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We visit Electric Tattoo in Asbury Park to chat with tattoo artist Mike Schweigert. Schweigert shares his journey from growing up in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, to becoming a prominent figure in the tattoo industry. He discusses his early influences, including his love for music and skateboarding, and how these passions intertwined with his career in tattooing.

Schweigert reflects on his experiences at art school, his initial foray into tattooing, and the challenges of opening his first shop. He recounts the evolution of tattoo culture from its niche beginnings to a more mainstream acceptance, highlighting the impact of social media and the importance of maintaining artistic integrity. Schweigert also shares anecdotes about his mentors and the lessons learned from them, which have shaped his approach to both art and business.

The conversation delves into the operations of Electric Tattoo, where Schweigert emphasizes the importance of spontaneity and creativity in the tattooing process. He discusses his role in mentoring the next generation of tattoo artists and the collaborative environment fostered at his shop. Schweigert invites listeners to explore the vibrant tattoo scene in Asbury Park, whether through scheduled appointments or spontaneous walk-ins, capturing the essence of a community that thrives on artistic expression.

https://www.electrictattoonewjersey.com/
@mikeschweigert

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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We welcome Mark Conklin, Vice President of Artist Relations and Programming at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Mark shares his intriguing journey from a young musician playing in local bars to a prominent figure in the music industry. He discusses his transition from performing to songwriting and artist management, eventually leading to his current role where he oversees the Record High program. This initiative is designed to educate young people about the myriad career opportunities in music and entertainment, both on stage and behind the scenes.

Mark delves into the evolution of the Record High program, which began as a summer camp and has expanded into a comprehensive educational platform. The program now includes workshops on songwriting, audio production, and live performance, aiming to bridge the gap for young people by providing them with the skills and connections needed to succeed in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side of music, a crucial aspect for aspiring artists who often focus solely on the creative process. Through Record High, students gain access to industry professionals and real-world experiences, preparing them for successful careers in music.

The conversation also highlights the unique opportunities provided by the Prudential Center, such as exclusive workshops and mentorships with industry professionals. Mark shares his vision for expanding these programs beyond Newark to reach more communities, including Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. He discusses the importance of community engagement and the role of the Prudential Center in supporting local talent. By leveraging the resources and connections available through the center, Mark aims to create a nurturing environment where young artists can thrive and realize their full potential.

https://therecordhigh.org/

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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We visit Secret Guitars in Toms River, New Jersey, to chat with the dynamic members of the Azures—Clarissa, Ashton, Gia, and Eric. The conversation delves into the band's origins, tracing back to when they first met at the guitar shop opened by Eric's father after transitioning from the carpet business. The Azures share their journey from those early days of experimentation and jamming to the release of their self-titled debut album, which encapsulates their unique blend of rock, blues, and psychedelic influences.

Listeners are treated to insights into the band's creative process, where poetry often serves as the foundation for their songwriting. The Azures discuss the evolution of their music, highlighting how their sound has matured over time, particularly with tracks like "Whiskey Sour." The episode also covers the band's recent tour, which marked their first extensive venture beyond local shows, taking them through cities like Nashville and Baltimore. As they recount the highs and lows of touring, including the camaraderie and unexpected challenges, the Azures express excitement for future projects, including new music and potential tours. This episode offers a candid glimpse into the life of a band on the rise, driven by passion and a shared love for music.

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Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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Discover the secrets of energy healing and spiritual growth with our special guest, Karen Foote, the founder of Rebalance Reiki and Massage. Karen takes us on a fascinating journey from her early start in the healing arts at age 16 to the creation of Moon Magic in Hillsdale, New Jersey, a sanctuary born out of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her story, you'll learn how personal challenges shaped her path and inspired her to build a community focused on intuitive healing and the power of Reiki.

Unlock the mysteries of your own energy centers as we explore the vital connection between chakras and physical well-being. Karen shares her profound insights into how blocked chakras can lead to physical ailments, and how practices like Reiki can restore balance and promote deep relaxation. For those aspiring to become healers themselves, Karen provides valuable advice on the training and certification process, emphasizing the importance of intuition and trust in one's healing journey.

Celebrate the transformative power of spiritual practices in personal relationships and self-discovery. Karen's experiences with sound healing, mindfulness, and navigating different spiritual beliefs within her marriage offer a reassuring message of growth and harmony. With a wide array of services and events at Moon Magic, from sound healings to moon circles, Karen is dedicated to supporting others on their spiritual paths. Tune in to hear about her unique approach to healing and her vision for a nurturing, spiritually vibrant community.

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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This week we're talking with David Suk, co-founder of St. Luna Spirits, at the charming Sirenetta in Hoboken. David shares his remarkable journey from the corporate world to the craft spirits industry, detailing how he transitioned from selling baby blankets to creating a premium craft moonshine brand.

David begins by explaining the unique aspects of St. Luna's moonshine, which sets it apart from traditional moonshines. The spirit's mash bill is a blend of 95% Grade A molasses from northern Florida and 5% rye from the Carolinas, filtered through charred oak staves. This combination results in a complex flavor profile that can appeal to a wide range of palates, offering notes of molasses, smoke, leather, and spice.

The conversation takes an intriguing turn as David recounts the serendipitous discovery of his master distiller, Scott, who had been perfecting the moonshine recipe in his backyard for nearly two decades. David's passion for creating a high-quality, versatile spirit led him to partner with Scott, and together they transformed a backyard operation into a sophisticated distillery setup.

David also shares the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from a stable corporate job to the uncertain world of entrepreneurship, especially during the pandemic. Despite the timing, David's dedication to his craft and his innovative approach to moonshine have led to St. Luna being featured in top cocktail bars and restaurants, including Jean-Georges and Employees Only.

Listeners will gain insights into the meticulous process of scaling production, the importance of branding and packaging, and the strategies for getting a new spirit onto cocktail menus. David discusses the role of his business partner, Aubrey Slater, a renowned mixologist, in crafting exceptional cocktails that showcase St. Luna's versatility. Aubrey's expertise and network in the bar scene have been instrumental in getting the word out about St. Luna.

The episode also touches on the importance of local support and community connections. David talks about how being a local resident of Hoboken has helped him build relationships with nearby bars and restaurants, leading to St. Luna's presence in several popular spots in the area. He emphasizes the value of grassroots marketing and the impact of word-of-mouth recommendations in growing the brand.

As the conversation progresses, David and Mike discuss the broader landscape of the craft spirits industry and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. David shares his vision for the future of St. Luna Spirits, including plans for expanding distribution and continuing to innovate within the moonshine category.

Listeners will be inspired by David's entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to creating a product that stands out in a crowded market. Whether you're a spirits enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the world of craft moonshine, this episode offers a compelling look at the dedication and creativity behind building a successful brand.

Tune in to hear about the innovative spirit that's making waves in the craft cocktail scene, the importance of local support, and the exciting future of St. Luna Spirits. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the art of distilling, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the power of community in building a brand.

https://saintlunaspirits.com/
@saintlunaspirits

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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We welcome Julia Vain to discuss the exciting transformation of Angeloni's Club Madrid in Atlantic City. Julia, a South Jersey native, shares her journey from working at various local establishments to becoming a co-owner of this historic venue. The conversation kicks off with Julia recounting her early days in the fast-paced hospitality industry and the mentors who shaped her career.

Julia provides an in-depth look at the rich history of Angeloni's Club Madrid, originally Club Madrid in the 1920s before becoming Angeloni's in the 1980s. She explains how the team discovered original elements from the Club Madrid era during renovations, which inspired them to honor both the past and present in their redesign.

Listeners will hear about the unique events that have made Julia a well-known figure in the area, such as the wildly popular Christmas in July and Sopranos brunches. Julia also discusses the creative process behind these events and how they have helped her build a strong community presence.

The episode highlights the collaborative spirit of Atlantic City's local businesses, with Julia mentioning partnerships with Alibi Gin, Rando's Bakery, and The Seed brewery. She emphasizes the importance of supporting each other to ensure the community thrives.

Julia also introduces the concept of memberships at Angeloni's Club Madrid, offering exclusive perks and personalized experiences for loyal patrons. The discussion wraps up with a look at the diverse dining and cocktail options available, designed to provide a memorable experience for every guest.

Tune in to discover the vibrant culture, innovative dining, and deep-rooted community spirit that make Angeloni's Club Madrid a standout destination in Atlantic City.

@angelonisclubmadrid

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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We welcome Kim Petillo and Taylor Franklin to the show at Salty's Beach Bar in Belmar, New Jersey. The episode kicks off with a lively discussion about the unique journey that led Kim and Taylor to become prominent figures in the pole dancing community. They recount their initial meeting in a pole dancing class during the summer of 2020, a time when both were seeking new forms of fitness and self-expression amidst the pandemic.

Kim and Taylor share their personal stories, detailing how pole dancing became a transformative part of their lives. Taylor, with a background in martial arts and burlesque, and Kim, who discovered pole dancing after working as a stripper in college, both found a new passion that combined physical fitness with artistic performance. Their shared experiences and mutual love for the art form led them to create Creatures of Chrome, a production company that hosts monthly pole dancing shows at Salty's Beach Bar.

The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of performing, particularly how they overcame social anxiety to shine on stage. They discuss the supportive community they've built, which includes performers of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds, and the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for everyone.

Listeners will also learn about the logistics and creativity involved in organizing their shows, from selecting themes to managing applications from performers across the country. Kim and Taylor emphasize the importance of concept and storytelling in their performances, aiming to provide an unforgettable experience for their audience.

The episode also highlights their latest venture, Badabling Fitness, a new pole dancing studio in Colts Neck, New Jersey. Taylor shares the exciting yet challenging process of opening the studio, from finding the perfect location to transforming it into a welcoming space for students of all levels.

Throughout the episode, Kim and Taylor's passion for pole dancing and their dedication to their craft are evident. They discuss their future goals, including performing with live bands and expanding their reach within the pole dancing community.

For those interested in attending a show or learning more about pole dancing, Kim and Taylor provide details on how to get involved through their Instagram accounts, @creaturesofchrome and @badablingfitness. This episode is a testament to the power of following one's passion and the incredible community that can be built through shared artistic expression.

@creaturesofchrome
@badablingfitness

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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Today we travel to the historic Great Notch Inn in Woodland Park, New Jersey. The episode features an engaging conversation with the roadhouse's owner, Rich Hempel, who provides a deep dive into the rich history and vibrant community that define this local landmark.

Rich begins by sharing the origins of the Great Notch Inn, which was established by his grandfather during the Prohibition era. Initially a speakeasy known as the Green Chateau, the inn has evolved over the decades, becoming a beloved roadhouse that has stood the test of time for 85 years. Rich recounts how his grandfather, an accountant for the railroad, decided to open a bar despite the challenges of Prohibition. The original establishment was a speakeasy that sold milk, bread, and eggs in the front while serving bootleg booze in the back.

As the conversation unfolds, Rich dispels the common misconception that the Great Notch Inn is merely a biker bar. He emphasizes that while the inn does attract bikers, it is much more than that. The Great Notch Inn is a vibrant live music venue that hosts performances every night it is open. Rich, a drummer himself, has a deep passion for music and has cultivated a community of musicians and music lovers who frequent the inn. He shares stories of how the inn has become a haven for local musicians, offering a space where they can perform and connect with an appreciative audience.

Rich also delves into the personal history of his family and their connection to the inn. He talks about his grandfather's unique talent for imitating train sounds, a skill that even caught the attention of the Metropolitan Opera. This quirky talent is just one of the many fascinating anecdotes that Rich shares, painting a vivid picture of the inn's colorful past.

The episode also touches on the challenges the Great Notch Inn has faced over the years. From the highway expansion that threatened its existence to the changes in ownership and management, the inn has weathered many storms. Rich discusses how he took over the business from his grandfather and later partnered with his mother to keep the inn running. He shares his journey of learning the ropes of the business, from maintaining the inn's historic charm to modernizing its offerings to attract a new generation of patrons.

Listeners will appreciate the deep sense of community and history that Rich and his family have cultivated over the years. The Great Notch Inn stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of local businesses and the importance of preserving cultural landmarks. Rich's stories highlight the inn's role as a gathering place for people from all walks of life, from bikers to Wall Street professionals, all united by their love for music and camaraderie.

The episode concludes with Rich reflecting on the future of the Great Notch Inn. He expresses his commitment to maintaining the inn's legacy while continuing to adapt to the changing times. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this episode offers a compelling look at a place where history, music, and community come together in a unique and unforgettable way.

@greatnotchinn

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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We sit down with John Cozz, the dynamic entrepreneur behind Cozz Coffee. John, a native of Nutley, New Jersey, shares his fascinating journey from his roots in Essex County to becoming a prominent figure in the local coffee scene. He delves into his early life, influenced by the vibrant culture of his hometown, and his initial foray into architecture at NJIT, which he eventually left to pursue his true passion—coffee.

John recounts his experiences working various coffee jobs during college, which ignited his interest in coffee roasting. He explains how the COVID-19 pandemic provided the perfect opportunity to launch his own coffee business, starting with an online mail-to-order service featuring unique artwork from local artists on the coffee bags. This creative branding approach, inspired by his love for skateboarding and its artistic culture, set Cozz Coffee apart in a crowded market.

The conversation also explores John's musical journey, from his early days playing guitar influenced by punk rock to his current endeavors in the local music scene. He discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing his multiple passions, including skateboarding, which has taken him on explorative adventures across New Jersey.

John shares insights into the evolution of Cozz Coffee, from its humble beginnings to the addition of a mobile espresso cart and eventually a coffee truck, which now serves customers at various events and farmers markets. He highlights some of his unique coffee creations, such as birch beer espresso and hot honey lemonade espresso, which reflect his innovative approach to the coffee business.

Throughout the episode, John emphasizes the importance of community and creativity in his work, drawing inspiration from his family and friends. He also hints at future projects, including the potential for ready-to-drink coffee cans and expanding his brand's presence.

Listeners will enjoy John's candid storytelling and the inspiring tale of how he turned his diverse interests into a successful and multifaceted career. Tune in to discover more about John Cozz's journey, his creative process, and his vision for the future of Cozz Coffee.

@john.cozz
@cozzcoffee

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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We welcome musicians Natalie Farrell and Lou Panico for an engaging conversation about their musical journeys and experiences in the New Jersey music scene. The episode kicks off with light-hearted banter about the New Jersey Lottery, setting a relaxed and friendly tone.

Natalie and Lou share their backgrounds, with Natalie recounting her move from Brooklyn to New Jersey and her early passion for music and dance. Lou talks about his upbringing in a music-loving family and his early experiences with choir and theater. The duo discusses their serendipitous meeting and how they eventually formed a band, with Lou joining as the bassist and later becoming Natalie's husband.

The conversation delves into their memorable performances, including opening Jersey Fest and playing at iconic venues like the Stone Pony. Natalie reflects on the evolution of their music, from bluesy improvisations to the pop-influenced tracks on their latest EP, "Mantra." They emphasize the importance of live performances and the unique energy they bring to their shows.

Looking ahead, Natalie and Lou express their aspirations for the future, including touring and creating new music that blends various genres. They also highlight the supportive and collaborative nature of the Asbury Park music scene, which has played a significant role in their growth as artists.

Throughout the episode, the camaraderie between Mike, Natalie, and Lou is evident, making for an entertaining and insightful listen. The episode wraps up with a shout-out to their fans and a look at what's next for Natalie Farrell and her band.

nataliee_farrell
loupanico

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
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