Hey Stamford! Podcast

PJ Kennedy | Hey Stamford!

Your favorite local lifestyle guide is now on the mic — live from our studio inside PJ’s storefront at Stamford Town Center. The Hey Stamford! Podcast dives into real, unfiltered conversations with the people shaping the city’s culture, energy, and vibe — from chefs and bartenders to artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. It’s local stories, authentic voices, and all the flavor that makes Stamford special.

  1. May 19 ·  Video

    Youth Mental Health in Stamford: Jaime Baumann on Resources, Support & SYMHA

    Jaime Baumann, LCSW, MSEd of the Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut joins the podcast to discuss youth mental health in Stamford, local resources for families, and the mission of the Stamford Youth Mental Health Alliance — a coalition launched in 2022 by Caroline Simmons that now unites more than 35 organizations working to improve mental health support for Stamford’s children and teens. ### Learn more about our guest: You can learn more about Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut by visiting: https://www.childguidancect.org/  Learn more about the Stamford Youth Mental Health Alliance by visiting: https://www.stamfordyouthmentalhealthalliance.org/  ### 🎙️ About The Hey Stamford! Podcast The Hey Stamford! Podcast highlights the people, businesses, and stories that make Stamford unique—covering local culture, events, entrepreneurship, and community conversations. 🛍️ Sponsored by Hey Stamford! The Store Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. 📍 Visit us at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) 🛒 Shop online: https://shop.heystamford.com 💸 Use code POD10 for 10% off your next order 📬 Stay Connected Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: 👉 https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd #### 📱 Follow Hey Stamford! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heystamford TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford X: https://x.com/HeyStamford #### ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Be sure to follow, rate, and review—it helps more people discover the show! 🎧 Watch & Listen  Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. ###

  2. May 8 ·  Video

    A Conversation With My Mom! Stamford Memories, Motherhood & Family

    In this special Mother’s Day episode of the Hey Stamford! Podcast, I’m joined by my mom for a fun, heartfelt conversation about family, motherhood, and growing up in Stamford. We talk about her 45-year career as a paraeducator at Newfield School, memories of Stamford through the decades, her dreams of acting and dancing — including performing on the legendary Ed Sullivan Show — and what I was really like as a kid. It’s a nostalgic, funny, and meaningful episode filled with local stories, family moments, and appreciation for an amazing mom. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there ### 🎙️ About The Hey Stamford! Podcast The Hey Stamford! Podcast highlights the people, businesses, and stories that make Stamford unique—covering local culture, events, entrepreneurship, and community conversations.   🛍️ Sponsored by Hey Stamford! The Store Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. 📍 Visit us at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) 🛒 Shop online: https://shop.heystamford.com 💸 Use code POD10 for 10% off your next order   📬 Stay Connected Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: 👉 https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd   ####   📱 Follow Hey Stamford! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heystamford TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford X: https://x.com/HeyStamford   ####   ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Be sure to follow, rate, and review—it helps more people discover the show! 🎧 Watch & Listen  Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.   ###

  3. May 1 ·  Video

    Stamford Real Estate Market 2026: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know with Jen Turano & Joseph Pasquino

    In this episode, we sit down with Jen Turano and Joseph M. Pasquino, Licensed Real Estate Brokers with Compass, to break down current trends, pricing, inventory, and what buyers and sellers need to know right now. From low inventory and rising demand to shifting buyer behavior, we cover what’s driving the market—and how to navigate it whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply stay informed. You’ll learn: • What the Stamford real estate market looks like in 2026 • Which price points are the most competitive right now • Where buyers can still find value • How to win in a competitive market • What sellers should be doing to maximize value before listing • Why Stamford continues to attract buyers from NYC, Westchester, and beyond Whether you’re planning a move or just keeping an eye on the market, this conversation offers a clear, local perspective on one of Connecticut’s most competitive housing markets. Connect with Jen Turano: Mobile: 917.291.5200 Email: jennifer.turano@compass.com Instagram: @jenturanohomes Connect with Joseph M. Pasquino: Mobile: 203.918.3538 Email: j.pasquino@compass.com Instagram: @joeypasquinorealtor ##### 🎙️ About The Hey Stamford! Podcast The Hey Stamford! Podcast highlights the people, businesses, and stories that make Stamford unique—covering local culture, events, entrepreneurship, and community conversations. 🛍️ Sponsored by Hey Stamford! The Store Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Visit us at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) Shop online: https://shop.heystamford.com Use code POD10 for 10% off your next order 📬 Stay Connected Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: 👉 https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd #### 📱 Follow Hey Stamford! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heystamford TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford X: https://x.com/HeyStamford #### ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Be sure to follow, rate, and review—it helps more people discover the show! 🎧 Watch & Listen  Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. #### 00:00 Introductions & Podcast Overview 01:00 Hey Stamford: Local Community & Store 01:25 How Stamford Has Evolved 02:13 PR, Marketing, and Real Estate 03:36 Construction Background: A Homebuilder’s Perspective 05:25 Is Stamford a Hot Market Right Now? 06:39 Spring Market Insights & Bidding Wars 08:48 Competition, Preparation & Strategic Buying 10:09 Neighborhood Highlights & Changing Buyer Profiles 11:48 Buyer Strategy: How to Stand Out 13:52 Hidden Opportunities & Creative Buying Tactics 15:26 Advice for Priced-Out Buyers 16:55 What Makes Stamford Stand Out? 18:13 Seller Strategy: When & How to Start Planning 21:07 Seller Prep Mistakes & Maximizing Value 23:33 Is Now a Good Time to Sell? 25:15 Multi-Family vs Single-Family Properties 26:02 Future Neighborhoods to Watch in Stamford 27:43 Common Misconceptions About Stamford 29:24 Final Advice for Buyers & Sellers 33:00 What Sets This Team Apart 35:47 Exciting Upcoming Projects 36:19 Where to Connect & Closing

  4. Apr 15 ·  Video

    Meet Stamford’s 2026 Citizen of the Year: Dr. Maggie Young

    Dr. Maggie Young, Stamford’s 2026 Citizen of the Year, joins the podcast to share her 40+ years of impact in recovery and mental health across Stamford, CT. As Chief Recovery Officer at Liberation Programs, Dr. Young has helped shape addiction treatment, prevention, and family-centered care—supporting thousands of individuals and families throughout Stamford and Fairfield County. In this episode, we discuss her personal journey, the importance of meeting people where they are, and how programs like Families in Recovery are transforming lives. 🎟️ Dr. Young will be honored at the Stamford Citizen of the Year ceremony on June 2 at Serafresca at the Italian Center. More details and ticket information: https://bit.ly/45HHiVx You can learn more about Liberation Programs by visiting: https://liberationprograms.org ###   🎙️ About The Hey Stamford! Podcast The Hey Stamford! Podcast highlights the people, businesses, and stories that make Stamford unique—covering local culture, events, entrepreneurship, and community conversations.   🛍️ Sponsored by Hey Stamford! The Store Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. 📍 Visit us at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) 🛒 Shop online: https://shop.heystamford.com 💸 Use code POD10 for 10% off your next order   📬 Stay Connected Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: 👉 https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd   ####   📱 Follow Hey Stamford! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heystamford TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford X: https://x.com/HeyStamford   ####   ⭐ Enjoying the podcast? Be sure to follow, rate, and review—it helps more people discover the show! 🎧 Watch & Listen  Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.   ###   00:00 Introducing Dr. Maggie Young 01:06 Community & Stamford Shoutout 01:43 Citizen of the Year Surprise Story 05:45 What the Award Means to Maggie 07:17 Maggie's Journey to Stamford 10:14 Reflections on Stamford Community 12:24 Rooted in the Community 12:48 Maggie's Personal Story and Challenges 17:17 Recovery and Turning Point 21:00 About Liberation Programs 25:16 Access to Care & Challenges 26:16 Families in Recovery Program 29:29 Discovering Purpose Through Helping Others 31:12 Changes in Addiction and Recovery 34:32 Prevention, Outreach, and Community Response 36:03 How the Community Can Help 37:13 Youth Prevention and Education 40:38 Maggie Beyond Work – Life and Joy 42:18 Citizen of the Year Reflection 43:47 Proudest Achievements & Recovery 45:08 Praise & Hall of Change Honor 47:03 Advice for Those Struggling 48:22 Where to Find Help & Event Info

  5. Mar 17 ·  Video

    Inside Connecticut’s Hospitality Rebrand: What It Means for Restaurants & Hotels

    In this episode, Scott Dolch, President & CEO of the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association, breaks down the organization’s recent rebrand and what it means for Connecticut’s $21 billion hospitality industry. From restaurants and hotels to workforce development and tourism, we explore how the industry is evolving and what’s ahead. If you’re a local business owner, hospitality professional, or just love the Connecticut dining scene, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at where things are headed. For more on the CT Restaurant & Hospitality Association, visit, https://www.ctrestaurant.org Or follow on Instagram: Instagram.com/CTRestaurantAssoc  #### The Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd   Follow Us on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/heystamford  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford  Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford  X: https://x.com/HeyStamford  ##### 00:00 Introduction & Guest Background 01:06 About the Association & Rebrand 03:15 Impact of the Hospitality Sector 06:13 Expanding to Accommodations & Hotels 11:09 Association Growth & Strategies 13:56 Connecticut’s Independent Restaurant Scene 16:59 Connecticut as a Destination, Not a Pass-through 19:15 Hospitality as an Economic Ecosystem 22:32 Tourism, Events & Their Local Impact 25:16 Current Priorities & Legislative Efforts 29:02 Building Influence at the State Level 30:23 Educational Foundation & Workforce Programs 34:41 High School Programs & Next Generation 35:54 The CRAzies: Connecticut’s Culinary Awards 41:51 Culinary Tourism & Telling Connecticut’s Story 44:48 Most Rewarding Moments & Personal Reflections 47:02 Wrap Up & Where to Connect

    Inside Connecticut’s Hospitality Rebrand: What It Means for Restaurants & Hotels
  6. Mar 11 ·  Video

    Melissa Sheketoff: Inside WICC’s Morning Show & Local Journalism

    Melissa Sheketoff is the host and executive producer of Melissa in the Morning on WICC 600AM / 959FM. In this episode, she shares her inspiring journey from intern to the youngest and first female morning host in WICC’s nearly 100-year history. Melissa opens up about her time in television and radio, how she prepares for interviews, and the skills that make her one of Connecticut’s most respected broadcasters. She also talks about local journalism, the evolution of morning radio, and connecting with audiences across the region. Whether you’re an aspiring journalist, a fan of morning radio, or just curious about the stories behind the mic, this episode offers insight, advice, and a few laughs along the way. Tune in to hear Melissa’s advice for young broadcasters, favorite behind-the-scenes moments, and what keeps her passionate every morning. ### The Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd  Follow Us on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/heystamford TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford X: https://x.com/HeyStamford ###

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Your favorite local lifestyle guide is now on the mic — live from our studio inside PJ’s storefront at Stamford Town Center. The Hey Stamford! Podcast dives into real, unfiltered conversations with the people shaping the city’s culture, energy, and vibe — from chefs and bartenders to artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. It’s local stories, authentic voices, and all the flavor that makes Stamford special.