Best Eric Ames Podcasts (2026)

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Creating Individualized Treatment with Author and Advocate Tari Johnson 53:11

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3M ago53:11

53:11

Spooky Season Drop! Joy and Adam are back. This time with Advocate and Author Tari Johnson to talk about her new book and treatment journey. What's it like writing a book in recovery, and how does it feel to go over your medical history to put the story together of one's treatment experience? Tari's book can be found at https://www.tarijohnsoncreat…

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Peter Ames Carlin on Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of Born to Run 14:32

4M ago14:32

14:32

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, we welcome acclaimed author and cultural critic Peter Ames Carlin, who joins us to discuss his latest book Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of Born to Run. Carlin takes us deep into the pivotal 20 months leading up to the release of Bruce Springsteen’s legendary third album, Born t…

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Pouring Freshies Daily at Ghost Hawk Brewing Co.: Throwback Episode 52:45

4M ago52:45

52:45

Send us a text We visit Steve Bauer, owner of Ghost Hawk Brewing Company in Clifton, NJ. Mike and Steve try several beers while learning about Steve's background, difficulties he has faced in life, and how he's overcome those. We also learn the meaning behind the name "Ghost Hawk" which is more than just a cool name, it has significant meaning to S…

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A Shucking Great Time with Love Oysters: Throwback Episode 47:02

5M ago47:02

47:02

Send us a text In this episode, join entrepreneur and oyster farmer Matt Matusky as he shares his fascinating journey into oyster farming with Love Oysters. Recorded at Captain Mike's Marina in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, located in the Great Bay, one of the Northeast's largest preserved wetlands, Matt discusses his transition from marine biolog…

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Every Kick Counts: How FootGolf and Top Soccer Are Changing Lives in New Jersey 43:03

5M ago43:03

43:03

Send us a text We head to Freehold, NJ, to visit the headquarters of New Jersey Youth Soccer for a conversation about Every Kick Counts—a unique FootGolf fundraiser supporting Top Soccer programs for athletes with disabilities. First, NJYS CEO Evan Dabby and Vinny Nasuda, President of Toms River FC, share how Top Soccer provides free, community-bas…

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Homegrown Red Bulls 25:35

5M ago25:35

25:35

Send us a text This week on Greetings from the Garden State, powered by the New Jersey Lottery, we’re at the New York Red Bulls training facility in East Hanover talking with two Jersey-born standouts — Daniel Edelman (Warren) and Peter Stroud (Chester). We dive into: ⚽ Their early days growing up in New Jersey soccer culture — from local fields to…

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The Resilience, Community, and Unyielding Spirit of Eric LeGrand: Replay 47:50

6M ago47:50

47:50

Send us a text In this inspiring episode of "Greetings from the Garden State," host Mike Ham welcomes Eric LeGrand at LeGrand Coffee House in Woodbridge, New Jersey. Eric shares his remarkable journey, having overcome a paralyzing injury sustained during a college football game. The episode unfolds with warm greetings and highlights LeGrand Coffee …

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Live from the 17th Annual Jetty Coquina Jam July 20, 2025: Recap 23:39

6M ago23:39

23:39

Send us a text This week’s episode brings you straight to the sand as Greetings From the Garden State hit the beach for a special live broadcast from the 17th Annual Jetty Coquina Jam in Brant Beach on Long Beach Island! 🌊☀️ Hosted by Mike Ham as part of the Radio Garden State Roadshow, this episode features highlights and interviews from a six-hou…

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A Conversation with Governor Phil Murphy 29:18

6M ago29:18

29:18

Send us a text Mike Ham sits down with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy inside the Choose New Jersey offices to talk about all things Garden State. From his international economic missions to bring jobs to NJ, to his deep love for Monmouth County, to the growing impact of the film and soccer industries in New Jersey — this conversation touches on th…

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Brew at the Zoo Special Episode 58:18

6M ago58:18

58:18

Send us a text Live from the Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, NJ — it’s the Radio Garden State Roadshow! On this special episode of Greetings From the Garden State, Mike Ham and Chris Vaglio broadcast for three hours from one of New Jersey’s most unique beer festivals: Brew at the Zoo. With 2,400 tickets sold out and dozens of local breweries pourin…

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Live and Loud from Hop Sauce Festival 2025 – Beach Haven, NJ 1:27:21

7M ago1:27:21

1:27:21

Send us a text Mike Ham brings the noise from the 10th annual Jetty Rock Foundation Hop Sauce Festival in Beach Haven, NJ! Broadcasting live from the Taylor Avenue waterfront, this episode captures the essence of one of the most beloved summer events at the Jersey Shore. With over 50 craft beers, a spicy selection of hot sauces, and vendors bringin…

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The Untold Story of Ellis Island’s South Side with Jim Dessicino of Save Ellis Island 1:02:34

7M ago1:02:34

1:02:34

Send us a text In this milestone 180th episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham takes you deep into one of New Jersey’s most fascinating hidden gems: the South Side of Ellis Island. Joined by Jim Dessicino, Director at Save Ellis Island, they explore the forgotten history, powerful stories, and untold legacy of this rarely seen sid…

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Tailgates, Tickets, and the Truth About the Event Biz 49:34

7M ago49:34

49:34

Send us a text In this jam-packed episode, Mike sits down with Savvy Seats founder Tommy Gucciardo at Radio Garden State HQ to dive into the chaos, strategy, and heart behind one of the area's most ambitious ticketing and event brands. From running massive tailgate activations outside MetLife to redefining customer service in the secondary ticket m…

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Family, Food, and Forever: Inside New Jersey’s Premier Wedding Destinations 45:51

7M ago45:51

45:51

Send us a text This week, host Mike Ham heads to the stunning Park Château Estates & Gardens in East Brunswick to sit down with three legends of New Jersey hospitality — Barry Maurillo, Joe Maurillo, and Vito Cucci. These lifelong friends and business partners are the visionary team behind three of the state’s most celebrated event venues: Nanina’s…

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Not Just a Team, a Movement: Gotham FC’s Vision with Yael Averbuch West 30:22

8M ago30:22

30:22

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, Mike heads to Whippany to sit down with Yael Averbuch West, General Manager and Head of Soccer Operations at NJ/NY Gotham FC. A proud Montclair native and former U.S. Women’s National Team player, Yael shares her journey from Jersey youth soccer fields to global tournaments—and now …

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Arrive as Strangers, Leave as Family: The Story of Sushi by Sea 40:12

8M ago40:12

40:12

Send us a text In this episode, we step behind the curtain at Sushi by Sea, a private omakase dinner experience hidden in plain sight in Ridgefield, NJ. Mike sits down with co-founder Jay Powles to talk about how a global business consultant from South Africa partnered with a master sushi chef to build one of New Jersey’s most exclusive and communi…

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How an Oyster Truck Became Maplewood’s Hottest Restaurant 54:17

8M ago54:17

54:17

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, host Mike Ham sits down with Matthew Chappina, chef and founder of Perla Oyster Bar in Maplewood, New Jersey. What began as a mobile oyster truck has evolved into one of New Jersey’s most talked-about new restaurants, known for its raw bar, creative small plates, and vibrant atmosph…

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Reality Suite: From Dirty Napkin Dreams to Rocking Stages Worldwide 33:51

9M ago33:51

33:51

Send us a text On this episode of Greetings From the Garden State, powered by the New Jersey Lottery, Mike Ham heads to Angry Papa Entertainment in Wallington, NJ to sit down with the powerhouse rock band Reality Suite — Kimmii Heart, Brian King, Joe Padula, and Jeff Luke. They dive into the band's Jersey roots, their evolution over the past decade…

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What It Takes: Mikie Sherrill’s Story from Helicopters to the Statehouse 42:53

9M ago42:53

42:53

Send us a text On this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, I sit down with Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill for an honest, wide-ranging conversation that covers everything from her time in the Navy to her decision to run for governor of New Jersey. What We Cover: Finding Her Way to Jersey Mikie shares how she settled in Montclair over 15 years …

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New Jersey Lottery Million Dollar Replay 2025 36:51

9M ago36:51

36:51

Send us a text We’re back in Atlantic City for one of the most electric events of the year—the Million Dollar Replay at the Golden Nugget, hosted by the New Jersey Lottery. In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of a day full of second chances, big energy, and even bigger prize money. We kick things off with a breakdown of how Million Dollar…

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Beyond the Covers: How Hickory is Rewriting the NJ Music Scene 26:11

9M ago26:11

26:11

Send us a text In this week’s episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham is joined by the full lineup of Hickory, a rising New Jersey folk-rock band that’s quickly carving out a name for themselves across the state and beyond. What started as a few friends trading GarageBand tracks during downtime has grown into a six-piece powerhous…

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Sandwiches That Hit Different: Inside Dutch’s Sandwich Shop in Montclair 54:49

9M ago54:49

54:49

Send us a text This week, Mike heads to Church Street in Montclair to sit down with Amir Kamal, the man behind Dutch’s Sandwich Shop — one of the most talked-about sandwich spots in New Jersey. What started as a late-night idea and a tribute to Amir’s dog, Dutch, has grown into a full-blown destination for people who take their breakfast sandwiches…

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Jackpots, Pork Roll & Jersey Pride with Jim Carey of the NJ Lottery 34:43

10M ago34:43

34:43

Send us a text On this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, host Mike Ham takes the show on the road to the New Jersey Lottery headquarters for a deep-dive conversation with Executive Director Jim Carey. Powered by the New Jersey Lottery, this episode explores the games, events, and community impact of one of the state's most recognizable in…

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Special Forum: NJ Gubernatorial Candidates Talk Business, Equity & The Future 2:15:58

10M ago2:15:58

2:15:58

Send us a text In this special edition of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham broadcasts live from NJIT for a groundbreaking gubernatorial candidate forum presented by the New Jersey Diverse Business Advisory Council. Seven of the nine candidates vying to be New Jersey’s next governor sit down to address some of the most pressing issues …

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Spreading Love & Good Vibes with Patty C 33:59

10M ago33:59

33:59

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings From the Garden State, we sit down with New Jersey singer-songwriter Patty C to talk about his music journey, collaborations, and latest projects. Broadcasting from the home studio at Radio Garden State HQ, we crack open a Spreading Love American Light Lager from Twin Lights Brewing—Patty’s very own beer!…

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We're back! Let's finally learn about Joy's LiveJournal posts 57:31

10M ago57:31

57:31

Joy and Adam talk about eating disorders, mental health social media. What's changed since they were in treatment and how social media may be important for recovery and community - with caveats. Would the severity or understanding of my eating disorder have been different? Join us for a nuanced discussion.…

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New Jersey Hall of Fame: The Legends, the Legacy & the Future 47:06

10M ago47:06

47:06

Send us a text Recorded at the New Jersey Hall of Fame at American Dream, East Rutherford, NJ Host: Mike Ham, Greetings from the Garden State Guests: Steve Edwards & Bryan Blaney, New Jersey Hall of Fame Episode Highlights The Origins of the New Jersey Hall of Fame – How it started in 2002 and became the first state Hall of Fame in the U.S. The Ico…

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Building The Wishbones: How Emerson Woolf is Taking Over NJ’s Indie Scene 38:37

10M ago38:37

38:37

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, powered by the New Jersey Lottery, host Mike Ham sits down with Emerson Woolf, the frontwoman of Emerson Woolf and the Wishbones. Broadcasting from Radio Garden State HQ in Bloomfield, NJ (a.k.a. one corner of the Spaghetti Triangle), they dive into Emerson’s musical journey, the fo…

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Love Could: Fair Panic's Tory Anne Daines on Loss, Love, and Lyrics 55:04

11M ago55:04

55:04

Send us a text In this engaging episode of Greetings from the Garden State, host Mike Ham welcomes Tory Anne Daines of Fair Panic (with a special guest appearance by Duck the dog!) to discuss the band’s evolution, new EP release, and upcoming live shows. From Tory’s early musical influences and opera/violin roots to wild tales from hardcore and cou…

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Celebrating 10 Years of Cowan’s Public with Skopos Hospitality 38:25

11M ago38:25

38:25

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, host Mike Ham sits down with Dean Maroulakos, co-founder of Skopos Hospitality, at Cowan’s Public in Nutley, NJ. Dean shares the journey of launching and expanding a hospitality empire in North Jersey, from the origins of Cowan’s Public to the recently opened Nomada in Verona. They …

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Celebrating Excellence: NJ Youth Soccer Awards Banquet presented by RWJBarnabas Health 55:47

11M ago55:47

55:47

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, we cover the NJ Youth Soccer Awards Banquet presented by RWJBarnabas Health in Edison, NJ. Host Mike Ham interviews award-winning players, legendary figures, and key stakeholders shaping NJ youth soccer. Featured Guests & Segments: Segment 1: Rising Stars of NJ Youth Soccer Gabriel …

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Burnt Mills Cider: Crafting New Jersey’s Finest Hard Ciders in Bedminster 39:59

11M ago39:59

39:59

Send us a text On this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, I visit Burnt Mills Cider in Bedminster, NJ, and sit down with owners John Coates and Miranda Meade to talk all things cider. From their early beginnings to launching in the middle of a pandemic, Burnt Mills has built a reputation for crafting high-quality, locally sourced ciders th…

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Jersey’s Music Maverick: Matty Carlock on Blending Genres and Breaking Barriers 1:06:54

12M ago1:06:54

1:06:54

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, host Mike Ham sits down with Matty Carlock—singer-songwriter, producer, and hardcore music veteran—at the iconic Berkeley Hotel in Asbury Park. Matty shares his inspiring journey, starting from his punk and hardcore roots to evolving into a multi-genre artist blending folk, hip-hop,…

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Felipe Rose Unplugged: Disco Stories, Native Roots, and New Projects 1:02:29

12M ago1:02:29

1:02:29

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, host Mike Ham sits down with the iconic Felipe Rose, best known as the original Native American of the Village People. Recorded at the Wonder Bar in Asbury Park, Felipe shares his incredible journey from dancing in New York City clubs to global stardom, his impact as a cultural icon…

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Jim Monaghan: Behind the Mic with a New Jersey Radio Icon 36:54

12M ago36:54

36:54

Send us a text We chat with legendary radio personality Jim Monaghan for the podcast’s first-ever virtual episode! A staple of WDHA since 1998, Jim reflects on his decades-long career in radio, his passion for music, and his enduring connection to New Jersey. The two dive into Jim’s early days in broadcasting, his memorable moments at WDHA, and his…

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Top 10 of 2024: Weird New Jersey 50:59

1y ago50:59

50:59

Send us a text Originally Aired: July 2, 2024 We welcome Mark Moran and Mark Sceurman, the founders of Weird New Jersey, to discuss the magazine’s origins and evolution. Mark and Mark reflect on how they began the magazine in the early 1990s before the internet, initially distributing Xeroxed, typewritten newsletters to friends. The unique nature o…

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Top 10 of 2024: Rocking Out at The Legendary Great Notch Inn 51:02

1y ago51:02

51:02

Send us a text Originally Aired: August 6, 2024 Today we travel to the historic Great Notch Inn in Woodland Park, New Jersey. The episode features an engaging conversation with the roadhouse's owner, Rich Hempel, who provides a deep dive into the rich history and vibrant community that define this local landmark. Rich begins by sharing the origins …

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Top 10 of 2024: Ballet Renaissance: A Conversation with Maria Kowroski, Artistic Director of the New Jersey Ballet 1:02:43

1y ago1:02:43

1:02:43

Send us a text Original Air Date: March 5, 2024 We're joined by Maria Kowroski, the artistic director of the New Jersey Ballet. Maria, who shares her journey from Michigan to the School of American Ballet and eventually the New York City Ballet, reflects on her unique path to becoming a ballerina, driven by a profound passion for dance. The episode…

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Top 10 of 2024: Behind the Curtain at Newark's Prudential Center with Sean Saadeh 58:14

1y ago58:14

58:14

Send us a text Originally Aired: February 13, 2024 We went into Brick City, Newark, NJ, to chat with Sean Saadeh, the EVP of Entertainment at the Prudential Center. Sean provides valuable insights into the diverse programming at The Rock, from hosting family shows like Disney on Ice to becoming a crucial venue for the community. The discussion unfo…

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Top 10 of 2024: The Resilience, Community, and Unyielding Spirit of Eric LeGrand 48:55

1y ago48:55

48:55

Send us a text Original Air Date: January 9, 2024 In this inspiring episode of "Greetings from the Garden State," host Mike Ham welcomes Eric LeGrand at LeGrand Coffee House in Woodbridge, New Jersey. Eric shares his remarkable journey, having overcome a paralyzing injury sustained during a college football game. The episode unfolds with warm greet…

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Top 10 of 2024: Mike Schweigert: Building a Tattoo Legacy at Electric Tattoo 40:09

1y ago40:09

40:09

Send us a text Original Air Date: October 1, 2024 We visit Electric Tattoo in Asbury Park to chat with tattoo artist Mike Schweigert. Schweigert shares his journey from growing up in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, to becoming a prominent figure in the tattoo industry. He discusses his early influences, including his love for music and skateboarding, a…

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Music, Community, and Pride: Rick Barry at Georgies Bar 39:53

1y ago39:53

39:53

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings From the Garden State, Mike Ham visits Georgies Bar in Asbury Park, NJ, to chat with musician and community advocate Rick Barry. Known as the “gay Cheers” of Asbury Park, Georgies is a staple of inclusivity, music, and history, recently celebrating its 25th anniversary. Rick shares stories about the bar’s…

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Child Focus' Evolution: Expanding Support for New Jersey's Children 47:42

1y ago47:42

47:42

Send us a text In this heartfelt episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham sits down with Erica Fischer-Kaslander, Executive Director of Child Focus, a nonprofit organization in Wayne, NJ, dedicated to advocating for foster youth. From its humble beginnings to becoming a vital resource for children and families across Passaic, Union…

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The Now or Never Tour: Monique Latise's Comedy Adventure 52:16

1y ago52:16

52:16

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, powered by the New Jersey Lottery, Mike Ham welcomes the incredible Monique Latise to his home studio for an inspiring and laughter-filled conversation. Monique shares her journey from growing up in Paterson, NJ, with dreams of becoming a rapper and dancer to becoming a full-time co…

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Cheers to New Jersey Wine 1:04:34

1y ago1:04:34

1:04:34

Send us a text We take listeners to the heart of the New Jersey Wine Expo at Bell Works in Holmdel. Sponsored by the New Jersey Lottery, the event marks the inaugural New Jersey Wine Month, showcasing the state's burgeoning wine industry. With nearly 60 vineyards across diverse climates, New Jersey is emerging as a notable wine producer, offering a…

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Soccer, Music, Family and Beer: The Unique Blend at Varitage Brew Works 45:20

1y ago45:20

45:20

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham visits Varitage Brew Works in Bloomfield, NJ, to chat with Mark Costa, the owner and head brewer. Mark shares the story behind the brewery, its unique soccer-inspired theme, and the journey that led him from his roots in Nutley to becoming a key player in Bloomfield's …

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Joe Scacciaferro: Crafting a Career in Music, Media, and Mentorship 54:13

1y ago54:13

54:13

Send us a text We sit down with Joe Scacciaferro at Triple S in Bloomfield, New Jersey. Joe shares his journey from a funk band bassist to a pioneer in the synthesizer industry, detailing how his company, Triple S, became a key player in music technology and live event production. He recounts his transition into broadcast, highlighted by a collabor…

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The Experience at Xperience Kitchen and Cocktails 45:24

1y ago45:24

45:24

Send us a text We welcome Chef Angel Rivera to discuss his culinary journey at Experience Kitchen and Cocktails in Avenel, New Jersey. Chef Angel, a proud Jersey native, shares his transition from an engineering background to the world of gastronomy, inspired by his multicultural upbringing and a deep love for food. His story is one of passion and …

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Harmonizing Life: Christian Sparacio on Music, Family, and Growth 38:04

1y ago38:04

38:04

Send us a text We sit down with musician Christian Sparacio, who is set to headline the upcoming Jersey Fest. Christian shares his journey from growing up in Marlboro, New Jersey, to becoming a musician, highlighting his transition from a football player to a passionate artist. He reflects on his musical upbringing, influenced by a family that love…

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Secrets and Stakeouts: Bari Kroll and Jen Rosant on Private Investigation 41:26

1y ago41:26

41:26

Send us a text We sit down with private investigators Bari Kroll and Jen Rosant from B. Lauren Investigations. Bari and Jen recount their unique journeys into the field, highlighting how they transitioned from corporate roles to becoming private investigators. They emphasize the importance of shedding light on an industry often shrouded in mystery …