Local change starts where we live, and today’s conversation dives into the messy, human, and fixable parts of city life. We sit down with Kristen, a lifelong Jersey City educator and athletic director running at-large, to talk about trust, safety, and housing—three pressure points that shape daily life more than any national headline. She shares why she spoke up when the community was hurting, how empathy builds social glue, and what it takes to turn schools into neighborhood hubs after the last bell rings.

We unpack a broken relationship between City Hall and the Board of Education, then get specific about coordination that actually helps families: opening school gyms and arts rooms for evening programming, building better bridges for funding, and acknowledging the state aid gap that leaves districts like ours scrambling. Safety isn’t abstract either. A high school went 18 months without a crossing guard, and we explore simple fixes—smarter recruiting, retention, and full-time cross-training—that respect both budgets and lives. Parks and green spaces also get their due; in a dense city, they are essential infrastructure for health, youth opportunity, and community.

Housing anchors the back half of the conversation. Kristen favors incentives over hard mandates to bring more affordable and workforce units online without chilling development. We discuss how supply and demand influence rent, why a 2,700-unit deficit calls for urgency, and how to align public goals with private capital to put keys in doors faster. Running at-large lets her connect ward-level needs to citywide decisions, acting as a bridge for residents who don’t feel heard. And yes, we talk turnout: early voting is open, runoffs are likely, and every ballot counts more than you think. If you care about schools, safe streets, and a fair shot at staying in your neighborhood, this one’s for you.

If this conversation resonates, subscribe, share with a neighbor, and leave a quick review—it helps more Jersey City voters find their way to the polls.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

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A stroller at a crosswalk shouldn’t feel like a dare. That simple truth sparks a deeper conversation with Ward E council candidate and lifelong educator Ryan Baylock about how to make downtown Jersey City work for families, shop owners, and commuters without the empty promises.

We dig into a tangible safety plan that swaps vague pledges for specifics: a dedicated traffic enforcement unit with motorcycle officers, concrete curb extensions to slow turns, raised crosswalks, and leading pedestrian intervals that make crossings humane on fast corridors like Christopher Columbus. Ryan outlines how to curb Holland Tunnel cut-throughs with peak-hour turn bans and license plate readers, and why consistency—clear rules enforced daily—beats sporadic blitzes every time.

Downtown’s Newark Avenue plaza becomes a test case for compassion and standards. Ryan pairs more supportive housing and mental health step-down units with coordinated outreach, while drawing firm lines on public drug use, drinking, and sleeping in business vestibules. For small businesses, he pushes faster, predictable permits and smart parking: low-cost first-hour meters that climb to force turnover, easy signage to long-term lots, and residents-first parking on neighborhood blocks.

On affordability and taxes, Ryan avoids fairy tales. He argues for zero-based budgeting, department-level transparency, and a dedicated grant writing team to pull in state and federal funds—so if taxes can’t go down, services go up. We also talk growth that gives back: inclusionary housing targets, green infrastructure, and real community benefits like parks and school capacity tied to new development.

If you care about safer streets, a functioning plaza, thriving local shops, and getting real value for the taxes you pay, this conversation offers a clear playbook grounded in data and daily follow-through. Like what you hear? Follow the show, share this episode with a neighbor, and leave a review with the one city fix you want to see next.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

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What makes a neighborhood truly livable isn’t a slogan—it’s the basics done right. We sit with Ward D council candidate Patrick Ambrosi for a grounded conversation on how to bring Central Avenue back to life, deliver real affordability, and fix everyday problems like trash, park maintenance, and street safety. Patrick grew up in the Heights and has spent years fighting for open spaces; that track record shows in a plan that treats plazas, outdoor dining, and a stronger SID as catalysts for local business and weekend energy.

Housing is the heart of the debate. Patrick makes the case that affordability requires supply: targeted upzoning where it fits, inclusionary rules that actually apply in Ward D, and a community land bank that turns city-owned or foreclosed lots into attainable condos with capped prices. Instead of demonizing developers, he argues for performance-based deals that protect the public while producing the units families need. We also dig into sanitation—a topic most candidates avoid. With contracts in place and budgets tight, the path forward is tighter enforcement now and a phased move toward hybrid city services, not an overnight switch that would blow up the budget.

We talk parks and public space with the same candor: Pershing Field needs steady investment, not posts and promises. A dog run, open fields, and routine maintenance should be basic, not controversial. And when national politics spills into neighborhood spaces, consistent permitting and safety for all communities must guide the response. If you care about clean streets, walkable blocks, small businesses that survive, and a Heights where families actually want to linger on weekends, this conversation lays out a practical roadmap.

If this resonated, follow the show, share with a neighbor, and leave a quick review—it helps more Ward D residents find it and join the conversation.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

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Tired of seeing big promises that don’t match what shows up on your block? We sit down with arts leader and city council at-large candidate Meredith Burns for an unfiltered conversation about the choices shaping Jersey City right now—rising property taxes, school outcomes, the Pompidou pivot, and the real work it takes to keep families and artists here for the long haul.

Meredith shares why a glossy “museum” pitch—recast into a community center with uncertain financing—pushed her from running Art House Productions to running for office. She lays out a pragmatic agenda rooted in daily life: curb the taxpayer burden, double the arts trust fund through private and philanthropic support, and strengthen coordination so more families feel confident staying in public schools past pre-K. As a fourth-generation resident with a citywide footprint—from the Heights to downtown to Greenville—she explains why an at-large seat matches her work of convening neighbors, nonprofits, and developers toward practical outcomes.

We also dig into the campaign grind: canvassing that reveals block-by-block realities, a slate dynamic that actually feels like a team, and the debate over donations and labels that distract from basic governance. Meredith speaks candidly about redemption, results, and why local leadership should be measured by stability, services, and culture—trash picked up, budgets balanced, schools improving, and a creative community that doesn’t get priced out of the place it helped build.

If you care about affordability, schools, and keeping Jersey City’s creative core alive, this conversation gives you a grounded look at what change can actually look like from the council dais. Subscribe, share this with a neighbor, and tell us: what’s the one local fix you want to see first?

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

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Life changes in the most unexpected ways. After months of absence from our podcast, we're back with a birth story that's as dramatic as it is meaningful. Our journey to baby number three began in the aftermath of October 7th, a day that fundamentally changed how we viewed the world and our place in it. Amidst grief and trauma, we felt a spiritual calling to bring another Jewish child into the world, despite having previously considered our family complete.

What followed was a whirlwind pregnancy at age 42 and a birth experience that defied all expectations. From false alarms and desperate attempts to naturally induce labor (including a memorable prenatal massage from a therapist who looked like Mr. T!), to a middle-of-the-night rush to the hospital and a delivery that happened in just three minutes flat—the entire experience was intense, terrifying, and beautiful all at once.

The drama didn't end with delivery, as we discovered the umbilical cord had been wrapped around our daughter's neck, explaining the urgency that filled the delivery room. And later, complications from the epidural sent us back to the hospital for an emergency procedure. Through it all, we felt guided by something greater than ourselves, from the serendipitous timing of having our regular doctor on call to the arrival of family support just when we needed it most.

We share the deeply personal decision behind naming our daughter Arielle Eden, honoring two hostages who lost their live, a young boy and a young woman with whom I felt a special connection despite never having met. This episode isn't just about childbirth; it's about finding hope and purpose amidst tragedy, making spiritual decisions in a material world, and completing our family in the most unexpected way.

Whether you're planning a family, expanding one, or simply curious about the messy, beautiful reality of bringing new life into the world, join us for this raw, emotional conversation about our newest addition and the remarkable circumstances of her arrival.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

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Have you ever wondered how to maintain a thriving marriage amidst the chaos of life? Join us from our intimate Sukkah setting, where we share the joys of Sukkot, a dream realized with Tony’s hard work, and reveal how the same dedication applies to nurturing a loving relationship. As we navigate the personal and global events that weigh on our hearts, including the tragic events in Israel, we reflect on justice, pain, and hope. Our four-year journey together comes alive through cherished memories and the lessons we've learned along the way.

Marriage is a journey filled with both challenges and triumphs, and we explore what it truly means to foster a genuine partnership. From sharing responsibilities to understanding the mental load each partner carries, we unravel the complexities of modern adult life. Through effective communication and role adaptation, we find harmony amidst parenting and work pressures. Discover how we handle these dynamics, ensuring resentment doesn’t take root, and how we maintain intimacy and connection, especially through life's transitions like postpartum.

Tune in as we unpack the importance of vigilance and self-awareness, offering practical advice to keep your relationship thriving. We dive into the significance of physical intimacy, friendship, and mutual respect, all while enjoying shared activities that keep the spark alive. Our candid discussion on maintaining boundaries and supporting each other’s growth serves as a reminder of the healing power of communication. As we celebrate our four-year anniversary, we cherish the fulfilling journey of love and partnership, with a touch of humor from our shared love for reality shows like "Love is Blind.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

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Travis Hawley, with a formidable background in military intelligence and social media marketing, brings an unparalleled perspective to our latest episode, challenging both our reliance on and our understanding of social media's pervasive influence. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into the dual nature of these platforms, as we unpack the empowerment they offer alongside the hurdles they create. From managing our children’s screentime to the staggering mental health impacts on teens and women, our conversation brings to light the significant role algorithms and advertising play in crafting this digital landscape.

Our discussion takes us into the thorny realm of media bias and the ever-evolving perception of conflict, spotlighting the complex dynamics of the ongoing situation in Israel and the power of misinformation. With Travis's unique insights, we delve into personal stories of navigating this noise, drawing parallels to his experiences in military intelligence, and contemplating the profound implications on public opinion. We examine the necessity of engaging with diverse news sources to uncover the truth, echoing the significance of military all-source intelligence in our digital age.

As we wrap up, we lighten the mood with personal pursuits for balance and connection, underlining the importance of mental wellness amidst the digital chaos. Humor and escapism become focal points, with tales of Jiu Jitsu, cultural matchmaking, and the search for new hobbies to offset the stress of a world saturated with news. Our episode closes with a blend of gratitude and humor, offering a candid glimpse into our lives. Join us for a thought-provoking journey that beckons you to reassess your digital habits and worldview.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

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What if confronting trauma could lead to greater resilience? This episode commemorates the one-year anniversary of the Hamas attacks on Israel, a day etched in memory for its heartbreak and chaos. We recount the personal stories of survivors and those affected by the ongoing violence, including the recent missile attack from Iran. Through these narratives, we grapple with the emotional aftermath and the public's challenging responses, while urging listeners to critically evaluate the sources of their information amidst a polarized media landscape.

Join us as we navigate the intricate web of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from a deeply personal perspective. Growing up in Israel and engaging with Palestinian peers, we have faced backlash and threats for vocalizing support for Israel's right to exist. This episode tackles the misconceptions surrounding the conflict, emphasizing that it's against organizations, not individuals. We highlight the importance of fostering a nuanced understanding of the Middle Eastern political landscape, and the personal toll of advocating for peace in a world riddled with misinformation.

Reflecting on Jewish identity and the resilience required to thrive amid adversity, we delve into the complexities of navigating trauma and trust issues. The constant uncertainty has altered relationships and perspectives, making self-reliance and routine critical anchors. Despite the challenges, there is a hopeful belief in the wisdom gained, and a readiness to embrace a redefined sense of normalcy. As we look towards the future, we aim to balance serious themes with lighter content, maintaining authenticity while offering hope and resilience as we face whatever comes next.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

follow us on social @ltkpod!