, and how he sustained his mental health and resiliency during the pandemic lockdown to re-envision how to continue serving the children of Montclair and neighboring communities with classes and community.

In this episode, Joanna speaks with Emilio DeLia, owner of <a href="https://www.dreammartialarts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dream Martial Arts</a>. Emilio details what brought him into martial arts, the inspiration behind opening his studio, and how he sustained his mental health and resiliency during the pandemic lockdown to re-envision how to continue serving the children of Montclair and neighboring communities with classes and community.

Episode 96:  Dream Martial Arts

In today's episode, we speak with life counselor and therapist Jeree Wade.  Born in Atlantic City, she lived between there and Harlem for a good deal of her life.  Montclair became her home many years ago after marrying actor, singer and producer Adam Wade. Jeree has had a distinguished career herself in showbiz as a singer and actress, but her training as a life coach started calling to her in mid-life.  So she got her Masters Degree and switched gears to inspire others to manage their lives in the best way possible to achieve their goals and dreams. 

In today's episode, we speak with life counselor and therapist <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/jeree-wade-montclair-nj/74295" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jeree Wade</a>.  Born in Atlantic City, she lived between there and Harlem for a good deal of her life.  Montclair became her home many years ago after marrying actor, singer and producer Adam Wade. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeree-wade-m-a-b553b318/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jeree</a> has had a distinguished career herself in showbiz as a singer and actress, but her training as a life coach started calling to her in mid-life.  So she got her Masters Degree and switched gears to inspire others to manage their lives in the best way possible to achieve their goals and dreams.

Episode 95:  Jeree Wade

In today's episode, Joanna speaks with Roger and Julia Wood about the inspiration behind their bean to bar chocolate boutique, Vesta Chocolate, on Valley Road in Upper Montclair. Roger, an accomplished chocolatier and chef at top restaurants like Jean George and Gramercy Tavern, and Julia, a food stylist at the Food Network and many Major Brands, have joined forces in both marriage and entrepreneurship to open a stylish cafe that required redesigning a former bank entrance, complete with original vault, and adding a chocolate kitchen. They explain the story of how Covid shut them down only a few months after they opened, but inspired a whole new level of creativity that helped make it to their one year anniversary, on January 22, 2021

In today's episode, Joanna speaks with Roger and Julia Wood about the inspiration behind their bean to bar chocolate boutique, <a href="https://vestachocolate.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vesta Chocolate</a>, on Valley Road in Upper Montclair. Roger, an accomplished chocolatier and chef at top restaurants like Jean George and Gramercy Tavern, and Julia, a food stylist at the Food Network and many Major Brands, have joined forces in both marriage and entrepreneurship to open a stylish cafe that required redesigning a former bank entrance, complete with original vault, and adding a chocolate kitchen. They explain the story of how Covid shut them down only a few months after they opened, but inspired a whole new level of creativity that helped make it to their one year anniversary, on January 22, 2021

Episode 94:  Vesta Chocolate

In today's episode, Joanna speaks with Ahava Felicidad, the Holistic Hair Healer. A true native of Montclair, born right at Mountainside Hospital, Ahava first started working with hair in 1986. In 2013, she started her first solopreneur location uptown on Bellevue Ave. Her current studio is located on Midland Ave near our previous podcast guest, Fleet Feet. ⁠ Ahava tells Joanna what started her journey in hair as a young girl, the benefits of a natural, chemical-free approach for curly hair, and how making her own soaps and scrubs led her to develop her own locally-made hair care product line. 

In today's episode, Joanna speaks with <a href="https://ahavafelicidad.wordpress.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ahava Felicidad</a>, the Holistic Hair Healer. A true native of Montclair, born right at Mountainside Hospital, Ahava first started working with hair in 1986. In 2013, she started her first solopreneur location uptown on Bellevue Ave. Her current studio is located on Midland Ave near our previous podcast guest, Fleet Feet. ⁠ Ahava tells Joanna what started her journey in hair as a young girl, the benefits of a natural, chemical-free approach for curly hair, and how making her own soaps and scrubs led her to develop her own locally-made hair care product line.

Episode 93:Ahava Felicidad Hair and Body

Life and entrepreneurship in Montclair, NJ

A labor of love executed with professionalism and passion.  Support Local, support Montclair, support this Podcast!

Well done!!!

All interviewers and guests were so professional. Great job! I know it is a lot of work. Keep it up.

Some old guy who lives far from NJ.

Podclair

In this second episode of our Montclair Design Week series, we uncover what Design Dens are, where they take place, and who is behind them. We speak with Andrea Panico, the design den coordinator and owner of Pico Designs, a modern architectural jewelry company based in Montclair. We also speak with Robert Genovese, one of the den facilitators, about his ten-year journey to open Local Coffee Shop in Watchung Plaza. Check our show notes for links to register for design dens or the Designing Delicious panel in which Robert is also featured.

In this second episode of our Montclair Design Week series, we uncover what <a href="/podclair/episode/update/id/In%20this%20second%20episode%20in%20our%20design%20week%20series," rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Design Dens</a> are, where they take place, and who is behind them. We speak with Andrea Panico, the design den coordinator and owner of <a href="https://www.picomeanslittle.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pico Designs</a>, a modern architectural jewelry company based in Montclair. We also speak with Robert Genovese, one of the den facilitators, about his ten-year journey to open <a href="https://www.localcoffeemontclair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Local Coffee Shop</a> in Watchung Plaza. Check our <a href="http://www.podclair.com/episodes-podclair/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">show notes</a> for links to register for design dens or the Designing Delicious panel in which Robert is also featured.

Episode 15: Local Coffee + Pico Design

We speak with Dr. Michelle Aristizabal, an obstetrician and gynecologist who founded Wombkeepers, a maternity wellness center on Valley Road. She shares why she wanted to build her own OB-GYN practice, how she ended up working alongside her mother, the role your partner plays in your health, and how centering a women's autonomy in her own birth choices has resulted in a c-section rate that is 20% below the national average. As a solo practitioner, she has single-handedly delivered 2,000 of our local babies! Check out the show notes for curated resources from Dr. Aristizabal on birth control, childbirth, menopause, and local dad's groups. For those looking for more insights, we posted a recent in-depth podcast interview she gave about her book.

We speak with Dr. Michelle Aristizabal, an obstetrician and gynecologist who founded <a href="https://www.wombkeepers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wombkeepers</a>, a maternity wellness center on Valley Road. She shares why she wanted to build her own OB-GYN practice, how she ended up working alongside her mother, the role your partner plays in your health, and how centering a women's autonomy in her own birth choices has resulted in a c-section rate that is 20% below the national average. As a solo practitioner, she has single-handedly delivered 2,000 of our local babies! Check out the <a href="https://www.podclair.com/episodes-podclair" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">show notes</a> for curated resources from Dr. Aristizabal on birth control, childbirth, menopause, and local dad's groups. For those looking for more insights, we posted a recent in-depth podcast interview she gave about her <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Labor-Birth-Evidence-Based-Guide-ebook/dp/B07G4PZGF3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">book</a>.

Episode 63:  Wombkeepers

We speak with Nina Nsilo Swai creator of the potty training solution Pee-kaboo Potty Stickers.  As a young woman, Nina Nsilo Swai had plans to follow her diplomat father into a job focused on international business in some way or another. But life has a way of taking you in directions you never planned! She grew up between Tanzania, the United Kingdom, and New York City. But after earning her degree in urban planning, the first place she found a need for her talents was in the local New York area, working with some of the poorest of the cities inhabitants. Soon, she met and married her husband and they became a multicultural family with a special needs child. Eventually, they moved to New Jersey to access special schooling for their, now, two children and Nina began to plan for a different kind of personal success. She tells us the story of her journey to integrate her ambitions for herself with the needs of her children and family. She tells us of waiting in a coffee shop in Verona while they were in school, researching how to start her own business and creating some ideas. Fast forward - today she has a flourishing company that markets her product all over the US.

We speak with Nina Nsilo Swai creator of the potty training solution <a href="https://www.rahababy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pee-kaboo Potty Stickers</a>.  As a young woman, Nina Nsilo Swai had plans to follow her diplomat father into a job focused on international business in some way or another. But life has a way of taking you in directions you never planned! She grew up between Tanzania, the United Kingdom, and New York City. But after earning her degree in urban planning, the first place she found a need for her talents was in the local New York area, working with some of the poorest of the cities inhabitants. Soon, she met and married her husband and they became a multicultural family with a special needs child. Eventually, they moved to New Jersey to access special schooling for their, now, two children and Nina began to plan for a different kind of personal success. She tells us the story of her journey to integrate her ambitions for herself with the needs of her children and family. She tells us of waiting in a coffee shop in Verona while they were in school, researching how to start her own business and creating some ideas. Fast forward - today she has a flourishing company that markets her product all over the US.

Episode 77:  Pee-kaboo Stickers

We speak with longtime Montclair residents, Daren and Brandon Rogers, who along with their father Glenn, founded Wyanoke Builders in 2009.  The Rogers Men, as they are affectionately known, were able to create a successful business together despite their extremely diverse backgrounds.  Together they have had the unique responsibility of restoring and renovating the town they’ve called home for over 30 years. As their business approaches its 10-year anniversary, we laugh about the slippery slope that is working with family, we discuss what it takes to make and keep clients happy, and we chat about the demands and thrills of staking your lawn sign throughout our town. 

We speak with longtime Montclair residents, Daren and Brandon Rogers, who along with their father Glenn, founded <a href="https://www.wyanokebuilders.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wyanoke Builders</a> in 2009.  The Rogers Men, as they are affectionately known, were able to create a successful business together despite their extremely diverse backgrounds.  Together they have had the unique responsibility of restoring and renovating the town they’ve called home for over 30 years. As their business approaches its 10-year anniversary, we laugh about the slippery slope that is working with family, we discuss what it takes to make and keep clients happy, and we chat about the demands and thrills of staking your lawn sign throughout our town.

Episode 70:  Wyanoke Builders

We speak with Margot Sage-El of Watchung Booksellers, famously, the independent bookstore for Montclair that supports and contributes to a thriving literary community, including over 60 published local authors, and uncountable publishing and media professionals. They are fierce supporters of the community, contributing to and working with local schools serving our children, the Montclair Public Library, the Montclair Fund for Eductional Excellence and the Adult School of Montclair.

We speak with Margot Sage-El of <a href="/www.watchungbooksellers.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Watchung Booksellers</a>, famously, the independent bookstore for Montclair that supports and contributes to a thriving literary community, including over 60 published local authors, and uncountable publishing and media professionals. They are fierce supporters of the community, contributing to and working with local schools serving our children, the Montclair Public Library, the Montclair Fund for Eductional Excellence and the Adult School of Montclair.

Episode 40: Watchung Booksellers

We speak with Jumana Jaber, who in 2013, packed up her family, locked up her house, handed a neighbor the key ... and became one of the millions of families to escape Syria.  In Damascus, the Syrian capital, Jumana taught art and theater design but thanks to the Institute of International Education’s Scholar Rescue Fund, Jumana found work taking her talent to Montclair State University.   Just over a year ago, she opened the doors to Watchung Plaza's Le Souk which in the middle east is an outdoor marketplace.  There Jumana invites guests to gather, sip some tea and enjoy bites of authentic middle eastern treats, just like they would in her home city.  She also fills the shop with beautiful imported gifts from Syria, Turkey and Morocco. She hopes after listening, you just drop by to say "Good morning, Jumana."

We speak with Jumana Jaber, who in 2013, packed up her family, locked up her house, handed a neighbor the key ... and became one of the millions of families to escape Syria.  In Damascus, the Syrian capital, Jumana taught art and theater design but thanks to the Institute of International Education’s Scholar Rescue Fund, Jumana found work taking her talent to Montclair State University.  Just over a year ago, she opened the doors to Watchung Plaza's <a href="http://www.instagram.com/shoplesouknj" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Le Souk</a> which in the middle east is an outdoor marketplace.  There Jumana invites guests to gather, sip some tea and enjoy bites of authentic middle eastern treats, just like they would in her home city.  She also fills the shop with beautiful imported gifts from Syria, Turkey and Morocco. She hopes after listening, you just drop by to say "Good morning, Jumana."

Episode 28: Le Souk

We speak with Andrew Myszkowski, the market manager of the Montclair Farmers' Market, as well as tours the tents, speaking with some of the farmers and artisans who supply our town with their delicious food. In 1993, there were only three farmers’ markets in all of northern New Jersey. But that year, Montclair resident Grey Russell organized a support coalition and a committed group of residents got together and founded the Montclair Farmers’ Market, which is now in its 27th season.  Today, there are over one hundred farmer's markets around the state but the Montclair Farmers’ Market is one of the busiest, most exciting, and most successful markets in the state. Most all of the familiar farmers have returned again this season, with produce usually picked within 24 hours; most of which are grown or prepared right here in the Garden State. This year’s market boasts more than a dozen delicious food artisans as well. 

We speak with Andrew Myszkowski, the market manager of the <a href="https://www.montclairfarmersmarket.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Montclair Farmers' Market</a>, as well as tours the tents, speaking with some of the farmers and artisans who supply our town with their delicious food. In 1993, there were only three farmers’ markets in all of northern New Jersey. But that year, Montclair resident Grey Russell organized a support coalition and a committed group of residents got together and founded the Montclair Farmers’ Market, which is now in its 27th season.  Today, there are over one hundred farmer's markets around the state but the Montclair Farmers’ Market is one of the busiest, most exciting, and most successful markets in the state. Most all of the familiar farmers have returned again this season, with produce usually picked within 24 hours; most of which are grown or prepared right here in the Garden State. This year’s market boasts more than a dozen delicious food artisans as well.

Episode 58:  Montclair Farmer's Market

In this episode, we speak with Tracey Diamond of Tracey Diamond Designs.  Tracey has run her own business in graphic design, branding and social media here in Montclair for the last ten years, helping others in this town and beyond. To us she is our co-worker and friend who has contributed so much to the success of Podclair by shaping our brand that we thought we'd have her share her knowledge with you, our viewers, as we discuss the fast changing business environment of today's retail and marketing world.  She also let's us in on what the future holds as she pursues her artistic aspirations! Check out the episode show notes for more on Tracey's design style, inspirations and fine art pieces.

In this episode, we speak with Tracey Diamond of <a href="http://www.traceydiamonddesigns.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tracey Diamond Designs.</a>  Tracey has run her own business in graphic design, branding and social media here in Montclair for the last ten years, helping others in this town and beyond. To us she is our co-worker and friend who has contributed so much to the success of Podclair by shaping our brand that we thought we'd have her share her knowledge with you, our viewers, as we discuss the fast changing business environment of today's retail and marketing world.  She also let's us in on what the future holds as she pursues her artistic aspirations! Check out the episode <a href="https://www.podclair.com/episodes-podclair/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">show notes</a> for more on Tracey's design style, inspirations and fine art pieces.

Episode 35:  Tracey Diamond Designs

Amy Owens

Keller Williams

We speak with Amy Owens of The Amy Owens Team at Keller Williams NJ Metro Group. Since 2005, Amy has been the local go-to for all things real estate, specializing in NJ commuter towns. Formerly a Garment Center Executive and Upper West Side Resident.  There, she learned how to be a meticulous facilitator and negotiator, which translated well to her thriving career in real estate. Amy and her family moved to Glen Ridge in 2002 and is now the team leader of The Amy Owens Team at Keller Williams NJ Metro Group.  Her team of 6, includes Buyers’ Agents, Staging and Administrative Staff who service transactions from contract to closing ensuring that her clients receive the utmost care.  Building a sense of community for her clients is something Amy and her team is highly passionate about.   Amy is the recipient of the Circle of Excellence Platinum Level Award, the top honor presented to agents based on their production. In her career, she has closed 400+ transactions totaling over $200 million in sales.  

We speak with Amy Owens of <a href="https://amyowens.kwrealty.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Amy Owens Team at Keller Williams NJ Metro Group</a>. Since 2005, Amy has been the local go-to for all things real estate, specializing in NJ commuter towns. Formerly a Garment Center Executive and Upper West Side Resident.  There, she learned how to be a meticulous facilitator and negotiator, which translated well to her thriving career in real estate. Amy and her family moved to Glen Ridge in 2002 and is now the team leader of The Amy Owens Team at Keller Williams NJ Metro Group.  Her team of 6, includes Buyers’ Agents, Staging and Administrative Staff who service transactions from contract to closing ensuring that her clients receive the utmost care.  Building a sense of community for her clients is something Amy and her team is highly passionate about.   Amy is the recipient of the Circle of Excellence Platinum Level Award, the top honor presented to agents based on their production. In her career, she has closed 400+ transactions totaling over $200 million in sales.

Episode 72: The Amy Owens Team at Keller Williams NJ Metro Group

We speak with Nicki Radzely of Doddle &amp; Co on how many prototypes it finally took to create a pacifier that popped when it dropped, how she landed on SharkTank, and what she really thinks about the label mompreneur. She also shares how to sign up to be a product tester to test the new ideas Doddle &amp; Co are bringing to life. Check out this episode's show notes to find pop pacifiers in town and other links from the interview.

We speak with Nicki Radzely of <a href="https://doddleandco.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Doddle &amp; Co</a> on how many prototypes it finally took to create a pacifier that popped when it dropped, how she landed on SharkTank, and what she really thinks about the label mompreneur. She also shares how to sign up to be a product tester to test the new ideas Doddle &amp; Co are bringing to life. Check out this episode's <a href="https://www.podclair.com/episodes-podclair" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">show notes</a> to find pop pacifiers in town and other links from the interview.

Episode 52:  Doddle & Co.

In our first episode of our Montclair Design Week series, we speak with some of the designers, makers, and shakers behind the inaugural team. We find out who are they, what makes them so passionate about the role of design in our town, and which events they look forward to attending. Check out this episode's show notes to learn more about the team and the events that each guest recommended.

In our first episode of our <a href="https://www.montclairdesignweek.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Montclair Design Week</a> series, we speak with some of the designers, makers, and shakers behind the inaugural team. We find out who are they, what makes them so passionate about the role of design in our town, and which events they look forward to attending. Check out this episode's <a href="http://www.podclair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">show notes</a> to learn more about the team and the events that each guest recommended.

Episode 14: MDW Team

We speak with Lou Narvaez, the Beverage Supervisor and Head Bartender at the new MC Hotel. Guest Producer Rashaun Hall discusses with Lou his role as manager of the Allegory Restaurant and Bar and his overseeing the Alto Rooftop Lounge for the hotel. Lou has managed bars and created imaginative and elegant cocktails for many premier lounges in our area. He has also worked throughout the region in some of the most exciting and noted restaurants in northern Jersey including The Ashford in Jersey City and Montclair's own Social Club. And now he's excited to bring top-notch service to the two great "libation stations" at the MC!

We speak with Lou Narvaez, the Beverage Supervisor and Head Bartender at the new <a href="https://themchotel.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MC Hotel</a>. Guest Producer Rashaun Hall discusses with Lou his role as manager of the <a href="https://themchotel.com/food-drink/allegory/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Allegory Restaurant and Bar</a> and his overseeing the <a href="https://themchotel.com/food-drink/alto/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alto Rooftop Lounge</a> for the hotel. Lou has managed bars and created imaginative and elegant cocktails for many premier lounges in our area. He has also worked throughout the region in some of the most exciting and noted restaurants in northern Jersey including The Ashford in Jersey City and Montclair's own Social Club. And now he's excited to bring top-notch service to the two great "libation stations" at the MC!

Episode 69:  Allegory at the MC Hotel

We speak with Vanillamore’s chef and owner, Risa Magid Boyer. Risa grew up in Northern New Jersey thinking she would be a graphic artist one day.  But while a student at Northeastern University in Boston, something made Risa completely change her path.  Now Risa shares the story of why she created Vanillamore and what’s behind the design.  After Jo did the interview with Risa, she popped in at Vanillamore on a cold night where she and her husband enjoyed delicious drinks off the menu of hot chocolates and a sweet and savory dessert tray. While they were there, another couple learned of the gender of their baby when after their meal, a Vanillamore pastry chef served them a dessert she created with a blue center.  It was quite the scene with everyone around them gathering and applauding for the good news!!

We speak with <a href="http://www.vanillamore.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vanillamore</a>’s chef and owner, Risa Magid Boyer. Risa grew up in Northern New Jersey thinking she would be a graphic artist one day.  But while a student at Northeastern University in Boston, something made Risa completely change her path.  Now Risa shares the story of why she created Vanillamore and what’s behind the design.  After Jo did the interview with Risa, she popped in at Vanillamore on a cold night where she and her husband enjoyed delicious drinks off the menu of hot chocolates and a sweet and savory dessert tray. While they were there, another couple learned of the gender of their baby when after their meal, a Vanillamore pastry chef served them a dessert she created with a blue center.  It was quite the scene with everyone around them gathering and applauding for the good news!!

Episode 37:  Vanillamore

We speak with Jen Snyder, owner of The Little Daisy Bake Shop in Upper Montclair. Jen opened the doors to her Valley Road bake shop 8 years ago and started filling the streets with the scent of cinnamon and sweet treats.  We celebrate Mother’s Day with the story of Jen, who is a wife and mom of two.  Find out how she decided to take her passion for baking and turn it into a business.The bakery which happens to be peanut and nut free, is known for its daily fresh baked goodness and its creative special orders.  You’ll hear how Jen, an Oregon native, left behind her career to raise her kids and realize her dream.  And you’ll also hear about the treat you can’t leave the shop without!* Jen Attended COOKIECON and writes about it on her blog 

We speak with Jen Snyder, owner of <a href="http://www.thelittledaisybakeshop.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Little Daisy Bake Shop</a> in Upper Montclair. Jen opened the doors to her Valley Road bake shop 8 years ago and started filling the streets with the scent of cinnamon and sweet treats.  We celebrate Mother’s Day with the story of Jen, who is a wife and mom of two.  Find out how she decided to take her passion for baking and turn it into a business. The bakery which happens to be peanut and nut free, is known for its daily fresh baked goodness and its creative special orders.  You’ll hear how Jen, an Oregon native, left behind her career to raise her kids and realize her dream.  And you’ll also hear about the treat you can’t leave the shop without! * Jen Attended COOKIECON and writes about it on her <a href="http://www.thelittledaisybakeshop.com/blog.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">blog</a>

Episode 51:  The Little Daisy Bake Shop

Joyce Carol Oates

We were there at the Montclair Literary Festival this past week and were lucky enough to be in the room for Jonathan Santlofer's interview with Joyce Carol Oates.  Joyce Carol Oates is a recipient of the National Medal of Humanities, the National Book Critics Circle Ivan Sandrof Lifetime Achievement Award, the National Book Award, and the PEN/Malamud Award for Excellence in Short Fiction, and has been several times nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. She has written some of the most enduring fiction of our time, including the national bestsellers We Were the Mulvaneys, Blonde, which was nominated for the National Book Award, and the New York Times bestseller The Falls, which won the 2005 Prix Femina. Her most recent novel is The Hazards of Time Travel. She is the Roger S. Berlind Distinguished Professor of the Humanities at Princeton University. Jonathan Santlofer is an author and noted artist. He is the author of five best-selling novels. The latest is The Widowers Notebook.

We were there at the <a href="https://succeed2gether.org/mlf-main-program/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Montclair Literary Festival</a> this past week and were lucky enough to be in the room for Jonathan Santlofer's interview with Joyce Carol Oates.    Joyce Carol Oates is a recipient of the National Medal of Humanities, the National Book Critics Circle Ivan Sandrof Lifetime Achievement Award, the National Book Award, and the PEN/Malamud Award for Excellence in Short Fiction, and has been several times nominated for the Pulitzer Prize. She has written some of the most enduring fiction of our time, including the national bestsellers We Were the Mulvaneys, Blonde, which was nominated for the National Book Award, and the New York Times bestseller The Falls, which won the 2005 Prix Femina. Her most recent novel is The Hazards of Time Travel. She is the Roger S. Berlind Distinguished Professor of the Humanities at Princeton University.   Jonathan Santlofer is an author and noted artist. He is the author of five best-selling novels. The latest is The Widowers Notebook.

Episode 46 Part 1: Joyce Carol Oates

We speak with Angelica Flores, owner of Ray's Luncheonette on the corner of North Willow and Walnut St. Serving Montclair for over 40 years, Angelica shares how she bought the cafe from her uncle, finished her college degree, and passionately contributes to humanitarian hurricane relief.  Check out our show notes for links to upcoming events mentioned in this week's podclair postings segment.

We speak with Angelica Flores, owner of <a href="http://www.raysluncheonette.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ray's Luncheonette</a> on the corner of North Willow and Walnut St. Serving Montclair for over 40 years, Angelica shares how she bought the cafe from her uncle, finished her college degree, and passionately contributes to humanitarian hurricane relief.  Check out our <a href="https://www.podclair.com/episodes-podclair/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">show notes</a> for links to upcoming events mentioned in this week's podclair postings segment.

Episode 24: Ray's Luncheonette

We speak with Ramel Ramnarine and Anthony Corona of Modclair, now in its second location on Valley Road. The duo discusses how they decided to open their showroom in Montclair, how they work to take their client's creativity to the max, and share some of their own favorite spots in town.

We speak with Ramel Ramnarine and Anthony Corona of <a href="https://modclair.com/shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Modclair</a>, now in its second location on Valley Road. The duo discusses how they decided to open their showroom in Montclair, how they work to take their client's creativity to the max, and share some of their own favorite spots in town.

Episode 30: Modclair

We speak with Oscar Shorts Film Festival founders producers, Corinna Sager and Jeanne Reilly about what inspired them to bring awareness to short films. This year's festival, called Celebrate the Underdog, starts at 10 am on Saturday, February 16th at The Buzz Aldrin School.

We speak with <a href="http://www.oscarshortsmontclair.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Oscar Shorts Film Festival</a> founders producers, Corinna Sager and Jeanne Reilly about what inspired them to bring awareness to short films. This year's festival, called Celebrate the Underdog, starts at 10 am on Saturday, February 16th at The Buzz Aldrin School.

Episode 36: Oscar Shorts Montclair

We speak with Dawn and John Fabbro, owners of Fleet Feet Sports on Bloomfield and Midland Avenues. They share how they met and turned their love of fitness and movement into a thirty year-old business along our main drag. Best of luck to our Montclair marathoners today!

We speak with Dawn and John Fabbro, owners of <a href="http://fleetfeetmontclair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fleet Feet Sports</a> on Bloomfield and Midland Avenues. They share how they met and turned their love of fitness and movement into a thirty year-old business along our main drag. Best of luck to our Montclair marathoners today!

Episode 23: Fleet Feet Sports

We speak with Montclair State Universtiy alum Chelsea Caravella, owner of Well Made Nutrition. She shares what inspired her to create a plant-based nutrition practice designed to teach individuals to "love the food that loves them back," and how even vegans can find places to eat with their carnivore boyfriends in the restaurants around Montclair.

We speak with Montclair State Universtiy alum Chelsea Caravella, owner of <a href="https://www.wellmadenutrition.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Well Made Nutrition</a>. She shares what inspired her to create a plant-based nutrition practice designed to teach individuals to "love the food that loves them back," and how even vegans can find places to eat with their carnivore boyfriends in the restaurants around Montclair.

Episode 38: Well-Made Nutrition

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