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.

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