Epicenter NYC: Recent Episodes
Epicenter NYC
Welcome to the Epicenter NYC podcast. Every week we share an in-depth look at one of our top stories. We'll also take a moment to share a story from one our neighbors - someone like you! For more visit us at epicenter-nyc.com and subscribe to our newsletter.
Intro music by http://karavikamusic.com/
When Kasumi Quinlan joined Lemontree, she wasn’t starting something new, she was stepping into a vision first created by Alex Godin, who set out to make finding free food as simple and human as possible.
Kasumi found a model grounded in empathy and human connection, and the opportunity to grow it into something larger. Under her leadership, Lemontree has become a nationwide service helping people navigate food insecurity with dignity. Through simple text and chat, trained advocates connect neighbors to nearby pantries and meal programs in minutes. No judgment, no hoops to jump through.
Today, I sit down with Kasumi to talk about her path into this work, what she’s learned from listening to thousands of neighbors, and how thoughtful design can turn a moment of need into one of care.
https://www.foodhelpline.org/donate
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When Glenelys Jimenez became a new mom in early 2020, she started thinking about all the things she wished she’d learned sooner. As the oldest daughter of Dominican immigrants, she’d spent years teaching herself how to navigate student loans, taxes, workplace culture, and mortgages… not just for herself, but for her family and friends, too.
When the world shut down, Glenelys decided to build what she wished had existed all along: a space for people to learn and rise together. That idea became Levanto Collective, a community filling in the life skills and support systems traditional education leaves out. Through workshops on financial wellness, mental health, reproductive health, and career growth, Levanto helps members “unlearn what doesn’t serve them and learn what will.”
Today, I sit down with Glenelys to talk about building Levanto with her own savings, staying rooted in purpose, and how she’s evolved her original idea… from an app into a community built to help others rise.
https://vialevanto.com/
https://www.instagram.com/levantocollective/
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City Señoras started as two friends looking for connection… a walk in the park, a cup of coffee, a space to slow down. But what began as a small gathering in Brooklyn has since grown into a self-care social club spanning New York and Los Angeles.
Co-founders Alexis Mendias and Jaqueline Padilla have built something special: a place where women, especially Latinas and women of color, can show up fully as themselves. Their meetups (often featuring movement, journaling, or just meaningful conversation) have drawn crowds of over eighty people, all searching for the same thing: belonging.
In this episode we sit down with Alexis and Jacqueline to hear about what it takes to build a community from scratch, and the lessons they’ve learned from balancing growth with intention.
https://www.citysenoras.com/about-us
https://www.instagram.com/citysenoras/
https://www.tiktok.com/@citysenoras
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The art world can feel intimidating, even elitist. But for Karen Vidangos, it’s also been a space to challenge those barriers and open doors for others. She built the Latinx Art Collective, a free, searchable database that helps curators, collectors, and fans discover artists across the U.S. She also created Latina in Museums, an online platform that documents her candid journey navigating a field where Latinx voices are often underrepresented.
Today, Karen shares how financial setbacks nearly took her off the path entirely, why community support is essential for anyone building a platform, and how she’s learned to give imposter syndrome just five minutes before moving forward.
https://www.instagram.com/latinxartcollective/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/latinainmuseums/
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Today, we’re turning the mic inward, and sharing a couple of highlights from a recent conversation I had with Epicenter Co-founder and publisher Mitra Kalita on Los Herederos Radio.
First, we discuss a sari exhibit that Epicenter has helped bring to life… reframing the sari as a cultural and artistic object, one that carries stories of migration, memory, identity, and resistance.
We also cover the launch of Epicenter Foundation’s latest AI cohort. The program brings together small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and other community voices to learn how artificial intelligence can be used in practical, accessible ways. It’s part of Epicenter’s ongoing effort to ensure that the communities we serve aren’t left behind as new technologies develop.
And before we wrap up, we’ll share a quick preview of what else is coming later this October.
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Lucy opened Yu & Me Books in December of 2021, bringing to life an idea she’d carried since childhood. After leaving a career in chemical engineering, she finally built the kind of space she’d always imagined: a community hub grounded in three pillars: championing writers of color, uplifting debut authors, and offering a welcoming third place.
The store quickly found its audience, drawing both national attention and strong local support. Then came the July 4th, 2023 fire that devastated the store and forced Lucy to start over. Eight months later, Yu & Me reopened, but the recovery took a personal toll.
Today, Lucy speaks with Epicenter-NYC reporter Ambar Castillo openly about burnout, a mental health crisis, and what it means to rebuild both a business and a sense of self… reflecting on how she’s learning to balance entrepreneurship and self-care. She also shares how her background in chemical engineering helped her turn a lifelong dream into a reality.
Editor’s note: This conversation includes discussion of mental health and suicidal ideation. Please listen with care and take breaks if needed.
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Cindy Castro New York is a sustainable luxury brand, producing locally in the city with responsible fabrics and a commitment to garment workers’ rights. The company was founded by Cindy Castro, who grew up in Ecuador and came to the U.S. as an au pair before putting herself through design school. She went on to break into New York’s fashion world, taking risks and building a label that reflects both her values and her vision. Today, she’s running her own brand, navigating the realities of entrepreneurship, and celebrating recognition as one of Vogue Business’s “100 Innovators.”
In this episode, we sit down with Cindy to learn more about the risks she took to invest in herself, how she centers sustainability, and the importance of kindness in an industry that often thrives on competition.
If you’d like to learn more about Cindy’s work, follow her on Instagram at instagram.com/cindycastro_nyc/ or visit cindycastro.com/.
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Brothers Van and Sumit Sharma launched Rupee Beer about six years ago. The idea grew out of their family’s long history in the Indian restaurant business, their parents opened the first Indian restaurants in Maine after immigrating from the UK, and Van saw early on the challenges of finding a consistent supply of Indian beer in the U.S.
Rupee Beer set out to fill that gap with recipes designed to pair with Indian food, using ingredients like basmati rice. The company started by contract brewing in Boston and has since expanded, now distributing in 20 states and selling through major retailers like Costco. Its lineup now includes a rice lager, an India pale ale, a mango wheat ale, and an upcoming non-alcoholic beer.
In this episode Epicenter-NYC Co-Founder and Publisher, S. Mitra Kalita, sits down with Van to learn more about the story behind Rupee, navigating the alcohol distribution system, expanding into new markets, and building a business rooted in community.
https://rupeebeer.com/
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At the height of Covid-19 In 2020, as storefronts across the city went vacant, some New Yorkers saw an opportunity. Art on the Ave NYC began filling empty windows with curated exhibitions, each paired with a QR code that let viewers hear directly from the artist. Since then, nearly a hundred spaces, from Columbus Avenue to Washington Heights, Bed-Stuy, and the Oculus, have been reimagined as public galleries.
At the center of it is Barbara Anderson, who co-founded the nonprofit with her daughter, Jackie Graham. As a middle school teacher at the time, Barbara had been using art to help students process the pandemic, George Floyd’s murder, and rising Asian hate. That classroom work became the spark for a citywide initiative… one that continues to give artists visibility, connect neighborhoods, and transform how New Yorkers experience their streets.
Today, Barbara shares more about how Art on the Ave got started, how it’s grown, and what it takes to turn empty space into something that brings a community together.
Learn more: https://www.artontheavenyc.com/
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Food often carries more than taste. It can bring back memories of family, traditions, and familiar places. That’s the response many people have to the dessert at the center of today’s episode.
That dessert is Heritage Bread Pudding, the creation of Tiffany Campos. In less than a year, she has taken her Puerto Rican family recipe and built it into a growing business, appearing at church fundraisers, pop-ups, the Grand Central holiday market, and soon, Latin Food Fest.
Today, Tiffany talks about the realities of building something from the ground up. From long nights in the kitchen to questions of scale, and what it means to honor her grandmother’s legacy along the way.
Learn more or order: heritagebreadpudding.com
Latin Food Fest: thelatinfoodfest.com
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Hard seltzer is one of the fastest-growing areas of the beverage industry. But within that, there’s still room for brands that bring something new to the table. Lunar does this with flavors like yuzu, lychee, and Korean plum, and with packaging that makes its Asian roots impossible to miss.
The company was founded by Sean Ro and Kevin Wong, who built the business with a lean team and a clear vision. And now, Lunar’s award winning drinks can be found in places like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Target.
In this episode Sean shares the realities of fundraising, the importance of staying authentic, and the lessons he carried from working in tech into the beverage world.
Learn more: https://www.drinklunar.com/
Find Lunar near you: https://www.drinklunar.com/pages/find-in-store
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Pollinators play a critical role in our food system, but their decline has immediate consequences for food security, public health, and the resilience of ecosystems.
The Bee Conservancy was created in response to that reality. What started as a grassroots effort has grown into programs that bring pollinator gardens across the city, provide seeds and support to urban farmers, and engage residents in community science to track bee populations.
Today, I’m joined by The Bee Conservancy’s Rebecca Louie, to hear about how the organization has expanded since she joined in 2019, the partnerships that have brought unexpected resources to the table, and the importance of asking for help. Her perspective offers lessons for anyone starting out in the nonprofit world, or simply looking for meaningful ways to contribute.
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It’s been just about a year since a once-empty storefront in the 74th Street Roosevelt Avenue subway station in Jackson Heights, became a space for retelling stories. It now houses Los Herederos, a nonprofit blending radio, archives, and public programs to document communities across Queens.
The idea took shape in 2015 with a bilingual multimedia project, but the team quickly realized the need for something larger. They built Los Herederos to serve the whole of Queens through film, photography, radio, and exhibitions to tell stories across communities, and to create an archive that would preserve those histories long term.
Today, Naomi Sturm, Founding Executive Director, shares lessons on starting small, defining your mission, and navigating the reality of shrinking arts funding.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/a-radio-station-inside-the-jackson-heights-subway-station-turns-1-year-old/
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Opening a brick-and-mortar business in New York City takes more than just a good idea. It takes funding, strategy, establishing connections and a clear sense of purpose. That’s what Adrian Cepeda brought when he founded The World’s Borough Bookshop in Jackson Heights two years ago. His mission? To highlight BIPOC, immigrant, and first-gen authors, who represent the diverse voices of his neighborhood.
With the help of a $20,000 grant from the “Queens Tech and Innovation Challenge” and momentum from his TikTok account, BookPapi, the shop has become more than a place to buy books. It’s a community hub, hosting story-times, open mics, and workshops.
Today, Adrian shares what it really takes to launch a business, how public funding and digital platforms like tiktok helped him get it off the ground, and why representation and community are at the center.
Check out our event: Making It Here: How to enter and navigate the ever-changing workplace
Learn more about The World's Borough Bookshop
Find Bookpapi on TikTok
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In New York City, the cost of access often determines who gets to step into the spotlight. Dance classes can run hundreds or even thousands of dollars, pricing out kids who could benefit from them most. That’s where Cultured Movement comes in. It’s a low-cost, culturally rooted dance program that centers confidence, and connection… not perfection. Founded by Sherema Fleming, a Bronx-born nurse, dancer, and baker who’s spent more than a decade making stages feel within reach for kids across the city.
Today, we sit down with Sherema to learn more about how she’s working to make dance more accessible, and how a vegan pastry hustle helps keep it all going.
Read more: https://epicenter-nyc.com/you-wont-pay-1000-for-a-dance-class-here/
The youth summer dance program will culminate in a showcase on Aug. 23 at the Ailey Studios on 405 W. 55th Street from 3 to 5 p.m.
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In New York City, turning a creative idea into a business takes more than talent. It often means juggling multiple roles: artist, vendor, marketer… and figuring out how to make a living while staying true to your vision.
It’s a balancing act that Nicolás Gabot, the founder of Brooklyn Art Factory, has been navigating for years. He’s the founder of Brooklyn Art Factory, known for handcrafted wooden signs inspired by subway station designs and customized with the names of New York neighborhoods. His work resonates with people who want to see their communities represented.
Today, I sit down with Nicolás to learn more about the inspiration behind his work, how he rebuilt after losing everything in his New York City studio to flooding and theft, and what he’s learned along the way. Our conversation is one about persistence, problem-solving, and the often overlooked labor behind creative work.
Learn more: https://epicenter-nyc.com/all-signs-point-to-the-brooklyn-art-factory/
https://www.brooklynartfactory.com/
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We’re pulling back the curtain on Epicenter-NYC, introducing the team, sharing how we approach community journalism, and reflecting on what it means to serve our neighbors. We also say goodbye to Adriana Proaño, a founding team member who’s been at the heart of this work.
Plus, a big update: we’re relaunching this show as Making It Here, featuring stories of New Yorkers building something meaningful in their communities.
Donate here: https://epicenternyc.fundjournalism.org/donate/
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On July 4th, the Big Beautiful Bill was signed into law, and with it, sweeping changes to food assistance programs that support millions of Americans. Advocates say it includes the largest cuts to SNAP in U.S. history. But this isn’t just about food budgets. Many warn of deeper ripple effects: on children’s health, educational outcomes, and the long-term stability of vulnerable households.
To understand how these changes will affect New Yorkers, I spoke with two people on the front lines of food policy: Krista Hesdorfer from Hunger Solutions New York, and Debipriya Chatterjee, a Senior Economist at the Community Service Society of New York. These conversations were recorded just before the bill was signed, but remain deeply relevant as we look ahead to how this law will be implemented.
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In today’s global spice trade, farmers often have little control, and consumers end up with bland, aging products on their shelves. The process is opaque, dominated by large companies and layers of middlemen. The team behind Burlap & Barrel is working to change that. From wild cumin gathered in Afghanistan to cinnamon bark in Vietnam, their business is built on direct partnerships with farmers, fair pricing, and respect for tradition.
Ethan Frisch and Ori Zohar launched Burlap & Barrel out of a one-bedroom apartment in Queens, and their mission has grown to include smallholder farmers in more than 30 countries. Today, we sit down with Ethan and Ori to learn more about what inspired them to take on the spice industry and what it takes to stay connected to farmers in a changing global market.
Browse Burlap & Barrel’s spice collections online here. First orders of $49 or more ship free.
Contact them on their website here.
Read more here.
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Voter turnout in New York City’s mayoral primary was significantly higher than it was four years ago, but the mood on the ground wasn’t one of excitement. It was frustration.
Over the past week, I’ve talked to voters across four boroughs along with Mariana Navarrete Villegas and Amanda DeJesus from the Epicenter team. What we heard again and again was this: people are fed up… with rising rents, poor city services, and broken promises. But they’re not giving up. They’re still voting.
And while the primary narrows the field; it doesn’t finish the race. The general election is Tuesday, November 4th. Early voting runs October 25th through November 2nd. To check your registration, find your polling place, or request a mail ballot, go to nycvotes.org. And for more election news visit epicenter-nyc.com/politics.
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A new House bill would require many Medicaid recipients to log 80 hours of work each month or risk losing coverage. Supporters say it promotes self-sufficiency, but critics warn the paperwork alone could drop thousands from the rolls. Experts say that even expansion states like New York, where about one in three residents depends on Medicaid, could see enrollment slip.
To help unpack it all, I spoke to Sarah Miller. Sarah is an associate professor of Business Economics and Public Policy at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. Her studies have traced Medicaid’s ripple effects from reduced medical debt all the way to measurable drops in mortality, offering clear evidence that coverage saves both wallets and lives.
Today, we talk about what happens when states expand (or slash) Medicaid, why seemingly small paperwork burdens can shut out eligible patients, and how work-requirement rules could reverberate across other safety-net programs.
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Whitney and Samantha Dobladillo, the duo behind Peruvian Sisters, launched their storytelling platform in 2020 to connect with others navigating the complexities of being Peruvian American. Growing up in mostly white schools on Long Island, they often felt out of place, especially when classmates stared at their home-packed lunches like caldo de gallina.
In this episode, the sisters reflect on those early experiences of othering, the online and in-person community they’ve built around the message “I am Peruvian enough,” and how their bond as siblings, and their mom’s encouragement, has fueled their work.
Read more: https://epicenter-nyc.com/being-peruvian-enough-with-your-sisters/
Follow on Instagram at @peruviansisters and on TikTok at @peruviansisters_
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After losing her job during the pandemic, Talisa Almonte turned to art, launching Almonte Studio and building a business rooted in bold colors and personal meaning. In today's episode she talks about honoring her Dominican roots, navigating small business challenges, and growing her brand.
Almonte Studio
Follow on Instagram and TikTok at @almontestudio.
Shop her art products here.
Contact Almonte Studio or inquire about commissioning a project here.
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For many of us, photography is reserved for milestones, but what if a portrait could help you reconnect with who you are right now? That’s the idea behind Layra Marz Photography, founded by Brooklyn-based photographer Layra Marte. Her work, which lives somewhere between boudoir and fine art, is about helping people, especially women and femmes of color, feel seen and celebrated. In this episode, Layra shares how photographing a global anti-bullying campaign helped her discover her creative voice, what it’s like to build a business without a blueprint, and why she’s more interested in telling honest stories than following anyone else’s rules.
Read more: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-layra-marz/
Layra Marz Photography: https://www.layramarz.com/
Follow Layra Marz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/layramarz/
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In this episode, we explore the early days of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy and what his unique background, American-born, Peruvian-based, and multilingual, might mean for the future of the Catholic Church. Host Ambar Castillo speaks with Dr. Hosffman Ospino and Dr. Andrew Chesnut about identity, immigration, and how Pope Leo is already reshaping the conversation around faith and belonging.
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Erika Dox-Martinez spent over two decades in corporate accounting before founding Blissful Vida, a financial wellness company focused on helping Latinas and communities of color reshape how they think about money, success, and self-worth. In this episode, she shares her personal journey out of debt, the mindset shifts that changed her life, and how she’s helping others take control of their finances.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/your-key-to-a-blissful-money-life/
https://myblissfulvida.com/
Follow on Instagram at @myblissfulvida
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This week we step inside The Perseverance Project, a powerful theater production created by Outside/In, an acting program for New Yorkers navigating recovery. Run by Suzy PetchEam through the Stella Adler Studio’s Arts Justice Division, the program offers more than just performance training, it’s a space for healing, self-expression, and second chances. You’ll hear from ensemble members, teaching artists, and the studio’s artistic director as they prepare for a citywide tour and reflect on what the stage has given back to them.
Learn more: https://stellaadler.com/arts-justice/justice-involved/outside-in/
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-theater-helps-men-in-recovery/
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Ofrenda Yoga Studio is one of the only BIPOC-owned studios in Harlem. Today, founder Jazmin Tejada shares how she built a welcoming, bilingual space in East Harlem where neighbors can show up exactly as they are, with music, movement, and community at the center.
From salsa to savasana: the yoga studio offering local vibes in East Harlem
Ofrenda Yoga Studio
Email: info@ofrendayogastudio.com
Follow on Instagram at @ofrendayogastudio
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Millions of families depend on WIC, but confusing rules and checkout struggles make it hard to use. In this episode, we meet Dani Lopez, founder of Lulo, a free app helping New York families navigate WIC more easily. She shares how her own childhood experiences inspired the platform and why designing with families, not just for them, is the future of better social services.
An app to help moms navigate food benefits
Learn more about Lulo here
Email Lulo at contact@hellolulo.com
Follow on Instagram at @hello.lulo
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For years, the traditional career path has followed a familiar blueprint — get the degree, land the job, climb the ladder. But for many women, especially women of color, that path can feel limiting, exhausting, or simply misaligned with their values.
In response, more and more women are choosing a different path — one that’s driven by purpose, flexibility, and self-determination. But that shift isn’t easy, especially without a roadmap. That’s why today’s guests built one from scratch.
Ayanna Dutton-Diaz and Delaila Catalino started the “Non-Corporate Girls” podcast with a Google Doc and a shared frustration around toxic work environments. What began as a side project became a platform — now with over 100 episodes, a consulting arm, and a growing community of like-minded women.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/building-a-blueprint-for-the-non-corporate-life/
https://www.noncorporategirls.com/
https://www.noncorporategirls.com/podcast
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Candles have become a staple of self-care culture — especially in recent years as more people look for ways to slow down and decompress. For many, lighting a candle isn’t just about ambiance—it’s a daily ritual, a moment to reset, reflect, and create a sense of comfort at home. That was definitely true for Aminta Freeman, the founder of Moodie Vibes—a candle company she launched out of her Staten Island home during the pandemic. A Brooklyn native and daughter of Guatemalan immigrants, Aminta was looking for a way to manage the stress of a demanding job, single motherhood, and the uncertainty of the world around her. Blending scents started as a personal ritual, but soon turned into something much bigger.
Today, I sit down with Aminta to learn more about how she built her business from the ground up, why she chose to focus on scent and mood, and how her cultural roots and life experiences continue to shape her brand.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/moodie-vibes-the-scents-of-self-care/
https://moodievibes.com/
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In a world of mass-produced, trend-chasing accessories, it can be hard to find pieces that truly resonate — pieces that honor both tradition and craftsmanship while minimizing environmental impact. Enter Dominican-born jewelry designer, Nashira Arnó. Nashira’s career began in the corporate fashion world, collaborating with industry giants like Macy’s and Oscar de la Renta.
But a pull toward jewelry design led her to start a side project in 2016. This soon evolved into a fully realized brand, drawing inspiration from her Caribbean heritage, her grandmother’s seamstress background with Diane von Furstenberg, and her own travels. Now, she partners with family-owned collectives worldwide, working with 90% recycled materials and championing age-old techniques in her stunning, story-driven pieces.
Today - I sit down with Nashira to learn more about how she’s redefining sustainable jewelry — one carefully crafted piece at a time.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/nashira-arno-small-biz/
https://nashiraarno.com/
https://www.instagram.com/nashiraarnostudio/
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In her late 20s, frustrated with products that failed to treat her hormonal acne and hyperpigmentation, Priscilla Jiminian turned to the cherished skincare traditions of her Dominican roots.
Recalling childhood memories of her mother's remedies, she went to the Dominican Republic, connecting with a local cosmetic formulator to craft what would become Skinergy’s flagship Dark Spot Correcting Cream—a breakthrough for people of color.
Today - I sit down with Priscilla to learn more about how this led to a transformative beauty brand. She shares her frustrations with one-size-fits-all solutions and why Skinergy’s community-focused products empower those who often feel overlooked in the beauty industry.
A Childhood Memory of Dominican Products Inspired an Award-Winning Skin Care Line
Skinergy Beauty
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Turning 40 is a milestone, but for many women, it's also a moment of transition—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Between navigating career pivots, caring for both aging parents and growing children, and adjusting to changes in their own bodies, women in this stage of life are often left searching for guidance and community. That’s where Redefining Wellness: Fit Over 40 comes in.
What started as a simple idea—bringing women together to openly discuss the realities of life after 40—has evolved into a movement. This multi-day event, co-created by two fitness professionals, is more than just about workouts. It’s about redefining what wellness truly means across every dimension—physical, emotional, financial, mental, and sexual well-being. Today, we hear from Tammeca Rochester, founder of Harlem Cycle and co-creator of this event.
https://www.redefiningwellnessfitover40.com/
https://harlem-cycle.com/
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Online harassment doesn’t always stay online—sometimes it turns into real-life danger. It might begin with rude comments, but it can quickly escalate into doxing, threats, or targeted campaigns that threaten someone’s home, workplace, or even physical safety. For marginalized communities, this kind of harassment can be especially relentless, adding more layers of risk to what’s already a vulnerable situation.
Still, there are ways we can push back – from stepping up our own security practices, to rallying community support when things feel unsafe. But how did we get to a point where these online platforms seem almost designed to amplify hate? And why do so many people, particularly those already at risk, end up as the primary targets? To understand how we got here—and what can be done—I sat down with Ari Waldman, a Professor of Law at the University of California, Irvine.
Read our full story here
You can find more resources on preventing or defending against online harassment here.
Reach out to us at hello@epicenter-nyc.com
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This week is Reading Across America Week, a time to celebrate the power of books and the joy of reading. But for many kids growing up in bilingual households, reading can come with an extra challenge—balancing the language spoken at home with the one used at school. That’s something that hits close to home for Daniela Palacios. During the pandemic, while she and her younger brother were spending a lot more time with their family, she watched her brother struggle to understand some of their conversations in Spanish. Ultimately, she was inspired to create Para KIDS!, a media company that helps children embrace bilingualism through storytelling.
Today, we sit down with Daniela to learn more about how her personal experiences shaped Para KIDS!, why bilingual storytelling matters, and what she’s learned along the way as a young entrepreneur and writer.
Learn more: https://parakidsbooks.com/
Get in touch: https://parakidsbooks.com/contact-us/
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-a-high-schooler-built-a-bridge-for-bilingual-kids/
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When the world feels overwhelming—whether it's due to the constant stream of bad news, policies that target marginalized communities, or the weight of everyday stress—how do we stay grounded? How do we protect our peace without disengaging?
Today, we're tackling these questions with someone who’s spent his career helping people navigate racial, ethnic, and cultural stress. Dr. Ryan DeLapp is a staff psychologist and the director of the Racial, Ethnic, and Cultural Healing Program, known as REACH, at the Ross Center. He’s also the author of Empower Yourself Against Racial and Cultural Stress, a book designed to help young people—and really, all of us—build resilience and find agency in the face of adversity.
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Bird flu has been making headlines again, and if you’ve been wondering what’s really going on, you’re not alone. While the risk to the average person is still low, experts are keeping a close eye on the situation—especially as H5N1 spreads in mammals like cows, something we haven’t seen at this scale before.
At the same time, public health communication from the federal government has shifted under the new administration, leaving some experts concerned about transparency and the availability of critical data. So, what does that mean for us? Should we be worried about our food supply? How do we separate fact from misinformation? And what simple steps can we take to stay informed and prepared?
Today – I sit down with Jessica Malaty Rivera, an infectious disease epidemiologist and science communicator. Jessica has spent years making complex public health information easier to understand, and today, she’s here to help us make sense of what’s happening with bird flu, why testing matters, and how small actions—like getting a flu shot—can make a big difference.
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Today we explore the fight to preserve 227 Abolitionist Place, a rare Underground Railroad site in Brooklyn. Guests Shawne Lee and Raul Rothblatt discuss its history, the battle for landmark status, and ongoing efforts to protect its legacy from gentrification.
Read our full story here.
FAB’s tours are slated to resume in April 2025. For updates, sign up for the FAB newsletter.
Read more of our housing stories here.
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It’s New York Fashion Week, a time when designers, brands, and creatives take center stage. But beyond the runways, fashion is sparking conversation about identity, culture, and representation. So what does it mean to build a brand with purpose? One that reflects the communities it serves?
Designer and entrepreneur Jean Guzman has done just that with Aura Heights, a Latina-owned lifestyle brand that highlights the diversity of the Latino community – including Afro-Latinos and LGBTQ individuals.
Today - we sit down with Jean to learn more about entrepreneurship, and how she balances creativity with the realities of running a brand. She also shares more about the faceless Dominican doll, a cultural symbol that inspired one of her first designs, and how she’s working to make fashion more inclusive and sustainable.
Learn more: https://auraheights.com/
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Imagine this: It’s the middle of the pandemic, you’re looking for a creative outlet, and a simple trip to Michaels sparks something big. That’s exactly how The Sourced Studio was born—starting with DIY chain belts and growing into a Latinx-owned accessories brand specializing in permanent jewelry, a charm bar, and statement pieces that celebrate heritage and underrepresented communities.
Today - I sit down with Source Studio founder, Tania Reyes, to learn more about the ups and downs of launching a business, from the first pop-up that made zero dollars to finding a niche that resonates. We’ll also talk about the power of authenticity in branding, the lessons learned as a first-generation entrepreneur, and how social media and community support helped The Sourced Studio grow.
https://thesourcedstudio.com
https://www.instagram.com/thesourcedstudio
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What does it mean to truly heal? Beyond talk therapy and surface-level self-care, how do we break free from inherited patterns and reconnect with our authentic selves? These are the questions at the heart of Inner Pttrn, a collective dedicated to deep, transformative healing through embodied movement, ritual, and community support.
Inner Pttrn was founded by Coreen Ruiz, a first-generation Mexican American and former corporate professional, whose own experience with burnout and chronic health issues led her to explore alternative healing practices. But what started as a personal journey evolved into a thriving community space for those looking for deep transformation.
Today - I sit down with Coreen to learn more about her experience building a mission-driven business, the challenges of making healing accessible, and the power of reclaiming ancestral knowledge.
https://bio.site/innerpttrn
https://www.innerpttrn.com/
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Located in Ridgewood, Fringe Records NYC is more than a record shop, it’s a queer-owned vibrant cultural hub, hosting everything from artist markets and comedy nights to noise shows and cult film screenings. It’s a space where niche music meets community connection — a sanctuary for music, inclusivity, and creativity. At the heart of it all is Andrew Hurtado, a longtime collector of underground music and first-time business owner. Today, we sit down with Andrew to learn more about his journey of turning a DIY distro into a brick-and-mortar shop and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
Fringe Records-NYC on Instagram
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The U.S. healthcare system is often described as one of the most advanced in the world, yet it’s also one of the most expensive and fragmented. Millions of Americans struggle with navigating insurance networks, surprise medical bills, and soaring costs. For many, accessing basic healthcare feels more like solving a puzzle than receiving care.
So… why does the U.S. spend so much more on healthcare than other countries? What role do high prices, private insurance, and systemic inefficiencies play? And most importantly, what can we do to fix it?
To help us unravel these questions, we’re joined by Mustafa Hussein, an Assistant Professor of Health Economics at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health. Mustafa specializes in health inequalities, public policy, and the socio-economic drivers of health outcomes.
Today – he discusses how our system got here and what it’ll take to create meaningful reform.
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Carlos Mercado — better known as Charly Hustle — is the proud owner of The Hustle Barbershop in Richmond Hill, Queens, and the founder of the Run Hustle Run club.
Today, he shares how his upbringing shaped his entrepreneurial spirit, the pivotal moments that defined his career as a barber, and how he turned a childhood nickname into a brand that stands for hustle, growth, and community. We’ll also talk about the evolution of The Hustle Barbershop into more than just a place for a haircut—but a hub for connection and inspiration. Later, Charly opens up about starting his run club, the role it plays in transforming lives, and his vision for the future of his business and beyond.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-convivial-hustle-of-a-barber-shop-in-richmond-hill/
https://www.thehustlebarbershop.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thehustlebarbershop/
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The killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has created a conversation about the health insurance industry. One consistent problem we’ve been hearing from community members is how often their claims or pre-authorizations are denied, even when their doctors say the procedures are necessary.
We spoke with Diane K. Spicer, supervising attorney at the nonprofit Community Health Advocates, on what to do if you receive an insurance claim or pre-authorization denial.
- Community Health Advocates: 1-888-614-5400
- Community Service Society of New York: 212-254-8900
- Make the Road New York, Health Services: 1-866-365-2724
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Dr. Wendy Ward is an anesthesiologist, a coach, and the founder of Mpower Productions—a business built on helping others recognize their own power and potential. Her journey started on Doctor’s Row in Crown Heights, surrounded by the influence of community leaders and a family dedicated to service. From there, Dr. Ward's path took her through college basketball courts, medical training, and, ultimately, the creation of a platform for empowerment.
Mpower Productions is what Dr. Ward calls “CPR for empowerment,” focusing on stress management, resilience, and unlocking the unique strengths in each of us.
Today - I sit down with Dr. Ward to learn more about her experiences breaking barriers as a Black female doctor, how she mixes science with spirituality to connect with clients of all ages, and her vision for a global empowerment mission.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-a-doctor-forged-multiple-paths-to-heal-and-mpower-others/
https://mpowerproductions.com/
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As New Yorkers brace for potential mass deportations and stricter enforcement, the city’s identity as a sanctuary for immigrants feels increasingly under threat. What does this mean for the communities that define New York—and the systems that support them?
To help us unpack this, we’re joined by David Dyssegaard Kallick, director of the Immigration Research Initiative, who is the author of numerous studies and academic papers on the economic and fiscal aspects of immigration with a focus on New York.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-trumps-immigration-policies-could-affect-you-your-loved-ones-and-your-community/
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With the incoming Trump administration, a lot of uncertainty looms for New Yorkers who rely on federal housing assistance, like Section 8. Potential changes to affordable housing policy could significantly impact many families, particularly in a city as diverse and dependent on federal support as New York. So, how can tenants prepare themselves for the challenges ahead?
Today, we sit down with Leah Goodridge to learn more about the implications of HUD's proposed changes, including controversial ideas from Project 2025 that could reshape housing support in New York City and nationwide. Leah brings years of experience as a tenants' rights attorney and a deep understanding of how these policies impact the everyday lives of New Yorkers.
Read our full story
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Good Form Studios is a boutique gym in Rockaway Beach that's redefining what fitness means for beginners. Founder, Monice Small, has built a community-focused space where people of all fitness levels come to feel stronger, more confident, and more connected—to themselves and each other.
Today, I sit down with Monice to learn more about her journey from running track in high school to becoming a Pilates instructor and personal trainer, and ultimately, starting her own gym. She talks about the challenges she faced—like crowdfunding for her first 400-square-foot space during the pandemic and navigating the complexities of starting a business as an undocumented immigrant with DACA status.
https://www.goodformny.com/
https://www.goodformny.com/contact-goodform
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In the heart of Sugar Hill, Manhattan’s only Black-owned comedy club, Comedy in Harlem, is entertaining and empowering the community. Founded by comedians Nicky Sunshine and Jamie Roberts, Comedy in Harlem isn’t only about the punchlines; it’s about creating a space for free expression and community connection – especially in turbulent times.
The club is also a tribute to Harlem’s cultural legacy and a platform for diverse voices to speak their truths. The club brings together locals and visitors alike, from young artists testing their skills at open mics to audience members looking for an escape through humor.
Today – we’re talking with Nicky about how Comedy in Harlem came to be, the challenges of running a small business in New York, and the deep responsibility she feels in amplifying marginalized voices.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/manhattans-only-black-owned-comedy-club-offers-laughter-to-ease-election-stress/
https://www.comedyinharlem.com/
https://www.instagram.com/comedyinharlem/
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For many of us, election season comes with spikes in stress and anxiety. With so much uncertainty, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when the news and social media seem to only amplify our worries. The constant barrage of headlines, debates, and predictions can make it difficult to stay focused on our daily lives, leaving us feeling powerless and emotionally drained.
But to help us navigate it all is Dr. Laura Roberts, a New York City psychologist who specializes in anxiety.
Today, Dr. Roberts joins me to discuss practical strategies to manage election — and post-election —anxiety—from calming techniques to finding resilience—so that we can stay grounded even as emotions run high.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-to-manage-election-anxiety/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/election-2024/
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Deja Brew, a new cafe in Richmond Hill, Queens, is quickly becoming a go-to spot for locals. Known for blending Caribbean and Latin American flavors, Deja Brew serves up coffee and fusion dishes in a laid-back space.
But more than just a cafe, Deja Brew is also about community—supporting local artists, giving back to schools, helping fellow immigrants, and creating a welcoming space where people can connect. It’s a family business with a clear mission, and at the heart of it all is Suraj Sooroojballie. Originally from Guyana, Suraj started Deja Brew with a vision to bring flavors and a sense of belonging to his community.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/brewing-coffee-fusion-food-and-good-vibes-in-richmond-hill/
https://www.instagram.com/dejabrewnyc/
https://www.yelp.com/biz/deja-brew-new-york
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Navigating high school admissions in New York City can be a daunting task, with over 900 programs to choose from, each with its own set of assessments, open houses, and ranking requirements. When Adrian Liang faced this challenge for his own kids, he decided to build a tool to help make sense of it all. The result is NYC SIFT, a website that thousands of families are now using to navigate the admissions process.
Today, Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita sits down with Adrian to learn more about how his frustration turned into a powerful tool for families across the city, how data can help make these tough decisions a bit easier, and why his hope is to make the process less stressful for everyone.
https://nycsift.com/
Your guide to navigating NYC’s high school admissions processHow lottery numbers work for school admissions, according to a computer scientist
Six high schools will favor Manhattanites. What that means
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Growing up with strong West Indian roots, Naomi Lake’s love for cooking began in her grandmother's kitchen in the Bronx, where she learned to create the rich flavors that connected her to her heritage. Then, during the pandemic, she made a bold decision to leave her teaching career behind and turn her culinary skills into a community-focused business. Enter Kathy's Kitchen BX.
Through her business, Naomi aims to educate her community on healthy eating with vegan recipes, while also promoting eco-friendly living with sustainable containers. Her journey has brought people together, proving that good food can nourish both the body and the soul.
Read our full story
Follow Kathy’s Kitchen BX on Instagram
Visit the Kathy’s Kitchen BX website
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Over the past several months, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump's claim that immigrants are taking “Black jobs” has stirred up a lot of emotions, ranging from anger to outright ridicule. This narrative has not only been a talking point in debates but has also sparked conversations on social media and in communities across the country. It taps into a larger, more complicated history of how race and labor are intertwined, and how certain groups are often pitted against each other.
But the idea of immigrants “taking” jobs is not new—it’s an old tactic, used to create division.
Today – we’ll explore the history behind these narratives. To help us make sense of these issues, we’re joined by Dr. Bryan Warde, a professor of social welfare at Lehman College.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/why-black-jobs-narrative-reminds-us-of-historical-anxieties/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/election-2024/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/politics/
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Imagine trying to navigate your later years in a place where the food, language, and traditions feel foreign. This is the reality for many aging South Asians in the U.S., and it’s what led to the founding of India Home, an organization that provides senior centers, co-living spaces, and even dementia day care, all tailored to the specific cultural needs of this community. As South Asian elders face the dual challenges of aging and cultural isolation, India Home offers them a place to belong, with programs that reflect their heritage.
Today, we’ll dive into these stories and more, as we talk about the incredible work being done to create spaces where seniors can truly feel at home. To guide us through this conversation, we’re joined by Samra Rashid, a licensed social worker at India Home, and Kavita Shah, the program and budget director.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/culturally-sensitive-care-retirement-homes-for-south-asian-seniors/
Learn more about India Home: https://indiahome.org/
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Despite being celebrated as the nation's quintessential 'city of immigrants,' New York City is grappling with a surge of anti-immigrant sentiment. From Mayor Eric Adams attributing budget cuts to the influx of migrants, to persistent narratives blaming newcomers for societal woes, xenophobic rhetoric is alarmingly pervasive—even here. But why does this sentiment persist in a city built by generations of immigrants? To help unpack this complex issue, I spoke to Sarah Seidman, the curator of social activism at the Museum of the City of New York. Sarah has curated the exhibit 'Nativists and Immigrants: "Beware of Foreign Influence" 1830-1860,' which explores the deep roots of anti-immigrant movements in New York's history.
Today – Sarah shares historical patterns of xenophobia that continue to influence modern attitudes. She also explains why disproven myths about immigrants endure, and what lessons we can learn from the past to build a more inclusive future.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/why-anti-immigrant-sentiment-lingers-in-nyc-americas-immigrant-capital/
https://www.mcny.org/exhibition/nativists-and-immigrants
https://www.instagram.com/museumofcityny/?hl=en
https://epicenter-nyc.com/election-2024/
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Former kindergarten teacher Tay Milburn moved from Houston to NYC in 2019 seeking a new path but soon faced the pandemic and multiple surgeries for a tumor. Turning to Pilates for healing, she encountered racial biases, including being asked to stop using #BlackGirlPilates. Undeterred, she founded Fringe Pilates, an inclusive studio with classes taught by women of color, fostering community and belonging. In this episode, we discuss her journey overcoming health challenges and industry biases to build an empowering, diverse community.
Sign up for a class: https://www.fringepilates.com/schedule-pricing-and-booking
Follow Fringe Pilates on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fringepilates/
You can also reach them at: fringepilatesbk@gmail.com
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Raised in a Haitian household, Brigitte Malivert grew up surrounded by rich flavors, but it wasn’t until college that she discovered her love for baking. While on a pre-med track, she started experimenting with ben-yeh, inspired by Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, as a way to relieve the stress of writing her thesis. But what began as a calming hobby soon led her to reconsider her future. This passion led to the creation of Queen B Bake Shop, where Brigitte specializes in custom cakes and desserts, blending her classical French training with the flavors of her Haitian heritage. Queen B Bake Shop isn’t just about baking—it’s Brigitte's way of connecting her cultural roots with a modern twist on traditional desserts.
Today we hear from Brigitte to learn more about her journey from pre-med to pastry, how she’s blending her cultural roots with classical techniques, and what she envisions for her future in the kitchen.
Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/queenbbakeshop/?hl=en
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We’re fresh off the heels of the DNC in Chicago, where we captured a powerful conversation between URL Media CEO Mitra Kalita and two trailblazing Indian American politicians: Arvind Venkat, Pennsylvania Representative, and Shekhar Krishnan, New York City Council Member. As the first Indian Americans to hold their offices, Arvind and Shekhar bring their identities and fresh perspectives to elected office. Their conversation focuses on the power of public service and what’s really at stake in this year’s election of Harris- Walz versus Trump- Vance. This podcast is a collaboration between Epicenter NYC and URL Media.
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Monica Martinez, founder of Black Kat Krochet, has turned her love for cats and crocheting into a business – one that’s not only a source of income but also a way to connect with her roots and her community.
Monica’s journey began when she crocheted a sweater for her cat during a cold winter. Encouraged by friends, she started selling her creations, and in 2017, Black Kat Krochet was born. Her work is deeply connected to her Mexican roots, using threads sourced from women in Mexico, and it’s been a way for her to reconnect with her heritage.
In this episode, we sit down with Monica to learn more about how she got into crocheting, how she turned a passion into a business, and what’s in store for the future.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/crochet-clothes-for-your-cat-the-bronx-biz-specializing-in-quirky-cat-outfits/
Follow Black Kat Krochet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/black_kat_krochet/
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Last year, Forest Hills High School student Salma Baksh found herself in a club aimed at discussing politics, but felt uncomfortable speaking up. Even with her best friend, Vilinez Estevez, by her side, the environment didn’t feel right. The discomfort led Salma and Vili to look for a space where they could freely discuss the topics they really cared about. And when that original club fizzled out, another opportunity arose. Enter the Youth Informed Club. Their first meeting drew a packed room, with students eager to discuss issues like gun control and Mayor Eric Adams' policies.
Now, the club's impact extends beyond their school, thanks to a partnership with Let’s Talk Democracy, a civics education organization. The students also collaborated with the Forest Hills Green Team, gaining skills like networking and handling press advisories.
In this episode we sit down with Salma and Vili to learn more about Youth Informed Club and what’s in store for the future.
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In Gowanus, Tijon Randall, Joy Liu, and Vincent Cabrera have created a unique space that blends top-notch bike repair with a welcoming atmosphere. They started by offering bike services out of their own home, complete with hospitality touches like snacks and beverages. This ethos of care and attention to detail is now at the heart of their shop – Tuned, where customers can expect a warm welcome and expert service.
Today - I sit down with Tijon, Joy and Vincent to learn more about their journey, from late-night basement repairs to becoming a beloved local shop, all while elevating the standard for what a bike shop can be.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/tuning-into-neighbors-needs-at-a-brooklyn-boutique-bike-shop/
https://www.instagram.com/tuned.by/
https://tuned-by.square.site/
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Sarina Prabasi and her husband, Elias, started Buunni Coffee in 2012 after moving from Ethiopia to New York City. With them, they brought a deep appreciation for the Ethiopian coffee culture, which emphasizes community, hospitality, and the experience of enjoying coffee together. Today, Buunni Coffee is exactly that – a hub for community gatherings and events, with four cafes in Washington Heights and Inwood.
Today we sit down with Sarina to learn more about how coffee played a crucial role in her and Elias's lives, from their first meeting over a cup of coffee in Ethiopia to the creation of Buunni Coffee in New York. She shares the challenges they faced as new entrepreneurs in New York City, the importance of sustainable and fair trade practices in their sourcing, and how Buunni Coffee has become an integral part of their community.
https://www.buunnicoffee.com/
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In her 20s, Marvina Robinson and her friends would sip champagne from red plastic cups on Bed-Stuy stoops. Two decades later, Marvina is one of the few Black women entrepreneurs in the champagne industry. She left her career on Wall Street to follow her passion, establishing B. Stuyvesant Champagne. She brings a fresh perspective to a wine synonymous with luxury. It’s not just for special occasions, instead, it can be enjoyed with every-day meals.
In this episode Marvina shares her journey in starting B. Stuyvesant Champagne, the challenges she faced along the way.
Learn more:
https://www.stuyvesantchampagne.com/
https://www.instagram.com/stuyvesantchampagne/
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Bushwick’s Mil Mundos, founded in 2018, is one of the only bookstores east of Myrtle Avenue offering books in English and Spanish. But it’s more than a bookstore, it’s a community hub that aims to counter the effects of gentrification. Volunteers, like Becca Ramos, help manage the store and assist customers
Today, we sit down with Becca, who’s now the director of events at Mil Mundos, to learn more about the bookstore’s mission and her work there. She also shares why Mil Mundos has inspired her to create a podcast about the Puerto Rican experience.
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Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/hidden-juice-bar-at-the-george-washington-bridge-is-your-tropical-escape-for-smoothies-sandwiches-and-smiles/
GWB Juice Bar is a hidden gem at the George Washington Bridge Bus Station. Owned by Luis Perez, it serves Caribbean drinks like soursop smoothies and the Dominican classic morir soñando, along with hot dogs and sandwiches inspired by his Dominican roots. But GWB Juice Bar is much more than a place for food and drinks; it's a community hub. Luis’s personal touch and commitment make it a special spot for all who visit.
Today, we sit down with Luis to learn more about what led him to creating GWB Juice Bar, how he kept the doors open throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, and what’s in store for the future.
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Fernando Ruiz spent his childhood summers in Veracruz, Mexico, where he fell in love with fresh tacos … and which inspired him to start Nixtamal, a tortilla business using the traditional nixtamalization process, in 2008 in Corona, Queens.
Despite initial success, expansion challenges and the pandemic caused setbacks. But Fernando persisted, securing opportunities to sell at the U.S. Open, Mets games at Citi Field, and the Queens Night Market.
In this episode Fernando tells us story behind Nixtamal, and how he transformed Queens' food scene with his authentic, heritage-infused tacos.
"Ways of Showing Up" event details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ways-of-showing-up-presented-by-epicenter-nyc-and-dept-of-transformation-tickets-928085989177?aff=oddtdtcreator
Learn more about Nixtamal: https://nixtamal.nyc/
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/discover-the-heritage-infused-tacos-revolutionizing-queens-food-scene/
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Language workers across New York City, and across the globe, are resisting the rise of AI in their field by emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human interpreters and translators.
Julie Tay, the director of Hunter College’s Master of Arts in Translation and Interpreting program, highlights the need to integrate technology in ways that enhance human roles rather than replace them. She also argues for a language services industry that supports diverse communities without forcing assimilation – worrying about the erosion of linguistic diversity.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/humans-vs-machines-how-language-workers-are-resisting-aihow-language-workers-are-resisting-ai/
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The Sneaker Girls Club started at a school in Bushwick and expanded into a brand with a mission: to help designers and sneaker store owners who are women gain the recognition they deserve — and to help Black and Latina girls and women gain the confidence to design their own shoes.
In this episode we talk to Sneaker Girls Club founder Lauren Rawles’ to to learn more about her vision, the importance of community workshops, and the impact of mentorship.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-club-helping-black-and-latina-girls-and-women-design-their-own-sneakers/
Sneaker Girls Club: https://www.sneakergirlsclub.com/
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Earlier this year, Epicenter NYC and the Weeksville Heritage Center teamed up to offer our members a special tour of what remains of the historic community. Epicenter’s editorial director Femi Redwood joined the tour. In today’s episode she explains how this once-forgotten community continues to impact our lives today.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/weeksville-rediscovering-black-history-in-brooklyns-hidden-gem/
Visit or support Weeksville: https://www.weeksvillesociety.org/
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Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/meet-the-esthetician-who-went-from-doing-beauty-services-on-her-front-stoop-to-running-her-own-business/
Growing up, Shondrea Harrod was always fascinated with skincare and beauty. This passion led her to pursue a formal education in esthetics. Now, Shondrea is a licensed esthetician, a talented makeup artist, and an experienced esthetics instructor. She also owns Snatched Pro Studio, which offers makeup, facials, and body treatments.
In this episode, Shondrea talks about her journey to becoming an esthetician, what it’s like running a small business, and how she’s shaping the future of esthetics through education. We'll explore her insights on the latest skincare trends, her top beauty tips, and the challenges and rewards of being an esthetics instructor.
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Despite statistics suggesting that New York remains one of the safest large cities in the U.S., the lived experience for many of us tells a different story. So why is there such a disconnect between the numbers and our feelings of safety?
In this episode S. Mitra Kalita, co-founder and publisher of Epicenter NYC, talks to reporter Felipe De La Hoz, about the current crime landscape.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/whats-really-going-on-with-nyc-crime/
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Once again, Epicenter NYC is teaming up with the New York Indian Festival as its community media sponsor. The festival will take place from Friday, May 31st to Sunday, June 2nd at the Village East by Angelika.
The New York Indian Film Festival is the oldest film festival of its kind – screening premieres of films made from, of, and about India. The event includes more than just screenings – expect industry panels, post-screening discussions, award ceremonies, nightly networking parties, red carpet galas, and so much more.
This year, Dear Jassi and Mrs are just a few of the South Asian-themed works that are set to captivate audiences across New York City and around the world.
Today - Epicenter Publisher S. Mitra Kalita speaks to New York Indian Film Festival director and film critic Aseem Chhabra about what viewers can expect and the shows you won’t want to miss.
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Cherie Conliffe grew up in Brownsville, where corner stores were filled with junk food and her family’s traditional West Indian foods were hard to find. Living in a food desert, she quickly realized the gaps in nutrition education. This became the jump-off point to a career in wellness.
During the pandemic Cherie started CherVitality, and is now bringing Caribbean nutrition to her community through Moringa and other traditional herbal teas. In this episode we talk to Cherie to learn more about the inspiration behind CherVitality and what’s next.
https://www.chervitality.com/shop
https://earnestfoods.com/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/earnest-flowers-on-building-a-healthier-community/id1566957004?i=1000654158169
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On the corner of 85th Street in Jackson Heights, A.R.T. (short for Art Retail Therapy), has more than just brushes and colored pencils. It’s a space that invites artists and non-artists alike to share their art and life stories – or to simply get lost among the well-stocked shelves. Francisco Segarra opened A.R.T. in 202. Today, the Queer and Latinx-owned shop is a community arts center.
In this episode we talk with Francisco and business partner Charlie Márquez to learn more about A.R.T., running a small business, and building a community.
https://www.artretailtherapy.com/classes-events-figure-drawing-art-events/witch-craft-night-noche-de-manualidades-para-brujitxs-25-adults
https://www.artretailtherapy.com/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-jackson-heights-art-shop-became-a-community-haven/
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In February of 2021, Earnest Flowers opened a natural and organic grocery store in the heart of Southeast Queens called Earnest Foods. Since then, the store has become a vital source for residents – offering sugarless, gluten-free, and organic products in an area where options like these are scarce. And while at first, there was a trickle of customers – neighbors, or those who saw it in local newspapers, the business quickly cemented loyalty by going beyond standard customer service.
In this episode we sit down with Earnest as he shares his journey from participating in local farmers markets during the pandemic to establishing a full-scale grocery store. We also talk about his commitment to supporting other minority and local businesses, and the broader implications of food access in his community.
https://earnestfoods.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Danielle Copper suffered from severe eczema in her teens and early twenties. And despite numerous consultations with dermatologists and treatments like antibiotics, creams, and cortisone shots, her condition didn’t improve.
So she decided create her own skincare products – starting with a face soap. She saw an immediate improvement in her skin and confidence. Encouraged by her own results, Danielle left her job as a 911 operator and founded Agamems Beauty to help others with similar issues. The company is built on the idea of using natural ingredients to provide effective skincare solutions.
In this episode we sit down with Danielle to hear more about her journey.
https://agamems.com/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight/
https://www.chervitality.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Not too long ago I was heading home after a trek through Forest Park and saw a swarm of black-colored birds — hundreds of them — in the sky, trees and power lines, on rooftops and lawns and on sidewalks across the street. Fascinated by the super-flock, I consulted a couple bird experts, sharing pictures and a video.
Paul Sweet, a collection manager at the American Museum of Natural History’s department of ornithology, was one of the experts who confirmed that these weren’t crows, but common grackles. Sweet, a Brooklyn resident, has worked at the museum for 32 years. One of the most common misconceptions he’s heard is the one I brought up.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/mistaking-blackbirds-with-hitchcocks-in-queens/
https://www.nycgovparks.org/places-to-go/birding
https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/birding
https://www.nycaudubon.org/events-birding/programs-and-events/local-trips-classes
https://www.feministbirdclub.org/
https://www.instagram.com/latinooutdoors_nyc/
https://www.meetup.com/outdoor-afro-ny/
https://www.amnh.org/research/vertebrate-zoology/ornithology
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On weekend nights, Puerto Viejo in Prospect Heights is packed with New Yorkers and visitors alike. Many stay for hours, sipping morir soñando and eating sancocho while chatting with friends or longtime restaurant staff. In this episode we sit down with Maritza Abreu, the daughter of founders Cristina and Eduardo Abreu. Maritza is now in charge of marketing and events for the family restaurant. And her parents' work has also inspired her to start a business of her own – a hot sauce company called “Pisqueya”.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/resilience-on-the-menu-at-authentic-dominican-restaurant/
https://www.puertoviejony.com/
https://pisqueya.com/products/pisqueya-smoky-hot-sauce
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As Mets owner Steve Cohen’s proposal to build a casino and entertainment complex at Citi Field is in limbo, some community advocates are questioning whether the harms outweigh the benefits. And during the February casino town hall, several residents, some of whom are of East Asian descent, questioned the casino’s proximity to Flushing’s Asian American community. Two of them argued that members of the community “tend to gamble a lot.” While some attendees cheered in agreement, others found the comments stereotypical and harmful.
In this episode we sit down with two experts to learn more about where the stereotype of the “Asian problem gambler” comes from, how casino marketing targets Asian Americans, and how communities can address this issue.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-truth-behind-the-asian-gambler-stereotype/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/why-critics-of-the-proposed-citi-field-casino-want-you-to-know-more-about-gambling-addiction/
https://nyproblemgambling.org/
https://www.minkwon.org/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When Lolita Malone was growing up with three younger sisters and their baby brother in rural Jamaica, she and her siblings shared clothes, shoes, and pretty much everything. They had a tiny allowance but big fashion dreams, so they would hit up thrift shops and cut and upcycle clothes.
Now, decades later, Lolita and her daughter, Maui, have launched a Manhattan-based fashion brand of their own: Maui x Lolita. Their designs are for bold, daring women who want to take risks when it comes to what they wear. In this episode we sit down with Lolita to learn about the story behind Maui x Lolita and what’s next.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/a-mother-daughter-duo-creates-the-clothes-the-fashion-industrys-been-missing/
https://mauixlolita.com/
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In December, reggaeton legend Daddy Yankee announced his plan to dedicate himself to Christianity. He dropped the bombshell on a farewell tour while a drone depicted a giant cross and the message “Christ is coming.” Daddy Yankee’s move follows other icons like Farruko, Julio Voltio, El General. But that’s not the only thing they have in common. So why do reggaeton artists who’ve announced their devotion to religion happen to be middle-aged men?
In this episode you’ll hear from historians, theologians and experts of the Puerto Rican experience as we answer this question.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/why-are-reggaeton-superstars-ditching-their-music-for-god/
https://twitter.com/jjrodv/status/1734797704146895134?s=46&t=0SNllaIm9HWHZqj9bMYvxA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mirta Rinaldi was 61 years old when she launched her food business, Mendulcina. But her journey with food began long before. Growing up in Mendoza, Argentina, she spent a lot of time in the kitchen, surrounded by family. Cooking was their love language. Then, in 1975 Mirta moved to New York City, and after working a variety of jobs she decided to follow her passion and cook full time.
In this episode Epicenter-NYC’s Danielle Hyams sits down with Mirta and her daughter Paola, who helps run Mendulcina, to learn more about the inspiration behind the company.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/mendulcina-the-sweetness-of-pursuing-your-passion-at-any-age/
https://mendulcina.com/
https://www.leagueofkitchens.com/
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Neighborhoods like Cypress Hills and East New York are currently witnessing an alarming trend where house flippers aggressively target homes. They often prey on the vulnerabilities of low-income, Black, and Brown homeowners.
Luckily, community groups like the Coalition for Community Advancement are fighting back with initiatives such as the proposed "flip tax" bill. In this episode we sit down with Maliha Jahangiri, who joined the Coalition for Community Advancement last spring, to discuss the implications of this toxic practice on the fabric of communities and what’s being done to combat the issue.
Read our full story:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-nyc-communities-can-fight-home-flipping/
Stay up to date with the Coalition for Community Advancement:
https://www.facebook.com/CoalitionforCommunityAdvancement
Learn more about the “End Toxic Home Flipping Act”: https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2023/S1569/amendment/A
how to protect yourself from deed fraud: https://www.nyc.gov/site/finance/property/deed-fraud.page
Check out this arm of Cypress Hills LDC, which can help homeowners protect themselves from speculators: https://cypresshills.wixsite.com/homeownerhelpdesk/homeowner-resources
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kyle Depew’s journey into the heart of film photography began long before he opened “Brooklyn Film Camera” in 2015. With a background working for the Impossible Project, which famously acquired the last Polaroid factory, Kyle leveraged his experience and passion to create a space dedicated to the preservation and celebration of film photography.
From a modest stall at the Brooklyn Flea Market to a sprawling two-level store in Williamsburg, “Brooklyn Film Camera” has become a cornerstone for both the local and global photo community, offering a rare blend of vintage camera repair, film sales, and community events.
https://brooklynfilmcamera.com/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/film-photography-is-alive/
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“Public Obscenities” explores the pleasures and pitfalls of living in translation as it follows a queer studies PhD student returning to his family home in India with his Black American boyfriend. The bilingual play boldly navigates the complexities of identity, belonging, and expression.
In this episodePlaywright Shayok Misha Chowdhury talks to Epicenter Founder and Publisher S. Mitra Kalita to explore the layers of thought and emotion that shape "Public Obscenities”, and why this three hour performance is one you won’t want to miss.
You might not understand the words in “Public Obscenities” but you’ll feel every single one
Tickets for "Public Obscenities" at Theatre for a New Audience
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Last March, the New York City chapter of the Audubon Society voted to take flight from its past, shedding the name of John James Audubon – a figure intertwined with naturalist art and a legacy of white supremacy. In an effort to embrace inclusivity and reflect the diverse communities across the city, the organization is now looking for a new name. They’re also inviting all New Yorkers to be part of the change.
In this episode we dive into why this name change matters, the history behind it, and how it's shaping the future of bird conservation in New York City.
Rank-vote your favorite names: Input for NYC Audubon's New Name Choices
Read our full article: NYC Audubon Society tries to move past racist legacy with new names
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In this episode we dive into the world of osteology with Jon Pichaya Ferry, the founder of New York City’s first and only Bone Museum. From the origins of human bone trade to the ethical implications of sourcing and displaying these remains, Jon shares his journey from a curious teenager to a pioneering museum curator.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/bringing-bones-to-the-mainstream/ https://www.jonsbones.com/book-a-tour
https://www.tiktok.com/@jonsbones
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The Adams’ administration, in partnership with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, recently announced the launch of a new three-year initiative aimed at helping teens get access to free therapy. Talkspace, a New York based digital mental health company, is set to operate the program, called TeenSpace, to offer tele-mental health services to kids between the ages of 13 and 17 years old.
In this episode The Unmuted’s Nicole Perrino sits down with Talkspace therapist Erica Patton Simpson to unravel the details. Erica sheds light on how the pandemic has reshaped our approach to mental health and also touches on startling statistics surrounding the crisis among high school students and the crucial role of therapy.
Learn more:
https://www.talkspace.com/coverage/nyc
Talkspace launches free therapy program for NYC teens:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/talkspace-launches-free-therapy-program-for-nyc-teens/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The exhibition "Heat Maps: Queens", now on view through January at the Local NY, takes a unique approach to highlight the effects of the climate crisis. Using a technique known as durational painting, Queens-based artist and Epicenter-NYC co-founder, Nitin Mukul, has captured the struggles of neighborhoods like East Elmhurst, Corona, Jamaica, and Hollis, which are high-risk areas on the Heat Vulnerability Index. His work shows the ongoing battle these communities face due to insufficient green spaces and systemic issues in urban planning. In this episode Nitin shares how his work is more than just art. It's a catalyst for change, shedding light on inequities faced by New Yorkers.
This project was supported by a grant for Queens-based artists from the New York Foundation for the Arts.
Read more:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/epicenter-nyc-co-founder-nitin-mukul-sheds-light-on-the-climate-crisis-with-heat-maps-queens-exhibit/
The full project overview:
https://img-cache.oppcdn.com/fixed/55066/assets/0RxcFFo0E4kUcoLN.pdf
Nitin Mukul:
https://nitinmukul.com/home.html
https://www.instagram.com/nitin_mukul_studio/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Black Lives Matter protesters who participated in demonstrations in New York City in the summer of 2020 are now at the center of what is considered the largest protest settlement in history. But a critical deadline looms. Protesters have until January 22nd to file their claim. In this episode Eliana Perozo talks to Epicenter-NYC’s Danielle Hyams to explore the nuances of the SOW versus the City of New York lawsuit, understanding the intricacies and the stakes involved. Eliana was arrested on June 2nd, 2020 during a protest and filed her own claim in under 60 seconds. Now, she wants more people to do the same.
Email Eliana: eliana.perozo46@journalism.cuny.edu
Email Meyers and Cohen: Sow-settlement@proton.me
Black Lives Matter protesters have until Jan. 22 to file for their $13 million
Sow v. City of New York
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This month marks three years since the world watched as rioters violently stormed the capitol with the intent to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Since then, hundreds have been arrested and sentenced for their crimes on January 6th. And a congressional committee was formed to investigate how this could’ve happened.
Last week, URL Media partner, “Our Body Politic”, released a six part podcast series exploring the inner workings of this committee. Today, we’ll share highlights from the series, specifically focusing on the role of white supremacy in the insurrection.
Listen to the full series: https://ourbodypolitic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For years, Epicenter-NYC has been a proud member of URL Media - a decentralized, multi-platform network that includes high-performing Black and Brown news media organizations. And this month, URL is celebrating three years of hard work. In this episode we’ll share an excerpt from the Local News Matters podcast where URL co-founders, Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita, discuss the network's mission to support and empower independent media serving Black and Brown communities with host Tim Regan-Porter.
Listen to the full conversation: https://localnewsmatterspodcast.com/
URL Media: https://url-media.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For years, parents and kids across New York City have been going to Drag Story Hours. Its goal is to provide a safe space to promote reading, inclusion, and diversity. But as the events have become a target for hate, supporters have another goal… to ensure Drag Story Hours continues to exist. We want to start with the basics. What exactly is a Drag Story Hour? And why are kids and parents across the city packing rooms to participate?
Listen to Part II: https://omny.fm/shows/epicenter-nyc/how-new-york-city-fights-the-proud-boys-by-being-p?in_playlist=podcast
Drag Story Hour NYC: https://www.dshnyc.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As we inch closer to 2024, we’re taking a moment to look back at some of our favorite stories and projects from the past year. These aren't just headlines; they're the heartbeats of our city, narratives that have brought us together, challenged our perceptions, and celebrated our diversity.
Become a member today!
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Association of Community Employment Programs (ACE) serves more than 650 people each year with workforce development, therapeutic counseling, adult basic education, and job readiness training. They’ve helped over 3,000 New Yorkers overcome homelessness, incarceration and addiction. But in 2020, things took a turn. The team was forced to operate differently — there was a surge in need that they had never seen before. Still today, Elizabeth McNierney, the ACE programs director, says it’s harder than it’s ever been.
In this episode we’ll hear from Elizabeth about the importance of the community they’ve built. We'll also hear from ACE Programs graduates David Stewart and Harry García.
Our original story on ACE Programs is a part of a series of articles exploring health inequities in New York funded by a grant from the Commonwealth Fund.
ACE Toy Drive:
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/152HQHRORBQSU/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex
How to “ACE” at life on the streets of New York:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-to-ace-at-life-on-the-streets-of-new-york/
Get involved/Volunteer with ACE Programs:
https://acenewyork.org/get-involved/volunteering-in-nyc/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nestled in Forest Hills and Howard Beach, GallopNYC stands as one of the last equestrian havens in the city. Their work isn’t just about horse riding; it encompasses a holistic approach to therapy, including grooming and connecting with the horses. It’s an approach that’s particularly effective for diverse groups, including veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions.
In this episode Richmond Hill resident Jaipaul Singh, shares his personal journey with GallopNYC. After joining their free veterans program, he discovered the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding in managing anxiety and learning to trust.
Learn more: https://gallopnyc.org/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Reporter Sam Zachar has been living with chronic pain following a back injury in 2022. The chronic pain and limited mobility have made her see New York City in a new light. Sam spoke with disability rights activists from across NYC to learn about their own experiences with having limited mobility. In this episode we'll be sharing some of those conversations.
Disabled In Action
Elevator Action Group
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Earlier this month, at an event at the Queens Museum, we unveiled the findings of a first-of-its-kind study titled “NYC’s New Small Business Incubators”. The study was commissioned by our partners, Citizens Bank, and was conducted by Epicenter-NYC. We also brought together a group of small business owners who shared stories of how the Queens Night Market played a pivotal role in their success.
In this episode we'll share highlights from this discussion. The voices you’ll hear include Hana Saber Tehra of Persian Eats NYC, Wanda Chiu of Hong Kong Street Food, Rosangela Arnold of Brazilicious, Joey Batista of Joey Bats Cafe, and finally Lenin Costas of Don Ceviche. The conversation was moderated by on-air correspondent, Dahiana Perez.
Read the full report
A family business aided by the Queens Night Market
The new ‘nights’ in shining armor for small business
Queens Night Market
Think!Chinatown
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Over the past few weeks we’ve seen a spike in reports of harassment and hate crimes across New York City. We’re hearing stories of assault from our friends and our family – from Jews, Muslims, turbaned men and East Asians. So, at a time when many of our neighbors fear for their safety in public places, what are the best ways to stay safe?
Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita talks to Kalaya’an Mendoza to answer those questions. Kalaya’an is the director of mutual protection for Nonviolent Peaceforce, a global civil society organization. Kalaya’an also hosts bystander training and community safety workshops across New York City.
Follow Kalaya’an Mendoza
Learn more about Nonviolent Peaceforce
A practical guide to dealing with people who hate us
How to be a more responsible bystander
Epicenter explains: Are Islamophobia and antisemitism on the rise?
Everyday advice to stop Islamophobia and antisemitism in their tracks
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In author and corporate diversity expert Doug Melville’s latest book, "Invisible Generals," he shares the story of his great-uncle and great-great-uncle – America’s first Black generals, Benjamin O. Davis, Sr. and Jr.. The two men created the Tuskegee Airmen and were instrumental in integrating the American military. But despite their contributions, they haven’t gotten the credit they deserve.
In this episode, Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita sits down with Meville to discuss his experience putting together the mosaic of his family’s history and the leadership lessons learned along the way.
Leadership lessons from the first Black US generals: https://www.charterworks.com/doug-melville-invisible-generals-leadership-lessons/
Buy “Invisible Generals”: https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Generals-Rediscovering-Family-Americas/dp/1668005131?ref=charterworks.com
Ground Game Exhibition: https://epicenter-nyc.com/ground-game-exhibition/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode we talk to Karen McMullen, the Urbanworld Film Festival's director and the head of programming. We explore the origins, evolution, and the future vision of the festival. From its humble beginnings in 1997, created by visionary Stacy Spikes, to its current expansive embrace of all people of color, the event stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of representation.
Get tickets to Urbanworld Film Festival: https://urbanworld.org/passes-2023/
Urbanworld Film Festival Schedule: https://urbanworld.org/film-schedule/
BIPOC-focused film fest heads to town: https://epicenter-nyc.com/bipoc-focused-film-fest-heads-to-town/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2004, as a freshman in college, Kevin Benoit created Parlé Magazine. The goal? To empower, entertain, educate, motivate, and engage Black and Brown lives within the media industry. A first generation Haitian American living in New York City, Kevin has always had a passion for helping people. Especially young people who remind him of himself. That’s why he’s recently branched out to found Parlé Endeavors – all while continuing to run Parlé Magazine. The new venture makes youth-centered investments.
Become a mentor with Parlé Endeavors: https://parleendeavors.org/
Read/follow Parlé Magazine: https://parlemag.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, we’ll unravel the inspiring journey of Cindy Castro, the woman behind the fashion brand "Cindy Castro New York". Born and raised in Ecuador, Cindy was often overlooked – not fitting into the conventional beauty standards. She found solace in the world of fashion. Today, her brand is synonymous with activism, sustainability, and community.
In this episodeEpicenter’s Community Reporter, Ambar Castillo, talks with Cindy about the challenges and triumphs of starting her business, and breaking barriers for immigrant women and sustainable fashion advocates alike.
Shop Cindy Castro New York: https://cindycastro.com/
Giving back: https://cindycastro.com/pages/giving-back
Follow Cindy Castro New York on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindycastro_nyc/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For migrants arriving in New York city, there’s a stark contrast between the anticipated American dream and the reality. This gap is exacerbated by misinformation often spread through social media.
In this episode Epicenter’s Community Manager, Daniel Laplaza talks with Adriana Proano and Rommel Ojeda about the complex reality of migrants arriving In New York City. Adriana, originally from Ecuador, is a Community Coordinator at Epicenter. Rommel, also from Ecuador, is a Community Correspondent at Documented New York.
https://epicenter-nyc.com/heres-what-needs-to-happen-for-migrants-in-nyc-to-be-able-to-effectively-join-the-workforce/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/category/immigration/
https://documentedny.com/category/immigration/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
“Feel Good, Look Good, Do Better”. That’s Alex Toussaint’s mantra. Alex is a Senior Instructor at Peloton, a PUMA partner, a founder, and most recently, an author. His new book, “Activate Your Greatness” is set to be released on October 10th. It’s part self-help/part memoir and explores his journey to becoming one of the most iconic cycling instructors. In this episode Epicenter’s Co-Founder and Publisher, S. Mitra Kalita talks with Alex about Peloton, his family and Haitian roots, and what’s next.
Pre-order "Activate Your Greatness": https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250852038/
Tickets for the "Activate Your Greatness" Book Tour in NYC: https://concerts.livenation.com/alex-toussaint-activate-your-greatness-book-new-york-new-york-10-11-2023/event/00005F1DC83A39CA
PWRSPIN x ALEX TOUSSAINT Indoor Cycling Shoes:
https://us.puma.com/us/en/collaborations/partnerships/puma-x-alex-toussaint
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This summer, AJ Pacheco and his partner Tanya Gorbunova opened Pancakes Records. It’s a record store in North Astoria, Queens that doubles as a performance space. They’re bringing the community together with events featuring local musicians, comedians, and other performers.
In this episode AJ talks to Epicenter reporter Hari Adivarekar about his journey in starting the business and mission to build a community around it.
Stacking talent under one roof: https://epicenter-nyc.com/stacking-talent-under-one-roof/
Pancakes Records: https://pancakes-records.com/ Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pancakes.records/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Sunday, tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets of Manhattan with one demand. End Fossil Fuels. From indigenous climate activists to celebrities – protestors from across the world walked side by side. In this episode, we’ll share their voices.
Tens of thousands of people march to bring attention to climate crisis:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/end-fossil-fuels-march-takes-over-midtown-manhattan/
Tell President Biden: #EndFossilFuels Now:
https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/tell-president-biden-endfossilfuels-now
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Erica Loewe has been the Director of African American Media at the White House since May of 2021. In her role she’s been a beacon of change and a vital voice. Now, she's transitioning into a new senior position in the Office of Public Engagement.
Today, Erica joins Epicenter Publisher S. Mitra Kalita in a discussion on why community media has become a focal point in the Biden administration, and how this shift is facilitating a richer, more nuanced, and grounded conversation.
Follow Erica Loewe: https://twitter.com/EricaLoewe46
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This month, Tara Bhuyan's work is front and center at New York Fashion week. Originally from Assam, a state in northeastern India, Tara’s designs embrace her home’s traditional weavers and sustainable production.
In this episode Epicenter’s Founder and Publisher S. Mitra Kalita talks to Tara about her pivot to fashion following a long career in investment banking. They’ll also discuss the inspiration behind “Tara Bhuyan Couture” and how her collection captures the essence of the Assamese tapestry.
Glossary:
Assam: A state in northeastern India.
Bihu: A set of important cultural festivals unique to Assam
Mekhela Chador: Traditional two piece dress worn by women of Assam.
Assam silk: Assam is a hub of traditional, rich silk in the form of Muga, Paat and Eri.
Tickets to fashion showcase:https://tickets.runway7fashion.com/product/new-york-fashion-september-09th-11am/?r7f=157 (discount code TARA20 for 20% off)
Tara's NYFW debut is partly sponsored by Epicenter-NYC, along with Wove Therapy and Resonance Acupuncture.
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today’s episode is hosted by Nicole Perrino, the Founder of Bronxmama & Editor of The Unmuted. She’s joined by Alexandra Bayas Nakanishi, an early childhood intervention expert, educator and mom. The two discuss what parents can do to help help kids prepare for the upcoming school year.
Sign up for the Unmuted newsletter:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/subscribe-to-the-unmuted/
Read our back-to-school countdown:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-unmuteds-back-to-school-countdown/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1941 Brooklyn’s Empire Rollerdrome opened its doors for the first time. Soon, it became the epicenter of the city’s roller disco scene. Today, even though the space has been closed since 2007, it’s clear that the spirit of the Empire Roller Disco lives on. Like in The City Reliquary, a community museum in Williamsburg, where a used rental skate hangs from the ceiling.
In this episode we'll share an excerpt of a conversation that originally took place on The City Reliquary's podcast between host Tania Mohammad and rollerskating pioneer Eric Alston about this skate and the significance of The Empire Rollerdrome.
Undiscarded Podcast: https://undiscarded.org/
The City Reliquary: https://www.cityreliquary.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
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Henry Akinbamijo has been an ice cream man for the past 20 years. During the warmer months he spends up to 16 hours a day / seven days a week, in his truck selling cold sweet treats to kids in Brooklyn. But Henry’s story is not just about ice cream. It’s about dreams, determination, and the intricacies of running a seasonal business in one of the world's most vibrant cities. Originally from Nigeria, he’s become a staple on the streets of Brooklyn.
In this episode Henry speaks to Epicenter-NYC’s Hari Adivarekar about his experience in the industry, and what he loves about the job.
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
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90 minutes from New York City, in Ridgefield, Connecticut, Raven Halfmoon’s massive sculptures dominate the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum. On display until January 2024, it’s well worth the trip. And as a descendant of the Caddo people, Halfmoon’s exhibition gives visitors opportunities to learn more about the Native tribes who lived along the Red River in Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.
In this episode we share a conversation between Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita and Raven Halfmoon about her about her process, identity, the exhibition and what’s next.
This Indigenous artist gives new meaning to scale: https://epicenter-nyc.com/this-indigenous-artist-gives-new-meaning-to-scale/
Raven Halfmoon: https://www.ravenhalfmoon.com/
The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum: https://thealdrich.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
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Any woman who travels understands the appeal of the Renzoe Box. A fully personalized palette of your favorite brands & products, it eliminates the need for a messy makeup bag. An architect by training, Founder René Graham views problems and their solutions spatially. So one day when the contents of her makeup bag spilled out on a moving train, she got to thinking—and to work. In this episode René shares the inspiration behind Renzoe Box and the challenges she faces as a BIPOC and female entrepreneur.
Read our full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/this-architect-is-rebuilding-your-beauty-routine/
Build your own Renzoe Box: https://www.renzoebox.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
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Popular Indian journalist, Ravish Kumar, is fighting against an environment of fake news and divisive communal agendas. His courage caught the attention of many, including director Vinay Shukla who has spent two years creating “While We Watched,” a documentary that follows Kumar’s personal and professional life. Recently, Epicenter-NYC’s Hari Adivarekar met with Ravish and Vinay while they were in New York City for a series of screenings.
https://www.ifccenter.com/films/while-we-watched/https://www.whilewewatched.com/https://epicenter-nyc.com/defend-india-dont-defend-indian-media/
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On the morning of June 20th, four people were killed in a Lower Manhattan fire caused by a lithium-ion battery used to charge an electric bike. It wasn’t an isolated incident. Since 2022 there have been over 220 battery-related fires. Among the most vulnerable to these tragedies are delivery workers.
In this episode Epicenter-NYC contributor Hari Adivarekar speaks to Damon Victor, who owns Greenpath, an electric-bike distributor and repair shop that’s been around for almost 15 years. You’ll also hear from K.B., an Electric bike technician. The three discuss how e-bike riders can stay safe.
FDNY Safety Tips for Devices with Lithium-Ion Batteries: https://www.fdnysmart.org/be-fdnysmart-when-using-any-devices-powered-by-lithium-ion-batteries/
“You are buying a potential bomb”: https://epicenter-nyc.com/you-are-buying-a-potential-bomb/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
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In late June we hosted a private tour of the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport. The hotel is located in the former TWA Flight Center, which was designed in 1962 by Eero Saarinen. It's known for its iconic, wing-shaped roof and sleek, retro aesthetic. The terminal closed in 2001, but it had been designated a New York City landmark a few years earlier. Then in 2019 the TWA Hotel opened its doors to the public.
In this episode we share conversations with attendee’s of our private tour. Both had unique connections to the space. We'll also share more on a food focused event we held in partnership with the Asian American Federation, NYC’s Open Streets and the Department of Transportation.
The TWA Hotel at JFK is an aviation enthusiast’s dream: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-twa-hotel-at-jfk-is-an-aviation-enthusiasts-dream/
Find your Seoul with Murray Hill’s Korean Delicacies: https://epicenter-nyc.com/find-your-seoul-on-murray-hills-korean-delicacies/
Asian American Federation: https://www.aafederation.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
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On June 28th the Supreme Court made a decision that devalues the diversity that defines our schools, workplaces, institutions, and communities. In this episode we’re re-sharing a conversation between Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita and Lee Bollinger that took place in April – in anticipation of this ruling.
Throughout his career Bollinger has fought for the use of racial preferences to promote diversity – perhaps most notably with his role in Grutter v. Bollinger which was effectively overruled last week.
A Legacy of Discrimination: The Essential Constitutionality of Affirmative Action:
https://global.oup.com/academic/product/a-legacy-of-discrimination-9780197685747?cc=us⟨=en&
Lee Bollinger’s Last-Ditch Case to Save Affirmative Action:
https://time.com/charter/6270379/lee-bollingers-last-ditch-case-to-save-affirmative-action/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
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On Thursday June 22nd we hosted a panel on BIPOC Entrepreneurship. The event was sponsored by our friends at UBS. In this episode we’re sharing some of the key moments from that conversation with you.
The panel was moderated by Epicenter-NYC’s S. Mitra Kalita and featured Carla Zanoni the Head of Audience, Marketing and Analytics at TED, Tanais, an author, perfumer and the founder of Tanais Beauty and Perfumes, and Brandon Adams, the owner of Lloyd’s Carrot Cake.
Brandon Adams, owner of the famed Bronx institution Lloyd’s Carrot Cake
Tanaïs, author, perfumer and founder of TANAÏS Beauty & Perfumes
Carla Zanoni, head of audience, marketing and analytics at TED Conferences
Become a member: https://epicenternyc.fundjournalism.org/membership/?campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
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June is Pride Month, a time when we not only celebrate the LGBTQ+ community but also dig deeper into the challenges they face. While we revel in the strides taken towards normalizing queer experiences, especially in places like New York City, we're also faced with a bitter reality. As we speak, the LGBTQ+ community finds itself at a juncture where legislation, instead of protecting, threatens to curb free speech, undermine healthcare, and increase vulnerability.
In this episode we’re sharing a conversation between Sayu Bhojwani and her child, about being nonbinary, PRIDE, feeling safe while traveling and much more. This conversation originally appeared in Sayu’s newsletter, “No. 1 Immigrant Daughter”.
More on Sayu Bhojwani: https://www.sayubhojwani.com/
No. 1 Immigrant Daughter newsletter: https://no1immigrantdaughter.substack.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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In 2018 Mayor Bill de Blasio agreed to close the jail on Rikers Island. And come 2027 it will no longer exist. Over the past year three organizations, Freedom Agenda, Create Forward and the Humanities Action Lab, have been working together to create the Rikers Public Memory Project.
In this episode we talk to Regina Campbell, the Director of Oral History & Engagement for the Rikers Public Memory Project. We also hear from two of our neighbors who were directly affected, Anna Pastoressa and Marion Rodriguez.
Learn More: https://rikersmemoryproject.org/
How should Rikers Island be remembered: https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-should-rikers-island-be-remembered/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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New York City’s newest museum, WHAM!, is ambitious in its goal to lift up the multitude of international cultures in Woodside. In this episode Epicenter’s Co-Founder and Creative Director Nitin Mukul talks to Artist and WHAM! founder Harley J. Spiller. Harley brings more than 40 years of professional museum and curating experience, and currently serves as the executive director of Franklin Furnace Archive. He also sits on the board of directors of City Reliquary as well as the Voelker Orth Museum, Victorian Gardens and Bird Sanctuary in Flushing.
Meet WHAM!, NYC’s newest art museum: https://epicenter-nyc.com/meet-wham-nycs-newest-art-museum/ Learn more about WHAM!: https://whamartmuseum.org/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AAOur intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Today is the last day of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. But as May comes to a close, it’s important to remember that mental health issues in the AAPI community and beyond continue to exist. Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita speaks with Abu Nasim. Abu is a New York CIty based psychologist. They discuss why there aren't more South Asian therapists, the social stigma around seeking therapy, inherited trauma related to migration, the model minority myth and so much more.
Asian American Federation Mental Health Directory: https://mhd.aafederation.org/
There’s a new directory of Asian therapists. We talked to one: https://epicenter-nyc.com/mental-health-and-asian-americans/
There’s one thing uniting Black and Brown entrepreneurs: https://epicenter-nyc.com/theres-one-thing-uniting-black-and-brown-entrepreneurs/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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In the wake of the public killing of Jordan Neely many of us are now asking ourselves “what would I have done if I was in that subway car?” Being a bystander to an uncomfortable or violent event can be scary and confusing and often people aren’t equipped with the skills to react. Other times we fall victim to the bystander effect, thinking someone else will take action. In this episode Epicenter’s Danielle Hyams speaks to Emily May, the president and cofounder of “Right to Be”. The nonprofit is dedicated to helping people become more responsible bystanders.
"Right to Be" free trainings: https://righttobe.org/upcoming-free-trainings/
How to be a more responsible bystander: https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-to-be-a-more-responsible-bystander/
New Yorkers react to the murder of Jordan Neely: https://epicenter-nyc.com/new-yorkers-react-to-the-murder-of-jordan-neely/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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There’s a desi explosion in theater - on and off Broadway. Life of Pi, based on the best-selling book by Yann Martel, has already been nominated for multiple Tony’s. Monsoon Wedding has been so popular that its run at the St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn has been extended. And Mughal-e-Azam is opening at the Koch Theater at Lincoln Center next month. And these are just a handful of the South Asian-themed works that are captivating audiences across New York City and across the country. In this episode Epicenter's S. Mitra Kalita speaks to New York Indian Film Festival director and film critic Aseem Chhabra about this moment in South Asian arts and culture and the shows you won’t want to miss.
Tickets for Life of Pi: https://lifeofpibway.com/
Tickets for Monsoon Wedding: https://stannswarehouse.org/show/monsoon-wedding-the-musical/
Tickets for Mughal-e-Azam: https://www.davidhkochtheater.com/tickets-and-events/mughal-e-azam-the-musical-play/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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In Part II of our series on Drag Story Hours in NYC we hear from parents and advocates. We'll also share more on how neighbors are fighting right wing groups like the proud boys. And later - some tips on what you can do to help.
New York Indian Film Festival: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nyiff-2023-1992469
Drag Story Hour NYC: https://www.dshnyc.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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For years, parents and kids across New York City have been going to Drag Story Hours. Its goal is to provide a safe space to promote reading, inclusion, and diversity. But as the events have become a target for hate, supporters have another goal… to ensure Drag Story Hours continues to exist. We want to start with the basics. What exactly is a Drag Story Hour? And why are kids and parents across the city packing rooms to participate?
Drag Story Hour NYC: https://www.dshnyc.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In June of this year, the Supreme Court is expected to roll back affirmative action. Among those taking a stand is Lee Bollinger. Bollinger is the current president of Columbia University and throughout his career he’s fought for the use of racial preferences to promote diversity – perhaps most notably with his role in Grutter v. Bollinger, a 2003 Supreme Court decision that’s at risk of being overturned. Today, Bollinger continues to push for race-based admissions with his new book “A Legacy of Discrimination: The Essential Constitutionality of Affirmative Action”, co-authored with Geoffrey Stone. In this episode Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita talks to Bollinger about the book and what he sees as the biggest challenges ahead.
A Legacy of Discrimination: The Essential Constitutionality of Affirmative Action:
https://global.oup.com/academic/product/a-legacy-of-discrimination-9780197685747?cc=us⟨=en&
Lee Bollinger’s Last-Ditch Case to Save Affirmative Action:
https://time.com/charter/6270379/lee-bollingers-last-ditch-case-to-save-affirmative-action/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2022 the first legal purchase of recreational cannabis in New York City was made at a dispensary in Greenwich Village. Since then only a few more recreational dispensaries have opened. The lag has prompted tons of unlicensed and unregulated sellers to fill the gaps. Now, officials are cracking down on these sellers. Why? The mairjuana they sell is untaxed, unregulated, and they could hinder the success of licensed businesses. In this episode we hear from reporter Felipe De La Hoz about how this year will set the tone for the New York cannabis industry going forward.
NY’s marijuana regulations fall short:https://epicenter-nyc.com/nys-marijuana-regulations-fall-short/
Freelance Health Reporter:https://epicenter-nyc.com/freelance-health-reporter/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Van and Sumit Sharma returned home to live with family at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Their parents run one of the oldest Indian restaurants in Maine, so home meant helping out with the family business. That work led them to a new venture - an Indian beer brand called Rupee. Now, they're on a mission to bring Indian beer to a wider audience. In this episode Epicenter-NYC Editorial Manager, Danielle Hyams, talks to Van, who now lives in New York, about why they decided to launch Rupee and what’s next.
Find Rupee: https://www.rupeebeer.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Located in Washington Heights and Inwood, People’s Theatre Project, or PTP, makes theater with and for immigrant communities. Over the past 14 years PTP has become Manhattan’s largest performing arts organization north of Harlem. PTP’s newest play is called “The Diamond” and it premieres on April 12th.
In this episode we hear from PTP Founding Executive Director Mino Lora, “The Diamond” playwright Christin Eve Cato, and Actor Vida Tayebati.
People's Theatre Project: https://peoplestheatreproject.org/
The Diamond (tickets): https://peoplestheatreproject.org/thediamond/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Construction, electrical, and carpentry are just a few of the most male-dominated industries in the country. But there are still a lot of barriers. So as Women’s History Month comes to a close, we asked two female union workers about their experiences working in a male-dominated industry, misconceptions about unions and more.
The female faces of organized labor: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-female-faces-of-organized-labor/
The women of hip hop who inspire New Yorkers: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-women-of-hip-hop-that-inspire-new-yorkers/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Starting today, March 22nd, Muslims across the world will celebrate Ramadan. Non-Muslims often associate the holiday with fasting since those who observe it refrain from any food or drinks between sunrise and sunset. But it’s much more than that.
In this episode we learn from Imam Fadhel Alahlani of the Imam-Al Khoei Islamic Center of New York and Mirum Zafar, the senior community outreach and enrollment coordinator at the Arab-American Family Support Center.
More than a fast: What Ramadan truly means:https://epicenter-nyc.com/more-than-a-fast-what-ramadan-truly-means/
AAFSC: https://www.aafscny.org/donate/
Imam-Al Khoei Islamic Center of New York: https://www.al-khoei.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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“The Big Apple” is New York City’s most popular nickname. But where does it come from? In this episode Epicenter Editorial Director, Danielle Hyams, talks to writer and artist, Regi Taylor, about his work uncovering the history of the term. Regi has spent years researching its origins and the crucial role that Harlem played – not just in creating it, but in popularizing it. Now, he wants to get Black New Yorkers the recognition they deserve.
Ever wonder how New York City got universally dubbed “The Big Apple?”: https://epicenter-nyc.com/ever-wonder-how-new-york-city-got-universally-dubbed-the-big-apple/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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For many formerly convicted New Yorkers, housing is a key part of re-entering society, but it's also one of the hardest things to secure. The Fair Chance Act aims to change that by making it an unlawful discriminatory practice for housing providers to do criminal background checks, or inquire about arrest or conviction records.
Today we hear from two formerly incarcerated New Yorkers about their experiences getting housing and what a fair chance would mean to them.
This episode focuses on the experiences of our neighbors post-incarceration, on who they are now. Remember, a person should never be reduced to the worst thing they may have done.
Learn more about The Fair Chance Act: https://www.fairchancehousing.org/faqs
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Hillstone, a longtime Midtown staple, abruptly closed on Sunday, January 16th. Staff was informed that same morning. So how did a beloved national chain with an impeccable reputation end up closing with absolutely no notice to its longtime workers? In this episode Epicenter writer Hari Adivarekar talks to former Hillstone bartender, Salvador Robledo, about what it was like to find out that his job of 22 years wouldn’t exist anymore.
Workers left in the lurch as Hillstone shutters its Midtown branch: https://epicenter-nyc.com/workers-left-in-the-lurch-as-hillstone-shutters-its-midtown-branch/
Job search & resume classes: https://www.nypl.org/help/getting-oriented/for-job-seekers/programs
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Jennifer Wu is a partner at a law firm by day with an active pro bono practice representing victims of anti-Asian hate by night. Growing up, she realized that her parents did not want to be perceived as Asian. It was the 80s and the height of anti-Japanese sentiment as the Detroit auto industry blamed Japanese automakers for taking away their jobs. And much like today, anti-Asian hate crimes were on the rise. As she pursued a career in law, Wu always gravitated toward representing people who she thought were underrepresented. Now, she feels it’s more important than ever to support her community.
Lessons from Jennifer Wu on the meaning of justice: https://epicenter-nyc.com/lessons-from-jennifer-wu-on-the-meaning-of-justice/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Built in 1612, the Bowne House in Flushing was home to generations of abolitionists. It was also a safe space in the Underground Railroad. To preserve the history, Queens residents founded The Bowne House Historical Society in 1945. They bought the house and opened it to the public as a museum. And later this month, we’ll bring Epicenter members in for a tour in partnership with The Underground Railroad Consortium of New York State. URCNYS works to promote the state’s role in the struggle to end slavery. In this episode we talk to URCNYS program manager, Sage Hazarika, about the history and significance of The Browne House.
Learn more about URCNYS: https://www.urcnys.org/
The Bowne House Historical Society: https://www.bownehouse.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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New York City based violinists Trina Basu and Arun Ramamurthy met in 2007 and it was love at first sound. They’ve been collaborating ever since. And in January of 2023 the pair released their debut album - Nakshatra. Already, it’s landed on Billboard’s “Classical Crossover Albums” chart and has received high praise from many publications - us included. Epicenter-NYC founder and publisher S. Mitra Kalita talked to Trina and Arun about their backgrounds in music, making it in New York City, and the new album. They’ll also be joined by Epicenter co-founder and creative director Nitin Mukul.
Find them on bandcamp! https://basumurthy.bandcamp.com/album/nakshatra
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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On January 21st news quickly spread of a mass shooting in Monterey Park during Lunar New Year celebrations. Then, two days later, another mass shooting left 7 dead in Half Moon Bay. Many feared this was another example of violence directed towards Asian Americans amidst a surge in anti-Asian hate crimes, but we soon learned that both shooters were elderly Asian men. Now, there are more questions than answers.
Epicenter’s founder and publisher S. Mitra Kalita talks to World Journal reporter Yiyan Zheng about what she’s learned while writing for the largest Chinese language newspaper in the United States.
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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In December of 2020, New York City began administering the very first Covid-19 vaccines. Since then, we’ve been on the front lines making sure our neighbors get their shots. In fact, thousands of New Yorkers turned to Epicenter staff, volunteers and our partners to get vaccinated.
But we realized we could do more. So, in September of 2021 we set up a pop up vaccination site (in partnership with New York City Test and Trace) in Queens Village - one of the city’s most under-vaccinated neighborhoods.
Now, over a year later our team is still distributing doses to neighbors in need.
Today - Epicenter Editorial Manager, Danielle Hyams, and Queens Village site supervisor, Adriana Proano, look back at the different phases of the pandemic and what we’ve learned along the way.
There’s (another) new variant. Here’s what a doctor has to say: https://epicenter-nyc.com/theres-another-new-variant-heres-what-a-doctor-has-to-say/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Over the past 8 years Liam Quigley has eaten over 460 slices of pizza across the five boroughs - logging each one on his instagram account NYC Slice. Finally, last week, he shared his findings. A map showing the location of each pizza place and a graph showing the increase in the average price of a slice over time.
Quigley assumed a handful of friends would retweet the results, but he was wrong. It went viral. In this episode Epicenter Editorial Manager Danielle Hyams talks to Quigley about what he’s learned along the way and if we’ve really seen the death of the $1 slice.
NYC Slice: https://elkue.com/nyc-slice/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Over the weekend New York Mets owner Steve Cohen hosted a “visioning session” at Citi Field. Hundreds of residents gathered to make their voices heard.
The goal? To re-imagine the 50 acres surrounding the ballpark. Cohen argues that for too long the space has been nothing more than vacant asphalt and wasted opportunity. Now, he’s asking for community input on the future of the area around Citi Field.
Join the conversation: https://www.queensfuture.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you’ve been listening to our podcast or if you read our stories, then you already know we’ve been in touch with award winning actor, April Matthis, since the start of the pandemic.
In June of 2021 Matthis joined us for a conversation about what the closure of theaters across New York City meant for actors. Then, in April of 2022 Matthis told us about her experience starring in the play “Help” with an all- white cast. Now, Matthis is joining us once again to discuss her Broadway debut as Grace in the revival of August Wilson's “The Piano Lesson”.
Get tickets to "The Piano Lesson": https://pianolessonplay.com/tickets/
Join us at Citi Field for a historic opportunity to chart a path forward for the site: https://www.queensfuture.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Earlier this month Mayor Eric Adams announced a plan to hospitalize unhoused New Yorkers with severe mental illness – involuntarily. The move comes amid a growing homelessness and mental health crisis. But while many New Yorkers are desperate for the city to address these problems, experts think Adams’ approach might do more harm than good.
In this episode we har from Anthony Almojera, a lieutenant paramedic with the FDNY Emergency Medical Service. Almojera is often the first on the scene when someone calls about an “emotionally disturbed person.”
The gaps in Mayor Eric Adams’ controversial new mental health plan:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-gaps-in-mayor-eric-adams-controversial-new-mental-health-plan/
Riding the Lightning: A Year in the Life of a New York City Paramedic
https://www.amazon.com/Riding-Lightning-Year-Life-Paramedic-ebook/dp/B09722GR8D
Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When it came to the midterm results, mainstream media got a lot wrong that local, Black, Brown and BIPOC media got right. And even now, they’re still missing important stories - from big topics like abortion and climate change to garbage pickup or PTA. So why is this happening? Recently, Epicenter-NYC publisher S. Mitra Kalita joined a roundtable discussion with other BIPOC journalists to answer that question. The discussion was hosted by broadcast journalist Laura Flanders.
BIPOC Media Covered the Elections Differently: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpeCvn2U52c
Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s the holiday season, and we know conversations with family can sometimes be… challenging. Whether it's addressing a longstanding disagreement, bringing up a sensitive topic, or simply trying to express our own thoughts and feelings, these interactions can be difficult and emotionally charged. But with the right approach, they can also be an opportunity to better understand one another.
In this episode we hear from journalist Felipe De La Hoz about good ways to handle conversations about issues that New Yorkers face today.
Advice for hard holiday conversations: https://epicenter-nyc.com/advice-for-hard-holiday-conversations/
Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The World Cup has drawn a lot of attention this year, but not for the reasons it usually does. The host nation of Qatar has been accused of human rights abuses connected with the construction of the facilities.
Despite that reality, the purpose of the games has always been to bring people together. And in my experience it has. Almost a year ago some family members and I made the decision to go to the World Cup. We’re a big soccer family and the trip has been a life-long dream – especially for my grandparents who live in Mexico City and haven’t traveled beyond North America until this past week.
Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Like any year, this year has been challenging for many of our neighbors. We’ve seen a surge in MPV cases, inhumane conditions at Rikers Island, immigrant women in Brooklyn being exploited by their employers. Our neighbors have experienced hate crimes, hunger, and housing insecurity.
But at the same time, we’ve witnessed so many New Yorkers showing up to help one another. Nido de Esperanza is helping new mothers with child care, Da Homeless Hero is pushing for better conditions in shelters, and food pantries are feeding those in need. Every day, we’re thankful to be a part of a city full of people that want to make a difference.
Small biz owners tell us what they are thankful for this year: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-owners-tell-us-what-they-are-thankful-for-this-year/
Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Division Street and Marcy Avenue meet in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood. To some, this intersection is known as La Parada, or “The Stop.” It’s a day laborer hub that attracts undocumented immigrant women looking to find work as housekeepers. But while La Parada is, in a way, a very flexible workplace, the women are easily exploited by their employers.
In this episode we talk to Maria Valdez who leads ‘Liberty Cleaners’, the house cleaners workers’ rights organization within the Workers Justice Project.
The women of La Parada: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-women-of-la-parada/
WJP: http://www.workersjustice.org/
CDC on MPV during pregnancy: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/clinicians/pregnancy.html
Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When Reuben King was growing up on the Caribbean island of Dominica, his family owned a farm that didn’t have electricity. That meant no refrigerator, instead they’d keep water cool and store it in a clay vessel. He didn’t pay much attention to the making of the vessel until fell in love with the art of pottery making. Now, King owns Brooklyn Clay Industries, a teaching studio where people of all ages and skill levels can learn about ceramics.
Small Biz Spotlight: Brooklyn Clay Industries: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight-brooklyn-clay-industries/
Brooklyn Clay Industries: https://www.brooklynclayindustries.com/
JYNNEOS FAQ: https://www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/monkeypox/jynneos-vaccine-faq.pdf
Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In today's episode Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the chief medical advisor to President Biden, sits down with Jeanne Pinder, founder and CEO of ClearHealthCosts, a partner with Epicenter-NYC in the Vaccine Equity Partner Engagement grant program with the Fund for Public Health of New York City. The two discuss the slow rollout of Covid-19 booster shots.
We asked Dr. Anthony Fauci how to fix the slow booster rollout: https://epicenter-nyc.com/qa-with-dr-anthony-fauci/
Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When many people think of the MAGA movement’s followers, they likely picture rural conservatives in southwestern or Rust Belt states, or maybe New Yorkers on Long Island or upstate, but that’s not necessarily the case. While New York City itself remains a blue bastion, the movement has made inroads.
Journalist Felipe De La Hoz, who recently wrote about the rise of MAGA in New York, says that all of this is both puzzling and concerning for New Yorkers who see a rising tide of what seems like a dangerous and aggressive form of anti-democratic thought. In this episode Felipe discusses why we’re seeing this shift.
The rise of MAGA in New York: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-rise-of-maga-in-new-york/
Voting information: https://vote.nyc/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
MPV Information: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox-when-sick.page
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For months now, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has been sending buses of migrants to the city. While the idea of asylum seekers being taken from the border region to destinations in the northeast is not new, the difference now is that this is being done explicitly without coordination. And oftentimes there is little - if any at all - input from the migrants themselves. The city’s initial reaction was to funnel people into shelters. But many say the move is overburdening what was already a system stretched thin.
I talk to Shams DaBaron, also known as Da Homeless Hero, about what the shelter system was like prior to the influx of migrants and how it’s changed.
Follow Shams DaBaron: www.instagram.com/dahomelesshero
Find your local representative: mygovnyc.org/
CDC monkeypox vaccine information: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/interim-considerations/jynneos-vaccine.html
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you’ve been tuning into our podcast, or reading our newsletter, then you probably already know about the long lines food pantries have been facing as the pandemic wears on. Still today, hundreds of our neighbors continue to line up in search of groceries. It’s mainly thanks to volunteers that they return home with a bag of food. And while the job is fulfilling, it’s hard work.
In this episode we talk with two volunteers from food pantries across Queens to learn more about what a typical day looks like for them, what challenges they face, and what they need the most right now.
SACSS: https://www.sacssny.org/donate/
ICNA Relief: https://icnarelief.org/product/hunger-prevention/
Queens Community House: https://www.qchnyc.org/donate/make-gift
Sign up for Monkeypox text message updates: https://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nychttps://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nyc
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Epicenter-NYC and UBS recently hosted a panel on the next generation of Asian-American entrepreneurship. Discussions centered around creating and planning for generational wealth. Panelists included Anjula Acharia, the CEO of A-series Investments and Management, Lucy Yu, the owner of Yu and Me Books, Anshu Prasad, the CEO and Co-Founder of Leaf Logistics, and Sean Ro, the Co-Founder of Lunar Seltzer. The conversation was organized and moderated by USB’s Bianca Benedetti-Fang, and Epicenter NYC’s S. Mitra Kalita.
Anjula Acharia: https://twitter.com/anjulaacharia
Lucy Yu/Yu and Me Books: https://www.yuandmebooks.com/
Anshu Prasad/Leaf Logistics: https://leaflogistics.com/
Sean Ro/Lunar Seltzer: https://www.drinklunar.com/
CDC monkeypox vaccine information: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/interim-considerations/jynneos-vaccine.html
Sign up for Monkeypox text message updates: https://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nychttps://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nyc
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Many of our neighbors have family members and friends who are currently living in Pakistan. In fact, New York City is home to more Pakistanis than any other city in the country. And while it’s already difficult to be far from your loved ones, this summer made that distance more painful than ever.
By now, over 30 million people have been affected by the monsoon, which began in June of 2022. More than one-third of Pakistan is under water. And while the flooding has largely dropped from the newscycle, the need for help has only grown.
In this episode we hear from Mohammad Saif Ullah, the owner of Dera, a Pakistani restaurant in Jackson Heights, and Kanwar Ahmed of the Pakistan American Youth Organization.
Dera Restaurant: https://www.facebook.com/DeraRestaurantIncJacksonHieghts/
PAYO: https://payousa.org/aboutas/
Roshan Flood Relief Committee:https://www.roshantravel.com.pk/roshan-relief-foundation/
NYPD Muslim Society: https://z-upload.facebook.com/NYPDMuslim/posts/2593681820764160
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page
Sign up for Monkeypox text message updates: https://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nyc
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New York City is home to some of the top ballet companies in the world. But even the city’s most popular productions like “The Nutcracker” are steeped in racial stereotypes. Now, dancers, choreographers, journalists, and activists alike are working together to challenge offensive roles and push a centuries-old art form into the modern era. The documentary titled “Beyond Yellowface” will explore this issue. The film follows two NYC dancers of Asian descent and co-founders of the Final Bow for Yellowface movement.
In this episode we speak to dancer, choreographer and activist Phil Chan, as well as “Beyond Yellowface” Director and Producer, Jennifer Lin.
Contribute to "Beyond Yellowface": https://www.beyondyellowface.com/
Follow them on social media: https://www.instagram.com/beyondyellowface/, https://www.facebook.com/BeyondYellowface/, https://twitter.com/yellowface_film
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page
Vaccine Intake Form: https://airtable.com/shrcyXdRya5zPelKx
Contact us for help: vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com or (917) 818-2690
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Throughout the pandemic we’ve witnessed a surge in food insecurity and long lines at pantries across the city. At the same time pantries have struggled to keep up with the demand, and in some cases, have been forced to turn people away.That includes the few pantries that supply Halal food. And as Halal food pantries fail to get the support they need to continue operating like they used to, our neighbors in need are finding it particularly difficult to secure food they can eat.
In this episode we speak to Hanna Sheikh, Maia Dillane, and Adriana Curto at the Arab-American Family Support Center. We also speak to Ishaq Alpar, the Director of Support Services at ICNA Relief.
Arab-American Family Support Center: https://www.aafscny.org/
ICNA Relief: https://icnarelief.org/
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page
Vaccine Intake Form: https://airtable.com/shrcyXdRya5zPelKx
Contact us for help: vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com or (917) 818-2690
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Not everyone can say they had a first job like Abou Sow. At 11 years old, he began working at his uncle’s slaughterhouse in Jamaica, Queens. It was there he learned how to slaughter animals according to halal standards.
The 26 year old has now opened up his own butcher shop called Prince Abou’s Butchery. But Prince Abou’s Butchery wasn’t always a brick and mortar shop. Sow began the business in a classically millennial way: selling his products through Instagram. Beginning In January 2020, people would order fresh meat via Instagram DM and Sow would deliver. Then, in August 2021, he signed a lease and one year later opened his own space.
Prince Abou’s Butchery is a cut above the rest:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight-prince-abous-butchery-is-a-cut-above-the-rest/
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page
NYC Vaccine Finder: https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/
Contact us for help: vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com or (917) 818-2690
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Summer is coming to an end and students are getting ready to head back into the classrooms once again. But this year will start out differently. Covid precautions like masks, in-school PCR surveillance testing, and daily health screeners are no longer required. To many New Yorkers, it seems like things are back to normal. But are they really? In this episode Epicenter’s Mitra Kalita speaks with NPR education reporter, Anya Kamenetz, about her new book “The Stolen Year”. “The Stolen Year” examines how Covid changed children’s lives, and where we go from here.
Buy "The Stolen Year": www.anyakamenetz.net/
Sign up for The Unmuted: https://pico.link/theunmuted/login/enter-email?id=LoginWizard_theunmuted
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:
https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In early 2021 Covid-19 vaccines had finally reached New York CIty. But later, as vaccine mandates came into play, the debate on whether to vaccinate became increasingly polarizing. Still, there wasn’t enough being done to help people understand the range of perspectives.
The creators of “Bring it to the People” wanted to change that. “Bring it to the People” is a documentary that underscores the complex issues that are preventing vaccination such as historical medical mistreatment, stigma, health literacy, and much more. And like we do at Epicenter, the film dives into communities within New York City that are underrepresented in the media.
Today we speak with with Director Luis Palomino Benítez, and Producer Dr. Harlem Gunness.
Stream "Bring it to the People": https://www.eventbrite.com/e/virtual-debut-documentary-bring-it-to-the-people-tickets-401309496507
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7rUgQ2hLQ4
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, New York City voters can participate in the second round of primary elections. Typically, there’s only one primary that happens in late June, but this year is different. In April, a New York appeals court ruled that the new congressional district lines were drawn with partisan intent. The decision prompted a redrawing of the maps. That pushed primaries for Congress and State Senate to August.
Voter turnout in New York City primary elections is normally very low, and the June 28th election was no exception. But now, with added confusion, experts worry that turnout for the second primary will be even worse.
In this episode we're joined by to Ali Najmi, a leading election law attorney in New York on why it's so important to get to the polls.
Find out where to vote: voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/
Ali Najmi: https://www.najmilaw.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On May 20th New York City confirmed its first case of monkeypox. And by the end of July the virus had spread enough that the city declared a public health emergency.
The good news is there’s a monkeypox vaccine. But can the city distribute fast enough and fairly?
In this episodeEpicenter’s Editorial Director, Danielle Hyams, talks to journalist Katherine Tam. Katherine has been working hard to make monkeypox vaccine appointments for those in need.
"Monkeypox Info. & Appt. Help" Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mpxvax
Request an appointment: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdyCED9N2SrOUufA9hfVs3qB688_BLopKdnlw0sfUGZwl3n9w/viewform?fbzx=911391871896330485
Epicenter-NYC monkeypox update: https://epicenter-nyc.com/monkeypox-update/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Since the start of the pandemic we’ve witnessed food insecurity become increasingly prevalent across New York City. Over the past few months alone we’ve reported on rising food prices, struggling soup kitchens, and food pantries that are so overwhelmed they’re turning people away for the first time ever. And just like the devastating effects of Covid-19, seniors in our community are some of the most vulnerable.
In this episode we hear from three community leaders, Zani Simmons, Mary Archana Fernandez and Helen Ahn, about the challenges seniors have been facing while trying to access food.
South Asian Council for Social Services: https://www.sacssny.org/
QCH, Pomonok Community Center Food Pantry: https://www.qchnyc.org/
Korean Community Center: https://kcsny.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The New York City Housing Authority, or NYCHA, provides public housing across New York City. Today, more than 500,000 people live in NYCHA's public housing developments. And while these apartments may be less expensive than other housing options in New York City, residents argue that living conditions are poor, and repairs are often slow or non-existent.
Some say the solution to these problems is privatization. So in 2016 NYCHA began leasing their apartments to private companies in exchange for funding as a part of their Permanent Affordability Commitment Together, or “PACT” program. And last month, Governor Kathy Hochul took another step towards privatization when she signed new legislation establishing the NYC Public Housing Preservation Trust. But NYCHA residents are concerned. Will these changes lead to evictions and less accountability?
In this episode we talk to Epicenter Intern Angelina Nelson who has been a NYCHA resident for 20 years. On July 14th she joined her neighbors to protest the privatization of their homes.
The United Front Against Displacement: https://theunitedfrontagainstdisplacement.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New Yorkers walking down the street are likely unaware that they are being surveilled. It’s part of the trade-off that we’ve made as a society – a persistent monitoring in exchange for a sense of security and convenience.
The NYPD has a small arsenal of powerful surveillance tools, tools that, until the City Council passed the Public Oversight of Surveillance Technology Act in 2020, it could purchase and deploy in total secrecy. And while these technologies might help the police more quickly identify suspects of violent crimes, they’re a double-edged sword.
In this episode we talk to politics journalist Felipe De La Hoz about what he found during his reporting on this story.
Felipe's full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-rise-of-surveillance-in-new-york-city/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Queens has long been the home of prominent jazz musicians, like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. And Flushing Town Hall, which is a Smithsonian Institution affiliate dedicated to presenting global arts programming, is making sure New Yorkers remember these legends by hosting monthly jazz jams.
The series has been promoting jazz in Queens for decades and this month the public is invited to the 2nd annual Jazz Jam All-Stars Concert. Jazz Jam is a gathering of musicians whose sole purpose is to jam out together; age and skill level don’t matter.
We hear from a few of our neighbors who are participating including musicians Ezra Kessler, Mimi Block, and band leader Carol Sudhalter.
Flushing Town Hall keeps jazz alive: https://epicenter-nyc.com/flushing-town-hall-keeps-jazz-alive/
Tickets: https://www.flushingtownhall.org/jazz-jam-all-stars-2022
Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/user/FlushingTownHall
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unless you grew up in one of the five boroughs of New York City, you probably have no idea of the challenges involved in getting into public high school. For many students, the process begins years in advance. And not unlike applying to college, kids and families consider a variety of schools. Some of those schools require an exam, while others require an interview or portfolio. This complicated process has left the most disadvantaged students behind.
That’s why, just before leaving office, former mayor Bill de Blasio passed legislation to change the application process with the goal of making top schools like these more accessible.
In this episode Epicenter’s Mitra Kalita speaks with Natasha Warikoo about her new book titled “Race at the Top: Asian Americans and Whites in Pursuit of the American Dream in Suburban Schools”. The book explores competition in suburban high schools with growing numbers of Asian Americans.
Natasha Warikoo: https://natashawarikoo.com/
Sign up for The Unmuted: https://trypico.com/theunmuted
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At the pandemic’s peak, thousands of New Yorkers got help from local food pantries. You probably remember seeing photos of hundreds of our neighbors standing in line with empty carts and bags. But now, two years later, the situation isn’t all that different. While the photos may be less frequent, it doesn’t mean the lines are any shorter. And beyond that, food pantries are struggling to help the many New Yorkers in need amid rising food prices. Some have even been forced to turn people away.
Today we talk to Thomas Neve, the founder of Reaching Out Community Services, and Mary Holzman-Tweed, a volunteer at the Astoria Food Pantry — about how they are dealing with rising food prices and supply issues, and how New Yorkers can help their neighbors in need.
Read more: https://epicenter-nyc.com/new-york-city-food-banks-struggle-meet-rising-demand/
Reaching Out Community Services: https://rcsprograms.org/
Astoria Food Pantry: https://www.astoriafoodpantry.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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In mid-June, the FDA granted emergency use authorization to Pfizer and Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 months to 5 years old. In New York City, the vaccines will become available as early as the start of next week.
But while some parents have been counting the days, others have questions: What if my child already had COVID-19? How effective is the vaccine for kids versus adults? And what about additional doses?
In this episode Epicenter NYC’s Mitra Kalita talks to Dr. Mark Horowitz, a family doctor in Lower Manhattan, about what parents should consider when making the decision to vaccinate their children.
Vaccine Help: https://epicenter-nyc.com/vaccine-help/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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On May 14th a racially motivated shooting at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York claimed 10 lives. At the time, it was the deadliest mass shooting of 2022. Just 10 days later 21 individuals were killed in a shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. 19 of those victims were 11 years old or younger. There have been more than 250 mass shootings in the United States this year… and it’s only June. By now, we know that when an event like this happens, it’s not just direct family members who are affected, it’s entire communities. So how can we effectively grieve together and help our neighbors who are struggling with loss?
In this episode we talk to Jill Cohen, a New York City based grief counselor, about how individuals and communities alike can deal with grief after a traumatic event.
There’s a layered approach to dealing with grief: https://epicenter-nyc.com/theres-a-layered-approach-to-deal-with-grief/
Jill Cohen's book recommendations: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1s7RUDjd4JzALA-nW8vzMpfy2G9_yM4n0/view
NYC Based Counselors: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/ny/new-york?category=grief
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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While many of us have started to get more comfortable with the idea of gatherings, we’re still in the midst of a pandemic. Every day there are thousands of new COVID-19 cases in New York City.
The juxtaposition of a summer filled with opportunities to finally see loved ones and the seriousness of the ongoing pandemic is confusing. The excitement is often paired with intense feelings of anxiety over what could go wrong.
Epicenter’s Mitra Kalita and Daniel Laplaza recently hosted their own events – a graduation party and a wedding. In this episode theytalk about what helped them deal with the stress leading up to the big day and what they wish they had done differently.
Vaccine Help: https://epicenter-nyc.com/vaccine-help/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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New York City has always been known as one of the world’s fashion capitals. The fashion scene employs nearly 180,000 workers here including models, hair stylists and makeup artists. But while the industry generates nearly $11 billion in wages, it’s still one of the most unregulated and exploitative in the world. A new bill, the Fashion Workers Act, wants to change that.
The Fashion Workers act was brought forth by The Model Alliance, Senator Brad Hoylman and Assemblymember Karines Reyes. With it, they hope to increase regulation and protections for models and creatives alike.
Today we talk to Sydney Giordano, the associate director of the Model Alliance, and Senator Brad Hoylman about what this bill means for the industry.
New York is the center of fashion, but its workers lack basic rights: https://epicenter-nyc.com/new-york-is-the-center-of-fashion-but-its-workers-lack-basic-rights/
Model Alliance: https://www.modelalliance.org/
Petition: https://www.modelalliance.org/fashionworkersact
Post about it: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1QhUsIP6Z7zbrjXS6UDhu1RU4Y32b89sZ
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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From keeping employees and customers safe and healthy, adjusting to fast-changing COVID restrictions, and dealing with supply chain and hiring issues — owning a small business hasn’t been easy. We spoke to several small business owners across New York City about their experiences finding success during this unique and difficult time.
A premium loose leaf teas & herbs store, a Burmese restaurant, a sneaker shop that specializes in hard to find styles, and a Filipino restaurant. Aside from preserving despite challenges brought on by the pandemic, all of these businesses have another thing in common. They are all AAPI owned.
Become a member (and join our Queens Night Market tour!): https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Burmese Bites: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight-burmese-bites/
Chick'n Rotunda: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight-chickn-rotunda/
Sun's Organic Garden: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight-chinatowns-suns-organic-garden-brews-up-unique-teas/
.IMAGE: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight-image-queens-first-sneaker-consignment-shop-puts-best-foot-forward/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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On May 2nd, a draft opinion was leaked from the Supreme Court. The public soon discovered that the Court had voted to overturn Roe v. Wade, 1973 decision that established a woman's constitutional right to an abortion.
Immediately, protests broke across the country. Many argued that this decision could set the U.S. back more than 50 years, to a time when women who were in need of an abortion were forced to get one illegally in unsafe conditions.
In this episode we talk to Judith Vivell, a local artist, about what it was like for women seeking abortions before the Roe v. Wade decision. We also speak with assembly member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas who introduced New York's Reproductive Freedom and Equity bill. Finally, Emily Miles, the Executive Director of the NYC Alliance Against Sexual Assault, discusses her concerns for those they serve.
Read more: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-stark-difference-between-two-abortions-before-and-after-roe-v-wade/
Find your assembly member: https://nyassembly.gov/mem/search/
Find your senator: https://www.nysenate.gov/find-my-senator
Assembly Bill A10148: https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2021/a10148
New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault: https://www.svfreenyc.org/
Order 8 more free at-home COVID tests: https://special.usps.com/testkits
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Since 1993 Queens Theatre has produced programs that celebrate the diversity of the borough. And starting this Friday, May 13th, they’re hosting two weekends of performances and events in the first-ever Forward Festival of the Arts. The festival will highlight the artistry of deaf individuals and other performers with disabilities.
In this episode we talk to Queens Theatre's Executive Director Taryn Sacramone about how they’ve worked to make the experience accessible to more of our neighbors and why representation of artists with disabilities on stage is so important.
We also hear from one of the key organizers of the Forward Festival of the Arts, Gregg Mozgala. Gregg is a New York City based actor, artistic director, and arts administrator.
Festival schedule/tickets: https://queenstheatre.org/calendar/category/forward-festival
Queens Theatre: https://queenstheatre.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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In September of 2021 we set up our first vaccine pop-up in Queens Village, one of the least vaccinated zip codes in the borough. By the end of day one, more than 60 people had been vaccinated.
But eventually we saw what the rest of New York City was seeing - fewer and fewer people looking for a shot. And even though 75% of our neighbors received their initial doses, less than 40% percent have gotten their booster. Now, we’re seeing a new wave of COVID-19 cases, so does this coincide with a spike in vaccinations?
In this episode Epicenter-NYC reporter Danille Hyams talks to Adriana Proano about the recent rise in cases, whether or not the city is prepared to provide testing for all who need it, and why incentives are a great way to get more of our neighbors protected. Adriana is the site supervisor for Epicenter-NYC in Queens Village.
Vaccine Help: https://epicenter-nyc.com/vaccine-help/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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In March, Mayor Eric Adams announced his plan to rid the city of homeless encampments. But while Adams has pledged to provide housing, many homeless individuals don’t want to stay in a shelter. Between horrible living conditions, strict rules, and very little privacy, some feel it’s even worse than living on the streets.
In fact, out of the 239 encampments cleared at the end of March, only five people moved to shelters. This is why the mayor has favored what’s known as a Safe Haven. A Safe Haven is considered a “low threshold” shelter, which means it has less rules, more privacy, and oftentimes, mental health and substance abuse services.
In this episode we talk to Shams DaBaron. Shams, also known as “Da Homeless Hero” is a local advocate. He remembers what it was like to be homeless and living in a shelter in New York City.
Follow "Da Homeless Hero" on Twitter: https://twitter.com/homeless_hero
Homeless New Yorkers oppose sweeps – and shelters: https://epicenter-nyc.com/i-want-an-apartment-just-like-you-homeless-new-yorkers-oppose-sweeps-and-shelters/
Brooklyn Eviction Defense: https://brooklynevictiondefense.org/en/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Queens-based artist Liz Phillips has been creating interactive multimedia installations for 50 years. She combines audio and visuals with new technologies to create experiences that are unique for each visitor. Her work has been on display at top art museums around the world including The Whitney Museum of American Art and Lincoln Center. She’s also exhibited installations at festivals, alternative spaces, and even public spaces.
In this episode Liz talks to Epicenter’s co-founder and creative director, Nitin Mukul, about what led her to create sound installations before the category even existed, how she uses sound to help people tune into natural landscapes, and what the future of sound art looks like.
Liz Phillips website & "Relative Fields in a VR Garden": http://lizphillips.net/w/
Join our growing network of artists: https://epicenter-nyc.com/artists/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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On February 24th Putin announced a quote unquote “special” operation to de-militarise Ukraine. Just moments later the assault began through airstrikes and missiles. And soon after, came a large ground invasion.
That same day Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy enacted martial law. Now, 48 days later, the war wages on. Millions have fled seeking safe haven abroad, including journalist and mother, Yana Miroshnychenko. Yana and her 5 year old son traveled from Kyiv to Brooklyn after their home was shelled and robbed. Her husband, Igor Miroshnychenko, is a sports journalist-turned politician who remains in the country along with their other family members.
In this episodeYana talks about what that first night of war was like and her experience leaving the country, her husband, and family behind - all while six months pregnant.
Donate clothing etc. as Miroshnychenko gets ready for a new baby!: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9kXy-5I15r5D7TwKTKNwdCekHoK5IR6JoIORi7iVC5NPUxQ/viewform
Razom’s list of resources: https://linktr.ee/razomforukraine
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Last summer, thanks to a grant from the Knight Lenfest Local News Transformation Fund, we spoke to award winning actor April Matthis about how she coped with the changes brought on by COVID-19 and what she thinks the future of theater in New York City looks like. Now, Nearly a year later, a lot has changed. For starters, April is back on the stage, currently starring in “Help” a The Shed.
“Help” is a new play by author and poet Claudia Rankine. The work follows a Black woman who moves in spaces where she frequently encounters white people. April explains that the play turns the lens on race toward white people instead of pathologizing Blackness.
In this episode Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita talks to April about “Help”, what it’s like working in an all-white cast, and how she feels about performing in person while COVID restrictions across the city begin to lift.
April Matthis: https://www.broadway.com/buzz/stars/april-matthis/profile/
https://twitter.com/april_matthis?s=20
"Help" at The Shed: https://theshed.org/program/225-help-a-new-play-by-claudia-rankine
Knight-Lenfest Local News Transformation Fund announces support for URL Media: https://www.lenfestinstitute.org/diverse-growing-audiences/pursing-accountability-while-recognizing-humanity-knight-lenfest-local-news-transformation-fund-announces-support-for-url-media/
URL Media: https://url-media.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Throughout the pandemic many of our neighbors struggled to make ends meet for the first time in their lives. And oftentimes it was New York City’s human services workers - employed by nonprofits - who were the ones to step up and help. But for all they do, nonprofit workers are notoriously underpaid. In fact, a recent study showed that in New York City wages are so low that around 15% of non-profit employees qualify for food stamps. Enter the #JustPay Campaign. They’re working hard to create a comprehensive wage schedule for government-contracted human services workers.
In this episode we hear from Na’ilah Amaru, the director of policy and campaigns for the Human Services Council of New York, about how we need to push elected officials to end government-sanctioned poverty wages for nonprofit workers.
Nonprofit workers helped NYC get through the pandemic. Now they want better pay:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/nonprofit-workers-helped-nyc-get-through-the-pandemic-now-they-want-better-pay/
Join #JustPay: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeeRXNlVgnl_2JzJqtEA-RWQujeIiBk2ycykPmKXr4uvoE0OQ/viewform
Find your representative: https://www.mygovnyc.org/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
COVID-19 Questions: Daniel@Epicenter-NYC.com
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Over the past year 16 men died in the Rikers Island Jail Complex. Among them was Stephan Khadu. He was just 24 years old.
Stephan was sent to Rikers to await trial. His mom, Lezandre, had major concerns about the conditions. And in the summer of 2021 she learned that her son came close to death. For the next few months he continued to struggle with his health… and officers frequently failed to get him the medical help he needed.
Then, in September, Lezandre got the call that would change her life. In this episode she shares the story of her son.
16 men died in Rikers last year. Here is one of their stories: https://epicenter-nyc.com/16-men-died-in-rikers-last-year-here-is-one-of-their-stories/
THE DATA BEHIND JAIL DEATHS IN AMERICA: https://graphics.thomsonreuters.com/data/jails/NewYork.pdf
Chinatown rallies against proposed “mega jail”: https://epicenter-nyc.com/chinatown-rallies-against-proposed-mega-jail/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
COVID-19 Questions: Daniel@Epicenter-NYC.com
Mask survey: https://forms.gle/gs5ThPRrkuPddosu7
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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In spring 2017, then Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that he’d be closing Rikers Island Jail - a deteriorating facility that’s overcrowded, understaffed, and plagued by violence. Four new neighborhood facilities will be constructed in its place. The Manhattan facility is set to be built right in the heart of Chinatown, and it’ll be the tallest jail in the world–stretching 40 stories high. They’re calling it a Megajail.
But Chinatown residents are overwhelmingly opposed to the plan. Norina Li is one of those concerned residents. For more than three decades, her parents have run K.K. Discount, a small store that sells home goods and Asian decor. It’s just a block away from the site where the jail is set to be constructed.
In this episode we talk to Norina about the Megajail, and what she thinks might happen to Chinatown if no one puts a stop to it. We also hear from Victoria Lee, the co-founder of Welcome to Chinatown.
Chinatown rallies against proposed “mega jail”: https://epicenter-nyc.com/chinatown-rallies-against-proposed-mega-jail/
Remembering the Atlanta spa shootings - To be Asian and Atlantan right now: https://epicenter-nyc.com/to-be-asian-and-atlantan-right-now/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
COVID-19 Questions: Daniel@Epicenter-NYC.com
COVID-19 international travel restrictions: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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New York’s restaurants were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay-at-home orders and capacity limits forced restaurants to adopt a business model entirely based on take-out and delivery. For most, the switch significantly reduced revenue and we began to see restaurants close their doors for good.
So the city decided to take action–starting the Open Restaurants Program. The program encouraged establishments to set up outdoor dining. It turned out to be a lifeline for restaurants.
Today a conversation with two restaurateurs–Dana Morrisey, and Alfredo Anguiera–both of whose businesses were saved by New York’s Open Restaurants program.
And later, we speak with an Upper East Side resident named Debbi who explains that if outdoor dining remains in NYC, she might not be able to.
Permanent outdoor dining serves up opposing voices: https://epicenter-nyc.com/permanent-outdoor-dining-serves-up-opposing-voices/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
COVID-19 Questions: Daniel@Epicenter-NYC.com
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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On Friday, President Joe Biden officially nominated Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson for a seat on the United States Supreme Court. And at that moment history was made. Jackson is now the first Black woman to ever receive this nomination, and if confirmed, will be the first Black woman to serve in our country’s highest court.
In this episode Anita Hill, a professor at Brandeis University, speaks to WURD Radio CEO and URL Media co-Founder, Sara Lomax-Reese, about her own story and the significance of Jackson’s nomination. She also discusses the op-ed she wrote exclusively for URL Media about what it means for a Black woman to be on the United States Supreme Court.
Anita Hill's op-ed for URL Media: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-duchess-of-sussex-anita-hill-ketanji-brown-jacksons-nomination-to-the-supreme-court-signals-historic-change/
URL Media: https://url-media.com/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
COVID-19 Questions: Daniel@Epicenter-NYC.com
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
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OlaRonke Akinmowo is the founder of the Free Black Women’s Library. What started back in 2015 on a brownstone stoop in Bed-Stuy has turned into something much bigger. She now hosts monthly pop ups across New York City featuring over 4,000 books written by Black women and Black non-binary authors.
And OlaRonke encourages the community to do much more than read books. From hosting self defense workshops to discussions on Black feminism - her goal is to build this community. In this episode she talks about what inspired her to start the Free Black Women’s library and what’s in store for the future.
Support the Free Black Women’s Library: https://www.thefreeblackwomenslibrary.com/
Read more about the Free Black Women's Library: https://epicenter-nyc.com/nycs-free-black-womens-library/
Epicenter-NYC Vaccine Registration Request form: https://airtable.com/shrcoChuQ8hClm68R
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
To say that Maurice and Gregory Hines could dance before they could walk wouldn’t be that much of an overstatement. The brothers were famous tap dancers from Harlem, who found their stride during New York’s golden era of dance. Maurice started training in Manhattan when he was five years old. The brothers would both go on to pursue incredibly successful careers. Maurice found his place on Broadway– as a performer and a director. He also became the first African American to direct at Radio City Music hall.
Today we speak with John Carlcuccio about Maurice Hines’ extraordinary seven-decade career, his legacy and relevance today.
The brilliance of Maurice Hines shines through in film: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-brilliance-of-maurice-hines-shines-through-in-film/
Epicenter-NYC Vaccine Registration Request form: https://airtable.com/shrcoChuQ8hClm68R
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Street vendors across New York City have faced significant opposition from the city for decades. And although there are around 20,000 vendors in New York City today, there are only 853 General Vendor Licenses in circulation. This means the vast majority of NYC street vendors are left with no other alternative but to work illegally. Now, activists are pushing to get the street vending industry decriminalized. And they continue their fight for new laws–state legislation S1175 and A5081– to be specific. The Street Vendor Project, which is part of the Urban Justice Center, is fighting right alongside them.
In this episode we hear from Carina Gutierrez, the deputy Director of the Street Vendor Project, about what obstacles NYC street vendors are really facing, and why we should join in advocating for them.
The Street Vendor Project: https://svp.urbanjustice.org/
Street vendors fight for the right to be legal: https://epicenter-nyc.com/nyc-street-vendors-fight-for-the-right-to-be-legal/
Epicenter-NYC Vaccine Registration Request form: https://airtable.com/shrcoChuQ8hClm68R
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A year after our community began getting the COVID-19 vaccine, it’s hard not to feel like the push to get vaccinated has lost some momentum. And while proper access remains a big issue, there’s still another problem: before anything else, people have to decide they want the vaccine.
So we’re sharing the stories of our neighbors who made the decision to get the jab. We’ve partnered with Queens artist Heidi Howard to help share these stories. Heidi was born and raised in Queens and has been painting portraits since 2008. In this episode Epicenter’s Community Manager, Daniel Laplaza talks with Heidi about their own vaccination story, and how they're helping us amplify the stories of our neighbors.
This work is made possible through a vaccine equity grant from The Fund for Public Health in NYC and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
More on Heidi Howard: https://www.heidihoward.net/
Painting with the power to persuade: https://epicenter-nyc.com/painting-with-the-power-to-persuade/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On January 9th a devastating apartment fire in the Fordham section of the Bronx rocked our community. That morning the Twin Parks North West apartment complex was engulfed in a five-alarm-fire. It was the city’s deadliest in decades. 17 people lost their lives — eight children and nine adults. The journey to recovery is long and this is just the beginning. That rings true for Ibrahim Kamana who's best friend died in the fire. In this episode Ibrihim shares details about what that day was really like.
We also hear from Jaharai Sillah, a volunteer with the Gambian Youth Organization, and Captain Michael Kozo, the director of the FDNY Fire Safety Education Unit.
Gambian Youth Organization: www.thegyo.com/
FDNY Fire Safety Education: https://www.fdnysmart.org/safety/
What we know about the deadly Bronx fire — and what our neighbors need from all of us: https://epicenter-nyc.com/what-we-know-about-the-deadly-bronx-fire-and-what-our-neighbors-need-from-all-of-us/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Since the start of the pandemic there’s been a dramatic drop in blood donations. And now, the US is facing one of the worst blood shortages in decades. New York City is no exception. To give you a sense of just how much New York City hospitals need - it’s around 33,000 blood donations every month. And throughout the past two years there have been times where hospitals were collecting as little as half of that.
But a lot of New Yorkers are still hesitant to donate for a lot of reasons - one big one is the fear of catching COVID. This is why organizations like the New York Blood Center are taking extraordinary measures to stop the spread. In this episode we talk to Andrea Cefarelli. Andrea is the senior executive director at the New York Blood Center.
New York Blood Center (schedule an appointment): https://www.nybc.org/
COVID-19 free at-home tests: https://www.covidtests.gov/
At-home testing instructions: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
31 female representatives have just been sworn into the New York City Council–marking the first time ever that women make up a majority in the city’s governing body. And just 12 days in they’ve been hit with crisis after crisis. A massive covid surge. A snow storm. And a fire in the Bronx that took the lives of 17 of our neighbors. Already, it's been a challenging year.
In this episode we talk to Sayu Bhojwani about how the New York City Council might operate a little differently given its new membership - and the challenges the new cohort might face while they’re in office.
More on Sayu Bhojwani: https://sayubhojwani.com/
Fresh faces and voices among the women on the city council: https://epicenter-nyc.com/fresh-faces-and-voices-among-the-women-on-the-city-council/
Bronx Fire resources:
- Gambian Youth Organization Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/relief-for-families-at-333-e-183rd-st
- Take Back The Bronx Donation Collection on Saturday, January 15th 3-5pm
- The Red Cross has set up a resource center and refugee station at PS 391 - 2190 Folin Street
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When 2020 came to an end, many of us had the same thought. It’s finally over. After a year that bad, things could only get better…right? Not exactly, almost exactly one year ago we saw a group of protestors invade the U.S. capitol building claiming the election was stolen. We saw extreme weather - like Hurricane Ida that wreaked havoc on the city - taking the lives of some of our neighbors. And now, with the omicron variant, we’re seeing COVID-19 spreading across New York faster than ever.
But, there was a lot of good going on too, right here in our community. Our neighbors working together against impossible odds. And we’ve done our best to bring those stories to you. In this episode the Epicenter team is sharing our favorite stories and projects from 2021.
Final letter from a publisher: The story of a purple bag: https://epicenter-nyc.com/final-letter-from-a-publisher-the-story-of-a-purple-bag/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As we approach two years since the initial lockdown brought on by the COVID pandemic it’s clear that we haven’t recovered yet. People around the world reported increased feelings of loneliness, depression, and fear. For many, those feelings persist. But artists found inspiration in this. And in a lot of ways the storytelling, reflection and acknowledgement of what we’ve been through is a first step towards healing. Among those artists include director Hsuan-Yu Pan and producer Nancy Wolfe.
Today, Epicenter’s Community Manager Daniel Laplaza talks to Hsuan-Yu and Nancy about their film "ALONE/TOGETHER" which documented people learning how to navigate their new normal.
ALONE/TOGETHER is available for a sneak peak stream online until Dec 19: https://watch.showandtell.film/watch/at2021
Hsuan-Yu Pan | Director: https://www.panvideo.net
Follow Hsuan-Yu Pan here: https://twitter.com/panvideo
Nancy Wolfe | Producer: wherewolfeproductions
Follow Nancy Wolfe here: https://twitter.com/wherewolfe
Our livestream "ALONE/TOGETHER: A conversation with team behind the participatory documentary": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYaMl7bQ4gw
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit New York City food pantries saw historic numbers of visitors. Walking around the city you may have seen lines down streets and around corners. Many of our neighbors, some for the first time in their lives, were experiencing food insecurity and turned to organizations like The Lion’s Share Food Pantry for help.
And while some of us feel as though the worst is behind us, the numbers tell a different story. In fact, this past spring Lion’s Share helped more people than ever before.
Today - Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita speaks with Silvia Garces, a Chair of Lion’s Share, about what shifts they’ve seen during the pandemic and how you can help.
Contact the Lion's Share Food Pantry: Lionshare.StMarks@gmail.com
Their Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/stmarksjh
Their "Go Fund Me": https://bit.ly/3myW4GE
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At Epicenter-NYC we’ve been on the front lines, helping our neighbors get their COVID-19 vaccinations. Over 7,000 New Yorkers have turned to Epicenter staff, volunteers and our partners to get vaccines.
But our work isn’t done. Because while the vaccine has been administered for almost a year now, there are still severely under-vaccinated neighborhoods in New York City. And we can’t blame hesitancy alone. Yes - logistical difficulties STILL plague communities. Queens Village is one of these communities. So we decided to arrange a pop-up in partnership with New York City Test and Trace to bring Pfizer and J&J doses to this pocket of southeast Queens.
In this episode Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita talks to Bifen Xu, Sree Bhagavan, Katherine Tam. Bifen, Sree, and Katherine have been instrumental in our mission to vaccinate our neighbors.
Epicenter's efforts in Queens Village are made possible through a vaccine equity grant from The Fund for Public Health in NYC and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
Katherine Tam is a freelance journalist based in Brooklyn. You can follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/kathytam14
A vaccine effort update from the Epicenter: https://epicenter-nyc.com/a-vaccine-effort-update-from-the-epicenter/
Why we cannot give up on the unvaccinated: https://epicenter-nyc.com/why-we-cannot-give-up-on-the-unvaccinated/
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Broadway has officially been back open since September. But it’s not entirely the same as it was before. Even beyond the COVID-19 vaccine checks and the masking requirements… it’s different. Because unlike a movie or a TV show, a live performance is new every time. The directors, actors, writers, and crew can adjust and adapt.
The brains behind The Lehman Trilogy have done just that since the pandemic upended our lives. They’ve asked themselves the hard questions and have re-approached the work. And after sold out runs in London, The Lehman Trilogy is now on Broadway until January 2nd. In this episode Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita speaks with award winning actor Adrian Lester, who plays Emanuel Lehman, and playwright Ben Power.
Adrian Lester on Twitter: https://twitter.com/adrianlester
on IMDb: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm0504412/
Ben Power on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mrbenpower
on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5600390/
Become a member of Epicenter-NYC: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While New York City has built and funded resources for our neighbors that need assistance, for many people it’s still not enough. As a result, we often see non-profits, groups of like minded volunteers, or simply friendly neighbors fill in the gaps where city, state, or federal help is lacking. And groups like CitizensNYC aim to do just that - fill in the gaps. They empower community leaders who are already on the front lines of change in their own neighborhoods to do more.
In this episode we talk to Dr. Rahsaan Harris who is the CEO of CitizensNYC, as well as David Tanis, the founder of the Showing Hearts Foundation. The Showing Hearts Foundation received a grant from CitizensNYC to continue to focus on their work around youth economic development and community outreach.
We’re also joined by 14 year old Leeana Lucas. Leeana is one of Showing Hearts' YOUTHpreneurs - she’ll talk about what she learned from the foundation and the gaps that she sees in her own community.
CitizensNYC: https://www.citizensnyc.org/
Showing Hearts Foundation: https://www.showinghearts.org/
Our livestream on COVID-19 vaccines for children (presented in partnership with TBN24): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnFK1rpQvMk
Become an Epicenter-NYC member: https://epicenter-nyc.com/become-a-member/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For decades, New York City has issued a limited number of so-called taxi medallions. Their limited quantities plus the guaranteed income drove up their prices. But the bubble burst in 2014 - around the same time apps like Uber and Lyft became popular.
Medallion prices plummeted and drivers were left owing amounts averaging $500,000 -- debts that could bankrupt drivers and trigger foreclosures. So the city promised to find a solution. But when Mayor de Blasio pledged $65 million toward a relief fund, drivers said it wasn’t enough. And by the end of October, taxi drivers in New York City had been protesting outside City Hall for weeks. Then, last week city officials agreed to significantly expand the financial relief program.
Today we talk with two taxi drivers, Augustine Tang and Dorothy Leconte, about what that news means to them.
Epicenter-NYC "NYC taxi drivers hunger strike for debt relief": https://epicenter-nyc.com/nyc-taxi-drivers-hunger-strike-for-debt-relief/
New York Taxi Workers Alliance: https://www.nytwa.org/
Donate to the New York Taxi Workers Alliance: https://secure.squarespace.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=614a2237df37c3126f8d665c&websiteId=551c0fb1e4b04e2cba203b00
Follow Augustine Tang on Twitter: https://twitter.com/augustinetang
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When New York City shut down in March 2020, essential workers kept our city running. They risked their own safety to deliver food and other necessities to those of us quarantined at home. And despite being praised for their resilience and bravery they were also some of the most vulnerable to exploitation.
And as a delivery worker himself, Gustavo Ajche understands these problems firsthand. So he helped build an organization, made up mostly of immigrant delivery workers, to fight for rights and protections. The group is called Los Deliveristas Unidos. And in September, after the city council passed six bills addressing their concerns, they saw the first signs of real progress.
Today we talk to Hildalyn Colón Hernández, the Director of Policy & Strategic Partnerships at Los Deliveristas Unidos, as well as Co-Founder Gustavo Ajche to learn more about exactly what problems delivery workers face today.
Epicenter-NYC "NYC serves up bill of rights for delivery workers": https://epicenter-nyc.com/3709-2/
Los Deliveristas Unidos: https://losdeliveristasunidos.org/
Instagram (Los Deliveristas Unidos): https://www.instagram.com/losdeliveristasunidos_ny/
Twitter (Los Deliveristas Unidos): https://twitter.com/workersjusticep
Facebook (Los Deliveristas Unidos): https://www.facebook.com/DeliveristasUnidos
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Since the COVID-19 vaccine has been available, we’ve been talking to our neighbors about it. We scheduled thousands of appointments for essential workers and at risk community members, and we learned a lot along the way. And while most people were comfortable… or excited to get vaccinated, some of our neighbors had hesitations. One question in particular kept coming up - will the COVID-19 vaccine affect my ability to conceive?
In this episode Epicenter’s Katherine Tam talks to Dr. Ayrenne Adams about what we’ve learned so far. Dr. Adams is a primary care physician and the Clinical Director of Social Determinants of Health at NYC Health and Hospitals. She’s also a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU’s Grossman School of Medicine.
We also hear the stories of two Brooklyn moms who were pregnant during the pandemic.
Study referenced by Dr. Adams (Preliminary Findings of mRNA Covid-19 Vaccine Safety in Pregnant Persons): https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa2104983
Epicenter-NYC interview with Dr. Adams: https://epicenter-nyc.com/we-asked-a-doctor-about-getting-the-vaccines-when-youre-thinking-of-getting-pregnant/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Throughout the pandemic, conversations about mental health have come to the forefront. And these conversations are shining a light on the lack of accessible mental health care for many of our neighbors. While individuals and organizations alike fight for legislative action, many have taken things into their own hands. NAMI-NYC, the National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City, is no exception.
In this episode, Epicenter’s Sam Zachar talks to NAMI-NYC’s Kimberly Blair. Kimberly has built a network of ambassadors… neighbors who have faced their own challenges related to mental health and want to take that perspective to help those in our community who need it most.
We'll also hear from one of our neighbors, Gina, who is a NAMI-NYC Ambassador. She's an advocate for mental health resources, education and racial equity in NYC schools, and medical aid in dying.
NAMI-NYC: https://www.naminycmetro.org/
NAMI-NYC Ambassador program: https://www.naminycmetro.org/get-involved/advocacy/
Baltic Street: https://balticstreet.org/
More on calling 988 instead of 911: https://www.nami.org/Advocacy/Crisis-Intervention/988-Reimagining-Crisis-Response
Community Access: https://www.communityaccess.org/our-work/health-a-wellness/east-village-access
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
September 13th was the first day students across New York City public schools were all back in their classrooms, fulltime, since March 2020. But despite the precautions, the build up to going back to school was stressful. For parents, teachers, administrators, and kids. Especially considering the rise in cases we’ve seen throughout the summer.
In this episode, Epicenter’s Sam Zachar talks with Nicole Perrino about the return to full-time in person learning and how it’s going. Nicole writes for our sister newsletter, the Unmuted. She’s also a PTA president, a mom of two, and the founder and editor of Bronxmama, a website for families looking to learn about local events.
Also, we're following up with Mosammad Khanom - a student at Stuyvesant High School. Mosammad explains what it’s like being back in-person full time.
Subscribe to The Unmuted: https://pico.link/theunmuted/login/enter-email?id=LoginWizard_theunmuted
Bronxmama: https://www.bronxmama.com/
Epicenter-NYC on Twitter: https://twitter.com/epicenter_nyc
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There are hundreds of thousands of undocumented workers living in New York City. Some lost jobs and a steady income without the safety net of unemployment or stimulus checks during the pandemic. This problem prompted New York City to do something that no city had ever done before - to set aside over $2 billion for excluded workers.
But many of our neighbors have faced challenges applying, or simply don't trust that their information will be kept private. To help, organizations are coming together to host application assistance events.
Today we talk with two of our neighbors who have applied for funds, as well as others who helped make it possible.
Excluded Workers Fund: https://dol.ny.gov/EWF
Epicenter-NYC on Twitter: https://twitter.com/epicenter_nyc
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
LaGuardia Community College is one of the nation’s top 2 year colleges when it comes to upward mobility. Nearly half the students are part time, often supporting their families while getting their degree. But as the pandemic caused mass closures across New York City, many students lost their jobs and were left stuck between a rock and a hard place. Meanwhile the school has been facing budget cuts and low enrollment. Luckily they’ve received some federal aid, but what happens next year when the stimulus runs out?
In today's episode Epicenter's Danielle Hyams talks with two students to hear their stories on balancing their education with jobs, families, and on top of all of that, the pandemic. We also hear from the President of LCC on what's in store for the future.
LaGuardia Community College: https://www.laguardia.edu/
The LaGuardia Challenge: https://www.laguardia.edu/challenge/
Epicenter-NYC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicenter_nyc/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While our attention has been focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been an epidemic ravaging communities across New York City. One that’s seeing no signs of slowing down. The opioid epidemic.The CDC estimated a record breaking 93,000 drug overdose deaths in 2020 and the majority involved opioids.
Despite organizations doing their best to help individuals dealing with addiction get treatment, the sheer magnitude of the problem leaves them treading water.
In this Episode Epicenter’s Sam Zachar connects with Roy Kearse, VP of Recovery Services and Community Partnerships at Samaritan Daytop Village, and Luis Laboy, the Program Director for the Bowen Center’s Chemical Dependency Outpatient Program.
Samaritan Daytop Village: https://samaritanvillage.org/
Bowen Center: https://www.bowencenter.org/
Bronx Opioid Collective: bronxopioidcollective.org
Epicenter-NYC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicenter_nyc/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In March of 2020 former Gov. Cuomo passed an eviction moratorium, banning landlords from evicting tenants who are unable to make rent. Later, the CDC issued their own nationwide moratorium. It’s since been extended several times. But over the summer the Supreme Court rejected another extension. They argued that the CDC didn’t have the authority to assert another ban. And since then state and local governments have had to take matters into their own hands to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.
Today, Epicenter’s Sam Zachar speaks with two advocates to learn more about what resources are available for those struggling to navigate an increasingly confusing situation.
Zohran Mamdani is an assembly member for the 36th district in Queens. He also serves in the state assembly. And Sandy Nurse is a city council nominee for the 37th district of Brooklyn.
Emergency Rental Assistance Program information: otda.ny.gov
Zohran Mamdani: https://nyassembly.gov/mem/Zohran-Mamdani
Sandy Nurse: https://sandyforcouncil.com/en/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the summer of 2021 progressed, New Yorkers saw their city transform back into something more familiar. And just last week one of New York City’s most famous performing groups welcomed theatergoers for the first time since the pandemic began. If you haven’t been, The Blue Man Group is a different type of show. Three men painted in blue combine music, dance, comedy...and paint... to create a totally unique and interactive environment. In this episode we talk to Tim Aumiller, the general manager, about what it feels like to be back in front of audiences, and what happened to the blue men when their doors shut.
We also hear from performance artist Christen Clifford of Jackson Heights.
Blue Man Group: https://www.blueman.com/new-york/
Christen Clifford: https://epicenter-nyc.com/featured-artist-christen-clifford/
More on Christen Clifford: http://www.christenclifford.info/about
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Epicenter-NYC for artists: https://epicenter-nyc.com/artists/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Right now about 35% of the city’s population still hasn’t received their first dose. And Covid infection rates have been on the rise.
We set out to learn more about why people aren’t getting vaccinated, or why they are waiting. Vaccine outreach is key. And it can take time to help someone understand the importance of getting inoculated. But we’ll never bring anyone around if we don’t stop to engage, understand and try.
Today - we’re sharing two conversations. First with a couple we met during a protest against de Blasio’s vaccine mandate. And second, with a New Yorker who was hesitant to get vaccinated, but finally did.
Our piece on anti-vaxxers: https://epicenter-nyc.com/new-york-citys-anti-vaxxers/
Our piece on the vax-hesitant: https://epicenter-nyc.com/why-the-vax-hesitant-are-changing-their-minds-nyc-homecoming-visit-the-western-catskills/
Epicenter-NYC vaccine help: https://epicenter-nyc.com/vaccine-help/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Across the city, and across the country, there’s been a major shortage in restaurant workers. Between low wages, often hostile work environments, and the dangers brought on by COVID-19 many employees simply had enough.
And while management scrambles to fill these perpetually open positions - service staff have seen the power balance shift in their favor. One organization, called One Fair Wage, is taking advantage of that shift and working to eliminate the sub-minimum wage for all tipped workers
Today we're joined by Yamila Ruiz, the Communications Director at One Fair Wage. She’s worked in the restaurant industry for over ten years.
We also hear from a local restaurant worker about his experiences in the industry during the height of COVID-19.
One Fair Wage: https://onefairwage.site/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When the pandemic first hit headlines like “New York City is dead forever” began taking over our newsfeeds.
But soon community groups both old and new began finding creative ways to help. Maybe this wasn’t the New York we knew and loved. But couldn’t some of these changes lead to something even better? One organization intent on spreading the word that New York is not in fact dead is NYC Next.
In this episode Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita talks to Maryam Banikarim. Maryam is a Co-Founder of New York City Next and also the Head of Marketing at Nextdoor.
We also hear from local artist Derick Melander.
NYC Cares: New York State of Mind: https://nycnext.org/video
Love Letter: Harry Belafonte https://nycnext.org/love-letters
Rockaway, Queens Event: https://nycnext.org/rockaway-queens-event
A Moment for Broadway: https://nycnext.org/a-moment-for-broadway
Public Library Poetry Reading: https://nycnext.org/ny-public-library-event
Derick Melander's work: https://derickmelander.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
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Because children’s lives weren’t immediately threatened by COVID, it’s taken longer to tell their stories and to really understand how the pandemic will affect them long term.
In this episode Epicenter- NYC reporter Danielle Hyams talks to David Woodlock. For more than three decades at the New York State Office of Mental Health, David served as Deputy Commissioner for Children and Families. Most recently he’s served as the President and CEO of the Institute for Community Living.
Danielle and David focus on how the pandemic threatens to create a generation of children with long-term mental and physical health concerns.
We'll also hear from Mosammad Khanom, a rising Sophomore at Stuyvesant High School, about her experience as a student during the pandemic.
Subscribe to The Unmuted newsletter: trypico.com/theunmuted
The Institute for Community Living: https://iclinc.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Despite the fact that there are more women than men living in New York City, just 14 of the 51 seats are held by women today... But that’s all set to change in January, when we’re expecting around 30 to be sworn-in. For the first time in New York City’s history, women are likely to become the majority in the City Council.
One organization, called 21 in '21, endorsed 74 women across 37 districts.
In this episode Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita talks to Yvette Buckner and Amelia Adams of 21 in ‘21 about their efforts to help women gain representation - and how this will lead to more women in city-wide positions in the future.
21 in '21: https://www.21in21.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There are over 10,000 street vendors in New York City. From street artists to halal carts and everything in between. Most of them are immigrants and people of color. They often work long hours under challenging conditions….. Conditions that have only gotten worse throughout the pandemic.
Today - A conversation with Matthew Shapiro, the Legal Director of “The Street Vendor Project” at the Urban Justice Center.
We also hear from halal cart owner, Hani Waly.
“The Street Vendor Project” at the Urban Justice Center: http://streetvendor.org/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today we hear from Zach Williams, the director of Los Sures Comida Food Pantry in South Williamsburg. Throughout the pandemic they've seen a surge in visitors. They made it their mission to learn as much as they could about their visitors, in hopes of amplifying their stories.
Ultimately, the Los Sures Comida team helped turn these stories into an art exhibit. It’s called “Sobre/vivir: Superando La Pandemia en Los Sures”
We also hear from Christine Sroka who has been working with the pantry for over three years and is an artist herself.
Sobre/Vivir will be on display through July 31. The Museo de Los Sures is open to the public Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 8 p.m. at 120 South 1st St. in Brooklyn.
Los Sures Food Pantry: southsideunitedhdfc.org/about-us/our-work/
Epicenter-NYC's story on team behind Los Sures Food Pantry: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-mayor-shakespeare-in-the-park-sobrevivir-in-williamsburg/
Check out Epicenter-NYC's featured artists: https://epicenter-nyc.com/category/artists/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On June 22nd New York City’s primary election took place. It was also the first time the city used a rank choice voting system. And because of term limits, 35 out of 51 city council seats are up for grabs.
In this episode Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita speaks to two experts on the major takeaways of this season's primary.
Julissa Ferreras-Copeland, a former City Council Member for the 21st district.
And also Ali Najmi, a lawyer who was previously the Legislative Director to a New York City Council Member.
You'll also hear from politics journalist Felipe De La Hoz.
Felipe De La Hoz on NYC election takeaways: https://epicenter-nyc.com/nyc-election-takeaways-history-was-made-haitian-presidents-and-poetry/
Felipe De La Hoz: https://www.felipedlh.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Over the past year and a half people across the city were confronted with the reality that while so many had so much, others were facing difficult and often horrifying circumstances. In this episode Gary Bagley of New York Cares and S. Mitra Kalita of Epicenter NYC talk about volunteerism, including the uncomfortable parts.
We're also excited to officially introduce Epicenter's Andrea Pineda-Salgado as a new host of our podcast!
New York Cares: https://www.newyorkcares.org/
Gary Bagley: https://twitter.com/gbagley_nycares?lang=en
Andrea Pineda-Salgado's documentary 'Surviving Corona: The Street Vendors Caught in the Middle of The Virus and The Neighborhood’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVdJKZjpq5E&t=1107s
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode we're joined by Sean Berthiaume, a co-owner of Vinnie’s Pizzeria in Williamsburg. You may know Vinnie’s even if you’ve never grabbed a slice. It’s the pizza joint with the viral trash can that has Tom Hanks on it. While creativity was always part of their DNA, the pandemic pushed Sean and his co-owners in new directions to keep their business alive.
We also hear from Zheni, who lost her job at the start of the pandemic and became a street vendor in the neighborhood of Corona in Queens. Many with no papers or work permits turned to street vending just as she had as a way to survive.
A year in the pandemic life of a NYC pizza parlour: https://epicenter-nyc.com/a-year-in-the-pandemic-life-of-a-nyc-pizza-parlour/
Knight-Lenfest Local News Transformation Fund announces support for URL Media: https://www.lenfestinstitute.org/diverse-growing-audiences/pursing-accountability-while-recognizing-humanity-knight-lenfest-local-news-transformation-fund-announces-support-for-url-media/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In March of 2020 Broadway theaters closed their doors. Artists and performers were forced to adapt to an entirely new way of connecting with audiences. All in the midst of a global pandemic.
Epicenter NYC publisher Mitra Kalita talks to award winning actor April Matthis about how she coped with the changes brought on by COVID-19 and what she thinks the future of theater in New York City looks like.
Also, novelist, screenwriter, and TV show runner, Eric Garcia on a year without live performances.
April Matthis: https://www.broadway.com/buzz/stars/april-matthis/profile/
https://twitter.com/april_matthis?s=20
Knight-Lenfest Local News Transformation Fund announces support for URL Media: https://www.lenfestinstitute.org/diverse-growing-audiences/pursing-accountability-while-recognizing-humanity-knight-lenfest-local-news-transformation-fund-announces-support-for-url-media/
URL Media: https://url-media.com/
Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Early voting began this past weekend, and the primary is coming up on June 22nd. This is the first time New York City will be using a rank-choice system. Today - A primer on how to navigate ranked-choice voting with journalist Felipe De La Hoz.
We've also asked a handful of voters around NYC about their thoughts on the new rank choice voting system.
Our story on rank choice voting: https://epicenter-nyc.com/ranked-choice-voting-explained-queer-love-potterheads-rejoice/
Felipe De La Hoz: https://www.felipedlh.com/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
This episode was brought to you by McKinsey & Company. The Shortlist is McKinsey's weekly curated sampling of need to know stories about work, the economy, and culture: https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/the-shortlist
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Open Streets program in NYC started just over a year ago. The program has since grown to nearly 70 miles of city streets. Even though it began as a direct response to the pandemic restrictions, it seems like it’s here to stay. So, what are advocacy groups saying about the new legislation that passed? And what needs to happen in order to make the program sustainable for every community?
Also, critically acclaimed author Radha Vatsal tells us her New York story. Her essays and stories have appeared in The Atlantic, The LA Review of Books, The Smithsonian Magazine, Kirkus Reviews, CrimeReads and The Brooklyn Rail.
Our full stories on open streets:
https://epicenter-nyc.com/rent-relief-the-fight-over-70-miles-of-open-streets-unmasking/
https://epicenter-nyc.com/open-streets-are-here-to-stay-free-drive-ins-feminist-futures/
Transportation Alternatives: https://www.transalt.org/
Loisaida Open Streets Community Coalition: https://www.facebook.com/loisaida.oscc/
More on Radha Vatsal: https://www.radhavatsal.com/
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
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Epicenterreporter Andrea Pineda-Salgado joins us to share the story of an Ecuadorian father, grandfather, lawyer, and business owner who now lives in New York City and sells face masks on the corner of Junction Boulevard and Roosevelt Avenue.
We'll also hear from Mazin Sidahmed, the co-executive director of Documented, a non-profit news site devoted to covering New York City’s immigrants and the policies that affect their lives. He’s previously worked for The Guardian, Politico, and The Daily Star in Beirut.
Our full story on Antonio: https://epicenter-nyc.com/a-tale-of-two-lives/
Documented: https://documentedny.com/
Run The World | What Women Should Demand in a Post-Pandemic World livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7j5bjOQH9bg
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Epicenter’s Mitra Kalita talks to Dr. Harlem Gunness, the director of public health at St. John’s University.
He’s previously held roles as a Senior Officer with the US Public Health Service working at the CDC to investigate diseases like SARS and Ebola.
Most recently, Dr. Gunness has led research on why certain neighborhoods in New York City were hit harder than others during the COVID-19 pandemic. He’s also asking some important questions. How prepared are we for the next pandemic? And how can we make sure our most vulnerable communities will be more protected in the future.
We're also joined by Nicole Perrino. Nicole is the founder and editor of Bronxmama, a popular website for families looking to learn about local events, reviews, travel ideas, giveaways, and more.
Nicole also works with Windows of Hip Hop, a nonprofit promoting the educational and historical perspective of Hip Hop.
Dr. Harlem Gunness: https://www.stjohns.edu/academics/faculty/harlem-gunness
Bronxmama website: https://www.bronxmama.com/
TBN24: https://www.tbn24.com/
Kids and the Covid Vaccine livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXR00Kym7ZA&t=207s
Run the world livestream (Unmuted): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/run-the-world-what-women-should-demand-in-a-post-pandemic-world-registration-154699720027
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Back in January, when the second wave of the pandemic hit NYC, the Epicenter team began booking vaccine appointments for the elderly, essential workers, and people in the community with underlying conditions. In the end 8000 people reached out to Epicenter for help or resources and the team scheduled 5037 appointments. Along the way we learned a lot.
Later, you'll meet Kirsten Cunha. After losing her father to Covid-19 on Valentine's Day, Kirsten channeled her grief into action. She began volunteering with Epicenter to book vaccine appointments for our neighbors and shares what that experience was like for her.
Kirsten Cunha's viral tweet: https://twitter.com/KncunhaCunha/status/1363225646722334721?s=20
Epicenter NYC Vaccine stories from Grandma: https://epicenter-nyc.com/1858-2/
Epicenter NYC Real talk on vaccines: https://epicenter-nyc.com/1887-2/
Epicenter NYC Vaccine secrets: https://epicenter-nyc.com/peanut-butter-in-woodside-vaccine-secrets-head-to-hartford/
Epicenter NYC Registering thousands of neighbors: https://epicenter-nyc.com/what-we-learned-registering-thousands-of-our-neighbors-for-vaccines/
District 25 City Council forum livestream (Epicenter-NYC and TBN24): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXzRrDHdVLI
Run the world upcoming livestream (Unmuted): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/run-the-world-what-women-should-demand-in-a-post-pandemic-world-registration-154699720027
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sidiki Conde was 14 years old when he lost the use of his legs to polio. In his home country of Guinea in West Africa, a physical disability like that can be thought to bring shame and bad luck to a community. Now at age 59, Conde lives in a fifth-floor walkup in the East Village.Conde’s path to happiness came to him through a dream, during which he saw himself singing and dancing. He took it as a sign, and through much hard work and persistence taught himself to dance on his hands. Doing so allowed him to participate in his culture’s coming-of-age ceremony, which reconnected him to his community.
He began traveling around Guinea performing before becoming something of an international sensation. He settled in New York City about two decades ago.
Recently, Conde was among 54 immigrant artists featured in the Center for Traditional Music and Dance’s Beat of the Boroughs initiative. He talked to us about his participation in the event, as well as the Covid-19 situation in his home country.
Epicenter NYC on Sidiki Conde: https://epicenter-nyc.com/dancing-on-our-hands/
New York Times on Sidiki Conde: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/05/nyregion/coronavirus-polio-Sidiki-Conde.html
Center for Traditional Music: https://ctmd.org/programs/touring-artists/sidiki-conde-and-tokounou/
Epicenter NYC livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGtRrf-Gyr4&t=117s
Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.