
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


The conversation covers the transition from high school to college, the challenges of attending LaGuardia High School, and the influence of family on academic experiences. It explores the academic challenges faced at LaGuardia and the impact of family involvement in addressing these challenges. The conversation covers the academic struggles and social experiences of the speakers at LaGuardia, highlighting the challenges and cultural dynamics of the school environment. The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating the performing arts industry, the influence of high school on career paths, the impact of education on career preparation, and a speed round of personal favorites.
Takeaways
Chapters
LaGuardia Lounge Episode 11: Navigating Memory Lane with Gina Tarigo
In the latest episode of the LaGuardia Lounge podcast, our hosts—Dan, Ed, Michael, Brett, and Gina—take us on a nostalgic journey through their high school days at LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. With laughter and shared memories, they explore the profound impact of their education and friendships.
Why High School Memories Matter
Reflecting on high school experiences is vital, as it shapes our identities and connections. In this episode, the hosts reminisce about their shared history, highlighting the significance of their time at LaGuardia. From unforgettable teachers to the thrill of performing arts, these memories resonate with anyone who has navigated the challenging waters of adolescence.
The Power of Community and Friendship
The conversation emphasizes the sense of community fostered at LaGuardia. Gina recounts how her passion for theater was nurtured by a supportive teacher, Miss Edwards, who encouraged her and her friends to audition for the school. This support system is a testament to the bonds formed during this pivotal time.
Unique Experiences at LaGuardia
Each host shares their unique experiences, revealing how these contributed to their individual journeys. Gina's story about being held up at gunpoint while working in fine jewelry illustrates the unexpected challenges that can arise in adulthood. Yet, her connection with former classmates and the support from her community helped her navigate these tough times.
Gina's Return to the Fold
After taking a break from the industry, Gina finds herself back in the fashion world, working with familiar faces. Her story highlights the cyclical nature of careers in creative fields and the importance of staying connected with one’s roots. The hosts discuss how returning to familiar environments can reignite passion and creativity.
LaGuardia Lounge Episode 14: A Nostalgic Reunion with Mike Davidson
In the latest episode of LaGuardia Lounge, we dive deep into the past with our guest, Mike Davidson, as he shares heartfelt memories and humorous stories from his time in high school. This episode captures the essence of friendship, nostalgia, and the shared experiences that shape us.
LaGuardia Lounge Episode 14: A Nostalgic Reunion with Mike Davidson
In the latest episode of LaGuardia Lounge, we dive deep into the past with our guest, Mike Davidson, as he shares heartfelt memories and humorous stories from his time in high school. This episode captures the essence of friendship, nostalgia, and the shared experiences that shape us.
LaGuardia Lounge Episode Thirteen: A Deep Dive into the Life of Alison Bartlett
In this episode of the LaGuardia Lounge podcast, hosts Dan, Brett, Michael, and Ed engage in a lively discussion with Alison Bartlett, an iconic figure from Sesame Street, who shares her unique experiences in the entertainment industry. The conversation covers everything from her time performing in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade to her extensive career on Sesame Street.
Join us for an heartfelt conversation with Alison Bartlett, a seasoned actress, teacher, and former Sesame Street star, as she shares her incredible journey through the entertainment industry, her experiences sneaking out to work as a child, and her insights into mentorship and resilience. This episode is a warm reminder of the power of perseverance, passion, and community.
The conversation begins with a celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary, followed by a discussion about the hottest place on Earth. The introduction of guest Milo Bernstein leads to recollections of teachers, drama classes, and performances. The conversation then delves into theatrical performances, stage door, and college auditions, followed by a discussion about monologues and scenes. Finally, the conversation concludes with a discussion about CalArts and its location. The conversation covers a range of topics, including Milo's experiences at CalArts, drug culture, LSD trips, living in NYC, and high school shenanigans. It also delves into Milo's mother's relocation and his performance in SDF. The conversation delves into various aspects of high school experiences, including celebrity status, parties, memories, and the significance of high school jackets. It also explores post-high school aspirations and the challenges of pursuing an acting career in LA. The conversation covers Milo's transition from acting to fashion, his experience in Tony and Tina's Wedding, the start of his fashion career, and the sale of Sex and the City wardrobe. It also delves into the challenges of pursuing acting, conditioning to never stop, and the desire for acting. Additionally, it reflects on theater experiences at camp and the performances there.
Takeaways
Chapters
LaGuardia Lounge Episode 11: Navigating Memory Lane with Gina Tarigo
In the latest episode of the LaGuardia Lounge podcast, our hosts—Dan, Ed, Michael, Brett, and Gina—take us on a nostalgic journey through their high school days at LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. With laughter and shared memories, they explore the profound impact of their education and friendships.
Why High School Memories Matter
Reflecting on high school experiences is vital, as it shapes our identities and connections. In this episode, the hosts reminisce about their shared history, highlighting the significance of their time at LaGuardia. From unforgettable teachers to the thrill of performing arts, these memories resonate with anyone who has navigated the challenging waters of adolescence.
In this episode, Kim Williams shares her journey from LaGuardia High School to a successful career in physical therapy, reflecting on her experiences, challenges, and the impact of her education. We also dive into nostalgic high school stories, sports fandom, and the importance of embracing not knowing. In this episode, we explore the memories and experiences of LaGuardia High School alumni, delving into their time in the drama department, friendships, and the lasting impact of their education.
In this episode, Angela Rodriguez shares her journey from childhood to becoming an educator and LaGuardia alum. We explore her experiences with theater, teaching, and the unique culture of LaGuardia High School. In this episode, we explore the transformative experiences of theater students, their memories of teachers, and how their time at LaGuardia shaped their careers and identities. Join us for candid stories, insights into acting, and reflections on personal growth.
From the publisher's feed
Where Fame Graduates Come to Tell the Stories Hollywood Never Heard
For every student who walked through the doors of New York City's legendary Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of…
Then there are the stories that never made the movie.
LaGuardia Lounge is where those stories finally get told.
Hosted by classmates Dan Hort, Brett Singer, Ed Garcia Luna, and Michael Criscolo, the podcast reunites alumni from one of America's most celebrated arts high schools for conversations that are funny, heartfelt, and surprisingly revealing. Every episode feels less like a formal interview and more like sitting at the corner table while lifelong friends remember the people, teachers, performances, victories, disasters, and chance encounters that shaped their lives.
Guests include actors, educators, artists, television performers, digital art pioneers, and classmates whose careers took unexpected directions. Whether speaking with Sesame Street veteran Alison Bartlett, digital art innovator Laurence Gartel, educators like Angela Rodriguez, or fellow alumni whose lives unfolded outside the spotlight, every conversation circles back to a shared experience: growing up in an extraordinary creative community.
What emerges is something larger than nostalgia.
It's an oral history of New York arts education, of friendships that have endured for decades, and of how one remarkable school continues to influence generations of artists long after graduation.
For anyone who ever dreamed of attending LaGuardia—or simply wondered what happened after the curtain came down—LaGuardia Lounge offers a front-row seat.