The Perez Notes

Episode Title: Jess Coleman: Fighting for a Livable Future in Lower Manhattan

Show Description:

In this episode of The Perez Notes, we’re joined by Jess Coleman, a lifelong Lower Manhattanite and candidate for New York City Council in District 1. Jess is running to bring bold, responsive leadership to a district facing urgent challenges—from soaring rents and rising displacement to gridlocked streets and shuttered storefronts.

Grounded in his deep roots in the community, Jess shares his vision for a more livable, affordable, and vibrant Lower Manhattan—where everyday people come before political gridlock and special interests. We talk about what’s at stake in District 1, and how Jess plans to fight for the kind of leadership that meets this moment with urgency and action.

Tune in for a powerful conversation about reclaiming our neighborhoods and reimagining local government.

Episode Title: Andrea Gordillo: Culture, Community, and the Fight for a Just NYC

Show Description:

On this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Andrea Gordillo—a cultural leader, proud daughter of Peruvian immigrants, and longtime resident of the Lower East Side/East Village—who currently serves as Chairperson of Manhattan’s Community Board 3.

With nearly a decade of experience advancing racial and economic justice through some of Lower Manhattan’s most vital cultural institutions, including The Clemente, Loisaida Inc., and the Public Theater, Andrea brings a unique blend of grassroots organizing, public service, and cultural advocacy to the conversation. She knows firsthand what it takes to fight for dignified housing, cultural vitality, climate resiliency, and real public safety—and how to deliver for the community.

Tune in as we talk about her journey, her vision for a more equitable New York, and the power of art, activism, and organizing to transform our neighborhoods.

Episode Title: Sarah Batchu: A New Vision for NYC’s District 2

Show Description:

On this episode of The Perez Notes, we’re joined by Sarah Batchu—public servant, nonprofit leader, and passionate advocate for a more just and caring New York City. Now running for City Council in District 2, Sarah brings a bold vision centered on expanding access to healthcare, securing stable housing, and building communities where everyone feels safe and supported.

With a background in nonprofit leadership and grassroots activism, Sarah is committed to reimagining how city government can truly serve the people—especially those too often left behind. We talk about her journey into public service, the challenges facing District 2, and what it will take to build a city that prioritizes care, equity, and accountability.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about progressive leadership and the future of New York City.

Episode Title: Michael Lange: Breaking Down What’s Next in NYC Politics

Show Description:

In this episode of The Perez Notes, we’re joined by Michael Lange—writer, researcher, strategist, and native New Yorker—for a deep dive into the latest developments in New York City politics.

Michael brings firsthand experience from inside government and on the campaign trail, having worked in the district office of Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez and played a key role in the historic election of Dr. Yusef Salaam, one of the Exonerated Central Park Five, to the City Council.

We unpack the shifting political landscape across the five boroughs—from grassroots movements to power struggles, and what it all means for the future of the city. Tune in for an insightful, no-nonsense conversation on where things stand and where they’re headed in NYC politics.

Episode Title: Mark Levine: From Classroom to City Hall — A Vision for NYC Comptroller

Show Description:

In this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Mark Levine—educator, organizer, and seasoned public servant—now running to be New York City’s next Comptroller. With nearly 25 years of experience fighting for more affordable, equitable, and healthy communities, Mark brings a deep understanding of how to make city government work for the people.

From his early days as a bilingual math and science teacher in the South Bronx to founding a credit union that’s delivered over $100 million in loans to families and small businesses, Mark has always centered working-class New Yorkers. As a two-term City Council member, he led efforts to expand tenant protections—like the landmark Right to Counsel law—and brought a data-driven, science-based approach to navigating the city through the COVID-19 crisis as Chair of the Health Committee.

Now, as a candidate for NYC Comptroller, he’s focused on financial oversight that promotes fairness, transparency, and accountability—ensuring every public dollar is working to build a stronger, more just New York.

Tune in for a powerful conversation on leadership, policy, and the future of our city’s finances.

Episode Title: Rooted in Corona: Erycka’s Journey from Local Daughter to City Council Candidate

Show Description:

In this episode of The Perez Notes, we sit down with Erycka, an Afro-Latina mother, longtime public servant, and proud daughter of Corona, Queens. With over 20 years of government experience and deep roots in the community, Erycka is running for New York City Council District 21—representing Corona, East Elmhurst, LeFrak City, and parts of Jackson Heights and Elmhurst.

Born and raised by a resilient single mother who immigrated from Colombia, Erycka shares how her upbringing shaped her passion for justice, equity, and public service. From her life as a renter and public transit rider to her commitment to raising her own children in the neighborhood she loves, Erycka brings a lived experience that mirrors the daily struggles and hopes of so many in her district.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with City Council District 8 candidate Wilfredo “Wil” López to discuss his inspiring journey from rural Puerto Rico to the frontlines of New York City politics. As the youngest of eight siblings, Wil overcame an undiagnosed learning disability, supported his family through years in retail, and went on to graduate law school with honors. We talk about how his lived experiences shape his vision for justice, equity, and opportunity in District 8—and why he believes now is the time to lead.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, I sit down with City Council candidate and current Assemblymember Harvey Epstein (@Harvey4Council) to talk about his vision for the district, key policy priorities, and the future of New York City. We cover housing, public safety, equity, and what drives his campaign. A must-listen for anyone following NYC politics.

In this episode of The Perez Notes, Council Member Keith Powers joins us to discuss his campaign for Manhattan Borough President. We dive into his vision for the office, how he plans to tackle the borough’s most pressing challenges, and what sets him apart from his opponent. Powers shares the motivations behind his run and outlines the leadership style he hopes to bring to the role. A must-listen conversation for anyone following Manhattan politics.

On this episode of The Perez Notes, Liena Zagare—editor of The Bigger Apple and founder of Bklyner—joins us to break down the latest developments in New York City politics. We dive into the week’s key endorsements, who’s up, who’s down, and what it all means for the city’s political landscape. With her deep background in journalism, economics, and urban planning, Zagare brings sharp insight and a unique perspective to the shifting dynamics of power in NYC.