Deep Threads with Dean Balsamini

Dean Balsamini
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  • Documentary
  • Updated Weekly

The Inside Scoop. Recovering journalist Dean Balsamini goes long-form with athletes, artists, lawyers, Olympians, and storytellers — pulling the threads the mainstream press leaves dangling. No talking points, no PR handlers, no time limits.

  1. Aug 27

    Ep. 26: Jeff Kazee — Inside the Music of Southside Johnny, Springsteen, Bon Jovi & Beyond

    What does it take to become the musician other great musicians trust when anything can happen onstage? In Episode 26 of the Deep Threads Podcast, host Dean Balsamini sits down with Jeff Kazee — acclaimed keyboardist, songwriter, producer, vocalist, musical director, and longtime bandleader for Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes — for a wide-ranging conversation about a life spent at the heart of American rock and roll. Kazee traces his journey from Ohio to New York City, where talent, curiosity, and versatility eventually put him onstage with some of music’s biggest names. He discusses his Appalachian musical roots, including great-uncle Buell Kazee, whose recordings became part of the American folk tradition, and how growing up playing piano in church taught him improvisational skills he would later use behind Southside Johnny. The conversation dives into Kazee’s decades-long relationship with Southside Johnny, from joining the Asbury Jukes with virtually no rehearsal to developing the chemistry that allowed the band to abandon the setlist at any moment. Kazee offers a revealing portrait of Johnny as a performer who never “mailed it in” and whose ultimate compliment was simply: “You’re a rock and roller.” Jeff also shares stories from performing with Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, and Roger Waters, including his firsthand perspective on what makes Springsteen such a singular performer and what he learned from working alongside Bon Jovi. One of the episode’s great rock-and-roll stories comes when Kazee recalls getting an unexpected call to substitute for Paul Shaffer on Late Show with David Letterman. With Warren Zevon having previously filled the role, Kazee suddenly found himself leading one of television’s most famous house bands — a moment he considers one of the highlights of his career. Dean and Jeff also explore his love of the Hammond B3 organ, the Stone Pony, Asbury Park, Madison Square Garden, and the emotional connection between musicians and audiences. There’s also Early Elton, Kazee’s celebration of Elton John’s early catalog. Rather than impersonating Elton, the band reinterprets the music through its own musicianship and the personal memories those songs hold for Kazee. He even recalls the night Jon Bon Jovi introduced him to Elton John, whose review of Jeff’s playing was succinct: “Impressive.” The conversation also turns to Kazee’s solo album Thanks for Checking In, created after the pandemic temporarily shut down live performance. Instead of sitting idle, Kazee livestreamed shows, wrote new material, and turned the downtime into a deeply personal record. At its heart, this episode is about more than the famous musicians Jeff Kazee has played with. It’s about connection, curiosity, musicianship, and the joy of making music with people who challenge you to be better. In This EpisodeJeff Kazee’s journey from Ohio to the New York music sceneJoining Southside Johnny & The Asbury JukesWhat makes Southside Johnny such a unique frontmanPlaying with Bruce SpringsteenWorking with Jon Bon Jovi and Roger WatersFilling in for Paul Shaffer on David LettermanFalling in love with the Hammond B3 organPlaying the Stone Pony and Madison Square GardenEarly Elton and reimagining Elton John’s classic songsMeeting Elton John through Jon Bon JoviThe making of Thanks for Checking InWhy connection between musicians and audiences still mattersAbout Jeff KazeeJeff Kazee is a keyboardist, pianist, Hammond B3 organist, singer-songwriter, producer, and musical director best known as the longtime bandleader of Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes. He has performed with artists including Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Roger Waters, and many others while building a career spanning rock, soul, R&B, folk, and American roots music. He is also a solo recording artist and leads several musical projects, including Early Elton, which celebrates the adventurous spirit and musicianship of Elton John’s early recordings without simply recreating them. Learn MoreJeff Kazee Official Website Support Deep ThreadsIf you’ve listened to Deep Threads, you’ve probably noticed Dean Balsamini’s signature Huega House hat. We’re proud to partner with Huega House, a brand whose philosophy of slowing down, being intentional, and creating meaningful moments perfectly complements the conversations we have on this show. If you’d like to support both Huega House and Deep Threads, please shop using our affiliate link: https://huegahouse.com/DEANBALSAMINI Thank you for supporting the companies that support independent podcasts. CreditsHost: Dean BalsaminiProduced & Engineered by: Dave FletcherRecorded at: Cedar Bean’s Coffee Joint, 575 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey

  2. Aug 13

    Ep. 25: Filmmaker Michael Gier – 9/11: Stories of Heroism, Resilience & Hope

    As America marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, filmmaker Michael Gier is telling a different kind of 9/11 story—one focused not only on tragedy and loss, but on the extraordinary heroism, resilience, compassion, and unity that emerged in its aftermath. In this episode of the Deep Threads Podcast, host Dean Balsamini sits down with the award-winning director and producer of The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11: From Tragedy to Triumph, narrated by Gary Sinise. Nearly five years in the making, the documentary brings together more than 30 interviews with survivors, first responders, veterans, families, and ordinary Americans whose lives were forever changed by September 11. Gier takes Dean behind the making of the film and some of its remarkable stories, including Will Jimeno, the Port Authority police officer trapped beneath the World Trade Center; former paramedic Chuck Sereika, whose role in Jimeno’s rescue became a story of personal redemption; and Jack Grandcolas, whose pregnant wife, Lauren, was aboard United Flight 93. They also discuss Pentagon survivor Sheila Moody and her philosophy of being a “sur-thriver,” the massive maritime evacuation of Lower Manhattan, and homeless New Yorkers who helped provide food, clothing, showers, and comfort to people fleeing Ground Zero. Gier explains why he sought out lesser-known stories of September 11 and why he wanted audiences to leave the documentary with hope. He also discusses Gary Sinise’s involvement, the continuing health struggles faced by Ground Zero first responders, and the importance of preserving firsthand 9/11 accounts for generations too young to remember the attacks. The conversation also explores Gier’s remarkable entertainment career—from musical theater to television and filmmaking—including working with Gene Simmons and Gregory Hines, performing on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, and appearing in Fatboy Slim’s legendary “Praise You” video directed by Spike Jonze. In This EpisodeThe making of The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11Gary Sinise and his commitment to veterans and first respondersWill Jimeno’s survival beneath the World Trade CenterChuck Sereika’s remarkable story of rescue and redemptionJack Grandcolas, Flight 93, grief, and forgivenessPentagon survivor Sheila MoodyThe 9/11 maritime evacuation of Lower ManhattanThe continuing health struggles of Ground Zero first respondersPreserving September 11 stories for future generationsGier’s career in theater, television, and filmmakingGene Simmons, Gregory Hines, Spike Jonze, and “Praise You”About Michael GierMichael Gier is an award-winning filmmaker, director, producer, actor, and entertainment industry veteran. After more than two decades as a professional performer, he expanded into television, film, directing, and documentary production. His work focuses on compelling human stories of perseverance, service, resilience, and people overcoming extraordinary circumstances. His latest documentary, The Heroism and Resiliency of 9/11: From Tragedy to Triumph, commemorates the 25th anniversary of September 11 by preserving stories of courage, sacrifice, compassion, and unity. Support Deep ThreadsIf you’ve listened to Deep Threads, you’ve probably noticed Dean Balsamini’s signature Huega House hat. We’re proud to partner with Huega House, a brand whose philosophy of slowing down, being intentional, and creating meaningful moments perfectly complements the conversations we have on this show. If you’d like to support both Huega House and Deep Threads, please shop using our affiliate link: https://huegahouse.com/DEANBALSAMINI Thank you for supporting the companies that support independent podcasts. CreditsHost: Dean BalsaminiProduced & Engineered by: Dave FletcherRecorded at: Cedar Bean’s Coffee Joint, 575 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey

  3. Aug 6

    Ep. 24: Willie Nile — The Great Yellow Light, CBGB & the Soul of New York Rock

    Few artists embody the spirit of New York rock ’n’ roll like Willie Nile. In this episode of the Deep Threads Podcast, host Dean Balsamini sits down with the legendary singer-songwriter for an inspiring conversation about songwriting, resilience, the golden era of CBGB, and the stories behind his acclaimed new album, The Great Yellow Light. Willie reflects on more than five decades of music, from being discovered by legendary New York Times critic Robert Palmer and signing with Clive Davis at Arista Records, to sharing stages with Bruce Springsteen, Patti Smith, Lou Reed, David Johansen, and many of the defining artists of New York’s downtown music scene. He discusses the creative spark behind songs including “Irish Goodbye,” “Wake Up America,” “One Guitar,” “American Ride,” and the Vincent van Gogh-inspired title track “The Great Yellow Light.” Throughout the conversation, Willie explains why hope, unity, compassion, and the search for light remain at the center of his songwriting, even in an increasingly divided world. Dean and Willie also revisit the early days of CBGB, Kenny’s Castaways, Folk City, the Bottom Line, and the extraordinary community of musicians, writers, and outsiders who helped reshape American rock. Willie shares memories of meeting Hilly Kristal, playing alongside Lou Reed and Joey Ramone, earning the support of Robert Palmer, and developing the relentless live energy that continues to define his performances. The conversation also explores Willie’s upbringing in a large Irish Catholic family in Buffalo, the storytelling tradition passed down from his father, his decision to walk away from the music business when it stopped feeling honest, and the perseverance that ultimately brought him back stronger than ever. Whether you’re a lifelong Willie Nile fan, fascinated by the history of New York City rock, or simply love hearing how great songs are born, this episode is a celebration of creativity, endurance, community, and the enduring power of music to bring people together. In This EpisodeThe inspiration behind The Great Yellow Light and its connection to Vincent van GoghWriting “Irish Goodbye,” “Wake Up America,” “One Guitar,” and “American Ride”Stories from CBGB, Kenny’s Castaways, Folk City, and the Bottom LineBeing discovered by Robert Palmer and signed by Clive DavisPerforming with Bruce Springsteen and remembering Lou Reed, Joey Ramone, Patti Smith, and David JohansenThe role of hope, unity, and compassion in Willie Nile’s songwritingGrowing up in a large Irish Catholic family in BuffaloWhy Willie walked away from the music business—and how he found his way backThe musicians behind his current band and the energy of his live performancesThe documentary currently being produced about his life and careerAbout Willie NileWillie Nile is an acclaimed American singer-songwriter whose career spans more than five decades. Since his breakthrough debut on Arista Records, he has released a celebrated body of work blending rock, folk, punk, and socially conscious songwriting with the heart and urgency of classic New York rock ’n’ roll. Known for his poetic lyrics, anthemic choruses, and electrifying live performances, Nile has shared stages with artists including Bruce Springsteen, The Who, The E Street Band, and many others. His songs have been praised for their emotional honesty, optimism, and ability to capture both the struggles and possibilities of American life. His latest album, The Great Yellow Light, continues that tradition with songs about mortality, hope, political division, community, love, and the search for light in a chaotic world. Learn MoreOfficial Willie Nile Website Follow Willie Nile on Instagram Willie Nile on Facebook Support Deep ThreadsIf you’ve listened to Deep Threads, you’ve probably noticed Dean Balsamini’s signature Huega House hat. We’re proud to partner with Huega House, a brand whose philosophy of slowing down, being intentional, and creating meaningful moments perfectly complements the conversations we have on this show. If you’d like to support both Huega House and Deep Threads, please shop using our affiliate link: https://huegahouse.com/DEANBALSAMINI Thank you for supporting the companies that support independent podcasts. CreditsHost:Dean BalsaminiProduced & Engineered by:Dave FletcherRecorded at: Cedar Bean’s Coffee Joint, 575 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey

  4. Jul 30

    Ep. 23: From Wu-Tang Clan to Band of Brothers — Sound Designer Bill Donnelly

    What does it sound like when someone truly loves what they do? Ask award-winning sound designer and mixer Bill Donnelly, and he'll tell you: "When I'm working, I'm not working." In this episode of the Deep Threads Podcast, host Dean Balsamini sits down with the Staten Island-based audio wizard whose remarkable career has touched some of the biggest names in music, film, television, and live sports broadcasting. Bill's journey begins in Great Bend, Kansas, where a five-year-old boy spotted a drummer in a pit orchestra and instantly knew his future. In 1983, he packed his truck, drove to Staten Island, and eventually founded Laughing Dog Studios, a legendary recording space where Wu-Tang Clan developed their sound, musicians jammed into the early morning hours, and New York's vibrant music scene flourished. Dean and Bill explore a fascinating career that few people ever get to see behind the scenes. Bill explains how he carefully removed profanity from HBO's Band of Brothers for network television without sacrificing its emotional impact, dubbed classic Japanese anime including Grave of the Fireflies, mixed live broadcasts for ESPN, Fox Sports, and the NFL Network, and spent six months recording sound across Egypt, France, and Morocco for a major international television production. Along the way, Bill shares stories about recording artists including Wu-Tang Clan, Alicia Keys, Norah Jones, Journey, Earl Slick, and Alanis Morissette, earning a Clio Award and a Gold Record, putting a microphone on Donald Trump backstage at a campaign rally, and why he believes Pink Floyd changed the way the world thinks about sound. Whether you're passionate about music production, filmmaking, television, audio engineering, or simply love hearing the stories behind the people who make entertainment possible, this episode offers an unforgettable look inside one of the industry's most accomplished and versatile careers. In This EpisodeGrowing up in a show-business family in Kansas and moving to New York City in 1983The thriving Staten Island music scene and Bay Street's legendary rock clubsFounding Laughing Dog Studios and recording the early Wu-Tang Clan sessionsWinning a prestigious Clio Award for sound design—and discovering you still have to buy the trophyThe painstaking audio work behind the network broadcast of Band of BrothersSpending six months working across Egypt, France, and Morocco on a major international productionProducing live broadcasts for ESPN, Fox Sports, the NFL Network, and major sporting eventsRecording Donald Trump backstage on the night Prince diedWhy Pink Floyd's innovations continue to influence modern recordingThe "fake it till you make it" move that launched Bill's post-production careerAbout Bill DonnellyBill Donnelly is an award-winning sound designer, re-recording mixer, and location sound engineer with more than forty years of experience in music, film, television, advertising, and live broadcasting. As founder of Laughing Dog Studios and Donnelly Sound, he has worked with artists including Wu-Tang Clan, Alicia Keys, Norah Jones, Journey, Earl Slick, and many more. His extensive credits include Band of Brothers, international television productions, anime localization, national advertising campaigns, documentaries, and live broadcasts for ESPN, Fox Sports, NFL Network, Amazon Live, and major sporting events. A recipient of both a prestigious Clio Award and a Gold Record, Bill continues to create world-class audio for film, television, documentaries, commercials, and live productions. Support Deep ThreadsIf you've listened to Deep Threads, you've probably noticed Dean Balsamini's signature Huega House hat. We're proud to partner with Huega House, a brand whose philosophy of slowing down, being intentional, and creating meaningful moments perfectly complements the conversations we have on this show. If you'd like to support both Huega House and Deep Threads, please shop using our affiliate link: https://huegahouse.com/DEANBALSAMINI Thank you for supporting the companies that support independent podcasts. CreditsHost: Dean BalsaminiProduced & Engineered by: Dave FletcherRecorded at: Cedar Bean's Coffee Joint, 575 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey

  5. Jul 23

    Ep. 22: “Tutu Tootsie Goodbye” — 40 Years Behind the Headline with Bob McCormick

    What does it take to craft the perfect tabloid headline under pressure? In this episode of the Deep Threads Podcast, host Dean Balsamini sits down with Bob McCormick, former copy chief of the New York Daily News and a veteran of more than four decades in American journalism, for an unforgettable journey through the golden age of New York City newspapers. Bob reveals what life was really like inside the high-pressure Daily News newsroom during the legendary tabloid wars between the News and the New York Post. He recalls editing Jimmy Breslin as the Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist phoned in stories from the bar, working the night John Lennon was murdered outside the Dakota, and helping craft headlines that captured the drama, humor, and urgency of New York City. The conversation also covers the Bernie Goetz subway vigilante case, a memorable telephone call from “John Barron”—the name famously used by Donald Trump—and why Bob proudly claims to own “a little bit” of Breslin’s Pulitzer Prize. From the smoke-filled copy desks of the 1980s to the digital disruption that transformed the newspaper business, Bob reflects on the traditions, personalities, and pressures that defined a remarkable era in journalism. The New York Daily News once reached approximately 4.7 million Sunday readers; today, its print circulation is only a fraction of that historic peak. Bob and Dean examine how the internet, Craigslist, Amazon, and the collapse of classified advertising changed the financial foundation of newspapers. They also discuss New York politics, including the administrations of Ed Koch and Rudy Giuliani, as well as the city’s current political landscape. It is a funny, candid, and deeply personal conversation about tabloid journalism, newsroom culture, unforgettable headlines, and an era that may never be replicated. As Bob reminds himself when looking back on his career: “They can’t take that away from me.” In This Episode The art of writing memorable tabloid headlines under deadline pressure The newsroom cash prizes awarded for the best headlines Covering the murder of John Lennon at the New York Daily News The culture of 1980s newsrooms: cigarettes, drinks, copy boys, and relentless deadlines Editing Jimmy Breslin and contributing to his Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism The Bernie Goetz subway vigilante case and a surprising post-9/11 encounter A memorable call from “John Barron,” also known as Donald Trump How Craigslist, Amazon, and the internet devastated newspaper advertising and circulation New York City politics under Ed Koch, Rudy Giuliani, and Mayor Mamdani About Bob McCormick Bob McCormick is a veteran journalist and former copy chief at the New York Daily News whose career spans more than four decades. Working behind the scenes during one of the most competitive and colorful eras in American newspaper history, he edited major stories, crafted memorable headlines, and helped shape the presentation of breaking news for millions of readers. McCormick witnessed the newspaper industry’s evolution from typewriters, copy paper, and crowded print newsrooms to digital publishing and continuously updated online coverage. His career offers a rare insider’s perspective on New York tabloid journalism, copy editing, headline writing, newsroom culture, and the technological and economic forces that transformed the American press. Support Deep Threads If you’ve listened to Deep Threads, you’ve probably noticed Dean Balsamini’s signature Huega House hat. We’re proud to partner with Huega House, a brand whose philosophy of slowing down, being intentional, and creating meaningful moments perfectly complements the conversations we have on this show. If you’d like to support both Huega House and Deep Threads, please shop using our affiliate link: https://huegahouse.com/DEANBALSAMINI Thank you for supporting the companies that support independent podcasts. Credits Host: Dean Balsamini Produced & Engineered by: Dave Fletcher Recorded at: Cedar Bean’s Coffee Joint, 575 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey

  6. Jul 16

    Ep. 21: Inside the NYPD—Crime, Corruption & the Future of Policing with Michael Alcazar

    What is really happening inside the NYPD? Is crime truly declining, and how have policing, leadership, and public safety changed over the past three decades? In this episode of Deep Threads, Dean Balsamini sits down with Michael Alcazar, a retired NYPD Detective, criminal justice professor at John Jay College, and nationally recognized law enforcement expert, for an in-depth conversation about modern policing, organized crime investigations, public corruption, police leadership, and the future of law enforcement in New York City. Drawing on more than 30 years with the NYPD, Alcazar reflects on his journey from immigrating to New York from the Philippines to becoming a decorated detective specializing in Major Crime and Organized Crime Investigations. He recounts his earliest days patrolling Brooklyn during one of the city's most violent eras, including the first homicide case he helped solve as a rookie police officer. Dean and Michael examine the evolution of the NYPD, the impact of corruption scandals within its leadership, police morale, staffing shortages, body cameras, racial profiling, stop-question-and-frisk, broken-windows policing, and the changing relationship between police officers and the communities they serve. The conversation also explores New York City's historically low murder rate, precision policing, youth violence, the Raise the Age law, immigration enforcement, the role of specialized investigative units, and how the NYPD provides security for major events such as New Year's Eve, championship celebrations, concerts, parades, and international sporting events. Whether you're interested in true crime, criminal justice, New York politics, organized crime, or the future of policing in America, this episode offers a candid insider's perspective from someone who has investigated serious crimes, trained law enforcement professionals, and taught the next generation of criminal justice leaders. About Michael AlcazarMichael Alcazar is a retired NYPD Detective whose distinguished law enforcement career spans more than three decades, primarily focused on Major Crime and Organized Crime Investigations. Throughout his career, he received numerous medals and commendations for his work solving complex criminal cases. Alcazar currently serves as an Adjunct Professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where he teaches Law and Police Science within the Criminal Justice program. His expertise is frequently sought by national and local news organizations for analysis of criminal investigations, policing, public safety, and law enforcement policy. Beyond New York, Professor Alcazar has provided consulting and training to law enforcement investigators around the world, helping agencies strengthen their investigative methods, leadership, and understanding of modern criminal activity. Support Deep ThreadsIf you've listened or watched Deep Threads, you've probably noticed Dean Balsamini's signature Huega House hat. We're proud to partner with Huega House, a brand whose philosophy of slowing down, being intentional, and creating meaningful moments perfectly complements the conversations we have on this show. If you'd like to support both Huega House and Deep Threads, please shop using our affiliate link: https://huegahouse.com/DEANBALSAMINI Thank you for supporting the companies that support independent podcasts. CreditsHost: Dean BalsaminiProduced & Engineered by: Dave FletcherRecorded at: Cedar Bean's Coffee Joint, 575 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey

  7. Jul 10

    Ep. 20: The Legendary, Lonesome Naked Cowboy of Times Square — Robert Burck

    How does a kid from suburban Cincinnati become one of the most recognizable people in the world? In this episode of Deep Threads, Dean Balsamini sits down with Robert Burck—better known as The Naked Cowboy—for an unforgettable conversation about ambition, discipline, entrepreneurship, and the remarkable journey behind one of New York City's most enduring icons. Burck shares how reading Tony Robbins as a teenager transformed his outlook on life, inspiring him to pursue impossible goals and ultimately create the Naked Cowboy brand. From modeling and music to performing in Times Square wearing nothing more than cowboy boots, a hat, and white briefs, he reveals how persistence, daily routines, and relentless self-belief turned an unconventional idea into an internationally recognized success story. Dean and Robert explore life behind the character, including his rigorous fitness regimen, philosophy of goal setting, years of performing in every imaginable weather condition, celebrity encounters, New Year's Eve in Times Square, navigating media attention, and the realities of earning a living as one of the world's best-known street performers. The conversation also ventures into Robert's personal life, discussing relationships, resilience, happiness, and what keeps him returning to Times Square nearly every day after more than twenty-seven years. Whether discussing branding, psychology, entrepreneurship, or simply the power of showing up every day, this episode offers a fascinating look at the man behind one of New York's most iconic personalities. About Robert Burck (The Naked Cowboy)Robert Burck, known worldwide as The Naked Cowboy, is a musician, entertainer, entrepreneur, and one of New York City's most photographed attractions. Since the late 1990s, he has become a fixture of Times Square, entertaining millions of visitors while building one of the world's most recognizable personal brands. His appearances in television, film, advertising, and international media have made him a global symbol of New York City, proving that creativity, consistency, and determination can transform an unconventional dream into lasting success. Learn MoreOfficial Naked Cowboy Website Follow The Naked Cowboy on Instagram Book The Naked Cowboy on Cameo Support Deep ThreadsIf you've listened or watched Deep Threads, you've probably noticed Dean Balsamini's signature Huega House hat. We're proud to partner with Huega House, a brand whose philosophy of slowing down, being intentional, and creating meaningful moments perfectly complements the conversations we have on this show. If you'd like to support both Huega House and Deep Threads, please shop using our affiliate link: https://huegahouse.com/DEANBALSAMINI Thank you for supporting the companies that support independent podcasts. CreditsHost: Dean BalsaminiProduced & Engineered by: Dave FletcherRecorded at: Cedar Bean's Coffee Joint, 575 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey

  8. Jul 2

    Ep. 19: The Rise of Charismatic Leaders in NY Politics — Rob Gavin

    What drives political movements? How do charismatic leaders capture public attention? And what can decades of investigative reporting teach us about power, corruption, and the people behind the headlines? In this episode of Deep Threads, veteran investigative journalist Robert Gavin, Albany Bureau Chief for The Buffalo News, joins Dean Balsamini for a wide-ranging conversation about New York politics, the rise of New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, the changing political landscape, and some of the most significant criminal cases Gavin has covered throughout his career. From reporting on the federal prosecution of Keith Raniere and the NXIVM organization to covering public corruption, organized crime, and the New York State Capitol, Gavin shares the stories behind the headlines and explains why great journalism is ultimately about understanding people. About Robert GavinRobert Gavin is an award-winning investigative journalist and the Albany Bureau Chief for The Buffalo News, where he leads coverage of New York State politics, government, public policy, and the State Capitol. A veteran reporter with more than 30 years of experience, Gavin is widely respected for his reporting on criminal justice, public corruption, legal affairs, and high-profile court cases. Before joining The Buffalo News, Gavin spent nearly two decades at the Times Union in Albany as the newspaper's chief legal affairs and courts reporter. His work has covered landmark stories including the Keith Raniere/NXIVM federal trial, the Joe Bruno corruption trials, the Buffalo Billion prosecutions, and numerous major criminal investigations throughout New York. His reporting has also been featured in national documentaries and television programs including HBO's The Vow, Dateline NBC, American Greed, and Investigation Discovery. Learn MoreRobert Gavin on LinkedIn Follow Robert Gavin on X Support Deep ThreadsIf you've listened or watched Deep Threads, you've probably noticed Dean Balsamini's signature Huega House hat. We're proud to partner with Huega House, a brand whose philosophy of slowing down, being intentional, and creating meaningful moments perfectly complements the conversations we have on this show. If you'd like to support both Huega House and Deep Threads, please shop using our affiliate link: https://huegahouse.com/DEANBALSAMINI Thank you for supporting the companies that support independent podcasts. CreditsHost: Dean BalsaminiProduced & Engineered by: Dave FletcherRecorded at: Cedar Bean's Coffee Joint, 575 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, New Jersey

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About

The Inside Scoop. Recovering journalist Dean Balsamini goes long-form with athletes, artists, lawyers, Olympians, and storytellers — pulling the threads the mainstream press leaves dangling. No talking points, no PR handlers, no time limits.

Information

  • Creator
    Dean Balsamini
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Deep Threads Podcast. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Deep Threads with Dean Balsamini