People at the Core

What happens when a class clown with dyslexia finds his way into a TV production classroom? For filmmaker Chris Wells, it became the moment that changed everything.

In this candid conversation from Greenpoint Palace Bar in Brooklyn, Chris reveals how being kicked out of Spanish class in 10th grade led to an unexpected invitation that would transform his life. "It was one of the first times I ever felt smart," he shares, describing how filmmaking gave him a creative outlet after years of struggling with traditional academics. His story is a powerful reminder of how finding your medium can completely transform your self-perception.

The conversation delves into the creative process itself - the inevitable self-doubt when viewing raw footage, the satisfaction of molding a project through editing, and the challenge of knowing when to declare something finished. Chris's insights on setting deadlines and creating accountability offer practical wisdom for anyone struggling to complete creative projects.

Throughout the episode, Chris's passion for supporting other artists shines through. From his upcoming "Weird Short Films" platform to documenting his 89-year-old mother's work with underrepresented artists, he exemplifies the philosophy that "a rising tide lifts all boats." His psychological thriller "The Luring" and quirky short films demonstrate his range as a filmmaker who embraces the weird and the unconventional.

Listen in as hosts Rita and Marissa explore the intersection of art, technology, and personal growth with a filmmaker who turned his outsider status into his greatest creative strength.

Chris Wells Links:

kpictures.com  

weirdshortfilms.com 

Chris Wells Films:

Hey, It's Just Jim

The Luring

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Ever wondered what restaurant staff are really thinking when you sit down at their table? Adam—a veteran server turned James Beard Award-winning food writer (he won after this episode was recorded!) —pulls back the curtain on the high-stakes world of New York hospitality in this revealing conversation.

From fabricating his resume to land his first restaurant gig at a comedy-themed Times Square spot to eventually working at prestigious establishments like Carbone and Babbo, Adam shares the unconventional path that led him from "salty waiter" to respected food journalist. His journey reveals the hidden economic realities of restaurant work, where fine dining servers can earn six-figure "lawyer money" while navigating complex workplace dynamics.

The conversation takes unflinching looks at hospitality's darker sides – the hereditary cycles of kitchen abuse, the impossible expectations placed on service staff to be "psychoanalysts, comedians, and therapists" simultaneously, and the unspoken rules that govern dining experiences. Adam explains why questioning a bad tip remains taboo, how international visitors navigate tipping culture, and why camping at tables disrupts an entire restaurant's ecosystem.

This episode transforms how you'll think about your next dining experience. Adam's forthcoming book "The New Rules of Dining Out: An Insider's Guide to Enjoying Restaurants" positions dining as a collaborative partnership rather than a one-way service transaction. "You can have bad experiences at great restaurants and great experiences at bad restaurants," he reflects, "but the one constant in both scenarios is you."

Ready to become a more mindful diner who gets better service? Listen now and discover the power of understanding what's happening behind the scenes during your next restaurant visit. Then check out Adam's upcoming book – available for pre-order now – to master the unwritten rules of dining that can transform your experiences forever.

Adam Reiner's Writing:

We  Need to Talk About Trader Joe's 

The Restaurant Manifesto

Pre-order: The New Rules of Dining Out: An Insider's Guide to Enjoying Restaurants

Mentions:

The Principles of Etiquette by Emily Post

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Returning from six months of global adventures, Marisa reunites with Rita at the Greenpoint Palace Bar to share stories from her travels across Europe and Asia that transformed her perspective on what truly matters in life.

When Marisa and her husband sold their restaurant, they made a deliberate choice not to wait for some distant retirement to see the world. Instead, they seized the present moment—while their bodies could still handle walking miles daily and their health allowed for adventure. Their journey took them through Portugal, Spain, France, Switzerland, Mexico, Taiwan, and Thailand, each destination offering unique insights and unexpected lessons.

Through conversations with locals, particularly those in the service industry with strong English skills, Marisa gained profound understanding of universal challenges facing different communities. In Portugal, she witnessed how corporations were buying historic properties, driving out aging residents who'd lived there for generations. In various cities, she observed how young people struggled with housing costs, often living with parents into their thirties. Yet amid these challenges, she found beauty in seeing older couples walking hand-in-hand through European streets and the deliberate pace of life where people prioritized connection over convenience.

The conversation shifts to challenging common misconceptions about service industry careers. Both hosts celebrate how bartending and service work provide the freedom to pursue creative passions, travel extensively, and design unconventional life paths without the constraints of corporate schedules. As Marisa notes, "We don't have examples writing this script for us," acknowledging how their generation must forge new approaches to work-life planning in a world where traditional career trajectories have largely disappeared.

Now back in New York, Marisa has gained deeper appreciation for her neighborhood community—the familiar faces, the casual greetings, and the grounding sense of belonging that she missed while away. As she puts it, "Travel fortifies you when you're choosing change and choosing to be uncomfortable... it helps fortify you when change comes at you that you don't choose."

Ready to hear more stories from fascinating people? Subscribe to People at the Core and join us as we continue exploring the passions, paranoia, and perspectives that make us human.

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Join us for a delightful conversation at Greenpoint Palace Bar where Rita and Marisa chat with the incredibly talented Nicole Treska about the politics of Airbnb and high NYC rents as we fantasize about creating a Golden Girls type of compound or escaping to Italy. Nicole's tales of life in Harlem and her evolution to published author inspire us all, as we navigate the highs and lows of New York City living.

Nicole recently published her memoir, "Wonderland", about growing up in Boston. The heart of our discussion centers around the complexities of writing about family history, especially when it involves touching on sensitive subjects like mafia connections and addiction. Nicole shares her experiences balancing honesty with familial respect, highlighting the importance of grace and truthfulness in storytelling. We delve into the challenges of portraying loved ones as they truly are, and the way writing can strain yet ultimately deepen our understanding of family relationships.

As we switch gears, our conversation wanders through the generational impact our parents have had on our romantic relationships and how we share a lighthearted appreciation for iconic actors like Bob Hoskins and Peter Falk. This episode is a blend of humor, sincerity, and insight, encouraging listeners to reflect on how family and storytelling shape our lives and relationships.

Books by Nicole Treska:
Wonderland: A Tale of Hustling Hard and Breaking Even 

Mentions:

• Must Love Memoir Reading Series
• All Fours by Miranda July

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Ever wondered what it’s like to navigate a bustling fair while indulging in deep-fried ranch dressing? Join us as Rita recounts her whimsical adventure at the Minnesota State Fair, featuring humorous tales of quirky Midwestern traditions and fond family moments. We then welcome our guest, Janelle Greco, whose talent in storytelling brings to light her impactful work with formerly incarcerated individuals and youth in foster care. This episode is filled with laughter and heartfelt reflections, including touching memories of Rita’s glamorous grandmother.

Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we explore the multifaceted world of education careers. Discover the triumphs and trials from teaching aspirations to grant writing, and learn about Janelle's journey through roles that balance passion and emotional well-being. We also discuss our writing practices, influences and dissect the genres of memoir, auto-fiction and narrative nonfiction. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, we shine a light on the impact our family's have had in our lives and writing.

Mentions

• Eleven by Sandra Cisneros
• The Boys of My Youth by Jo Ann Beard
• Breece D'J Pancake 
• James Baldwin 
• Werdsmith 

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What if our flawed social systems pushed people to commit crimes just to survive? In this compelling episode of "People at the Core," we start with a light-hearted chat about a quirky "What Would Justin Timberlake Do?" shirt and reflect on the pop star’s evolving charm, before segueing into a heartfelt discussion about Britney Spears' current struggles and the genuine support she needs. Our remarkable guest, Vivek Sreekumar, a dynamic individual who transitioned from bartending and DJing to impactful social justice work, joins us to share his incredible journey and the lessons he has learned along the way.

Vivek’s story is filled with serendipitous moments and valuable experiences, including how his hospitality in New York helped our host land their first job. We recount the origins of Beloved bar, which blossomed from a casual idea among college friends into a thriving community hub. This chapter highlights the deep sense of ownership and familial bonds that drove the bar’s success. From there, Vivek’s path takes a profound turn, shedding light on the complex realities of incarceration, homelessness, and systemic failures in urban planning and social support systems.

Our conversation with Vivek explores the harsh truth of how some individuals resort to committing minor offenses to access essential services provided in jails due to inadequate mental health and substance use support systems. We also discuss legislative efforts to improve housing stability and the emotional significance of pets for homeless individuals. The episode wraps up with a playful yet meaningful discussion on navigating cultural identity, the importance of friendship, and a whimsical game involving celebrity pampering. Tune in for a balance of heartfelt stories, serious social issues, and moments of levity.

Mentions

• Good Shepherd Services
• Rosie Singer Center at Rikers
• Coalition for the Homeless 
• Youth Justice and Opportunities Act

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What happens when you mix the worlds of pizza and astrology, with a discussion of puppies and pigeons? Join us on this episode of People at the Core as Rita and Marisa kick things off with their latest adventures in town. We’re joined by the incredible Jenny Olbrich, who shares her fascinating journey from her Philly roots to nomadic pizza-making adventures in Rhode Island, the nuances of affluent clients as a personal chef to mastering pie-production in the tiny kitchen at her bar, The Esters

We shift gears to explore the intricacies of astrology and relationships, diving into zodiac signs and their influence on our romantic lives. You'll hear our candid thoughts on commitment, personal space, and the challenges of maintaining relationships in a fast-paced world. Plus, we reflect on our mutual love of animals, sharing stories of our pups as the definition of pure love. Jenny shares her heartwarming story of Jack, the foster dog from the Canary Islands who stole her heart, and how the loss of her beloved, Bunkie, stills hangs heavy on her heart.

But it’s not all serious talk; we bring humor to the forefront with amusing anecdotes from the hospitality industry, odd celebrity encounters, and even a playful game of "Fuck, Kill, Be" involving Tom Cruise and Scientology. Whether you're interested in solo travel, the subtle art of restaurant partnerships, or the quirks of boy dogs, this episode promises a rollercoaster of laughs, insights, and genuine moments. Don't miss out on this eclectic mix of stories that capture the essence of life, love, and pizza!

Mentions

• The Esters (Bar, Cheese, Pizza)
• Mike Tyson and Pigeons
• Duke Riley and Fly By Night
• Fresh Kills cocktail bar

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Ever wondered how an Emmy-winning editor got his start? Join us for an engaging chat with David Herr, the man behind some of your favorite TV moments. David's charming Midwestern demeanor and knack for corny jokes will have you laughing as he shares anecdotes about his surname which means 'Mister' in German, inspiring Rita and Marisa to bust out in singing "To Be With You" by Mr. Big. We'll set the record straight on whether Styx ever dabbled in Christian rock and reminisce about unforgettable concert antics from the Christian metal band Striper.

Our episode takes you on a nostalgic journey from his suburban upbringing outside of Toledo, Ohio, to the bustling streets of New York City. We'll swap stories about internships, the charm of soap operas like "Guiding Light," and the contrasting lifestyles between NYC and LA. Discover the importance of community spaces like the Palace Bar and how our Midwest roots influence our sense of belonging in diverse environments. With humor and heartfelt moments, this part of our conversation celebrates Midwest pride and the adventures of city life.

Finally, we'll explore David's career trajectory from an aspiring screenwriter who started as a PA in LA to becoming an Emmy-winning editor. Learn about the evolution of digital editing, the impact of skateboarding videos, and the bustling reality TV industry of the early 2000s. David also shares his transition into sports documentary editing, with projects for Vice, The New York Times, and CNN. We round off our chat with a discussion on post-pandemic media trends, the allure of true crime and sports genres, and our wild fantasies of sudden wealth. Tune in for a rollercoaster of laughter, insights, and shared experiences!

David Herr
Website

Mentions

• Bone Tomahawk
• Guiding Light
• NYT The Weekly

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Ever wondered what it’s like to navigate the highs and lows of the hospitality industry while finding your true passion? Our special guest, Ken, a neighbor and friend who’s seen it all from acting to bartending, joins us for an episode packed with personal stories and industry insights. We kick things off with some fun banter about the relentless summer heat and the complexities of today's political landscape, before diving into Ken’s fascinating journey. From stoop culture in New York to porch life in California, from his parents immigrant story to reuniting with family during a recent trip to Taiwan, Ken’s anecdotes are as heartwarming as they are inspiring.

Ken opens up about moving to a new city in his 30s and finding his niche behind the camera, culminating in a surprise home gallery that celebrates his work. We also touch on the unconditional love that pets bring, sharing tales of our furry friends that’ll tug at your heartstrings. Growing up near UC Berkeley and working in the family restaurant, Ken’s story paints a vivid picture of community and resilience, offering a deep dive into the intricacies of balancing personal and professional life in the ever-demanding hospitality industry.

If you're curious about the inside scoop on restaurant life, you’ll love our discussion on the love-hate relationship with the industry, the reality of pay disparities, and how to be a good bar guest. We also reminisce about our evolving drinking preferences, laugh over a game of "Fuck, Kill, Be", and share memorable experiences in Taiwan that highlight the joy of family and cultural connections.

Mentions
Amber Steakhouse

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This episode kicks off with Rita and Marisa sharing their insights on routines, early bedtimes, and the unspoken rules of not texting outside certain hours. We laugh along with their poker anecdotes and the texting habits inspired by Larry David's "Curb Your Enthusiasm." Amidst the summer heat, we find solace in the cool ambiance of Greenpoint Palace Bar, where even the mascot Zelda knows how to keep it chill.

Ever wondered which 80s movie character you'd be? We transport you back to that neon era, reminiscing about films like "The Goonies" and "License to Drive." Our love for Cory Feldman and the poignant works of Brett Easton Ellis sparks a deep dive into the problematic yet beloved classics like "Pretty in Pink" and "16 Candles." From Greta Gerwig to Diablo Cody, we celebrate female filmmakers who have reshaped cinema, and yes, we have some thoughts on the "Barbie" movie worth tuning in for.

Love and addiction, two timeless themes, are candidly dissected as we reflect on past relationships and personal growth. Listen to stories about the challenges of dating with mental health conditions, the ever-evolving perspectives on love, and the pain of betrayal. We also confront our tendencies towards addiction, discussing microdosing, the Sinclair method, and the delicate balance of recreational use. We stroll down memory lane to our first concerts and childhood antics, painting a picture of the moments that made us who we are today. We wrap up the episode by choosing our favorite 'Jennifer' from the 80s.

***Correction- Ally Sheedy plays the mother in Single White Female (not Jennifer Jason Leigh)

Mentions

• Video: Everyone's Upstairs Neighbor
• John Hughes
• Adore with Naomi Watts and Nicole Kidman
• The Sinclair Method

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