In this episode: Kelly is joined by Richard Hayden! Richard is the Senior Director of Horticulture at the High Line. Join them, as Richard teaches us about the profession of gardening. He tells us about how he got into horticulture, and what it does for him. He talks about his staff and how dedicated they are to maintaining the wonderful vision of the High Line. Kelly asks Richard how the High Line got started, and Richard tells Kelly the amazing redemption story that the highline overtook: From Death ave to one of the most visited parks in the world.  Richard tells us about some of the plants that live on the High Line. He talks about the gardening philosophy that they take when deciding what the areas should look like.  And finally, Kelly asks Richard some fun questions about the High Line: if he's named any of the plants, which area is his favorite, what his favorite view is, and... what berry birds get drunk on?    But above all else; Richard Hayden is a New Yorker!   Kelly Kopp's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Richard Hayden's Social Media @NatureGardener Jae Watson's Social Media @Studiojae170

In this episode, Kelly is joined by Hillary Wallace! She is the principal designer at her own firm: Simon-Wallace Design. And she pulls out all of the stops decorating her New York City home for the holidays.  Kelly starts the episode off by talking about the only way two true New Yorkers could meet: Yelling at each other from a window!  Hillary talks about where she was from and how from when she was young; she alwasy wanted to move to New York. She talks about growing up in LA in the 80's, moving to colorado, designing her own furniture as a side job and how that inspired her to go back to school for design.  Kelly then asks Hillary about her house, and Hillary tells the very roundabout story of how she and her husband came to find and buy the house. Hillary tells us all about decorating her house for the holidays. She goes over her schedule, talks about where she gets all of her resourses from, and how she goes from design idea to execution every single year. Kelly and Hillary then talk about the desings themselves. What they are, some absurd stories about them, and the ways that different people have been inspired or moved by them. Hillary talks about her design philosophy, and how she goes about meeting clients, and creating a lifestyle for them or meeting them in their lifestyle. Jae asks her about some other events around the city and the three talk about some of the various events you can do while around New York during the holiday season. Finally, Kelly asks Hillary about some of her New York City Essentials, like where she goes for inspiration, where her favorite shops are and how she likes to get around.  But above all else; Hillary Wallace is a New Yorker.  Kelly Kopp's Social Media:@NewYorkCityKopp Hillary Wallace's Social Media: @SimoneWallaceDesign Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170 Hosted by Kelly Kopp Executive Produced by Huston "Jae" Watson

In this Episode, Kelly is joined by CEO of American Christmas: Dan Casterella! He has been the leader of the company since 2017 which is responsible for all of the incredible Christmas decorations around midtown that we know and love.  Kelly starts the episode off by asking Dan about how he started working with the company. Dan talks about how he loved decorating houses for Christmas since he was a kid and how he would even cut class in high school in order to decorate houses! Dan talks about his journey through the company; starting as an installer and working his way up to becoming CEO! He talks about how he runs the company, and what it means to be in a seasonal buisness. Dan talks about how he and his employees deal with the stress of Christmas and what it means for them and their families.  Kelly asks Dan about The Headquarters in Mount Vernon, Westchester. Kelly talks about his visit to the facilities and all of the different iconic fixtures of Christmas in NYC that he got to see. Dan talks about how they let visitors tour the facilities and on the weekends kids take pictures with Santa Clauese. Dan donates all of the proceeds from santa clause to local organizations that help local youth. Kelly asks Dan about instalations. How long they take, what the planning process is like and where they go around the City. Dan talks about some of the world famous fixtures that they do, such as the one at Saks 5th Ave, Radio City Musica Hall and all over 5th and 6th ave in midtown.  Dan talks a bit about the other work that they do all over the country. He tells us which state has the biggest market for christmas in the country, and what the second biggest city that they decorate is.  Jae asks about some more details regarding the creation process, and Dan talks about the two different ways that they work on projects: Clients come to them with the idea that they have to execute, or their prefered way which is doing all of the creating and designing themselves. He talks about what that process is like too. Finally, Kelly asks him what his favorite christmas decoration is in New York and Dan surprises us and says that it's one that he doesn't do!  But above all else; Dan Casterella is a New Yorker.  Kelly Kopp's Social Media:@NewYorkCityKopp American Christmas on Social Media: @AmericanChristmas Jae's Social Media: Studiojae170@gmail.com

During this busy Holiday Season, the New Yorkers have their plates full. So please sit back and enjoy a great episode from last Thanksgiving! In this episode, Kelly is joined by John Friia! He is a digital creator, New York City historian and featured on PIX11's New York Living!Kelly asks John about his New York Story: Where he's from, What kind of content he does, and why he has such a profound interest for New York City History. Kelly tells us about his time as a balloon handler in the Macy's Thanksgiving day Parade. How he got the position, which balloons he got to handle, and he tells the story about the time he almost got to High Five a Rockette!Kelly and John give tips about where to go to see the parade the best. Where has the best view, how to go so you can leave early, and where the best place to go to the bathroom is. John tells Kelly about the history of the parade. When it started, the original parade route, how the Central Park Zoo was involved. John also tells us about the lengthy process that the balloons and floats go through before they can make it to the day of the Parade.Kelly also tells John about the inflation ceremony, where thousands of people from around the world gather to see the balloons inflated. He gives the listeners tips on the best places and times to see this too. But above all else; John Friia is a New Yorker!Kelly Kopp's Social Media:@NewYorkCityKoppJohn Friia's Social Media:@Here_in_NY on Instagram@hereinnyc on TikTok Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170

In this Episode, Kelly is joined by historian, Justin Southern!  Join them as Justin tells Kelly how he first became a tourguide. He talks about his time teaching English in Italy, responding to an ad to become a tourguide while living in Italy, and how he came to New York.  Kelly asks Justin about imigration before Ellis Island. Justin talks about the different ways that people emmegrated from their home countries before the US created a way, on the federal level, for people to immigrate to the United States. Justin talks about the creation of Ellis Island and the first ship that landed on the island. He talks about how many immagrants went through Ellis Island during its peak use. Then he talks about how many immigrants were turned away from staying in the US due to sickness, and puts into perspective how small a number that is. Kelly asks Justin what people did while they were on Ellis Island. Justin tells him how they had different wards of the hospital and the different patients they took at each. He tells us about how due to the previlance of disease, children had to be seperated from their families. He also talks about how nurses and doctors made huge advancements in health during this time period because they were able to study so many patients. Justin also gives somes stories about how nurses befriended their patients and stayed connected even after they made it back to the mainland.  Finaly, Kelly asks Justin about the Hard Hat Tour, Justin tells everyone what they can experience when they take the tour. He also gives some great tips for visiting Ellis Island and the stature of Liberty. He also tells everyone how they can take the hard hat tour.  Kelly also tells everyone about his experience taking the hard hat tour. He talks about what he saw on the tour as well as what it felt like to be in the space that so many immagrants went through.    But above all else; Justin Southern is a New Yorker.   Follow Justin Southern  @Southbysouthern   Follow Kelly Kopp's Social media @NewYorkCityKopp   Follow Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170

In this episode, Kelly is joined by Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine.  Join them as Mark tells Kelly and Jae about how he got his start in politics: His origin as a teacher, in the south Bronx, and how he saw a need in his community and filled it.  Kelly asks Mark about his journey to where he is now. What his early campaigns were like, the first races he ran, and what kept him in it even when he faced hardships.  Mark tells us about the job of the Manhattan Borough President: what his duties are, what he has power over, and what he has used his position to accomplish.  Mark then talks about his journey to become Comptroler of New York City. What that job means, what all it entails and how it exists in relationship to the Mayor.  Finally Mark talks about what he hopes to accomplish as the Comptroler of the city. He talks about affordablity, and financing ways to reach these goals. Mark also talks about how he would work with Zohran Mamdani, if he were to become Mayor of New York, and how their goals align for a more affordable New York.  But above all else; Mark Levine is a New Yorker.    Follow Mark Levine @MBPMarkLevine   Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170  

In this Episode, Kelly is joined by President and Founder Michael Presser!  Join them as Michael tells Kelly and Jae how he fell in love with theater. From a young age, his Aunts took him to see broadway stars as they developed shows in Philidalphia. He talks about how he knew that he wanted to move to New York to be a part of that because of those experiences.  Michael tells The New Yorkers that he is working on a new book! And he talks about the writing process and how it has brought up memories of his journey to where he is now. He also gives some advice to young people who are starting out in their careers.  Kelly asks Michael about Inside Broadway, What the organization does, how it got founded, and what kind of programs it runs. Michael talks about how it started from a simple task that he was asked to help out with. He tells us about the importance of art in young people's lives and how his organization's sole purpose is to be a vehicle for that.  Jae asks Michael about the trade ascpet of theater, and Michael talks about how theater is a vast field of job opportunities for people to go into. He talks about the different skills that are required to put on productions.  Kelly asks Michael about the Cats ticket program. Michael tells the story about how that was the thing that started inside broadway. He talks about how it has changed the lives of hundreds of kids, and how he hopes that it provides a ripple effect in that other kids and families will get to enjoy theater.  The New Yorkers talk about the future of theater: how the industry was affected by covid, how advertising strategies have evolved, how the media plays a part in theater, and how social media has effected the theater landscape.  But above all else; Michael Presser is a New Yorker.    Follow Inside Broadway @Inside_Broadway   Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Jae's Social Media @Studiojae170

In this Episode, Kelly is Joined by Open House New York Executive Director Kristin LaBuz! Join them as Kristin tells us how she became an urban enthusiest, growing up in upstate New York. She talks about going to UPENN and studying Urban Planning. She tells us about some of the work that she's done improving communities on her way to working with Open House New York. Kelly asks Kristin about Open House New York Weekend. Kristin tells him about all of the different events and activities that are taking place October 17th-19th, 2025. Kristin tells us how Open House New York got started, and how it was an act of rebellion during a time where things were very closed off.  Kelly tells Kristin how much he loves doing the open house events, getting to see private residences, secret rooftops, and the under guts of the city. Kristin talks about raising a child in the city. How the world is her child's teacher and how everthing is amazing to a child. She tells a heartwarming story about how kind New Yorkers can be.  Jae asks about the scavenger hunts that Open House New York puts on and Krisitn talks about what go into those and when you can participate.  Kelly asks Kristin some rappid fire questions about her time with Open House New York. And finally, Kristin asks Kelly what he would want to see opened up.  But above all else; Kristin LaBuz is a New Yorker.   Follow Open House New York  @OpenHouseNewYork   Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp

In this Episode: Kelly is joined by Civic Leader, Madelyn Wils! She was on the Tribeca Community Board, Head of the Hudson River Park Trust, and is now overseeing the 400 Million Dollar Overhaul of 5th ave.  From Kelly asking where Madelyn was from, they learn that they lived on the same block in washington Heights! Madelyn tells Kelly about her time in Television: Working in advertisment sales to selling tv shows, to eventually running her own company and Producing her own shows. Madelyn also tells kelly about the discrimination that she faced and the sexism that was pervasive in the industry.  Kelly asks Madelyn about working with Charlie Rose and Larry King. Madelyn tells some funny stories about working behind the scenes on their shows.  Madelyn then tells us about how she got into becoming a civic leader. How she joined the community board, and how she was able to procure an empty lot owned by the city for the nearby school's playground.  Living in Tribeca in the late 90s and early 2000s, Kelly asks Madelyn about 911. Medelyn recounts her experience on that day, and tells us about how she was able to rally together her fellow community leaders to help everyone in need.  Madelyn tells us about her experience with standing up to Rudy Giuliani in the wake of the attacks and how she advocated for her community and brought them the help they deserved.  She then talks about how the next administration had been following her work and decided to hire her to work on developing the city. Madelyn talks about how she was able to set up the East River Ferry system, Rebuild Coney Island, start work on the east river park and settle a turf war at Essex Square.  Kelly then asks Madelyn about her new project. And Madelyn tells him about how she planned to retire after covid, but decided that she really loved working on the city. So when she got called to work on a project to rebuild 5th avenue; She couldn't say no.  Madelyn talks about the project and their plans for 5th avenue: Widening the sidewalks, adding more greenery and creating outdoor cafe space. She talks about wanting to create a beautiful scene that people want to spend time in.    But above all else; Madelyn Wils is a New Yorker.   Kelly's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   For updates on the 5th ave project, Follow @Fifthavenue  on instagram

In this episode, Kelly is joined by the founder of "NYC for Free", Rebeka Getty to discuss all of the free things that New York has to offer.  Kelly asks Rebeka how she got started on her content journey: What her origin story was, the challenges of getting a page going during covid, and how she finds the events she posts about.  Rebeka tells kelly about her favorite free events in the city, from shakesphere in the park, to gorgeous city views, to sponsored pop up events!  Rebeka talks about all of the free concerts that happen in the city. She remembers the time she saw Ed Sheeran perform live on the streets of SoHo, and tells everyone how she found out early about the Jonas Brothers Concert on the Ferry. Kelly tells her about the time that he saw Jimmy Fallon and Alanis Morissette perform live at a subway station.  Kelly asks Rebeka about content creation: What are some of the challenges she faces, if she works with a team of creators, and how does she deal with the hate that they get from people in the comments.  Finishing the show off, Kelly asks Rebeka some rapid fire questions about her opinions on classic NYC topics: Pizza or Bagel, Subway or walking, Favoirte park in the city.   But above all else; Rebeka Getty is a New Yorker.   Kelly Kopp's Social Media: @NewYorkCityKopp   Rebeka Getty's Social Media: NYC_ForFree

In this episode, Kelly is joined by Jonathan Mahler! He is a staff writer for The New York Times Magazine, his sports journalism has been featured in the book “The Best American Sports Writing”, and he is the  author of two books: “Ladies and Gentlemen, The Bronx is Burning” as well as “The Challenge.” And his third book “The Gods of New York” is available now wherever you buy books! Join them, as Jonathan tells kelly a bit about where he's from, and his profession. Kelly asks about raising kids in New York City, and what age did he think is ok for kids to ride the subway.  Kelly asks Jonathan to give him a background of New York City leading up to the 1980s. Jonathan tells him what it was like to cover the 2016 presidential campaign, and how he was inspired to write this book.  Jonathan tells Kelly about some of the stories that were going on during the second half of the 1980s, and Kelly talks about how he remembers living through a lot of these headlines.  Kelly asks Jonathan what he thinks of the current Mayoral race in New York City. Jae tells a funny story of what floridians think of the race. And Jonathan recounts how he thinks that the events of his book have a direct effect on this current political climate.  Jonathan talks about his research process for the book, what archival he used, and the people he was able to interview. Jae and Kelly talk about how much they love the writing of the book: How personable it is, how funny it is, and how the passion for New York City is dripping off every page.  Kelly asks Jonathan to tell us about the title of the book: "The Gods of New York". Jonathan talks about where the title came from, how much he loves the title, but also why he was apprehensive to call it that. Finally, Kelly asks Jonathan some questions about his writing process, as well as some fun quick New York City questions that every New Yorker has an answer for.    But above all else; Jonathan Mahler is a New Yorker!   Kelly Kopp's Social Media: @NewYorkCityKopp   Jonathan Mahler's Social Media:  

In this episode: Kelly is joined by Anthony Mangieri! He is a Chef, Businessman and Pizza Connoisseur. Join them, as Anthony tells us about how he got his start in the resturaunt industry in his late teens! Anthony talks about his first buisness baking bread, and how that grew into owning his own Pizzaria. From there, Anthony talks about wanting to move his buisness to New York, and how he gained the recognicion of top food critics.  Anthony talks about his craft, and how he goes about running his resturaunt. He describes his unique approach of personally hand crafting every pizza on his own. He talks about his passion for making dough and his interest in customer service.  Kelly asks Anthony what the Pandemic's effects were on his resturaunt and how he survived it. Anthony talks about the kindness of his community, and how he met his future wife during that difficult time.  Anthony talks about his wife Christina and their soon to be baby! He is blessed to feel fortunate to have a lot of great things in his life, and he talks about how he manages all of it.  Jae asks Anthony about his frozen pizza product: What it was like to create sometihing like that, what is the process like, and where people can buy it. Anthony talks about how he wanted to make the best frozen pizza that exhists. The pizza's are personally hand made in italy, with fresh italian ingredients, and Anthony prides himself on being able to give a great frozen food alternative to people who might need it.  Jae also asks about what are some of his other favorite pizza's and resturaunts in New York. Anthony has a few, but says that he is very self motivated, and strives to make the best product he can, and finds ways to innovate and improve every day.    But above all else; Anthony Mangieri is a New Yorker! You can Find Una Pizza Napoletana here: 175 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002 They are open Thursday-Saturday. Reservation is encouraged.    Kelly Kopp's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Anthony Mangieri's Social Media  @anthony_w_mangieri @unapizzanapoletana    

In this episode: Kelly is joined by Richard Hayden! Richard is the Senior Director of Horticulture at the High Line. Join them, as Richard teaches us about the profession of gardening. He tells us about how he got into horticulture, and what it does for him. He talks about his staff and how dedicated they are to maintaining the wonderful vision of the Highline. Kelly asks Richard how the High Line got started, and Richard tells Kelly the amazing redemption story that the highline overtook: From Death ave to one of the most visited parks in the world.  Richard tells us about some of the plants that live on the High Line. He talks about the gardening philosophy that they take when deciding what the areas should look like.  And finally, Kelly asks Richard some fun questions about the High Line: if he's named any of the plants, which area is his favorite, what his favorite view is, and... what berry birds get drunk on?    But above all else; Richard Hayden is a New Yorker!   Kelly Kopp's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Richard Hayden's Social Media @NatureGardener

In this episode: Kelly is joined by New Yorker Chris Beck! Chris is good friends with Kelly, and they bring the chemistry and laughs to prove it!  Join them as they answer questions that New Yorkers have the most passionate answers for.  Kelly and Chris talk about the small moments they have where they feel like they belong in the city. They talk about their favorite times of year in the city as New Yorkers and what they look forward to as the seasons change.  Kelly asks Chris and Jae what their most irrational fears are living in the city. Chris, Jae and Kelly all give a wide variety of fears and have a laugh at some of them. Chris and Kelly talk about what some things they see in NY that some people might think is out of this world but real New Yorkers wouldn't even bat an eye at.  Chris gives his take on community in the city. How people can feel lonely, but also how you can grow community and build your own small world.    But above all else; Chris Beck is a New Yorker!   Kelly Kopp's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Chris Beck's Social Media @ChrisBeckUSA  

In this episode, Kelly is joined by podcaster, motivational speaker and survivor: Chris Felder.  Kelly asks Chris about himself, where he's from, and what he does. Chris tells us about his story. What lead up to him having his sight taken away from him, How he learned to navigate the world around him, and how his family and friends learned to accomodate him the way that he wanted to be accomodated.  Chris talks about New York, and his love for the city. How he navigates it, and how much he misses it when he travels. He also talks about the differences between New Yorkers and the people he encounters elsewhere.  Kelly asks Chris some questions about his podcast and motivational speaking. Chris tells kelly how Wolf helped him to improve his work and grow his platform. Chris talks about how he is helping people around the world in ways that he never thought that he could.    But above all else; Chris Felder is a New Yorker.   Kelly Kopp's Social Media @NewYorkCityKopp   Chris Felder's Social Media @blindbutnowiseenyc @official_Blindsteppa

Due to the hustle and bustle of city life, and in honor of Father's Day coming up later this month, we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes from this year. Please enjoy this conversation that I was able to have with Jae's dad a few months ago. Share with us in the comments your favorite story or memory that you have with your dad. We will be back in two weeks with new episodes of The New Yorkers Podcast. So look forward to those conversations.   ***********************************************   In this episode, Kelly is joined by Jae's Dad: Huston Watson Sr. He is a business owner, computer engineer, DJ and a Veteran.    Huston talks a bit about where he was born, and how his family came to love Brooklyn. He talks about growing up in a dangerous neighborhood, the friends he made and how he got through it.  He then talks about going into the Air Force, becoming a DJ and meeting his wife.  Kelly also asks Huston about his family, and Huston reflects on what it means for him to be able to become a father and how special that is for him. Huston then talks about his time working for Merrill Lynch, how he got the job initially, moving up the corporate later and the different jobs he's done for the company. Finally, Huston recounts his experience on 9/11. He talks about experiencing the first plane hit, helping escort people to safety, as well as the effects that it's had on his life.    But above all else; Huston S. Watson Sr. is a New Yorker.    Kelly Kopp's Social Media: @NewYorkCityKopp

In this episode, Kelly is joined by sound engineer Wolf Taylor! The duo will answer your questions about New York City. Learn what the quietest neighborhoods are of Manhattan. Kelly and Wolf talk about the different kinds of quiet in New York City. Kelly and Wolf talk about where the best places are to see the Cherry Blossoms! The different types of trees, and what the best times are to see them. Wolf talks about healthcare in the city, and his experiences with free healthcare Learn where to find information on which subway stations have elevators, and how to know if they are opperational. While talking about the Subway, Kelly and Wolf talk about the end of the era of the metro card. Kelly gives his advice on what you should do to keep one of these soon to be collectors items. Kelly talks about getting your ESTA. learn what you need to be able to come to the states. Wolf gives up another one of his hidden gems in brooklyn as they talk about some of the little known places of the city. And Kelly tells you where you can go to see wild parots in brooklyn! The show turns into the Piercast for a while as Kelly and Wolf talk about their favorite piers of the city, and the different activities you can do at them. Finally, they talk about some of the culture of New York City in vendors liciences, if you need one, and how much they cost. As well as Taxi's where they went and why they arent as prominent anymore.   But above all else, Wolf Taylor is a New Yorker!   Wolf Taylor's Social media @_Wolftaylor   Kelly Kopp's Social media @NewYorkCityKopp  

In this episode, Kelly is joined by sound engineer Wolf Taylor! The duo will answer your questions about New York City. Learn what the most affordable neighborhoods are in each burrow. And the most saught after houshold appliances that may or may not come with them. Wolf and Kelly talk about how much rent is in the city, where it is cheaperst and what you can expect if you are looking for cheap rent. A listener asks about live music, and Wolf gives great advice to go into the subways! there are always musicians brighting up peoples days during their travels. Kelly has some great suggestions for venues to visit. Wolf gives Kelly all the information he needs for where to get the best cup of coffee in the city. He even gives up his favorite spot in the world for coffee, and listeners won't want to miss this. Finally, they talk about all of the largest parks in  the city! the top 5 biggest parks will suprise you!   But above all else, Wolf Taylor is a New Yorker!   Wolf Taylor's Social media @_Wolftaylor   Kelly Kopp's Social media @NewYorkCityKopp

In this episode, Kelly is joined by artist and his good friend Emily Farish! Join them as they discuss the ever important question of where to go to the bathroom in New York City!  They continue their bathroom adventure in Soho! Find out what the best resturaunts are for you to go and maybe even see celebrities as you do! If you are visiting the world trade center area, learn about some great spots for amazing food, great views, and stunning bathrooms! Kelly, Emily and Jae learn about the invention of modern plumbing! you will never guess the name of the person who popularized it. Learn where to use the bathroom if you are visiting St. Pauls church or battery park! Finally they talk about where to go if you visit DUMBO Brooklyn or take the train to Roosevelt island. They are both very popular travel destinations where your bathroom options aren't super obvious.   But above all else plumbing is for New Yorkers.   Kelly Kopp's Social Media@NewYorkCityKopp

In this episode, Kelly is joined by artist and his good friend Emily Farish! Join them as they discuss the ever important question of where to go to the bathroom in New York City! They start their bathroom journey in central park. Kelly talks about the Harlem Meer and where to go around there. Emily talks about her favorite destination bathrooms around the park. As they journey south, they talk about secret toilets that aren't on the map! Learn how to use the bathroom at the central park zoo, the MET and even the plaza hotel! Emily also talks about how to navigate the bathrooms of Broadway. Where to go if you are traveling with elders who may have trouble with stairs. They talk about the bathrooms in the area and which are accessible. Finally they talk about lower Manhattan: where to go on the High Line, the various parks of lower Manhattan, and a super secret bathroom that is straight out of the 1800s! Stay tuned for even more potty breaks during part two of this episode coming soon! But above all else, going to the bathroom is for New Yorkers. Kelly Kopp's Social Media@NewYorkCityKopp