On this episode of Crazy Real with Bugge & Zogg, Jenn and Marissa sit down with Amy Just Nickels, Executive Director of Encore Youth Productions, to talk about the growth of youth theater in Central New York and the mission behind EYP.

Amy shares how Encore Youth Productions began in 2015 as a small summer program through the Landmark Theatre, eventually growing into a nonprofit organization serving kids ages 4 to 18 through musical theater, performance, creativity, and community.

The conversation dives into what kids gain from being part of a show beyond singing, dancing, and acting, including confidence, problem-solving, teamwork, social-emotional skills, and learning how to take ownership of their role onstage. Amy also talks about how EYP chooses its shows, the importance of creating an inclusive environment, the magic behind their costumes, and why every child’s role matters.

Amy also shares the exciting next chapter for Encore Youth Productions as they partner with Revolve Dance Alliance to build a new performing arts space in North Syracuse, creating more opportunities for kids, families, performers, and the local arts community.

Whether your child loves theater, you care about supporting the arts, or you just love hearing stories about people building something meaningful in Syracuse, this episode is full of heart, creativity, and community.

On this episode of Crazy Real with Bugge & Zogg, Jenn and Marissa sit down with local TikTok creator Izzy Murphy, known online as @izzylmurphy21, to talk about content creation, community, and showing up online as your real self.

Izzy shares how she started making videos after losing her mom, using TikTok as a way to talk about grief, life after loss, self-care, and the importance of reminding people they are not alone. What began as a personal outlet has grown into a platform built around authenticity, local businesses, food reviews, events, and connecting with people across Central New York.

The conversation also gets into Taste of Syracuse, brand deals, building confidence on camera, dealing with hate comments, being recognized in public, meeting Dustin from Stranger Things, and why Izzy has learned to make room only for the people who truly show up for her.

It’s a heartfelt and funny conversation about grief, growth, community, and what it really means to share your life online.

On this episode of Crazy Real with Bugge & Zogg, Jenn and Marissa sit down with Jennifer Ashley, a Syracuse-based trauma therapist, yoga teacher, and owner of Jennifer Ashley Wellness.

Jennifer talks about her path into therapy, how her own life experiences shaped the work she does today, and why trauma therapy can apply to more people than they may realize. She breaks down the difference between PTSD, chronic trauma, nervous system work, EMDR, and somatic therapy in a way that feels approachable and easy to understand.

The conversation also gets into yoga, stress, parenting, generational trauma, men’s mental health, and the small daily practices that can help people feel more grounded, from breathing and movement to getting outside, finding quiet moments, and reconnecting with joy.

Whether you’re curious about therapy, working through your own healing journey, or just looking for a more honest conversation about mental health, this episode brings a thoughtful and real perspective to the table.