The New Yorkers Podcast

Epizode

• Ricki Lake on the Kelly Kopp Show! -With Ricki Lake 23.06.2026 55min

  On this Episode, Kelly is joined by the one and only: Ricki Lake! She is a TV and film actress, producer, and television show host. You can see her star in Hairspray, or host her Ricki Lake talk show, which ran for 12 seasons and aired over 2,000 episodes! Kelly starts by asking Ricki where she was born. Ricki tells him about growing up and going to school in Westchester and the city. She talks about taking the train in to Manhattan to go to a performing arts school. She and Kelly try to figure out if they share a mutual connection from her high school. Ricki talks about her parents' family business and how she was a true New Yorker.  Ricki then talks about how 9/11 affected her life trajectory. She talks about living in the West Village at the time and witnessing the plane fly down the Hudson River. She talks about how her home birth was such a powerful experience for her, and that mixed with the events and her contract ending influenced her to move to LA. Ricki then talks about how she ended up moving back to New York 20+ years later, when her house burned down in the Malibu fires. She talks about her house and what she was doing when the fires started. She tells us how she and her husband stayed to try to fight the fire and save their home, but ultimately decided to leave everything behind. She talks about how difficult it was to rebuild, and she talks about all of the things that she's lost in the process.  Kelly then asks her about her move back to New York. Ricki talks about how she had a feeling that she didn't want to stay in LA anymore. She talks about how she got the opportunity to spend a few months living in Chelsea at a friend's apartment and how she was able to rediscover the city that way. Kelly asks her about her necklace, and Ricki talks about how she was able to obtain some of the ashes from her house and create a diamond from it, symbolizing her rebirth. Kelly talks with Ricki about Hairspray! Ricki talks about her casting process and how she went from auditioning for a movie because of a flyer up at her school to getting the lead role in the movie musical. She talks about working with John Waters and Divine, and how the whole cast became a family. Kelly then asks her about her Ricki Lake Talk show, and she gives him the inside scoop on how she got the role.  Kelly then asks her about some of her other work in documentary film, dancing with the stars, and her second TV show, The Ricki Lake Show. She talks about how documentary filmmaking became a personal passion of hers. She talks about how The Business of Being Born still helps new mothers through childbirth. She tells Kelly about how much she loved getting to do Dancing with the Stars, even though she avoided doing it for so long. Kelly let her know that he thought she should have won her season, but Ricki accepted her third-place position. Ricki then talks about why she wanted to go back and do another talk show. She talks about what she was hoping would be different and how that didn't end up being the case. But she was grateful to win an EMMY for her work, but laments that she lost it in the fire.  Finally, Kelly has a surprise that he'd been saving for Ricki all show. He tells her and she is absolutely shocked and delighted.  But above all else; Ricki Lake is a New Yorker  Kelly Kopp's Social Media: @NewYorkCityKopp Ricki Lake's Social media @RickiLake Jae's Social Media @StudioJae170
• New Yorkers Celebrate Pride On the High Line! -With Alan van Capelle 09.06.2026 58min

  In this episode, Kelly is joined by Alan van Capelle!  He is the executive director of Friends of the High Line, the former deputy comptroller for the City of New York, and the chief architect of New York’s historic marriage equality bill.  Kelly asks Alan where he's from. Alan talks about growing up on Long Island and realizing that he was gay. He talks about pretending to be Miss America while hearing his parents argue about him playing Soccer! Alan then talks a bit about his twin sister, and is surprised to learn that Kelly is a twin as well!  Alan talks about his journey through college: how he wanted to be an opera singer, and then worked in medical unions, and later decided to go into community organizing and politics. He then tells the story about how he went from speaking at the first openly gay state representatives' inauguration to being the executive director of the Pride Agenda! Kelly and Alan talk about political activism, and Kelly describes the time he took a bus trip up to Washington, D.C. in 1993 to be a part of the march on Washington. He tells us about how their trip was almost canceled because of threats from the KKK. He describes the tension as they took the trip, and talks about how transformative of an experience it was.  Alan then talks about the importance of joy in hard times. As Executive Director of the High Line, It's important to him that in this fight against fascism, we center joy, and he hopes that people can find that on the High Line this pride.  Kelly asks Alan about the events that are going on this summer.  Alan talks about Musical Theater Piano Karaoke on Mondays, and how everyone has been super excited for that. He talks about the plant sale that they held, where people had the chance to buy one of a kind plants that are not available anywhere else. He talks about the Zesty world party for Queer People of Color, and the Salsa dance parties that are held in July.  Kelly then gets personal with Alan as he asks him about his family life. Alan talks about the process of how he and his partner adopted their two kids. He talks about the pressures of raising a family as a gay couple, as well as some of the challenges that he and his kids face navigating the world as a queer family.  Finally, Kelly asks Alan about the fight for marriage equality. Alan talks about the process that he and his colleagues went through in order to get it passed. How they had to pass smaller legislation surrounding it in order to set the precedent for marriage equality.  He talks about how he became friends with his political enemies and how that was crucial in nullifying them and getting them on his side. He and Kelly talk about the importance of continuing to talk to people you may disagree with.  Then Kelly asks Alan what his favorite neighborhoods are, where he likes to go to eat, and where his favorite place to go for views of the city is. Alan talks about where to go to see the best eye candy, makes a controversial restaurant take, and talks about his favorite section of the High Line. But above all else; Alan van Capelle is a New Yorker.  Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp Follow the High Line and for more information about their events:  https://www.thehighline.org @Highlinenyc Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• New York City During the Revolutionary War! -With Peter Aigner 24.05.2026 1h 6min

  In this episode, Kelly is joined by NYC Historian Peter Aigner! He is the director of the Gotham Center for New York City History, and the co-founder of “Echos of Revolution: NYC,” A new immersive walking tour experience that uses geolocation to put you in the world of historic New York. Join them, as Peter talks to Kelly about the process of obtaining his PHD. Peter talks about why he decided to pursue higher education, and talks a bit about the history of the study of history and why it was important for him in his family. Peter talks about his family's chocolate shop and how it's been around for 100 years! He talks about the legacy of the shop and being a part of it while he was growing up.  Kelly and Peter talk about some important figures and time periods in NYC history. Peter talks about how we are currently in the second Gilded Age and makes comparisons to the first one. Peter talks about Daniel Patrick Moynihan and the book that he's writing about him: what his legacy was, how he was a scholar, as well as his influence on modern politics. They also talk a bit about the history of transportation in America and the significance of the Highway Act. Kelly asks Peter about Echoes of Revolution. Peter talks about the inspiration behind the project. He talks about how he got involved with Niantic and Ubisoft, bringing them together to revolutionize the tour business. Peter talks about how the app works and what people will get from using it. He talks about the process of designing the tours and how they wanted the experience to work, and how being in person enhances the experience for the users.  Kelly asks Peter about New York City during the time of the revolution. Peter talks about how many people lived in the city at the time, what percentage of them were revolutionaries, loyalists, or in between. Peter talks about what the city limits were at that time, and how New York was impacted by the battles, the invasion, and the fires. He talks about why New York was such an important city during the Revolutionary Era and how it was left out of the conversation nationally.  Finally, Kelly asks Peter some quickfire questions about his favorite historical spots, his favorite historical figures who came from New York City, and what NYC means to him in one word.  But above all else; Peter Aigner is a New Yorker! Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp Peter's Social Media  @gothamcenternychistory Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• Vietnamese Coffee in New York City! -With Kim Lee 10.05.2026 55min

  In this episode; Kelly is joined by: Kim Lee! She is the owner and founder of Kawaii Coffee, and an immigrant from Vietnam.  Kim recently opened her coffee shop in the west village, which had been a dream of hers for a while. After attending business school and working in midtown at a nail salon, she decided her next step was to run her own business. Kelly asks Kim about moving from Vietnam to the United States. How the culture differs, what was hard to adjust to, what was more similar than you might think, and what it's like starting over in a completely new country. Kim talks about the coffee culture in Vietnam. She tells us how life is much slower there: people go to their favorite coffee shops at around 7 in the morning and wait two full hours for it to drip while they are there! She talks about how they use condensed milk as a sweetener, and the different reasons Vietnamese people go out for coffee. Kelly asks Kim what parts of that culture she hoped to bring with her to New York. Kelly asks Kim about Vietnamese culture in New York. They talk about the food, different events, and how Kim can contribute to that culture.  Finally, Kelly asks Kim some quick fire questions about coffee, culture, and where she likes to live. But above all else; Kim Lee is a New Yorker. Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp Kim's Social Media  @Kawaiicafe203 You can find her shop here: 117 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014 Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• New Yorkers Build This City! -With Jim Somoza 26.04.2026 57min

  With me today, I have Jim Somoza! He is the Managing Director at Industry City.  Join them on this episode where they go back in time. Jim tells us what it was like growing up in New York in the 70s and 80s. He talks about how his dad moved to an apartment on the upper west side, overlooking central park. He tells us how he would spend his afternoons in the parks, and weekends in the west village with his best friend. He talks about going to the arcades in Times Square, as well as other games they made up to entertain themselves.  Jim then talks about his time as a Real Estate Lawyer. How when he started his practice, it was very difficult to find work. But after sticking with it, even through the crash of the late 90s, he was able to find work and also met people that would bring him to his next career shift in working on Chelsea Market. Kelly asks Jim about the history of Chelsea market: How it got started, what it was like to work there, and he tells us about its founders' vision and what he wanted Chelsea Market to be. Kelly also asks him about a famous sweet treat that was invented at Chelsea Market, and Jim tells us a little known fact about it.  Jim then talks about his time developing Industry City. He talks about how the proposal came to him. He tells us what Industry City used to be and how it used to function. He talks about how large it is in comparison to Chelsea Market and even the Empire State building. He then tells us what his strategy was in order to get not only retailers in the space, but also offices and patrons. Jim talks about the community aspect of Industry City, and what he hopes people will get from it when they come for a visit.  But above all else; Jim Somoza is a New Yorker. Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp Jim's Social Media and Industry City @Jim_Somoza @IndustryCity Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170  
• Thriller NYC! -With Zombie Papas: Jorge and Todd 12.04.2026 47min

  In this episode, Kelly is joined by Zombie Papas Jorge and Todd, the organizers of Thriller NYC!  Join them as they introduce themselves. Jorge tells us how he came to New York, and what it was like moving here. Todd on the otherhand, talks about being third generation from Brooklyn. They tell us about how they met, as well as their costume wedding. They talk about how they found Thriller NYC and how long they've been involved with it.  Jorge talks about the founding of thriller in the west village Halloween parade. He talks about the first time it was done and what it was like when it first started. He talks about how he initially joined another thriller group because Thriller NYC was full. Todd talks about how Jorge invited him to join thriller one year, but not in the way that he had wanted to.  Kelly asks about the process of putting together something so massive. Todd talks about the process of how people get tickets and join the group. He goes over what the rehearsals look like as well as what the time table is like to put on something like that. They both talk about what people are getting out of their ticket. They talk about how it is important for them to form a safe community, and they emphasise moving your body in community, and the healing power that it can have. Jorge and Todd thank Kelly for his viral video of the performance, and they talk about how that helped them get put back on the map and continue post Covid. They also talk about what it feels like to put together this massive project every year, and the cultural impact that it has on the world. They talk about their trip to South Africa and how Thriller even has an impact there.  Finally, Kelly asks them some quick fire questions about the dance, the halloween parade, the costumes, and where to eat after.  But, above all else; Jorge and Todd are New Yorkers.  Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp Join Thriller NYC! https://www.thrillernyc.com/ @Thrillernyc Donate to the village Halloween parade! https://halloween-nyc.com/donate/  Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• New Yorkers are Humanitarians - With Andy Fisher 29.03.2026 58min

  In this episode, Kelly is joined by author Andy Fisher! He is the retired founding executive director of the Lavelle Fund for the Blind. He has 35 years of experience in New York City charitable foundations, and is a winner of the Helen Keller International’s Humanitarian Award. Inspired by the humanitarian efforts of the past, he has written his first book about an unsung New Yorker: Nathan Straus. Kelly asks Andy about his growing up, and work. Andy tells Kelly what lead him to New York and to what his passion ended up becoming. Andy talks about retirement and how he was inspired to write a book about Nathan Straus. Andy talks about the writing process. He thanks the publishers, and the fellow scholars that helped him finish the book. He talked about how he came upon Straus, and why he thought it was important to tell his story.  Kelly asks Andy about Nathan Straus: Where he was born, what his family life was like, when he moved to New York, and how he made his fortune. Andy talks about how he immegrated from Europe in the early 1800s and what that was like. He told Kelly about how the Civil War ruined his family's buisness. He talks about how his family moved to New York and was able to secure some retail spacy in the well known Macy's!  Kelly asks Andy about his humanitarian efforts. Andy tells Kelly about how he was a champion of milk pasteurization at a time when the whole world was against it. Andy explained how Straus saved countless lives by ensuring that everyone had access to the information about pasteurization and pasteurized milk to drink.  Andy then talks about his efforts to help people abroad, and talks about his humanitarian efforts in the middle east, as well as how he helped Jewish people, as well as Palestinians.  Kelly asks Andy about Nathan's Brother and the Titanic: he tells the story of the families fatefull travel.  Finally Kelly asks Andy about how Nathan had said that he wanated to give away all of his money. Andy talks about Nathan's father's philosophy growing up and how that effected him. He talks about the different ways in which he helped the homeless, and helped the community during financial hardships and how even in his most succesfull moment in life, he was humble and knew his limits.  But above all else; Nathan Straus and Andy Fisher are New yorkers!  Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp Buy Andy's Book! https://andrewfisherwriter.com/ Or anywhere you buy books. Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• New Yorkers Overcome Obstacles - With Maryam Banikarim 15.03.2026 58min

  In this week's episode, Kelly is joined by community builder Maryam Banikarim! She was the former Chief Marketing Officer of many global organizations, She is the Co-Founder of Longest Table, and Host of the podcast “The Messy Parts”.  Kelly asks Maryam about coming to The United States from Iran. Maryam talks about her experience living in Iran and in California. She talks about her first trip to the East Coast and how she got into Barnard off the wait list.  Maryam talks about life in NYC in the 80s. She tells us about a fateful encounter she had on the subway, fast talking her way into night clubs, and joining Chippendales! Kelly asks her about her experience doing a TedTalk. Maryam tells us how she got the opportunity to do the talk, what her process was in coming up with topics for it, and how she was able to practice and perfect her performance.  Maryam then talks about putting together The Longest Table. She discusses challenges that she faced when putting on the first event. She talks about how the obstacles become obstacle courses in how she navigates regection and keeps it from letting it affect her.  She then talks about New York Next and how during covid, she and a group of concerned New Yorkers got together to put together an incredible video to help support artists during that dark time.  Kelly asks Maryam about the formation of "The Messy Parts". The two talk about their experience being podcast hosts, and the unique challenges that face them. They discuss the creation of Maryam's show: From inspiration to early planning and to how it is now. Finally, Maryam tells the audience about her wedding anniversary, as it is the same day that they recorded the podcast. Maryam met her husband on the Subway! And she recounts her classic New York Story for us.  But above all else; Maryam Banikarim is a New Yorker. Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp Maryam's Social Media @mbanikarim @LongestTableCommunity @TheMessyPartsPodcast Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• *Re-Air* Creating Modern New York -With Madelyn Wils 01.03.2026 57min

  Due to the hustle and bustle of city life, the New Yorkers have to take a leave of absence this week. Please enjoy this episode we did back in September with the brilliant Madelyn Wils. And tune in next time for a brand new episode! ****************************************** In this Episode: Kelly is joined by Civic Leader, Madelyn Wils! She was on the Tribeca Community Board, Head of the Hudson River Park Trust, and is now overseeing the 400 Million Dollar Overhaul of 5th ave.  From Kelly asking where Madelyn was from, they learn that they lived on the same block in washington Heights! Madelyn tells Kelly about her time in Television: Working in advertisment sales to selling tv shows, to eventually running her own company and Producing her own shows. Madelyn also tells kelly about the discrimination that she faced and the sexism that was pervasive in the industry.  Kelly asks Madelyn about working with Charlie Rose and Larry King. Madelyn tells some funny stories about working behind the scenes on their shows.  Madelyn then tells us about how she got into becoming a civic leader. How she joined the community board, and how she was able to procure an empty lot owned by the city for the nearby school's playground.  Living in Tribeca in the late 90s and early 2000s, Kelly asks Madelyn about 911. Medelyn recounts her experience on that day, and tells us about how she was able to rally together her fellow community leaders to help everyone in need.  Madelyn tells us about her experience with standing up to Rudy Giuliani in the wake of the attacks and how she advocated for her community and brought them the help they deserved.  She then talks about how the next administration had been following her work and decided to hire her to work on developing the city. Madelyn talks about how she was able to set up the East River Ferry system, Rebuild Coney Island, start work on the east river park and settle a turf war at Essex Square.  Kelly then asks Madelyn about her new project. And Madelyn tells him about how she planned to retire after covid, but decided that she really loved working on the city. So when she got called to work on a project to rebuild 5th avenue; She couldn't say no.  Madelyn talks about the project and their plans for 5th avenue: Widening the sidewalks, adding more greenery and creating outdoor cafe space. She talks about wanting to create a beautiful scene that people want to spend time in.    But above all else; Madelyn Wils is a New Yorker.   Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   For updates on the 5th ave project, Follow @Fifthavenue  on instagram Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• A Practical New Yorker as an Impractical Guest! -With James "Murr" Murray 15.02.2026 49min

  In this episode, Kelly is joined by James "Murr" Murray From the hit TV show "Impractical Jokers"! He is also an executive TV and Film producer as the President of Impractical productions. He is a best selling author of 9 published titles and tours the world telling jokes to sold out arenas. Kelly starts off the show by asking Murr where he was born and what it was like growing up on Staten Island. Murr talks about coming back home after late nights in the city and funny stories on the Staten Island Rapid Transit. He talks about moving to Bay Ridge and going to Catholic school where he met his best friends.  Murr then talks about how the show "Impractical Jokers" started. He tells Kelly about his initial pitch for the show and how the company loved it. Kelly talks about the stats from the start of the show and how well it captured audiences all over America.  Murr talks about filming the show in the city and how quickly he and his group shot up through the comedy space. He tells the story of performing at his sold out show at Madison Square Garden. Kelly asks Murr about a few of the punishments and improv skits that he has done on the show. Murr goes behind the scenes and talks about "The greatest Punishemnt Ever" That he has orchestrated on the show. He talks about how it was 5 years in the making, and all of the work and preperation that he had to do in order to pull it off. Murr also talks about some of his other favorite skits from the show. Kelly talks about some of the other aspects of the show. They talk about filming during covid, how they go about getting people to go along with their antics, and if they have ever broken character or said that they werent going to do something.  Finally Kelly asks Murr some quick fire questions about New York, and Murr gives us a subway take, his favorite pizza, and his 5:30am bodega order. But above all else; James "Murr" Murray is a New Yorker. Kelly Kopp's Social Media:@NewYorkCityKopp Murr's Social Media: @TheRealMurr Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170 Get Your Tickets to his show at "Murrlive.com"!
• *Winter Re-Air* "The Gods of New York" On the New Yorkers Podcast! - With Jonathan Mahler 01.02.2026 48min

  Join us for the last highlight of Season 2! The New Yorkers Podcast will be back for Season 3 in two weeks! Until then, please enjoy this episode on the tantalizing tale of New York City in the 1980s from the brilliant Jonathan Mahler.  ******************************* In this episode, Kelly is joined by Jonathan Mahler! He is a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, his sports journalism has been featured in the book “The Best American Sports Writing”, and he is the  author of two books: “Ladies and Gentlemen, The Bronx is Burning” as well as “The Challenge.” And his third book “The Gods of New York” is available now wherever you buy books! Join them, as Jonathan tells Kelly a bit about where he's from, and his profession. Kelly asks about raising kids in New York City, and what age did he think is ok for kids to ride the subway.  Kelly asks Jonathan to give him a background of New York City leading up to the 1980s. Jonathan tells him what it was like to cover the 2016 presidential campaign, and how he was inspired to write this book.  Jonathan tells Kelly about some of the stories that were going on during the second half of the 1980s, and Kelly talks about how he remembers living through a lot of these headlines.  Kelly asks Jonathan what he thinks of the current Mayoral race in New York City. Jae tells a funny story of what floridians think of the race. And Jonathan recounts how he thinks that the events of his book have a direct effect on this current political climate.  Jonathan talks about his research process for the book, what archival he used, and the people he was able to interview. Jae and Kelly talk about how much they love the writing of the book: How personable it is, how funny it is, and how the passion for New York City is dripping off every page.  Kelly asks Jonathan to tell us about the title of the book: "The Gods of New York". Jonathan talks about where the title came from, how much he loves the title, but also why he was apprehensive to call it that. Finally, Kelly asks Jonathan some questions about his writing process, as well as some fun quick New York City questions that every New Yorker has an answer for.    But above all else; Jonathan Mahler is a New Yorker!   Kelly Kopp's Social Media: @NewYorkCityKopp   Jonathan Mahler's Social Media: @Jonathan.Mahler   Jae's Social Media:@Studiojae170
• *Winter Break Re- Air* New York Has The #1 Pizza In The World! -With Anthony Mangieri 18.01.2026 55min

  In this episode: Kelly is joined by Anthony Mangieri! He is a Chef, Businessman and Pizza Connoisseur. Join them, as Anthony tells us about how he got his start in the resturaunt industry in his late teens! Anthony talks about his first buisness baking bread, and how that grew into owning his own Pizzaria. From there, Anthony talks about wanting to move his buisness to New York, and how he gained the recognicion of top food critics.  Anthony talks about his craft, and how he goes about running his resturaunt. He describes his unique approach of personally hand crafting every pizza on his own. He talks about his passion for making dough and his interest in customer service.  Kelly asks Anthony what the Pandemic's effects were on his resturaunt and how he survived it. Anthony talks about the kindness of his community, and how he met his future wife during that difficult time.  Anthony talks about his wife Christina and their soon to be baby! He is blessed to feel fortunate to have a lot of great things in his life, and he talks about how he manages all of it.  Jae asks Anthony about his frozen pizza product: What it was like to create sometihing like that, what is the process like, and where people can buy it. Anthony talks about how he wanted to make the best frozen pizza that exhists. The pizza's are personally hand made in italy, with fresh italian ingredients, and Anthony prides himself on being able to give a great frozen food alternative to people who might need it.  Jae also asks about what are some of his other favorite pizza's and resturaunts in New York. Anthony has a few, but says that he is very self motivated, and strives to make the best product he can, and finds ways to innovate and improve every day.    But above all else; Anthony Mangieri is a New Yorker! You can Find Una Pizza Napoletana here: 175 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002 They are open Thursday-Saturday. Reservation is encouraged.    Kelly Kopp's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Anthony Mangieri's Social Media  @anthony_w_mangieri @unapizzanapoletana Jae Watson's Social Media @Studiojae170  
• *Winter Break Re-Air* The New Yorkers Travel the High Line! -With Richard Hayden 04.01.2026 53min

  In this episode: Kelly is joined by Richard Hayden! Richard is the Senior Director of Horticulture at the High Line. Join them, as Richard teaches us about the profession of gardening. He tells us about how he got into horticulture, and what it does for him. He talks about his staff and how dedicated they are to maintaining the wonderful vision of the High Line. Kelly asks Richard how the High Line got started, and Richard tells Kelly the amazing redemption story that the highline overtook: From Death ave to one of the most visited parks in the world.  Richard tells us about some of the plants that live on the High Line. He talks about the gardening philosophy that they take when deciding what the areas should look like.  And finally, Kelly asks Richard some fun questions about the High Line: if he's named any of the plants, which area is his favorite, what his favorite view is, and... what berry birds get drunk on?    But above all else; Richard Hayden is a New Yorker!   Kelly Kopp's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Richard Hayden's Social Media @NatureGardener Jae Watson's Social Media @Studiojae170
• The New Yorkers Specalize in Holiday Home Decour! -With Hillary Wallace 21.12.2025 57min

  In this episode, Kelly is joined by Hillary Wallace! She is the principal designer at her own firm: Simon-Wallace Design. And she pulls out all of the stops decorating her New York City home for the holidays.  Kelly starts the episode off by talking about the only way two true New Yorkers could meet: Yelling at each other from a window!  Hillary talks about where she was from and how from when she was young; she alwasy wanted to move to New York. She talks about growing up in LA in the 80's, moving to colorado, designing her own furniture as a side job and how that inspired her to go back to school for design.  Kelly then asks Hillary about her house, and Hillary tells the very roundabout story of how she and her husband came to find and buy the house. Hillary tells us all about decorating her house for the holidays. She goes over her schedule, talks about where she gets all of her resourses from, and how she goes from design idea to execution every single year. Kelly and Hillary then talk about the desings themselves. What they are, some absurd stories about them, and the ways that different people have been inspired or moved by them. Hillary talks about her design philosophy, and how she goes about meeting clients, and creating a lifestyle for them or meeting them in their lifestyle. Jae asks her about some other events around the city and the three talk about some of the various events you can do while around New York during the holiday season. Finally, Kelly asks Hillary about some of her New York City Essentials, like where she goes for inspiration, where her favorite shops are and how she likes to get around.  But above all else; Hillary Wallace is a New Yorker.  Kelly Kopp's Social Media:@NewYorkCityKopp Hillary Wallace's Social Media: @SimonWallaceDesign Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170 Hosted by Kelly Kopp Executive Produced by Huston "Jae" Watson
• The Man Behind the Saks 5th ave Holiday Light Show! -With Dan Casterella 07.12.2025 46min

  In this Episode, Kelly is joined by CEO of American Christmas: Dan Casterella! He has been the leader of the company since 2017 which is responsible for all of the incredible Christmas decorations around midtown that we know and love.  Kelly starts the episode off by asking Dan about how he started working with the company. Dan talks about how he loved decorating houses for Christmas since he was a kid and how he would even cut class in high school in order to decorate houses! Dan talks about his journey through the company; starting as an installer and working his way up to becoming CEO! He talks about how he runs the company, and what it means to be in a seasonal buisness. Dan talks about how he and his employees deal with the stress of Christmas and what it means for them and their families.  Kelly asks Dan about The Headquarters in Mount Vernon, Westchester. Kelly talks about his visit to the facilities and all of the different iconic fixtures of Christmas in NYC that he got to see. Dan talks about how they let visitors tour the facilities and on the weekends kids take pictures with Santa Clauese. Dan donates all of the proceeds from santa clause to local organizations that help local youth. Kelly asks Dan about instalations. How long they take, what the planning process is like and where they go around the City. Dan talks about some of the world famous fixtures that they do, such as the one at Saks 5th Ave, Radio City Musica Hall and all over 5th and 6th ave in midtown.  Dan talks a bit about the other work that they do all over the country. He tells us which state has the biggest market for christmas in the country, and what the second biggest city that they decorate is.  Jae asks about some more details regarding the creation process, and Dan talks about the two different ways that they work on projects: Clients come to them with the idea that they have to execute, or their prefered way which is doing all of the creating and designing themselves. He talks about what that process is like too. Finally, Kelly asks him what his favorite christmas decoration is in New York and Dan surprises us and says that it's one that he doesn't do!  But above all else; Dan Casterella is a New Yorker.  Kelly Kopp's Social Media:@NewYorkCityKopp American Christmas on Social Media: @AmericanChristmas Jae's Social Media: Studiojae170@gmail.com
• *Holiday Re-Air* The Macy's Thanskgiving Day Parade! - With John Friia 23.11.2025 52min

  During this busy Holiday Season, the New Yorkers have their plates full. So please sit back and enjoy a great episode from last Thanksgiving! In this episode, Kelly is joined by John Friia! He is a digital creator, New York City historian and featured on PIX11's New York Living!Kelly asks John about his New York Story: Where he's from, What kind of content he does, and why he has such a profound interest for New York City History. Kelly tells us about his time as a balloon handler in the Macy's Thanksgiving day Parade. How he got the position, which balloons he got to handle, and he tells the story about the time he almost got to High Five a Rockette!Kelly and John give tips about where to go to see the parade the best. Where has the best view, how to go so you can leave early, and where the best place to go to the bathroom is. John tells Kelly about the history of the parade. When it started, the original parade route, how the Central Park Zoo was involved. John also tells us about the lengthy process that the balloons and floats go through before they can make it to the day of the Parade.Kelly also tells John about the inflation ceremony, where thousands of people from around the world gather to see the balloons inflated. He gives the listeners tips on the best places and times to see this too. But above all else; John Friia is a New Yorker!Kelly Kopp's Social Media:@NewYorkCityKoppJohn Friia's Social Media:@Here_in_NY on Instagram@hereinnyc on TikTok Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• Exploring Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty - With Justin Southern 09.11.2025 49min

  In this Episode, Kelly is joined by historian, Justin Southern!  Join them as Justin tells Kelly how he first became a tourguide. He talks about his time teaching English in Italy, responding to an ad to become a tourguide while living in Italy, and how he came to New York.  Kelly asks Justin about imigration before Ellis Island. Justin talks about the different ways that people emmegrated from their home countries before the US created a way, on the federal level, for people to immigrate to the United States. Justin talks about the creation of Ellis Island and the first ship that landed on the island. He talks about how many immagrants went through Ellis Island during its peak use. Then he talks about how many immigrants were turned away from staying in the US due to sickness, and puts into perspective how small a number that is. Kelly asks Justin what people did while they were on Ellis Island. Justin tells him how they had different wards of the hospital and the different patients they took at each. He tells us about how due to the previlance of disease, children had to be seperated from their families. He also talks about how nurses and doctors made huge advancements in health during this time period because they were able to study so many patients. Justin also gives somes stories about how nurses befriended their patients and stayed connected even after they made it back to the mainland.  Finaly, Kelly asks Justin about the Hard Hat Tour, Justin tells everyone what they can experience when they take the tour. He also gives some great tips for visiting Ellis Island and the stature of Liberty. He also tells everyone how they can take the hard hat tour.  Kelly also tells everyone about his experience taking the hard hat tour. He talks about what he saw on the tour as well as what it felt like to be in the space that so many immagrants went through.    But above all else; Justin Southern is a New Yorker.   Follow Justin Southern  @Southbysouthern   Follow Kelly Kopp's Social media @NewYorkCityKopp   Follow Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• The Manhattan Borough President! -With Mark Levine 26.10.2025 31min

  In this episode, Kelly is joined by Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine.  Join them as Mark tells Kelly and Jae about how he got his start in politics: His origin as a teacher, in the south Bronx, and how he saw a need in his community and filled it.  Kelly asks Mark about his journey to where he is now. What his early campaigns were like, the first races he ran, and what kept him in it even when he faced hardships.  Mark tells us about the job of the Manhattan Borough President: what his duties are, what he has power over, and what he has used his position to accomplish.  Mark then talks about his journey to become Comptroler of New York City. What that job means, what all it entails and how it exists in relationship to the Mayor.  Finally Mark talks about what he hopes to accomplish as the Comptroler of the city. He talks about affordablity, and financing ways to reach these goals. Mark also talks about how he would work with Zohran Mamdani, if he were to become Mayor of New York, and how their goals align for a more affordable New York.  But above all else; Mark Levine is a New Yorker.    Follow Mark Levine @MBPMarkLevine   Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170  
• The New Yorkers Go Inside Broadway! -With Michael Presser 12.10.2025 57min

  In this Episode, Kelly is joined by President and Founder Michael Presser!  Join them as Michael tells Kelly and Jae how he fell in love with theater. From a young age, his Aunts took him to see broadway stars as they developed shows in Philidalphia. He talks about how he knew that he wanted to move to New York to be a part of that because of those experiences.  Michael tells The New Yorkers that he is working on a new book! And he talks about the writing process and how it has brought up memories of his journey to where he is now. He also gives some advice to young people who are starting out in their careers.  Kelly asks Michael about Inside Broadway, What the organization does, how it got founded, and what kind of programs it runs. Michael talks about how it started from a simple task that he was asked to help out with. He tells us about the importance of art in young people's lives and how his organization's sole purpose is to be a vehicle for that.  Jae asks Michael about the trade ascpet of theater, and Michael talks about how theater is a vast field of job opportunities for people to go into. He talks about the different skills that are required to put on productions.  Kelly asks Michael about the Cats ticket program. Michael tells the story about how that was the thing that started inside broadway. He talks about how it has changed the lives of hundreds of kids, and how he hopes that it provides a ripple effect in that other kids and families will get to enjoy theater.  The New Yorkers talk about the future of theater: how the industry was affected by covid, how advertising strategies have evolved, how the media plays a part in theater, and how social media has effected the theater landscape.  But above all else; Michael Presser is a New Yorker.    Follow Inside Broadway @Inside_Broadway   Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170
• Exploring the City's Secrets through Open House New York! -With Kristin LaBuz 28.09.2025 48min

  In this Episode, Kelly is Joined by Open House New York Executive Director Kristin LaBuz! Join them as Kristin tells us how she became an urban enthusiest, growing up in upstate New York. She talks about going to UPENN and studying Urban Planning. She tells us about some of the work that she's done improving communities on her way to working with Open House New York. Kelly asks Kristin about Open House New York Weekend. Kristin tells him about all of the different events and activities that are taking place October 17th-19th, 2025. Kristin tells us how Open House New York got started, and how it was an act of rebellion during a time where things were very closed off.  Kelly tells Kristin how much he loves doing the open house events, getting to see private residences, secret rooftops, and the under guts of the city. Kristin talks about raising a child in the city. How the world is her child's teacher and how everthing is amazing to a child. She tells a heartwarming story about how kind New Yorkers can be.  Jae asks about the scavenger hunts that Open House New York puts on and Krisitn talks about what go into those and when you can participate.  Kelly asks Kristin some rappid fire questions about her time with Open House New York. And finally, Kristin asks Kelly what he would want to see opened up.  But above all else; Kristin LaBuz is a New Yorker.   Follow Open House New York  @OpenHouseNewYork   Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp