Ridgewood Talks

Ridgewood Talks

Welcome to the Ridgewood Talks Podcast, serving as a voice of the village since 2017. Through this podcast we’ll introduce you to the leaders and legends in our village. We'll keep you updated on fascinating local events, we’ll dig into the towns hot topics, and more. The show is hosted by the amazing Jeanne Johnson - founder of Ridgewood Talks and Ridgewood Walks. Our goal is to create a kinder, more connected and vibrant community. The show is co-hosted by lifelong Ridgewood resident, Jordan Kaufman, and features a growing number of guest hosts to add new perspectives. We look forward to hearing your thoughts on WHO and WHAT you'd like to learn about in our beautiful hometown. Please comment on who you would like us to interview and what topics we should cover next. As always... be kind, do good… and we hope you enjoy these episodes! The show is produced by and recorded at Ignite Creator Studios, a video podcast and content strategy studio in Ridgewood, New Jersey.

  1. Meet the Artist: Eric Santoli’s Journey from Ridgewood to Monet's Garden

    12/31/2025

    Meet the Artist: Eric Santoli’s Journey from Ridgewood to Monet's Garden

    Meet the Artist: Eric Santoli’s Journey from Ridgewood to Monet's Garden   Welcome to Ridgewood Talks! In this episode, Jeanne Johnson sits down with the talented artist Eric Santoli, a Ridgewood High School graduate who found his passion for painting and has taken it to incredible heights. Eric shares his journey from studying fine art at the University of Pennsylvania to completing his MFA at the Florence Academy of Art. He recounts the unforgettable experience of living and working as an artist-in-residence at Claude Monet's House and Gardens in France and talks about his exciting new travel and painting show, 'Eric En Plein Air,' for American Public Television. Eric also opens up about how art serves as a therapeutic outlet and discusses the importance of experiencing artwork in person. Whether he's painting, skateboarding, or riding his Triumph Bonneville, Eric's adventurous spirit shines through in everything he does. Tune in to hear more about his inspiring journey and how you can support local artists in Ridgewood (00:00) Introduction to Ridgewood Talks (01:07) Meet Eric Santoli: Ridgewood's Artistic Gem (02:19) Eric Santoli's Artistic Journey (07:08) The Therapeutic Power of Art (17:38) Supporting Local Artists (21:26) Exploring Grounds for Sculpture (22:59) Creative Sculptures for Kids (23:25) Fundraising for Nonprofits (23:43) Collaborations and Donations (24:34) James Rose Center and Historical Society (26:07) Television Show and Local Support (26:15) Painting and Travel Show (27:27) Celery Farm and Nature Preservation (30:20) Colorblind Artist's Journey (36:30) Motorcycles and Skateboarding (39:12) Family and Returning Home (40:29) Conclusion and Future Plans You can also learn more about Eric on his web-site: https://www.ericsantoli.com/ Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!   This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!   Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com   Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083   Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology. Find the song: Cool it! - on Apple Music Here: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944 And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology   Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast #Art #NJArt #Painting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min
  2. Ridgewood Talks: Fascinating Insights from Rob Wolcott on Innovation, Community, and AI

    12/10/2025

    Ridgewood Talks: Fascinating Insights from Rob Wolcott on Innovation, Community, and AI

    Join host Jordan Kaufman as he welcomes special guest Robert Wolcott to Ridgewood Talks. Rob, the co-founder and chair of the World Innovation Network, known as TWIN Global… and a professor at Kellogg and Booth Schools of Business, discusses his family's move to Ridgewood, NJ, during the pandemic and their experiences in the community. He also delves into the themes of his latest book, 'Proximity,' exploring how digital technologies are reshaping business, society, and everyday life. The conversation covers topics such as the future of artificial intelligence, the importance of making retail essential in people's lives, and how Ridgewood can embrace its unique charm in an evolving landscape.   00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks 00:24 Meet the Hosts: Jeanne and Jordan 01:11 Special Guest: Robert Wolcott 02:08 Rob's Journey to Ridgewood 03:06 Settling into Ridgewood Life 06:06 The Ridgewood Coffee Shop Experience 10:18 Ridgewood: A High School Town 15:18 Parenting and Education Insights 22:33 Balancing Technology and Nature 27:43 The Impact of Screen Time on Children's Development 28:16 Envisioning the Future of Ridgewood 32:30 The Role of Technology in Modern Life 32:49 Debunking Myths About Artificial Intelligence 37:21 The Cognitive Effects of Technology 43:57 Proximity Theory and the Future of Digital Technology 49:37 Making Retail Essential in People's Lives 54:11 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey! This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service! Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083 Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology. Find the song: Cool it!  - on Apple Music Here: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944 And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology   Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast #AI #Innovation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    56 min
  3. Celebrating Our Community with Jenny Coates

    12/01/2025

    Celebrating Our Community with Jenny Coates

    Ridgewood Talks: Celebrating Our Community with Jenny Coates   In this episode of Ridgewood Talks, host Jeanne Johnson sits down with Jenny Coates.  Jenny shares her dedication to building a stronger Ridgewood community through her volunteer work with Ridgewood Newcomers, the Ridgewood Library Foundation, and the Kasschau Shell Committee. Tune in as they discuss the history and events of Ridgewood Newcomers, the important improvements to the Ridgewood Public Library, the dynamic concert series at the Kasschau Shell, and the unique 4th of July celebrations. Get inspired to volunteer and connect with our vibrant hometown community!   00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks 00:24 Meet the Host: Jeanne Johnson 01:09 Exciting Guest: Jenny Coates 01:35 Jenny's Community Contributions 02:56 Ridgewood Newcomers Club 07:01 SSA and Local Charities 11:18 Sips and Civics Event 17:48 Ridgewood Library Foundation 18:26 Library Renovation Updates 18:31 New Study Spaces and Room Reservations 19:28 Future Renovation Plans 19:54 Supporting the Library's Wishlist 20:07 Libby Licenses and Audiobooks 20:40 Library of Things 21:09 Ridgewood Library's Popularity 21:31 Foundation Events and Fundraising 22:17 Friends of the Library and Programming 24:03 Kasschau Memorial Band Shell 29:11 Volunteering and Community Involvement 29:40 Ridgewood 4th of July Celebrations 32:04 Conclusion and Call to Action Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!   This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!   Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com   Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083   Theme music by Dave Gross from the album Mandology. Find the song: Cool it!  - on Apple Music Here: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-gross/288722944 And you can find Dave Gross – Mandology on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/DaveGrossMandology   Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    35 min
  4. Historian and Antiques Expert Anthony Cavo to Explore Local History and More

    11/10/2025

    Historian and Antiques Expert Anthony Cavo to Explore Local History and More

    In this episode of Ridgewood Talks, Jeanne Johnson, founder and host of the podcast, interviews Anthony Cavo, a Ridgewood High School graduate, physician, author, antiques expert, and member of the Ridgewood Historical Society. Anthony shares his fascinating journey from Brooklyn to Ridgewood, his early interest in antiques, his diverse career in medicine, and his extensive antique collection. They discuss various intriguing topics such as historical artifacts, childhood toys, wedding traditions, and even a detailed exploration of the infamous Jack the Ripper case. Anthony also highlights the unique exhibits at the Schoolhouse Museum and the upcoming plans for the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This episode is packed with engaging stories, historical insights, and a deep appreciation for community and history.   00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks 01:30 Welcome to Ridgewood Talks Podcast 02:34 Meet Anthony Cavo: A Man of Many Talents 03:31 Anthony's Early Life and Antique Adventures 11:13 Auctioneering and Medical School Journey 14:19 Life in the West Indies 17:05 Returning to Ridgewood and Career Shift 19:12 Curating at the Schoolhouse Museum 21:00 Creepy Museum Exhibits 21:29 History of Punch and Judy 22:26 Collecting and Storing Artifacts 24:01 Valuable Museum Items 25:27 Upcoming Museum Exhibits 29:38 Fascinating Historical Facts 30:59 Dogs in History 34:23 Books and Publications 41:55 Museum's Role in the Community 43:27 Conclusion and Farewell Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!   This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!   Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com   Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083   Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    45 min
  5. Exploring Ridgewood Parks & Recreation with Nancy Bigos and Keith Kazmark

    09/18/2025

    Exploring Ridgewood Parks & Recreation with Nancy Bigos and Keith Kazmark

    Exploring Ridgewood Parks & Recreation with Nancy Bigos and Keith Kazmark   In this episode of Ridgewood Talks, hosts Jeanne Johnson dives into everything you always wanted to know about our amazing parks, with special guests Village Manager Keith Kazmark and Nancy Bigos, the Ridgewood Director of Parks and Recreation. Discover the initiatives, the passion, and the hard work that Nancy and her team put into maintaining Ridgewood's parks and recreational activities. Hear about upcoming events, ongoing community projects, and the impactful public-private partnerships that enhance life in Ridgewood. Whether you're interested in the town's beautiful parks, community building activities, or learning how to get involved, this episode is packed with valuable insights and future plans for our welcoming village.   00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks 00:24 Meet the Host: Jeanne Johnson 01:16 Today's Guests: Keith Kazmark and Nancy Bigos 02:51 Nancy's Journey in Parks and Recreation 03:07 The Historic Stable and Community Programs 05:29 Katie Fry's Achievement and Summer Job Fair 08:46 Graydon Pool: A Community Gem 15:25 Parks and Recreation Initiatives 22:42 Volunteer-Driven Sports Community 23:19 Field Maintenance and Responsibilities 24:18 Green Team and Earth Day Festival 25:03 Daffodil Festival Highlights 26:12 Fall Festival Evolution 27:14 Holiday Events and Fire and Ice 28:23 Thanksgiving Tradition and Elder Dinner 30:00 Health Barn Partnership 32:54 New Stable at Tabernacle 34:43 Community Gardens and Open Space 37:02 Future Open Space Initiatives 38:55 Conclusion and Gratitude Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey! This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!  Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com   Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083  Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    44 min
  6. Business Spotlight on Real Estate: An In-Depth Conversation with Vivienne Muldoon

    08/26/2025

    Business Spotlight on Real Estate: An In-Depth Conversation with Vivienne Muldoon

    Business Spotlight on Real Estate: An In-Depth Conversation with Vivienne Muldoon on Ridgewood Talks   In this episode of Ridgewood Talks and Ridgewood Living Magazine Present, The Business Spotlight. Host Jeanne Johnson sits down with Vivienne Muldoon, a top real estate agent and community business leader. Vivienne shares her extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, the architectural beauty of Ridgewood homes, and the various challenges and opportunities that buyers and sellers face today. She also discusses her personal journey, including her deep roots in the community and her involvement in local initiatives like the RHS Jamboree. Whether you're interested in the dynamics of the Ridgewood real estate market, looking for tips on buying or selling a home, or simply want to learn more about our vibrant community, please watch or listen to this episode for invaluable insights and a great conversation.  Please be sure to subscribe to Ridgewood Talks and follow us on socials for the latest episode updates! 00:00 Welcome to Ridgewood Talks 00:13 Expanding Our Vision in 2025 00:47 Business Opportunities with Ridgewood Talks 01:26 Introducing the Business Spotlight 01:56 Meet Vivienne Muldoon: Ridgewood's Top Real Estate Agent 02:30 Vivienne's Journey and Community Involvement 03:54 Exploring Ridgewood's Unique Architecture 04:48 Real Estate Market Trends and Buyer Preferences 09:01 The Importance of Walkability in Ridgewood 13:44 Community Engagement and Jamboree Involvement 15:24 Vivienne's Family and Entrepreneurial Spirit 16:49 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Business Building 17:05 The Importance of Home and Community 17:41 Navigating the Real Estate Market 18:38 Highlighting Unique Home Features 19:42 Client-Centric Real Estate Approach 23:41 Supporting Clients Through Emotional Transitions 27:24 Personal Stories and Community Involvement 29:12 Conclusion and Contact Information Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey! This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service! Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com   Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083   Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast #RealEstate #BergenRealEstate #NJHomes #RidgewoodHomes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    31 min
  7. Empowering a Green Future with Ridgewood High School Teacher Mr. Miles Luo

    08/12/2025

    Empowering a Green Future with Ridgewood High School Teacher Mr. Miles Luo

    Empowering a Green Future with Ridgewood High School Teacher Mr. Miles Luo on Ridgewood Talks   Welcome to Ridgewood Talks! In this episode, host Jeanne Johnson introduces Mr. Miles Luo, a dedicated educator at Ridgewood High School who teaches environmental science and biology. Miles discusses his impressive background, including his work with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Forest Service, and the National Park Service. We'll delve into his passion for sustainability, his leadership of the RHS Green Club, and various impactful initiatives like bike lanes, reducing idling at schools, composting, and creating wildflower meadows. Learn about his experiences in encouraging a greener community and his personal interests, including curling and his love for… Sweden! Join us for an inspiring conversation about making Ridgewood a more sustainable place for everyone. 00:00 Introduction to Ridgewood Talks 01:06 Meet Mr. Miles Luo: Educator and Environmental Advocate 02:18 Mr. Luo's Educational Journey 03:04 Professional Experiences in Environmental Services 04:55 Adventures in Teaching and Beyond 11:42 International and Local Student Trips 14:49 Sustainability Initiatives at Ridgewood High School 28:36 Excitement for New Bike Lanes 30:22 Benefits of Walking and Biking to School 32:49 Addressing Idling at Elementary Schools 34:30 Challenges and Solutions for School Transportation 42:36 Student Involvement in Sustainability 44:41 School Gardens and Rain Gardens 51:46 Personal Passions: Curling and Sweden 56:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!   This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!   Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com   Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083   Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast #NJEnvironment #EarthScience #GreenClub #ThinkGreen #EarthDay #Environment Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 hr
  8. The Business Spotlight: Blue Nail Exteriors with John & Nina Hogan

    07/30/2025

    The Business Spotlight: Blue Nail Exteriors with John & Nina Hogan

    The Business Spotlight: Blue Nail Exteriors with John & Nina Hogan on Ridgewood Talks and Ridgewood Living Magazine   Ridgewood Talks and Ridgewood Living Magazine present “The Business Spotlight”.  Co-host Jordan Kaufman talks to Blue Nail Exteriors CEO John Hogan and CFO Nina Hogan. Learn about the company's beginnings, their expert craftsmanship in roofing, siding, solar, and window solutions, and their commitment to honesty and community service. Hear inspiring stories of their philanthropic efforts and gain insights into maintaining and enhancing your home's value. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation recorded at Ignite Creator Studios.   00:00 Welcome to Ridgewood Talks 00:47 Introducing Business Sponsorship Opportunities 01:37 Business Spotlight: Blue Nail Exteriors 02:05 Meet the Founders: John and Nina Hogan 04:31 Challenges and Successes of Running a Family Business 06:47 Expanding and Scaling Blue Nail Exteriors 08:41 Expert Advice on Roof Repairs and Replacements 13:21 Philanthropy and Community Involvement 15:47 Trends in Home Exteriors and Insurance Challenges 18:54 Weather Challenges in Roofing 19:33 Homeowner Tips for Storm Preparedness 20:03 GAF Storm Watch Benefits 23:15 Flooding and Gutter Solutions 29:27 Historic Homes and Modern Solutions 32:03 Balancing Work and Family Life 33:36 Community Involvement and Closing Remarks Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to stay informed about all things Ridgewood, New Jersey!   This episode is produced by Ignite Creator Studios, Bergen County’s premier video podcasting & content strategy service!   Ignite Creator Studios: www.ignitecreatorstudios.com Ridgewood Walks and Talks: www.ridgewoodwalks.com Ridgewood Talks Instagram: www.instagram.com/ridgewood_talks Ridgewood Talks Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/1291013971028083   Hashtags: #RidgewoodNJ #RidgewoodTalks #BergenCountyNJ #RidgewoodNJPodcast #NorthJersey #BergenCountyNews #NJLocalNews #RidgewoodCommunity #BergenCountyEvents #NewJerseyPodcast #BergenCountyUpdates #NJPodcast #HomeImprovement #Roofing #Renovations #HomeRepairs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    38 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Ridgewood Talks Podcast, serving as a voice of the village since 2017. Through this podcast we’ll introduce you to the leaders and legends in our village. We'll keep you updated on fascinating local events, we’ll dig into the towns hot topics, and more. The show is hosted by the amazing Jeanne Johnson - founder of Ridgewood Talks and Ridgewood Walks. Our goal is to create a kinder, more connected and vibrant community. The show is co-hosted by lifelong Ridgewood resident, Jordan Kaufman, and features a growing number of guest hosts to add new perspectives. We look forward to hearing your thoughts on WHO and WHAT you'd like to learn about in our beautiful hometown. Please comment on who you would like us to interview and what topics we should cover next. As always... be kind, do good… and we hope you enjoy these episodes! The show is produced by and recorded at Ignite Creator Studios, a video podcast and content strategy studio in Ridgewood, New Jersey.

Information

  • Creator
    Ridgewood Talks
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    87
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Ridgewood Talks