Objects of New York

On the show today is the ever-groovy, multi-talented multi-instrumentalist, recording artist, performer, composer and actual rock star known primarily as the frontman of the band Evolfo, Matt Gibbs. Ellyn visited Matt at his very tastefully decorated home in Bedstuy to have a cup of coffee and chat about the philosophy of stuff, the complexities of putting a price tag on the musical experience, where to find the best vintage suits in the tri-city area, and much more.

Follow Matt on Instagram: @marty_squibbs

As You Like It soundtrack by Matt Gibbs, featuring Ellyn Heald and Ariana Karp: https://thepagesmusic.bandcamp.com/album/the-pages

On the show today is Ellyn’s very good friend and upstairs neighbor Meg McNeal. Meg is a longtime educator, yoga teacher and Jane of all trades who’s lived in New York since 2010.

The wide-ranging conversation takes us on a tour of topics - from why Williamsburg doesn't meet our childhood expectations to life in Brooklyn to moments of fate on a whirlwind trip through the jungles of Costa Rica. Meg also has a knack for spotting keys scattered throughout New York City, and for her, they serve as more than just forgotten objects—they're symbols of being on the right path. Join us as we delve into Meg's unique perspective, where even the smallest details hold profound meaning in the chaotic tapestry of city life.

Editor's note: Ellyn mistakenly said the type of tree in "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" was the Tree of Life. This is incorrect - it is The Tree of Heaven.

Produced by Ellyn Heald, edited by Martin Kemp for Radio Free Rhinecliff

In the third episode of "Objects of New York," Ellyn catches up with another drama school pal, James Soller, whose return to the city was like a sitcom plot gone wild. Imagine this: James lands a new job, only to be sidelined by viral meningitis, spending weeks in the hospital. But wait, it gets better!

While confined to a hospital bed, James becomes the ultimate multitasker, securing a new apartment and furnishing it—all while on a morphine-fueled shopping spree. As the drugs wore off, James found himself the proud owner of an apartment filled with furniture chosen under the influence. Join us as we laugh our way through James's whirlwind journey, where hospital beds double as interior design studios and morphine dreams become reality in the city that never sleeps.

Produced by Ellyn Heald, edited by Martin Kemp for Radio Free Rhinecliff

In the second episode of "Objects of New York," get ready for a delightful blend of nostalgia, caffeine, and a sprinkle of K-pop magic as Ellyn catches up with close pal Su Hendrickson. Su is an actor, audiobook narrator, writer, gamer, and cat co-parent to 3 spirited and independent furballs.

As they settle into conversation, Su opens up about her deep emotional connection to the objects that populate her home, making it a challenging task to select just one favorite. After much soul-searching, Su unveils some of her prized possessions: an orb, a baby blanket not named Lisa, and not one, but two coffee makers, each with its own unique personality.

Tune in to "Objects of New York" for a witty and whimsical journey through the eclectic treasures that define Su's world, one cup of coffee at a time.

Produced by Ellyn Heald, edited by Martin Kemp

Bibliophiles, this one's for you. Picture this: it’s a practically-perfect-Nora Ephron-fall day in New York and every charming brownstone stoop and tree-lined sidewalk seem to sprout piles of discarded books, each one promising an escape from the grind of city life (or depending on the neighborhood, a complete education on civil law).

In the inaugural episode with Martin Kemp (Ellyn’s partner and the producer of this show), the spotlight is on the abundance of free books scattered throughout New York City. The conversation takes an unexpected turn as they recount a memorable visit to a now defunct speakeasy bookstore, where they encountered a legendary bookseller steeped in tales of literary lore.

Produced by Ellyn Heald, edited by Martin Kemp