Greetings From the Garden State – Details, episodes & analysis

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In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, we welcome acclaimed author and cultural critic Peter Ames Carlin, who joins us to discuss his latest book Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of Born to Run.

Carlin takes us deep into the pivotal 20 months leading up to the release of Bruce Springsteen’s legendary third album, Born to Run. At that time, Springsteen was at a career crossroads — beloved by critics but struggling commercially, with Columbia Records questioning his future on the label. With his back against the wall, Bruce faced an all-or-nothing moment that would ultimately define his career and launch him into global stardom.

We cover:

• Why Springsteen’s first two albums didn’t initially resonate on the radio.
• How Born to Run became the breakthrough that turned Bruce into a household name.
• The painstaking detail of researching this period in Bruce’s career, down to the day-to-day struggles and triumphs.
• Why Carlin has returned to Springsteen as a subject after already publishing a full biography in 2012.
• Stories of Bruce playing to nearly empty rooms before ultimately filling stadiums across the world.

Carlin also shares details about his book tour stops across New Jersey and his upcoming appearance at the Born to Run symposium at Monmouth University.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves Springsteen, American music history, or the story of an artist fighting to define his place in the world.

Links

• Pick up a copy of Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of Born to Run wherever books are sold.

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We visit Steve Bauer, owner of Ghost Hawk Brewing Company in Clifton, NJ. Mike and Steve try several beers while learning about Steve's background, difficulties he has faced in life, and how he's overcome those. We also learn the meaning behind the name "Ghost Hawk" which is more than just a cool name, it has significant meaning to Steve and his story makes you appreciate it even more. 

Ghost Hawk Brewing Co.: 321 River Rd #6, Clifton, NJ
@ghosthawkbrewingco
www.ghosthawkbrewing.com

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Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

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In this milestone 180th episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham takes you deep into one of New Jersey’s most fascinating hidden gems: the South Side of Ellis Island. Joined by Jim Dessicino, Director at Save Ellis Island, they explore the forgotten history, powerful stories, and untold legacy of this rarely seen side of one of America's most iconic landmarks.

While most people associate Ellis Island with New York and the famed Immigration Museum, Jim breaks down the reality: over 80% of Ellis Island’s acreage — including the 29 hospital buildings on Island 3 — technically belongs to New Jersey. Together, Mike and Jim tour the contagious disease hospital, end-of-life care wards, and discuss the massive public health effort that shaped the immigrant experience for millions arriving between 1892 and 1954.

👉 Topics Covered in This Episode:

• The Supreme Court ruling that determined New Jersey’s ownership of most of Ellis Island
• The 29 hospital buildings that treated infectious diseases like tuberculosis, measles, and trachoma
• The incredible sacrifices made by nurses, doctors, and staff who lived and worked on the island
• Personal immigrant stories — including Jim’s own Italian-American heritage and how his family name changed after arriving
• The shocking reality that some immigrants saw their first shower or tasted their first banana here
• The challenges Save Ellis Island faces in restoring and preserving this national treasure
• How Ellis Island connects to today’s conversations on immigration, public health, and preserving history

🎨 Special Spotlight: Save Ellis Island’s Art Workshops
Jim also shares exciting new programming bringing world-class artists, like New Jersey-based painter Mario Robinson, to offer workshops on-site — helping people experience Ellis Island in a whole new way.

🚢 Why This Episode Matters
Ellis Island isn’t just a New York landmark — it's a critical part of New Jersey’s history and America’s immigration story. With only 30,000 annual visitors compared to millions on the North Side, the South Side remains one of New Jersey’s best-kept secrets. This episode sheds light on the ongoing mission to preserve its legacy for future generations.

🎧 Perfect for Listeners Who Love:

• New Jersey history
• Hidden gems and untold stories
• Immigration history & genealogy
• Public health history
• Preservation, restoration, and cultural heritage

POWERED BY THE NEW JERSEY LOTTERY!

CHECK OUT MAYOARTS.ORG

🔗 Links & Resources:

• 👉 Save Ellis Island: Learn, Donate, Visit or Volunteer
• 👉 Book a Tour of Ellis Island’s South Side
• 👉 Greetings From The Garden State - All Episodes

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We sit down with Chris Calabrese, the passionate owner of Nettie's House of Spaghetti in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. The conversation kicks off with Chris sharing his remarkable journey from the finance world to the culinary domain, reflecting on early kitchen experiences that sparked his love for cooking. Amidst tales of his culinary evolution, Chris sheds light on the challenges of navigating the intricate landscape of running a restaurant business. He emphasizes the indispensable role played by his partner, Tania, who expertly manages the financial aspects, ensuring the smooth operation of Nettie's.

The episode delves into the restaurant's intriguing origins, initially conceived as a gourmet market in Jersey City, only to metamorphose into the beloved Nettie's, marking its fifth anniversary in November. Chris unveils the unique character of the restaurant, tracing its historical roots back to Luigi's since 1958. He recounts the journey of revitalizing this space, once an Italian Social Club for hunters, and the transformative decision to sign the lease despite initial doubts.

As the conversation unfolds, the spotlight turns to Nettie's commitment to homemade dishes, with a special mention of their famed chicken parm featuring a distinctive chicken patty. Chris passionately discusses the importance of crafting a memorable dining experience akin to Sunday family gatherings. The episode beautifully captures the essence of Nettie's House of Spaghetti, its dedication to authenticity, and the collaborative efforts that have contributed to its enduring success.

In the concluding segment, a sense of restlessness surfaces in Chris, hinting at a desire to explore new ideas within the ever-evolving restaurant industry. This episode provides listeners with a rich tapestry of insights into Chris Calabrese's culinary background, the intricacies of running Nettie's, and the flavorful journey that has shaped this beloved establishment.

Nettie's: https://www.nettiesrestaurant.com/
@netties.house.of.spaghetti

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
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Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

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Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

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In this episode, join entrepreneur and oyster farmer Matt Matusky as he shares his fascinating journey into oyster farming with Love Oysters. Recorded at Captain Mike's Marina in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, located in the Great Bay, one of the Northeast's largest preserved wetlands, Matt discusses his transition from marine biology to oyster farming right out of college.

Discover the unique challenges and learning curve of oyster farming, as Matt sheds light on the impact of weather, tides, and lunar cycles on his day-to-day operations. Learn about the distinct-tasting oysters cultivated in the Great Bay region, influenced by factors such as salinity, algae, and environmental conditions.

Explore the pivotal role of the Barnegat Oyster Collective, a consortium of oyster farmers simplifying distribution and marketing processes. The podcast unravels the diverse flavors of oysters from different Great Bay regions and the thriving renaissance of oyster farming in New Jersey.

As the episode concludes, join the host and Matt in a tasting session featuring six random Love Oysters, showcasing the exceptional products and the quality harvested from the bountiful waters of the Great Bay. Don't miss this insightful journey into the world of oyster farming, highlighting its impact on the environment, the unique flavors of regional oysters, and the collaborative efforts of the Barnegat Oyster Collective.

To learn more about Matt's Love Oysters NJ, visit loveoysters.farm, or explore the Barnegat Oyster Collective at barnegatoysters.com. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes and more exciting insights into diverse topics on the podcast's website.

Love Oysters: loveoysters.farm
@loveoystersnj

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

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UCS Advisors: ucsgreatness.com

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

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Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

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In this touching episode of "Greetings from the Garden State," host Mike Ham engages in a heartfelt conversation with Doreen Jakubcak, the dedicated founder of Marty's Place Senior Dog Sanctuary in Upper Freehold, New Jersey. Operational since October 2015, Marty's Place serves as a sanctuary for older dogs facing homelessness due to various circumstances. Doreen, inspired by Marty, a senior dog with a compelling story, shares insights into the sanctuary's mission, its tranquil setting, and the unique needs of senior canine residents.

Listeners gain a deeper understanding of Marty's Place and its commitment to providing quality time and individualized care plans for senior dogs. Doreen sheds light on the sanctuary's daily routine, emphasizing the crucial role of volunteers who contribute to the well-being of the 22 dogs currently residing in the main building on the expansive 85-acre property.

The episode explores the sanctuary's three buildings, including an indoor pool and an innovative partnership involving an underwater treadmill for therapeutic purposes. Doreen also discusses the adoption and fostering programs at Marty's Place, highlighting the organization's dedication to ensuring a high quality of life for every dog, whether they find a forever home, a long-term foster family, or get adopted.

As the conversation unfolds, Doreen shares details about the pet assistance program, showcasing the sanctuary's holistic approach to supporting senior dogs and their owners. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging community support through volunteering, donations, and spreading awareness about Marty's Place. Listeners are invited to visit the sanctuary's website and social media platforms for opportunities to get involved and contribute to this heartening cause, exemplifying the perfect blend of compassion and community engagement.

Marty's Place Senior Dog Sanctuary
https://martysplace.org/
martysplaceseniordogsanctuary

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

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UCS Advisors: ucsgreatness.com

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

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OMG Tarot: omgtarot.com

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

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In this episode of "Greetings From the Garden State," we explore the captivating journey of Chelsea  Frost, also known as Pie Girl, who turned her passion for pies into a thriving business in Hightstown, New Jersey.

Chelsea's unique background in philosophy and the history of math and science paved the way for her unconventional venture into the world of pies. Despite lacking formal culinary education, her love for experimenting with unique and unconventional pie flavors became the driving force behind Pie Girl.

Starting from her home kitchen, Chelsea delivered pies to customers who quickly became enamored with her creative concoctions. The rising demand led her to venture into pop-up events, including a recurring one at The Bakers Grove. As the popularity of her pies grew steadily, the need for a dedicated space became evident.

Discover how Chelsea transformed a former deli in Hightstown into the vibrant Pie Girl shop, nestled among other local businesses. Chelsea emphasizes the importance of collaboration among businesses, each contributing a unique personality to the thriving destination, fostering a true sense of community.

Delve into the art of pie-making as Chelsea shares her secrets to the perfect crust – crispy and never soggy. The conversation takes a delicious turn as we discuss Pie Girl's commitment to pushing flavor boundaries. Chelsea's baking approach, blending intuition with experimentation, results in uniquely delightful pies loved by Hightstown and beyond.

Experience the culinary magic firsthand by visiting Pie Girl at 117 West W Street in Hightstown, New Jersey. As the conversation unfolds, Chelsea reveals her plans for the future, from expanding the menu to include sandwiches and rolls to the possibility of Friday and Saturday night savory takeout options.

Don't miss out on the delectable offerings – follow @piegirlnj on Instagram for the latest updates and mouth-watering visuals. Join us in savoring the sweet and savory world of Pie Girl, a testament to the thriving culinary scene in the heart of New Jersey.

piegirlnj.shop

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
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Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

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In this episode of "Greetings From the Garden State," host Mike Ham engages in an enlightening conversation with Chris Paladino, the visionary behind the revolutionary Helix project in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The Helix, standing for the Health and Life Science Exchange, is a groundbreaking initiative designed to establish an innovation district uniting academia, large corporations, and startups in the health and life sciences. Paladino sheds light on the magnitude of the project, representing the largest investment in life science research in New Jersey's history, with a budget surpassing $800 million in its initial phase and a projected total investment nearing $2 billion.

Throughout the discussion, Paladino, leveraging his background in law and extensive real estate development experience, reflects on his pivotal role in transforming New Brunswick. Previous successes such as the Heldrich Hotel, the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, and the College Avenue Redevelopment Project have contributed significantly to the city's growth, making it an attractive hub for living, working, and cultural engagement.

The conversation also delves into the philosophy of community-centric development, emphasizing the Helix's goal to change city dynamics by creating vibrant communities rather than mere structures. This focus aims to attract talent and foster collaboration, particularly in crucial sectors like life sciences and technology. Positioned strategically in New Brunswick, the Helix leverages its proximity to Fortune 500 companies and Rutgers University's research capabilities to become a hub for innovation and research, driving economic growth and job opportunities.

Paladino emphasizes the human impact of the Helix, envisioning groundbreaking discoveries that improve lives through therapies, medications, and devices developed within the project. Beyond scientific advancements, the Helix aspires to create a dynamic community that fosters collaboration and innovative solutions. The discussion expands to the statewide influence of innovation hubs, with Paladino tying in developments in Newark and Jersey City. The interconnected network aims to retain skilled professionals within New Jersey, positioning the state as a hub for innovation.

Stay tuned to "Greetings From the Garden State" for more insightful conversations on New Jersey's innovation, growth, and community development. Explore the Helix project and Chris Paladino's endeavors through their official channels on HelixNJ.com, and join the conversation on social media using #HelixInnovation #NJInnovationHub #GreetingsFromNJ. Don't miss this episode where New Jersey's future is being shaped—tune in and be part of the transformation!

Explore more about The Helix: https://www.helixnj.com/
@helix.nj

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

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Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

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Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

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We visit Camden to explore the rich history of the iconic USS New Jersey with the guidance of our special guest, Ryan Szimanski, the passionate curator of the USS New Jersey Museum and Memorial.

Let's begin by introducing Ryan Szimanski, an expert in naval history and the curator of the USS New Jersey Museum and Memorial. Discover Ryan's journey, deep-rooted love for naval heritage, and what drives his commitment to preserving the legacy of this legendary battleship.

Ryan takes us on a captivating journey through the history of the USS New Jersey, from its construction during the 1940s to its pivotal role in major conflicts such as World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam. We'll also explore the ship's extensive modernization in the 1980s and its enduring significance to New Jersey and the nation.

Ever wondered what life was like for the brave sailors serving aboard the USS New Jersey? Ryan offers insights into their daily routines, living conditions, and the challenges they faced while on a battleship of this magnitude.

Find out about the USS New Jersey Museum and Memorial, a place dedicated to preserving the ship's history. Ryan discusses the various exhibits and artifacts that bring the battleship's remarkable legacy to life, and how you can embark on a tour to experience it firsthand.

Explore some of the most extraordinary exhibits and artifacts on display at the museum. Ryan unveils the historical significance and the captivating stories these items tell about the USS New Jersey's illustrious service.

Discover the present-day status of the USS New Jersey as a museum and popular tourist attraction. Learn about special events, educational programs, and ongoing restoration efforts taking place aboard the ship.

In our concluding segment, we reflect on the unique place the USS New Jersey holds in New Jersey's history and the importance of safeguarding our naval heritage. We extend our gratitude to Ryan Szimanski for sharing his knowledge and encourage you to visit the museum to delve deeper into this remarkable piece of history.

Explore more about Battleship New Jersey: https://www.battleshipnewjersey.org/

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co

UCS Advisors: ucsgreatness.com

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

OMG Tarot: omgtarot.com

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

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Uncover the chilling and eerie history of Morristown, New Jersey, in this special Halloween episode of "Greetings from the Garden State." Join us as we delve into stories of mass graves, spooky ghost encounters, and the gruesome legend of Antoine Le Blanc.

Learn about eerie ghost stories that have haunted the residents of Morristown over the years. From unexplained occurrences to local legends, we'll send shivers down your spine.

Our most shocking segment explores the bizarre and gruesome story of Antoine Le Blanc. We delve into the dark tale of his execution, dissection, and the creation of skin wallets and other keepsakes from his remains. Discover how this story has left a chilling mark on Morristown's history.

Join us for a deep dive into Morristown's dark history, where the past is filled with mysteries, legends, and truly unsettling events. If you're a history enthusiast or simply a fan of the macabre, this episode is not to be missed.

Thank you to Dan Johnson (dmjphotographer) & Joey Viola (historicalmorristown) for joining us!

Also thank you to Glenbrook Brewery (glenbrookbrewery) for the space and the beers and Lasso, Inc (lassoinc) for filming this episode!

Finally, thank you to Reese Van Riper (reesevanriper) for letting us use "Take A Ride With Me" as our special intro for this song! https://tinyurl.com/ReeseVanRiper

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co

UCS Advisors: ucsgreatness.com

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

OMG Tarot: omgtarot.com

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

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