Hearin' New York

Hearin’ New York, there are few things as normalized as the announcements we hear in the subway. The tone of that recorded reminder to “Stand clear of the closing doors” is something we all know by heart. But do you know the story behind the voice? In today’s episode, Ginni shares the true story of Charlie Pellett, the iconic voice of the New York Subway. You’ll hear about Charlie and learn the impressive secret that hides behind his New York claim to fame. You’ll also learn how the New York subway got its voice in the first place, and where that inspiration came from.    What You’ll Learn: (0:42) The man behind the voice of the NY subway (1:07) A surprising fact about the voice actor (1:42) How inspiration arrived from England   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Those who risked their lives as First Responders during the events of 9/11 had no idea what they were walking into. It wasn’t only burning buildings and dust particles. They were bravely walking into the unknown. And many of them suffered for it. For years.  First Responders who were at Ground Zero have not only been dealing with long-term health problems. But for nearly two decades, they’ve had to fight the US Government to receive the benefits for the much-needed, and well deserved, healthcare they require. Finally, a passionate advocate with a platform helped ensure they got what they needed then, and will continue to receive care for the rest of their lives.   In today’s episode, Ginni shares the hard-to-believe story of how the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act was finally passed by Congress. You’ll hear about the unexpected hero who suddenly switched gears, turning his weekly comedy show into a powerful platform for advocacy. You’ll learn how his public appreciation for the heroes of 9/11 helped boost awareness of the health repercussions they suffered, and his continued fight for the needs of US Veterans.     What You’ll Learn: (1:32) How a passionate comedian took on the US Congress (2:57) Continued advocacy when funds were nearly depleted (3:33) Finally, heroes get the support they deserve (3:48) Support for the post-war struggles of Veterans    Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Everyone on this Earth has a special spark- a unique gift that brings more brightness to the world through their talent and dedication. But for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it’s been hard to find a workplace that’s willing to showcase their talents and let them shine. Until now… In today’s episode, Ginni shares the heartwarming story of Cafe Joyeux. This European coffee chain not only serves up a gourmet cup of jo, but it also provides meaningful employment opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  You’ll hear how its founder, Yann Bucaille Lanrezac, was inspired by an eager and motivated young man. You’ll learn why it’s important to create opportunities for this community, and how Cafe Joyeaux brought the concept across the pond, landing right here in New York City.    What You’ll Learn: (0:51) A uniquely gifted community that’s finally getting noticed (1:12) The story of an eager youth and the birth of a business  (1:41) A heartwarming place to get a hot coffee in New York   Resources: Cafe Joyeux: New York   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Did you know the most historic event on New Year’s Eve almost got banned? In today’s episode, Ginni shares the long history of the famous glittering ball that falls from 77 feet in the air every New Year's Eve. And why it was almost canceled.  You’ll learn about the history of New Year's Eve celebrations in Times Square, dating all the way back to 1904. You’ll hear how it was almost banned due to safety concerns until its organizer came up with an ingenious solution. You’ll also learn how the ball itself has changed over time, spanning more than a century of celebrations.    What You’ll Learn: (0:16) The first Times Square NYE celebration (1:20) How a safety hazard changed the tradition (3:00) The evolution of the ball drop   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Spaghetti with sprinkles, a faux Kris Kringle, and a house full of booby traps. Ah yes, it’s that time of the year again!  So don your coziest Christmas pajamas and fill your plate with a smorgasbord of festive cookies.  In today’s special Yuletide edition episode, Ginni reveals her picks for your NYC holiday movie marathon. She highlights three films that need to be on your must-watch list this and every year.  You’ll hear run-downs of her favorite classics, both old and new. From a drunk imposter Santa a wiser-than-his-years kid with more than a few tricks up his sleeve, your seasonal movie marathon is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. Oh, and of course one oversized Elf, for the win! You’ll also learn where to stream all three films on their various platforms. What You’ll Learn: (0:39) Ginni’s top Christmas classic  (1:34) A 90s flick that became an instant classic (2:06) The ultimate Christmas comedy   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Picture yourself landing a graceful pirouette under the bright lights of New York City as gentle snowflakes fall from the sky. No, this isn’t a Hallmark movie. It’s something you can actually do- for FREE! In today’s episode, Ginni shares the joy of ice skating at Bryant Park's winter market in New York City. This festive atmosphere boasts 180 vendors, plus delicious food and warming igloos. You’ll hear all about this iconic holiday experience that attracts locals and visitors alike every year. You’ll learn when and where to find this wintery wonderland, and why it’s the perfect way to make gift shopping fun and support local artisans.    What You’ll Learn: (0:30) The most iconic thing you can do in NYC (0:46) A comprehensive wintery wonderland (1:26) When to experience the Bryant Park Winter Market   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

What would life be like if you didn’t have your Spotify playlist or your favorite podcast (ahem…this one), to listen to while you work out?  A quiet life, indeed. Whether it’s coming from your phone or a portable mp3 player, it all began with the Sony Walkman. And, it was almost axed before we ever got our hands on it. In today’s episode, Ginni shares why the first mass marketed portable audio device was dangerously close to never making it to the production line. You’ll hear why its inventor had the “crazy” idea in the first place to put personal cassette players in the hands of people everywhere. You’ll learn what it was about the Walkman that made the higher ups question whether or not people would want to buy it. And you’ll learn a few surprising details about the Walkman’s early days.   What You’ll Learn: (1:00) Why we needed the Walkman, according to its inventor (2:11) Why Sony didn’t think people would be interested in this tech (2:35) Its shocking original retail price   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Everyone loves a little hot gossip, and millennials especially love hearing it from the vocal talents of Kristen Bell.  But did you know that her signature contribution to the Gossip Girl series almost didn’t happen? In today’s episode, Ginni reveals the reason why Bell’s blistering commentary almost didn’t make the cut.  You’ll hear what test audiences thought before the show aired, and why the producers decided to lean into it anyway. This is gossip you don’t want to miss!    What You’ll Learn: (0:39) Why the Gossip Girl voiceover almost didn’t happen (1:08) The critical choice to do it anyway (1:18) Bell’s lasting legacy on the show   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Would you consider yourself a proud Pringles addict? How about a champion of Cheez-It’s? How rowdy would you get for a buttery stack of Ritz crackers? And, more importantly, how are you showing your love for your favorite savory snack food?  Because unless you’re using it as an excuse to bring like-minded snack addicts together in your town, then you’re not taking advantage of the useless absurdity that people are craving.  In today’s episode, Ginni dishes up the mystery behind New York City’s masked snack-aholic.  You’ll hear how hundreds gathered on one April afternoon to cheer on a man in an orange balaklava. You’ll learn what we know about the man behind the mask, and why he chose this particular cheezy treat.     What You’ll Learn: (0:27) The strangest snack event in NYC (0:35) Unmasking the stranger, sort of (1:24) How to be a part of the cheezy madness    Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

If you’ve ever found yourself truly immersed in a piece of music, you don’t want it to end. Before the invention of the phonograph, most songs never seemed to end, by today’s standards.  So, what changed? In today’s episode, Ginni continues our audio history journey by sharing the top 3 ways that the invention of the phonograph changed the face of audio, and music, forever. You’ll hear what it was like for people living in the early audio era to experience recorded music for the first time. You’ll learn how the phonograph changed their listening experience, how it inspired musicians, and how its limitations affected the final product.    What You’ll Learn: (0:44) What was so amazing about the phonograph (1:03) How early music producers adapted to recording flaws (1:16) Why songs became shorter    Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

If you’ve ever explored the many faces of New York, there were probably some trendy hangouts that you wanted to check out - places where, over the years, your favorite sitcom characters spent a big chunk of their time. And buckets of fictional money that we were never quite sure how they made in the first place.  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the surprising truth about why your dream of sipping a latte on the couch at Central Perk or noshing on a Chicken Salad on Rye at Monk’s Cafe is, sadly, never going to happen.  You’ll learn what the “magic” of TV is hiding from you, and the most popular New York-based sitcoms that are guilty of it. It’s not all crushed dreams, however. You’ll also hear about the show that breathed and bled New York style, from the sweet treat trends it kicked off to the fashionable cocktail sweetheart of the 90s.    What You’ll Learn: (0:02) A rundown of the best sitcoms set in New York  (0:56) The sexiest show filmed on location in New York (1:33) Trends that Carrie Bradshaw and friends helped usher in    Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Imagine you’re out walking your beloved dog and it suddenly gets spooked by something. The scared creature somehow gets loose from the leash and scurries off.  That’s scary enough, right?  But what if the place where your dog got lost was a dark canyon, and even accessing the places to look was near impossible?  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the story of Rippy the Terrier. Don’t worry, it’s a heartwarming tale that will restore your faith in humanity.  You’ll hear a tale of being woken up from a very weird dream to the sounds of a lost dog, and the near-hopeless search that followed. It’s a true rescue story that will make your day, and make you proud as punch of your human brethren.    What You’ll Learn: (0:23) Things that only happen in dreams (1:25) The story of Rippy, the lost dog  (1:50) How the dog was finally rescued   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

Today, we turn on the car radio, listen to Spotify, and binge our favorite podcasts (like Hearin’ New York) without a second thought.  But that technology has a story, and like any good invention, it’s got a dedicated person behind it pushing the boundaries of what we know.  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the story of Thomas Edison’s journey to invent the first sound recording device.  You’ll hear how the technology was invented, from the complex concept of audio frequencies to the inner workings of the technology it took to capture and replay it for all to hear. You’ll learn the first recorded song, and how the phonograph was marketed when it first came out.    What You’ll Learn: (0:57) How Edison’s phonograph worked (1:28) The first recorded song (2:29) One failure of the Edison Phonograph Company    Connect with Ginni Media YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

New York and great films go together like peanut butter and jelly. And if we dial it back to the late 1970s, perhaps there’s no cinematic sandwich more famous than Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver.  It’s got drama, grit, and one of the most quoted one-liners in the history of cinema.  But, have you ever wondered how that line came to be? In today’s episode, Ginni shares the little-known story behind Robert DeNiro’s iconic mirror scene.  You’ll learn how frequently this line gets repeated in pop culture, and where it pops up. You’ll hear the true story of how it came to be and DeNiro’s surprising role in creating it.    What You’ll Learn: (0:56) Parodies of one of New York’s most iconic movie scenes (1:26) A surprising fact about DeNiro’s famous line (1:45) How the scene unfolded on the fly   Connect with Ginni Media YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

What if public transportation came with an unexpected perk? Imagine you’re on the way to work in the morning, and rather than the usual arrival announcement, you were treated to something that made you smile.  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the story of one New Yorker who took it upon himself to make the commuter experience a little brighter and a lot more entertaining!  You’ll hear the heartwarming story of Paul Pesante, a New York train conductor who decided to get creative with his job. Rather than sticking to the regular old announcement script, he’s risen to local fame with his signature rhythm and rhyme.    What You’ll Learn: (0:36) How he’s changing the experience of commuters (0:57) Ideas for brightening up notoriously boring experiences (1:27) When and where to find PA Paul in New York   Connect with Ginni Media YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

It’s second nature these days to pop in your earbuds while you’re working out, listen to a YouTube creator tell you how to make sourdough, or blast your favorite hip-hop in the car while you’re commuting.  But have you ever wondered who we have to thank for it? In today’s episode, Ginni delves into the history of recorded sound. And the person behind the invention isn’t who you’re thinking. So if you want to trip up your friends at the next dinner party with a bit of unknown audio history, then listen up! You’ll hear who really invented this everyday technology, and how they did it.   What You’ll Learn: (0:31) A little audio appreciation  (0:51) The surprising history of audio (1:40) Captured sound becomes phonotography  Resources:NPS: https://www.nps.gov/edis/learn/historyculture/origins-of-sound-recording-edouard-leon-scott-de-martinville.htmAmerican History: https://americanhistory.si.edu/documentsgallery/exhibitions/hear-my-voice/2.html Connect with Ginni MediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyorkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyorkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyorkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswatiWebsite: www.ginnimedia.com  

Remember back in the 90s when we all used to meet up at Central Perk for vanilla lattes, acoustic gigs, and chats with Friends? In today’s episode, Ginni shares a little known fact about F.R.I.E.N.D.S. You’ll learn the history behind its famously catchy theme song and how the tune ultimately become a song, rather than just another television jingle.  What You’ll Learn: (0:33) The 90s Must-See-TV show you should know  (1:04) A little known fact about its iconic theme song  (1:59) How it became a full-length song  Resources:The Rembrandts I’ll Be There For You (Official Video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-9kPks0If  Connect with Ginni MediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyorkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyorkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyorkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswatiWebsite: www.ginnimedia.com

New York is famous for countless reasons, and at the top of that list is its cultural diversity. The Big Apple is a cultural melting pot. Which also means it’s home to a global cornucopia of cuisine.  In today’s episode, Ginni shares the story of Joe Scaravella. He’s a New Yorker whose family originally came from Sicily. After his grandmother passed away, he found a uniquely flavorful way to honor her and her cooking while also offering something special for all New Yorkers from around the globe.  What You’ll Learn: (1:20) How one New Yorker is honoring his Sicillian nonna  (1:46) The Nonnas of The World Project  (2:26) Where to find Enoteca Maria  Resources: Enoteca Maria: https://www.enotecamaria.com/wp/ The Good New Network: https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/run-by-grandmothers-this-staten-island-restaurant-highlights-homecooking-from-around-the-world/ Connect with Ginni MediaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyorkInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyorkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyorkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswatiWebsite: www.ginnimedia.com

Pristine land, colonizers, confiscation, and confusion. It’s a tale as old as time.  But, thankfully, after changing hands, uses, and ownership multiple times, New York’s Governor's Island is finally returning to its roots as a little slice of paradise. In today’s episode, Ginni shares the tale of a 172-acre oasis in New York City with a rich and storied history. You’ll hear about its value to the Lenape people, and how the arrival of The Dutch West India Company changed everything in 1624. You’ll learn how the island transitioned through Dutch and English control, how it fared through World Wars, and its stint as a Coast Guard station. In 1995, it was finally returned to its original glory, now serving as a place to enjoy nature with family and friends.   What You’ll Learn: (0:34) The history of Governor’s Island (1:25) Playing “colonial ping pong” with Native land (3:25) Visiting New York’s best-kept secret    Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com

What’s your favorite thing about Thanksgiving?  Mashed potatoes? Load em up!   Pumpkin Pie? More please!  Your opinionated auntie telling you how to live your life? “Uh…is that my phone ringing? I better just get that…” In today’s episode, Ginni shares an autumnal treat: her top five favorite Thanksgiving-themed sitcom episodes that’ll keep you smiling when you need a break from your loved ones.  You’ll hear holiday-themed classics from sitcom royalty like Everybody Loves Raymond, Will and Grace, Seinfeld, and (of course), Friends. So when you inevitably need a break from family this holiday season, consider this list your get-out-of-the-conversation-free card.   What You’ll Learn: (0:29) Ginni’s Thanksgiving relief package (1:11) An episode for those on the Thanksgiving family tour (2:02) Thanksgiving with Friends (and more Friends)   Connect with Ginni Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hearinnewyork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearinnewyork Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hearinnewyork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnisaraswati Website: www.ginnimedia.com