The Montclair Pod

In this episode of The Montclair Pod, Mike and Farnoosh dive into the first week of September in town, with plenty of local updates and a few personal confessions.Highlights include:Back to School Drama – Montclair renews its $1.5M contract with food service provider Southwest Food Service Excellence. Will new “healthier” options and salad bars outweigh student complaints?Gas Below $3? – Prices hit five-year lows in Montclair, with one Valley Road station leading the way. Plus, what’s next for electric car buyers as the federal tax credit winds down?Dining Outdoors – Montclair ranks #102 on a national survey of best places for al fresco dining. Princeton and Cape May beat us out—but Farnoosh and Mike share their own dining adventures.Town Borrowing Plans – Montclair considers a $10 million bond for roads, pools, and even a new firetruck. Why can’t these be budgeted for in advance?Fleet Feet Returns – After a devastating fire and $600K in losses, the local running store reopens thanks to insurance.Real Estate Talk – A neighbor’s home hits the market at $2.375M—$700K above its 2016 purchase price. Will buyers bite? Taxes alone top $57K a year.Weekend Plans – From a Jets game at MetLife to Bard’s performance at the South End Business District Festival, Montclair’s social calendar is full.All this plus: skipping to the bus stop, Uber Eats in the high school lunchroom, lobster rolls (or lack thereof), and Mike’s new fitness commitment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod News, we’re covering a packed lineup of local stories and some irresistible neighborhood gossip. Montclair High School slipped in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, falling from #55 to #95 in the state — sparking debates about test scores, funding, and what really defines success in our schools.We also take a peek inside a jaw-dropping $7.5 million listing for a two-family home once tied to Kool & the Gang — is it worth the price tag? Over in Watchung Plaza, renovations are nearly complete, promising a safer and more welcoming space for the community.And in the rumor mill: beloved sushi spot Daikichi might be making a comeback. Plus, we share the quirky story of how a New Jersey rest stop meant to honor Toni Morrison ended up bearing Bruce Willis’s name instead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, Farnoosh, Mike, and political correspondent Terrence McDonald from the New Jersey Monitor break down the stories making waves in Montclair and beyond:Lead Pipe Replacements Coming: Homes built before 1940 may still have lead service lines. Montclair will begin replacing them in 2026 under a statewide mandate to eliminate all lead pipes by 2031. The Montclair Water Bureau has created an online inventory of all known service lines here.New Power Substation on Valley Road: PSE&G plans to replace the nearly 100-year-old facility to prevent failures and meet modern codes, though residents are raising questions about transparency and community input.Mail Heist in Montclair: A postal truck was smashed open, and two trays of mail were stolen, along with the carrier’s lunch. Authorities are treating it as a federal crime.School Budget Fallout: Former Montclair school business administrator Christina Hunt, tied to the district’s $11 million deficit, has landed a new role in the Penns Grove – Carnys Point Regional School District.Hate Crime Charges: A Montclair man faces serious charges for sending racist and antisemitic threats through a Fort Lee apartment building’s system.Car Theft Surge: Multiple vehicle thefts and break-ins across Montclair highlight the growing problem of brazen auto crimes.Statewide & National Headlines: From baby blood sample lawsuits to immigration controversies shaping New Jersey’s governor’s race, we connect the dots on issues with local impact.Send us your ideas for season 3 at Hello@MontclairPod.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Award-winning journalist Terrence McDonald, editor at the New Jersey Monitor, joins Mike and Farnoosh for a deep dive into state politics, local news, and Montclair's ever-evolving dining scene.We kick off with a look at the New Jersey governor’s race and why polls might not tell the whole story. Terrence breaks down the latest political flashpoints, including the tragic Lakewood DUI case that’s become a national talking point, the Trump administration’s investment in the state race, and how bail reform and sanctuary status are entering the conversation.From there, we pivot to home turf: Montclair’s proposed shuttle bus service. Will it solve transportation woes or create more questions than answers? We also celebrate a fundraising victory for Clary Anderson Arena, discuss the school district’s $11 million budget gap, and what it might mean if the state steps in.On the lighter side, we taste-test the town’s culinary news: a veggie-forward restaurant coming to Bloomfield Avenue, thoughts on Ani Ramen’s wing prices, a taco tour, and the arrival of Pendragon's Smokehouse. Plus: a quirky rest stop closure mystery, Cory Booker’s Senate floor theatrics, and why one U.S. Attorney appointment is turning into a political chess match.Highlights:Governor’s race breakdown: The stakes, the polls, and the political strategies at play.Lakewood DUI case: How one tragedy is fueling a statewide political debate.Shuttle bus proposal: Will Montclair residents hop on board? Take the survey: Montclair Shuttle Bus SurveyDining buzz: From the veggie-forward Sam's Table to The Saint Clair on Church Street to smoked brisket dreams at Pendragon's SmokehouseClary Anderson comeback: How the rink hit its fundraising goal.Political side stories: Cory Booker’s filibuster, Trump’s U.S. Attorney pick under fire, and the Connie Chung rest stop saga.What's going on at the Connie Chung service area? **Subscribe, leave a review below, and please follow on Instagram. Send us a story idea or tip: hello@montclairpod.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As summer winds down and Montclair empties out, The Montclair Pod is here with a jam-packed Season 2 finale to help you make the most of August, whether you’re staying put or sneaking in one last getaway.Co-hosts Farnoosh and Mike share their personal plans (pork shoulder rotisserie, anyone?), surprising listener hotspots, and clever ways to spend your August locally, including music, comedy, beaches, workouts at Brain and Body Method, and yes…MedievalFest.Plus:A fire closes two Bloomfield Ave. businesses—how to helpMontclair Public Schools’ $11M budget shortfall (check out the Reddit Thread)Updates on QuickChek's replacementMontclair’s own spy scandal and true crime loreA very sweaty trip to the astronaut-inspired fitness studio, Brain & Body MethodLive music picks from Forest Hills to Iridium Jazz ClubMontclair’s pool drama—and whether you can crash Glen Ridge or MaplewoodEVENTS + ACTIVITIESMontclair Art Museum's Wine & WheelMontclair Jazz Festival Soundcheck Series Montclair Comedy FestivalAziz Ansari at the Wellmont Theater Lady Gaga at Madison Square Garden MedievalFest Websites MentionedBrain & Body Method – Mention The Montclair Pod for 3 Free SessionsLOCAL SPOTS & DESTINATIONSThe FunPlex Waterpark Montclair Public Pools InfoMUSIC VENUES & BANDSForest Hills StadiumHeadhunters Jazz Band Iridium NYC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Farnoosh and Mike explore sustainability with a Montclair lens. What does it really mean to “live green” in our town—and is it affordable, practical, or even possible?You’ll hear:A solar reality check from Montclair local Ivy Sheibar, who breaks down the truth behind “free” solar panels, what the upcoming federal tax credit deadline means for homeowners, and how to decide if solar is worth it for your house. Plus, she’s offering a free guide for listeners.A trip to American Royal Hardware with longtime staffer Cliff Proven, who shares the top energy-saving tips he's learned from over 30 years on the job, including one easy trick that could save you hundreds.A new take on secondhand shopping with Lacey Triplett Thistle, founder of Middle Child, an online kids’ consignment boutique based in Montclair. She explains how her circular economy model is helping families save money and reduce waste, while keeping kids dressed in style.A crash course in beekeeping from Verona-based Jim Feeney, who shares why bees love Montclair, and how bees might be the original sustainability ambassadors.Plus:A local QuickChek closes, and the town holds an impromptu vigil.MM by Morimoto officially opens, and the crew gets a sneak peek—with Iron Chef Morimoto himself.Our weekend event roundup, featuring Montclair Flea: Tales & Treasures Edition and the grand opening of the Montclair Creative Reuse Project Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back by demand: It’s our second deep dive into the world of Montclair arts: bigger, bolder, and possibly haunted.  Dance phenom Sharron Miller takes us from flat feet to Broadway, and back to Montclair where she’s mentored generations of dancers at her namesake academy. The Montclair Dance Festival has arrived. Hear from founder Donna Scro Samori about its community roots and big dreams.Step into Ria Frame Shop x Art Gallery, where frames meet fine art. Owner Ria Mulvey shares how her dual business helps emerging artists and protects pieces from $5 to $500,000.We visit Tiny Gallery, a network of mini exhibitions that’s turning heads and stopping dog-walkers in their tracks.Co-host Alex Pavljuk of the Montclair Art Museum and host of Maybe, Actually, Museums Are For Me, joins us again with stories from inside the museum—including a new ghost sighting, summer discounts, and fall preview of Tom Nussbaum: But Wait, There’s More.Plus, in the news:– Bellevue Theatre gets a second act– Farewell to Colbert on CBS– QuickChek closes, Milk & Mayhem opens– And Mike’s birthday gets wrecked by a rogue tow truckListen now, and check out more at montclairpod.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Montclair is facing a growing crisis: homelessness. As of the latest count, there are 93 homeless people (sheltered and unsheltered) in Montclair, according to a study by Monarch Housing. That's the fourth highest number in Essex County. And while the need for help has never been more urgent, the community’s response has never felt more complicated.In this episode, co-hosts Farnoosh and Mike take listeners deep into the story behind MESH (Montclair Emergency Services for Hope), a local nonprofit operating out of a former restaurant on Bloomfield Avenue. MESH provides meals, shelter, and vital services six days a week. But its presence in Montclair’s Bloomfield Avenue has become a flashpoint, sparking praise, concern, and a larger reckoning with how the town addresses visible poverty and mental health on its streets.You’ll hear from:Joe Granger, MESH’s Executive Director, who shares stories of struggle, hope, and the hard choices he and his team face daily.Letrice and Tammy, two guests of MESH, who open up about losing stability and what dignity and community look like now.Local business owners, Eddie Peralta of Powerhouse Tattoo and Matt Jenkins of Smoke and Mirrors, who say they’re sympathetic but feel unsupported as public disturbances increase near their storefronts.Montclair Mayor Renee Baskerville and Deputy Mayor Susan Shin Andersen, who speak to the town’s efforts to balance compassion with public safety.Lt. Tyrone Williams Jr. of the Montclair Police Department, on their role in addressing street-level crises, and why enforcement alone isn’t the answer.More: 10 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Montclair's 2025 BudgetEvents:Montclair Flea Dazed and ConfusedBard Band at Ironbound FarmFIT FRIDAYS at Lackawanna**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's show highlights some of the nonprofits doing critical, often unsung work to support our community. With over 210 registered nonprofits in town, we hear from some of the most impactful organizations responding to food insecurity, domestic violence, and urgent financial crises. Guest co-host is Tom Hall, Artistic Director/Co-Head of Montclair Film, who also provides insights into how the arts fit into the nonprofit landscape.Guests include:Ray Graj, co-founder of Montclair Helps, on how his group delivers emergency financial aid within 48 hours via a unique partnership model.Kristin Wald of SOFIA (Start Out Fresh Intervention Advocates), on how her organization supports survivors of domestic violence with autonomy and access to trusted resources.Mike Bruno of the Human Needs Food Pantry, who explains how rising demand and budget cuts are straining vital services.We also dig into Montclair’s profound legacy of giving, from the Shumans and Van Vlecks to modern grassroots efforts.Upcoming events:Montclair’s First-Ever French Shopping DayNatsu Pop Con at Montclair Public LibraryMontclair Film Summer ScreeningsSOFIA's 15th Annual Walk Against Domestic Violence**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Montclair has a new superintendent—and she’s stepping into the role at a critical moment. In this episode, Farnoosh and Mike sit down with Ruth B. Turner, the newly appointed head of Montclair Public Schools, for an unfiltered conversation about the district’s financial audit, recent staffing cuts, and her vision for rebuilding trust in the community. To learn more about Turner's upcoming Listen and Learn sessions check out our site.Turner shares how her background in social work informs her leadership style, what “equity” means to her in practice, and how she plans to engage with families, teachers, and taxpayers.Also in this episode:Adam Sandler is spotted shooting hoops in town.The Montclair Brewery's big plans for FIFA World Cup.Montclair’s CFO departs after a $1.25M whistleblower settlement.A new bakery opens in Upper Montclair (arrive early for croissants!)What’s happening this July 4th weekend.And: Farnoosh and Mike call on listeners to help shape future episodes on dating, climate, and the arts in Montclair.**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, we’re taking a closer look at how safe it feels to get around Montclair and what’s being done to improve it.We sit down with Laura Torchio, the town’s new Complete Streets Director, in her first public interview since stepping into the role. Torchio shares her vision for making Montclair’s streets safer and more accessible for everyone, whether they’re walking, biking, or driving. She also talks candidly about the obstacles: slow change, coordination, and the need for community trust.You’ll also hear from residents about how safe they feel moving through town and what they'd like to see change. And we take a joyful ride with the Montclair Bike Bus, the weekly event that’s turning the morning school commute into something kids and parents actually look forward to.Events this weekend:Montclair Film's Summer ShowcaseAuthor Event at Montclair Book CenterCaribbean Fete at Montclair BreweryNew Jersey Symphony with Fireworks Spectacular in Newark **Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, The Montclair Pod goes deep on all things food. First up, the pizza crawl. We hit five of Montclair’s most talked-about pizza spots, all within walking distance of downtown Bloomfield Avenue. Along the way, we debate what makes a true Jersey slice, swap pronunciation tips and crown a surprise winner.Stops include:My Little Pizza Heaven – Food truck nostalgia and Jersey-style prideLuigino Parmigiana – A gourmet lamb flatbread that sparks debateAh’ Pizz – A rustic pie with big flavorTeglia Pizza Bar – Thick sourdough squaresLeone’s – A buffalo chicken slice with hot honey and old-school vibesAlso in this episode:Ironbound Farm Market at Lackawanna Plaza Charles Rosen, the visionary behind Ironbound Farm, talks about the market’s bold mission to bring regenerative agriculture and economic equity to Montclair through a revolutionary “farm stop” model. Bonus: no pesticides, no middlemen, and some pretty incredible cider apples.Pendragon's Smokehouse BBQ (Delivery Only) Co-owner Charlie Holbech shares how he’s building a hyperlocal barbecue business in Montclair—with no apps, no shortcuts, and recipes rooted in community. Plus: last-minute tips for hosting a Juneteenth cookout, including how to make smoky chicken thighs without a smoker.Special thanks to our sponsors:Sarah Elizabeth of Sarah Elizabeth DesignKarin Diana, Montclair Real Estate Agent with The Home Collective **Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Montclair’s red-hot real estate market finally cooling down? In this episode, we dig into the latest local housing trends with longtime agent Karin Diana from Compass, who says even the best listings aren’t flying off the market like they used to. Why? Think rising interest rates, nervous buyers watching their stock portfolios, and fewer outlier bids. Plus: one Montclair renter shares what it’s really like to compete in the town’s high-stakes rental scene, and one co-host shares why her family decided to sell and head west. With special thanks to our brand partner Sarah Elizabeth Design for tips on remodeling with intention — and on a budget.**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. **Download our free guide to shopping local here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Education takes center stage .We’re tackling three hot-button issues on the minds of Montclair families: why some parents are pulling their kids from public school in favor of private, what’s behind the heated debate over the newly approved 2025–26 school calendar (with insights from Danielle Neff of the Montclair Moms, Dads and Parents Facebook page), and how one local teen, Carla Osbourne, beat the odds to land a summer job at Egan’s amid a drop in youth employment.Plus, we feature a powerful moment from Danny Marcketta, president of the Montclair Education Association, during a recent Board of Education meeting.Special thanks to our sponsor, Montclair Cooperative School.Download our free guide to shopping local here.Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Montclair Pod, we explore how global economic forces—tariffs, inflation, and climate change—show up here in Montclair. From toy stores to farmers, local businesses are navigating rising costs and economic uncertainty. Download our free guide to shopping local here. We speak with:Wendy Lacey, owner of The General Store at Cornerstone Montclair, about how proposed tariffs could impact her ability to employ young people and adults with disabilities.Chelsea Smith and Nessa Murphy, co-owners of Just Kidding Around, on how they’re responding to rising supplier costs and hard choices ahead.Tyler Mathisen, longtime financial journalist and Montclair resident, who connects the dots between global tariffs and our everyday purchases—from flowers to car repairs.Also in this episode:A special spotlight on Twocents, the Montclair-born startup reinventing how we leave feedback for small businesses—no ratings, no trolls, just smart, anonymous input that goes straight to owners.At the Montclair Farmers Market, we hear from:John Krueger, owner of Circle Brook Farm, on weather delays, rising labor costs, and staying resilient.Ginger Kessler, co-owner of Tree-Licious Orchards, on how economic hesitation is impacting CSA sign-ups and warm-weather crops.Gray Russell, co-founder and president of the market, on why supporting local agriculture matters more than ever.A profile of Chantal Bolivar, founder of Crepes Chantal, who’s turning a French favorite into a local staple—with a boost from Montclair State’s entrepreneurship program.Plus, a tour of Lackawanna Plaza with Jason Gleason of BDP Holdings, as the long-awaited redevelopment introduces murals, microbusinesses, and a new energy to the historic terminal.**Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 2 of The Montclair Pod kicks off with a deep dive into the heart of local government. Who actually runs Montclair? Where do our property taxes go? And what’s really happening behind the scenes at places like Clary Anderson Arena? Hosts Farnoosh, Ali, and Mike sit down with Montclair’s newly appointed Township Manager, Stephen Marks, for answers. Marks, a lifelong New Jersey public servant with roots in South Orange and a deep appreciation for Montclair, shares how his job functions like the town’s CEO—managing a $107 million budget, overseeing departments from public safety to recreation, and balancing a long list of resident demands.From leaking roofs to high taxes, Marks pulls back the curtain on what it takes to maintain aging infrastructure, respond to hundreds of community emails, and stretch every tax dollar. The episode also touches on the differences between Montclair’s municipal budget and the school budget, why the town is hiring a new Complete Streets Director, and how federal grant cuts could impact future services.Plus, we'll hear directly from residents about their biggest concerns and what they wish they understood better about how the town works.Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode was originally published on April 3.The Montclair Pod Team - Mike, Farnoosh, and Ali - eat their way through town and talk to some of the people making it all happen. You’ll hear from local chef and Montclair native Lauren Hirschberg of Turtle + the Wolf and Pineapple Express. We speak to Max Gray of Chow Town Food Tours about why he brings people here. And we hit some true local favorites with content creator and community advocate Wendy Tiburcio (aka The Montclairnista).The pod team sampled food from no fewer than 10 restaurants that are featured in the show. Jefferson’s Cafe, Minoru, Beyond Pita, Good Chicken, Urban Chicken, Popeye’s… You may be noticing a trend here. The team discovered a fried chicken oasis centered around Lackawanna Plaza and the resulting fried chicken extravaganza featured the ENTIRE Montclair Pod family. It’s magical, people.Finally, before we take a short post-season break, we dish up our favorite memories and a few behind-the-scenes moments from the past 12 episodes - plus a little bit about what we’ve got planned for season 2 - which begins next week! Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Comedian Zarna Garg joins Farnoosh live at Loopwell in Montclair to celebrate the release of her memoir, This American Woman. In this candid and hilarious conversation, Garg shares how she transformed personal crisis into a comedy career—building a thriving business from scratch after her husband lost his job. She opens up about betting on herself in midlife, using clean comedy as a strategic edge, and how she’s navigated financial stress, immigrant identity, and motherhood with grit and humor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve ever seen a long line of people on Label Street, chances are it leads to The Human Needs Food Pantry—Montclair’s quiet but essential resource for residents and area neighbors facing food insecurity. In this episode, we talk with executive director Mike Bruno about the growing demand for services, the challenge of operating in a high-cost town, and why 2025 may be one of the toughest years yet. To learn more about how to donate, visit their website. Follow on Instagram.Additional non-profits in the area, supporting residents facing food insecurity, housing instability, and other challenges::Toni’s Kitchen: A food ministry of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, providing meals, groceries, and wellness services to individuals and families in need.Montclair Emergency Services for Hope (MESH): Offers evening meals six days a week and overnight respite during extreme weather to Montclair's most vulnerable homeless adults and families.Salvation Army Montclair Citadel: Provides housing assistance, hot meals, emergency services, and spiritual support to those in need.Red Hawk Pantry – Montclair State University: Offers free food and personal care items to Montclair State University students experiencing food insecurity.Montclair Mutual Aid: A grassroots network collecting and distributing essential resources such as groceries, toiletries, appliances, and clothing to families and individuals in need.Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you hear? TEDx is coming to Montclair. On today's mini episode, we’re joined by Katina Rodriguez and Nova Pierre Lewis, the organizers behind this year’s TEDx Montclair, themed The Domino Effect. We get the behind-the-scenes on how speakers were selected, why Montclair is the perfect host, and how this TEDx will stand out from others—with a focus on community, connection, and conversations that carry beyond the stage.TEDx Montclair is happening on June 24 at Montclair Mezzanine.Learn more here.[And if you'd like to join a live recording of The Montclair Pod at Loopwell next Tuesday featuring comedian Zarna Garg, click here.]Subscribe, leave a review below, and please share your thoughts by leaving a voicemail at MontclairPod.com. Follow on Instagram and send us a tip: hello@montclairpod.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.