Retrospect: Recent Episodes
The Fordham Observer
Take an in-depth look at the issues facing Fordham University with Retrospect, the official podcast of The Fordham Observer, as we interview guests, share stories and foster active debate. Co-hosted by Diana Silva, Mia Swann and Kiera Mullany.
From the bustling streets of New York City to the vast landscapes of Nigeria, the specter of hunger looms large. In this episode, we’ll examine the factors contributing to food insecurity in both these diverse contexts. We’ll discuss the impact of climate change, poverty, and economic inequality on food access and affordability.
Are groceries really that expensive in Midtown? Of course, for broke college students but thankfully the podcast hosts have a variety of ways to save money on food in today’s episode on affordable groceries in the Lincoln Center area.
Media, in all its forms, tells a lot about our current culture and climate, especially when it comes to romantic relationships. In today’s episode, our hosts discuss the influence media has on relationships and vice versa in the wake of “Priscilla,” “Bridgerton,” and much more.
Is it activism or is it sensationalism? In this episode, we delve into the controversial world of sensational activism. With everything happening in the world today, it is important to understand what is helpful information and what is simply a grab for the headlines. Tune in as we examine the fine line between effective advocacy...
Host Morgan Johnson, producer Nellie Podokshik and assistant features editor Colby McCaskill, FCLC ’26, review the recent presidential press conference held between Tania Tetlow and Fordham’s student media outlets. Listen to what the president had to say on pressing issues such as an impending tuition hike, free speech on campus and even her favorite foods....
Host Morgan Johnson, producer Nellie Podokshik and contributor Samantha Ortiz, FCLC ’26, speak with news editors Alexa Villatoro, FCLC ’24, Insiya Gandhi, FCLC ’24, and professor in Gabelli School of Business, Michelle Weber, about Fordham’s new AI policy, its impact on students and the future of AI in classrooms.
Host Morgan Johnson, producer Nellie Podokshik and contributors Anesiah Watson, FCLC ’27, and Samantha Ortiz, FCLC ’26, speak to arts and culture editors Aditi Praveen Kariyanahalli, FCLC ’25, Julia Jaramillo, FCLC ’25, and Juliana Sharon, FCLC ’25, about the writers and actors strike.
Host Morgan Johnson and Producer Nellie Podokshik speak with Tiffany Ng, Fordham College at Rose Hill ’26 and a major in computer science, about the disruption of human creativity by AI, its impact on industries such as Hollywood, and ways to preserve artistry and authenticity amidst this technological shift.
At the end of the episode, Johnson, Podokshik and Ng use DALL-E, a text to image generator, to showcase the capabilities of generative AI. Below are the prompts generated during the episode, found at the following time stamps:
Johnson’s prompt, 12:13: “an abstract oil painting of where AI falls in humanity and sarcasm." Ng’s prompt, 13:16: “three ambitious and funny girls chatting in a podcast about AI.” Podokshik’s prompt, 14:08: “hollywood actors and writers strike picket lines because of AI taking their jobs.”
Host Morgan Johnson and Producer Nellie Podokshik talk to PRISM LC co-presidents Tessa Erbe and Emmanuel Okeke about rainbow capitalism and how corporations choose to engage with the LGBTQ+ community.
Host Morgan Johnson and Producer Nellie Podokshik talk to former hosts Christian Madlansacay, Shaily Jani and Brianna Doucette and former Opinions editors Ava Peabody and Isabella Scipioni about the challenges women face in the pop industry.
Hosts Christian, Shaily and Morgan and Producer Nellie Podokshik talk to the Women in Finance and Economics club’s junior E-Board member, Tiffany Ng, FCLC ’26, about the recent banking crisis and what it means for all of us.
Hosts Christian and Shaily and Podcast Producer Brianna Doucette, FCLC ’23, talk to Sports and Health Editors Gabriella Bermudez, FCLC ’25, and Chris Murray, FCRH ’24, about their experiences working with the section and interest in sports.
Host Christian and Contributing Hosts Brianna Doucette, FCLC '23; Morgan Johnson, FCLC '26; and Ben Oppenheimer, FCLC '24, talk about various carbon footprint apps that promote eco-friendly practices.
Hosts Christian and Shaily and Contributing Hosts Brianna Doucette, FCLC ’23; Morgan Johnson, FCLC ’26; and Ben Oppenheimer, FCLC ’24, talk with Mia Giovina about her music career and experience with TikTok as a musician.
Christian and Shaily talk with Editor-in-Chief Allie Stofer and Managing Editor Maddie Sandholm, both FCLC ’23, about their roles and plans for the upcoming semester. We reflect on their previous involvement with The Observer as well as what they look forward to in the future.
Christian and Shaily talk with Reeya Vasisht, FCLC ’23, about her experience with Fordham’s study abroad program. We discuss her time in London, travel stories and more in this exciting episode.
Christian talks with Multimedia Editor Lauren Bocalan and Staff Writer Sydney Champagne, both FCLC ’24, about Champagne’s article on Lauren’s small business — making Harry Styles-inspired earrings — and her interest in expanding the business through collections for other artists.
Diana, Christian and Shaily talk with Head Copy Editor Emily Ellis, FCLC ’23, about her new dating advice column, “Ask Em.” We discuss dating apps, hookup culture and more in this special interview.
Diana and new co-host/producer, Shaily Jani, FCLC’ 23, have a chat with one of WFUV’s sports beat reporters, Samantha Bohrer, FCLC ’23, about WFUV, her predictions on the Super Bowl and what she looks forward to on this football Sunday. They also host the first all-girls sports panel with guest panelists Emily Ellis, FCLC ’23,...
Diana has a chat with Julia Rinaldi, FCLC ’22, on what it was like to transition from suburban to city life, her different experiences of living in the city, and things she loves most about New York City and Fordham Lincoln Center. Then, Diana gives us a glimpse of everyday routine of commuting into the...
Diana and Mia talk with Sports and Health Editor Patrick Moquin about how he’s doing with sports coverage, the Fordham football team and their accomplishments and the basketball season approaching. Hosted by Diana Silva and Mia Swann. Music by Michael Appler.
Happy Halloween Rams! Diana and new co-host Mia Swann sit down with Gabby Etzel, FCLC ’22, to talk about her favorite things about Halloween, Nightmare at Gravity Hill, and the spookiness/perks of what it was like working at a haunted attraction. Then, Mia gives us a short spooky story about Nightmare at Gravity Hill. Hosted...
Diana sits down with journalism major Letícia Guimares, FCLC ’23, to talk about Hispanic Heritage Month, what it was like growing up in a Latin household, and she fills us in on the club at Fordham called Student Organization of Latinx (SOL). Hosted by Diana Silva. Music by Michael Appler.
Diana speaks with Fordham professor and fashion historian Sonya Abrego, who holds a Ph.D. in decorative arts design and material culture, about her experiences in the fashion world. Then, Diana shares her review of the Met Gala’s best-dressed celebrities of the night. Hosted by Diana Silva. Music by Michael Appler.
Cate and Diana speak with former Retrospect hosts Corbin Gregg, FCLC ’22, and Kevin Christopher Robles, FCLC ’20, about their experiences working on the podcast. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Diana Silva. Music by Michael Appler.
Diana sits down with Julia Rinaldi, FCLC ’23, to hear what she’s looking forward to in the fall semester. Then, Diana shares her top 10 tips for students new to campus. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Diana Silva. Music by Michael Appler.
Cate and Diana explore the case of Anastasiya Andreyeva, a Fordham student charged with the 2007 murder of Brooklyn resident Aleksey Kats. Then, Leo Bernabei, FCLC ’21, shares the various theories behind the death of Patrick McNeill, a Fordham student who died in 1997 under suspicious circumstances. Trigger warnings: discussions of violence, murder and mental...
Cate and Diana share the sounds of New York City Pride. Then, Cate speaks with Alden Kennedy, FCLC ’22, about her first Pride experience. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Diana Silva. Music by Michael Appler and Diana Ross.
Asst. Opinions Editor and columnist Jessica Yu, FCLC ’23, explains why hating country music may have political and social implications beyond just music taste. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Diana Silva. Music by Michael Appler and Taylor Swift.
With the semester in its homestretch, Sports & Health Editor Patrick Moquin, FCLC ’22, recaps the highlights of the spring season for the Fordham Rams. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Diana Silva. Music by Michael Appler.
Cate and Diana sit down with Birch Coffee co-founder Jeremy Lyman to discuss the history and vision behind the business. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Diana Silva. Music by Michael Appler and Twin Musicom.
Dean of Fordham College at Lincoln Center (FCLC) Laura Auricchio recounts the successes and failures of the 2020-2021 academic year. Later, Cate and Corbin introduce the new Retrospect host, Diana Silva, FCLC ’23. Then, Corbin says farewell to Retrospect. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Cate and Corbin speak with Joe DeLessio, FCLC ’06, former managing editor for The Observer and current social media editor for New York Magazine, about the evolution of journalism and the rise of digital media. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
United Student Government (USG) President Loreen Ruiz, FCLC ’21, and Vice President Robert Sundstrom, FCLC ’22, reflect on the success of their partnership during an exceptional school year. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Members of the Feminist Alliance E-Board Gabby Abrazaldo, FCLC ’23, and Katrina Shea, FCLC ’22 discuss feminist activism at Fordham and the ways the university should address gender inequality. Dr. Shiloh Whitney, professor of philosophy, gives a theory-based perspective on feminism. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Fordham women’s basketball team Captains Kaitlyn Downey, Katie McLoughlin and Anna DeWolfe recount their success this season and how the team was impacted by the suspension of in-person activities at Rose Hill. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Head Copy Editor Jill Rice explains the significance of Lent and shares her experience as a practicing Catholic at Fordham. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
The Stove’s Cabin Crew E-Board talks with Cate and Corbin about their experiences putting on live comedy shows throughout the pandemic. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Cate and Corbin welcome back Dr. Jeffrey Ng, director of Fordham’s Counseling and Psychological Services, to discuss the importance of intimacy and romance in a social distanced world. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Evan Vollbrecht, IT manager for The Fordham Observer, discusses how he worked in a pharmacy throughout the pandemic. He also describes his experience getting a coronavirus vaccine. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler
Cate and Corbin take a look back at 2020 as it was covered by Retrospect, The Observer’s podcast. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
United Student Government (USG) Vice President Robert Sundstrom, FCLC ’22, recaps USG’s accomplishments during an extraordinary fall semester.
Dr. Jeffrey Ng, director of Counseling and Psychological Services at Fordham University, explains how the pandemic, the upcoming holidays and the transition to winter are harming students’ mental health. He also discusses ways to cope with the state of the world and ways life has changed. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by...
Online Editor Gillian Russo, Newsletter and Social Media Editor Grace Getman, Fun and Games and Asst. Photo Editor Esmé Bleecker-Adams, and Copy Editor Jill Rice explain how the newly opened Target on Broadway and 61st has improved their Fordham experience.
Cate and Corbin give a rundown of important 2020 election results. Then, they discuss what to expect from the presidential race within the next few days. For further election coverage, check out the Fordham Observer’s special election issue. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
The Retrospect crew gives a rundown on a few key House races in New York and New York City. Nicole Perkins, features editor for the Fordham Observer, shares her opinions on those races and other New York primaries and elections that have shaped the local political scene. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael...
Brandon Sapienza, FCLC ’21 and a journalism major, and Ava Peabody, FCLC ’23, a journalism and political science major; give their takes on the upcoming 2020 presidential election and why they support President Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Kevin Stoll explains how the world of film has changed since the outbreak of the coronavirus, and Tyler Bey considers the shortcomings of Hollywood when it comes to racial justice. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Junior Gabelli senator Aastha Aggarwal discusses her plans to encourage student unity on campus. Newly elected first-year senators Bianca Georgescu, Cort McElroy and Djellza Pulatani reflect on how their campaigns were impacted by the pandemic. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Sports & Health Editor Patrick Moquin provides a rundown on how Fordham sports have changed this semester. He also describes the world of eSports and the new intramural video game leagues Fordham has set up for students. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Observer Staff Columnist Leo Bernabei gives a rundown of the best burgers in NYC. Features Editor Samantha Matthews explains how to support Black-owned restaurants in the city and across the country. Copy Editor Alyssa Macaluso describes the impact of the pandemic on the New York restaurant scene. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music...
News Editor Katrina Lambert outlines the latest measures taken by Fordham to ensure the safety of students and faculty prior to the start of the fall semester. Cate and Corbin give an update on what to expect from Retrospect this fall. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Music by Michael Appler.
Lindsie Rank, program officer for Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, discusses her letter to Rev. McShane regarding the recent Austin Tong controversy and argues for a broad understanding of free speech on college campuses. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Produced by Jacqueline Pierce. Music by Michael Appler.
Co-editors-in-chief Kayla Otero and Ritamarie Pepe talk about how their online publication grain of salt highlights the work of women and nonbinary artists. Members of the FLASH Magazine editorial board, including editor-in-chief Nishita Naga and creative director Bawila Idris, discuss their latest special summer edition. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Produced by Jacqueline...
Katz Fantulin talks about the Rainbow Alliance and what it is like being LGBTQ at Fordham. Jay W. Walker discusses the history of NYC Pride and the Queer Liberation March. Vicky Carmenate shares a playlist celebrating queer Black artists. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin Gregg. Produced by Jacqueline Pierce. Music by Michael Appler.
News Editor Katrina Lambert discusses her recent article outlining what NY state guidelines mean for reopening. She also talks about how Fordham compares to other schools’ plans, what hybrid classes mean and the financial repercussions of keeping...
Members of The Observer's outgoing leadership team Owen Roche, Courtney Brogle and Izzi Duprey discuss how the paper has shaped their time at Fordham and how they have overseen big changes for the publication. Hosted by Cate Galliford and Corbin...
The two new Retrospect hosts speak with Loreen Ruiz about her recent USG presidential win about her recent USG presidential win, Opinions writer Evelyn Sims about her latest article on adjusting performance expectations and former host Kevin...
Kevin Christopher Robles is very pleased and terribly proud to introduce Cate Galliford, Corbin Gregg and Jackie Pierce as the new proprietors of the podcast. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales. Music by Michael Appler.
Seniors Ally Blatz, Paolo Estrella, and Lena Weidenbruch share their thoughts on losing half of their final year, missing graduation and what they’re doing to cope with self-isolation. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales....
Patrick Moquin gives a rundown on the final days of Fordham sports. Katrina Lambert explains the difficulties that students faced when trying to leave campus during the pandemic. Michelle Agaron talks about how clubs and student organizations are...
Joe Kottke goes into how COVID-19 has affected student workers and university employees. Afterward, Kevin Christopher Robles gives a news update. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales. Music by Michael Appler and Jeff Umbrell.
In light of COVID-19 and Fordham’s campus closings, The Observer’s Editor-in-Chief, Managing Editor and Online Editor would like to update you about the state of the newspaper, where it's going and give some insight on what we believe our, and...
Polina Uzornikova describes her Opinions column Diaries of a Frustrated Freshman and what inspired her to write it. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales. Music by Michael Appler.
Michelle Agaron describes why the new group therapy sessions offered by Counseling and Psychological Services deserves your attention. Evelyn Sims voices her issues with the McKeon laundry room and the poor state of the campus’ laundry culture....
Leo Bernabei explains his new column Five Guys Boroughs and Fries and tells us what to expect from his coverage of New York City politics. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales. Music by Michael Appler.
Resham Sansi talks about her study abroad experience in China and how the emergence of the coronavirus cut it short. Joe Kottke discusses the concern surrounding the coronavirus and how that has disrupted the Fordham community. Luke Osborn gives some...
Conor O’Kane talks about his journey to becoming Assistant Dean of First Year Students at Fordham College Lincoln and what to expect from him going forward. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales. Music by Michael Appler.
Jill Rice and Nick Catapano give their thoughts as to why the classics major is worth your attention. Then, Melanie Corinne lays out the veteran experience at Fordham and talks about the new Veterans Center on campus. Finally, Pat Moquin discusses the...
Luke Osborn talks about the hidden consequences that consuming alcohol has on your caloric intake. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales. Music by Michael Appler.
Editor-in-Chief Owen Roche talks about The Observer's place in the Fordham community. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales. Music by Michael Appler.
Joe Kottke talks about the recent subway protests against the NYPD and the MTA. Kristen Skinner gives voice to students’ issues with printing at Lincoln Center. Samantha Matthews speaks to the legacy of former Observer editor Casey Feldman. Hosted...
Grace Getman gets real about the infamous history of the live rams used by Fordham as mascots. Michelle Agaron dishes about Aramark and whether it should remain Fordham’s food provider. Catherine Galliford discusses why it’s unfair to...
Aristan Papeo tells two ghost stories set at Fordham University. Hosted by Kevin Christopher Robles. Produced by Alyssa Morales. Music by Michael Appler, Jeff Umbrell and Kevin Macleod.
Allie Beekman discusses the secretive Board of Advisors and what their termination means for the university. Alyssa Morales talks about Wavelengths, Fordham Lincoln Center's new radio station. Patrick Moquin gives us reasons why we should care about...
Aidan Donaghy breaks down the Environmental Club’s recent camping initiative. Brandon Sapienza provides his appeal to the university to provide commuters with MetroCards. Haley Smullen talks about why Vine is such a cultural phenomenon among college...
Dean Laura Auricchio talks about her new role as Dean of Fordham College at Lincoln Center. Paolo Estrella and Jordan Meltzer talk about forming Ramses Records, Fordham’s first student-run record label; Chesca Mac, one of their artists, comes on to...
Veer Shetty, representing Students for Justice in Palestine, breaks down why it took five years of legal battles for Fordham to approve their club and what they hope the future will bring. Marina Vergara speaks about her choice to leave the Ailey...
Interim Dean Frederick J. Wertz speaks about his experience filling the shoes of Rev. Robert R. Grimes, S.J. as Fordham Lincoln Center searched for a new dean. Andy Vega takes @OverheardAtFordham to task for supposed "fake news." The outgoing...
Diamantina Kefalas talks about her experience as a trans woman who lived in Fordham's dorms. Carli Freeman and Shannie Rao discuss their original musical, "The Shakespeare Company," and the special circumstances surrounding its one night only...
Kevin Christopher Robles, Jeff Umbrell and Retrospect's new producer Alyssa Morales take on a triad of trying topics: Associate Dean Mary Bly comes on to discuss her double life as an English professor and as world-famous romance novelist Eloisa...
Jeff Umbrell and Kevin Christopher Robless discuss the importance of rankings with News Editor Jordan Meltzer. Assistant Opinions Editor Evan Vollbrecht and Sports & Health Editor Luke Osborn debate the merits of self-care practices. Finally,...
Jeff Umbrell and Kevin Christopher Robles discuss The Observer's famous crossword with Fun & Games Editor Dan Nasta. Then, Opinions Editor Emeritus John McCullough talks of his gonzo experience at Winter Ball. Finally, David Fresolone...
Join Jeff Umbrell and Kevin Christopher Robles as they embark on a Valentine's Day journey: Marielle Sarmiento communicates the woes of dating apps; Danny Magaldi tests out some Fordham-themed pickup lines; and students talk about how their...
Jeff Umbrell and Kevin Christopher Robles speak with Gabe Samandi who breaks down the potential of the Class of 2023, set to become the highest-achieving and most diverse class in Fordham history. Then, Sophie Partridge-Hicks talks about the...