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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• Low Life by Lucy Sante
• Tender Data by Monica McClure
• "The Small Press World is About to Fall Apart." On the Collapse of Small Press Distribution by Adam Morgan
• Six to Eight Black Men by David Sedaris
• Who's Afraid of Gender by Judith Butler
• Dan Savage
• Seattle's The Stranger 

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Have you ever wondered what life would be like as a therapist with an enticing voice or imagined the hilarious possibilities of stripper names based on your first pet and street name? Rita and Marisa kick off this lively conversation at Greenpoint Palace Bar in Brooklyn, sharing uproarious stories about phone sex operations and navigating the dark web. Joined by our special guest, Rich Piepho, we take you through a decade of his teaching adventures in New York's diverse boroughs, filled with humor and heartfelt tales. Rich’s passion for writing jokes and his involvement in the Palace Reading Series adds a unique twist, making this discussion both entertaining and insightful.

We take a nostalgic journey through early encounters with adult content, iconic movie scenes that stirred our first feelings of attraction, and the whimsical realization of the biblical reference behind the term "Adam's apple." Rich's adventurous move from LA, where he wrote for an animation studio, to New York for a teaching career, embodies the balance between following one's passion and seeking stability. Listen as we explore the ups and downs of freelancing in the entertainment industry and the irresistible draw of returning to the East Coast, all while reflecting on identity, history, and connection.

From the rewards and challenges of teaching to existential musings on midlife, our conversation covers a broad spectrum of life experiences. Rich shares how creating a safe and hospitable classroom environment can transform students' lives, engaging them with texts like "The Outsiders" and addressing their emotional and mental health needs. We delve into the significance of diverse storytelling in cinema and the lasting impact of literature, all while balancing deep reflections with a handful of jokes. Join us for an episode filled with laughter, heartfelt stories, and the transformative power of education and literature.

Mentions
The Outsiders

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Books by Dolan Morgan
That's When the Knives Come Down 

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Ever wondered how childhood dreams and unexpected career paths intersect? Join us as we sit down with Dolan Morgan, a gifted writer and illustrator from Greenpoint, Brooklyn, who takes us on a nostalgic journey from dictating stories to his grandmother, to immersing himself in the vibrant life of New York City. Dolan opens up about their move from Connecticut to NYC for college and his studies at NYU, where they balanced an education degree with a burning passion for writing. You'll hear heartwarming and humorous anecdotes, like working with newly arrived immigrants at Port Authority and laughing about cultural crazes like Ninja Turtles and Crocs.

Education is at the heart of Dolan's story. For nearly twenty years, they have dedicated themselves to supporting immigrant multilingual learners, creating transformative learning experiences and organizing conferences for educators. Dolan shares the joys and struggles of this work, especially during the pandemic's shift to remote learning. Marisa also gives a heartfelt account of her NYU thesis project, which documented the experiences of immigrant youth, shedding light on the unique challenges they face in their quest to graduate high school.

But Dolan's journey doesn't stop at education. He delves into his creative evolution, from discovering a love for art in junior college to blending his skills in writing and illustration. We talk about the therapeutic benefits of art, the impact of formal training, and the influence of community involvement. Our conversation also touches on deeper existential themes, exploring fears, desires, and the pursuit of living fully. Wrapping up with playful banter and a celebration of community, this episode is a heartfelt and inspiring celebration of Dolan's multifaceted life and the creative journey.

**Dolan Morgan bonus episode reading excerpt will be available June 21, 2024!**

Dolan Morgan Links
Website
Instagram
Linktr.ee

Books by Dolan Morgan
That's When the Knives Come Down

Mentions
Imagine Wanting Only This by Kristin Radtke

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Ever wondered how you can balance the worlds of painting, film, and performance art while living in the heart of New York City? Leigha Mason, a multi-talented artist, takes us through her incredible journey from Phoenix to San Francisco and finally to the bustling streets of NYC. From working to save for her big moves to navigating the challenges of various neighborhoods, Leigha’s story is one of resilience and passion. She shares her experience bartending at Greenpoint Palace Bar and even discusses her role in designing their latest merchandise.

Is art school worth it? What's the real value of a fine arts degree? Leah reflects on her time at prestigious institutions like Parsons and the San Francisco Art Institute, offering candid insights into the often conceptual focus of art education. She compares this with more utilitarian degrees, sparking a thought-provoking discussion on the cultural and subjective valuation of art. We also delve into Leigha's unique transition from painting to film, driven by a desire to avoid commodification and influenced by political movements like Occupy Wall Street.

Finally, get ready for a thrilling story of adventure and perseverance. Leigha recounts her experiences traveling solo through Europe after an art show in London and working as a clown in Berlin. The tale takes a shocking turn in Athens, where she survived an unexpected stabbing. Through all these ups and downs, Leigha's spirit remains unbroken, and she continues to create meaningful art, from her upcoming body of paintings to her insightful newsletter, "Gut Flora." Join us for this captivating episode filled with creativity, resilience, and a touch of whimsy.

Leigha Mason Links
Instagram
Gut Flora Newsletter

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Can the vibrancy of Brooklyn, the warmth of family ties, and the dynamism of the advertising world all come together in one fascinating conversation? *

Absolutely, and Lourdes, a senior integrated producer in advertising, is here to share her incredible journey. From her roots in the Bronx to her cherished life in Brooklyn, Lourdes recounts the importance of family, friendship, and community, diving into touching stories including a memorable visit with her 96-year-old aunt in Puerto Rico. Tune in for a heartwarming dialogue that brings the essence of home and belonging to life.

Curious about the fast-paced world of advertising and how one can thrive within it? Lourdes’s career story is nothing short of inspiring. Learn about her unique transition from fashion production and bartending to a flourishing role in advertising. She sheds light on the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the industry and reveals how managing creative projects across various mediums can drive innovation. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to break into or excel in the advertising world.

Lastly, Lourdes’s musical adventures and love for playing bass and drums also take center stage, adding another layer to her multifaceted persona. Join us for a fun, eclectic discussion that blends professional wisdom, personal reflection, and a pinch of humor.

*Please be patient with us as we improve our recording and editing techniques and equipment. Every conversation we have had with our guests have been too rich and wonderful to not share. We appreciate you all hanging in there as we continue to learn and grow.

Lourdes Vasquez' Links
Website

Mentions:
Bunny Rat

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