Your Hometown Podcast

World War II changed the lives of millions of people across Europe, forcing families to confront unimaginable choices—whether to stay and risk their lives, or leave behind their homes, their families, and everything they had ever known in the hope of finding safety somewhere else. For those who fled, the journey to a new country was filled with uncertainty. Many arrived knowing no one, speaking little or no English, and havin...

What happens when the values you live by as a person of faith meet the realities and responsibilities of governing? And how does faith shape the way an elected official approaches the people and issues he serves? Nicholas Veliky has a unique perspective on those questions. He is both a public servant and a man of deep faith - and he brings those two worlds together in his daily life. Nick talks about his faith, his calling to the d...

Politics is personal and it starts at the local level. Local elected officials are the ones who make decisions that affect our everyday lives and impact communities. Little Falls Mayor, James Damiano, talks about why he ran for mayor and how the role has impacted his life. Mayor Damiano is a lifelong Little Falls resident who was recently elected to another term as the Township’s leader.

Also in this episode, Pamela Mart...

In her younger years, Woodland Park Mayor, Tracy Kallert, never imagined she would one day be running her home town. As a lifelong resident, she loved Woodland Park, but when she pictured the mayor, she didn’t see someone who looked like her. After being encouraged to try her hand at politics, she learned that even though she didn’t have experience, she had a knack for the job and she uncovered talents that had bee...

Life doesn’t always unfold the way we planned. Sometimes a major life change—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, divorce, illness, or another unexpected challenge—forces us to begin again. But those difficult moments can also become the start of an exciting new chapter. After the death of her beloved husband, Jim, Donna Scancarella chose to say “yes” to life, followed a longtime dream, and laun...

Success rarely happens by accident. More often, it’s built through years of discipline, sacrifice, and a willingness to keep going even when the road feels uncertain. Following a dream asks something of us — focus, resilience, and the courage to stay committed long before the rewards ever show up. Dr. Domenick Randazzo is a respected cardiologist whose work has placed him at the center of some of life’s most criti...

Entrepreneurship is about more than building a business — it’s about vision, resilience, and the willingness to take risks in pursuit of something meaningful. Behind every successful venture is a story of hard work, perseverance, and passion. Joe Aquino, owner of Evolution Restaurant and Bar, talks about what it takes to build and sustain a thriving business, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how entrepr...

Community is built by the people who step up and give their time, energy, and resources to support and strengthen the lives of people around them. Through volunteering and fundraising, individuals can make a lasting impact and inspire others to do the same. Joseph Siano talks about the importance of community involvement, volunteerism, and how fundraising efforts can bring people together to make a real difference. Joe is a profess...

Raising and caring for a child with intellectual or developmental disabilities often comes with unique challenges, important decisions, and the need for strong support systems, resources, and advocacy. For many families, navigating healthcare, education, and long-term planning can feel overwhelming, but having the right guidance can make a meaningful difference. Iris Rivera, a lifelong advocate for individuals with intellectual and...

Immigration has long been woven into the fabric of the American story. Behind every immigrant family is a journey marked by courage, sacrifice, hope, and the pursuit of opportunity. The decision to leave behind familiar surroundings and start over in a new country requires resilience and an unwavering belief in the possibility of a better future. Adam Chaabane discusses his family's immigration journey, the values that helped shape...

There’s something deeply human about feeding one another. It goes beyond nourishment, it’s connection, comfort, and care all served on a plate. Across cultures and communities, food has always been one of the most powerful ways we express love. Whether it’s a home-cooked meal during hard times or a shared table during celebration, food reminds us that we’re not alone. And when that instinct to feed others is...

So many of us believe that the biggest decisions of our lives are behind us—that at a certain point, the path is set. But what if the most defining chapter is still waiting to be written? What if one bold choice, made later in life, has the power to change everything? Toni Belford Damiano has spent decades at the forefront of family law, advocating for clients through some of life’s most difficult transitions. She talks...

Autism is a spectrum that touches millions of individuals and families, yet it’s often misunderstood. As awareness continues to grow, so does the importance of deeper acceptance, better support systems, and more meaningful conversations about what it truly means to live with and love someone on the spectrum. Amy Pellegrini is an advocate for autism. She talks about raising awareness, supporting families, and fostering greater...

What happens when the place that once inspired you almost becomes the reason you walk away—and how do you turn that moment into a mission instead? Billy Pinckney shares his journey from batboy for the New Jersey Jackals to becoming an author and speaker dedicated to inspiring the next generation. Through his story, Billy reveals how challenges in the game he loved led him to a greater purpose—empowering young people wit...

There is a profound difference between simply living in a community and actively shaping it. True community impact isn't built overnight; it is the result of people who show up, volunteer their time, and remain steadfast in their commitment year after year. This kind of unwavering dedication does more than just maintain programs—it builds a lasting legacy. Sam Yodice, the borough administrator for Woodland Park, explores his ...

Sometimes the people who impact us most aren’t the loudest in the room. They’re the ones who listen, who care, and who quietly step in when something needs to be done. And often, it’s life’s hardest moments that shape that kind of character. Real difference is rarely about recognition — it’s about perspective, compassion, and the willingness to show up for others even when your own world feels sh...

Working as a first responder is one of the most selfless ways a person can serve their community. EMTs and paramedics are often the first on the scene during someone’s worst moment — bringing skill, calm, and compassion when it matters most. Tami Hajbi talks about what it’s really like to serve as an EMT and paramedic: the realities behind the sirens, the heart behind the uniform, and the calling that keeps her sh...

Libraries are so much more than shelves of books. They’re places where curiosity is sparked, lifelong learning begins, and people of all ages find connection, resources, and support. From early readers to adults reinventing themselves, libraries help ensure that knowledge, opportunity, and imagination are accessible to everyone. Jeffrey Machno, the Liaison of Community Engagement and Adult Programming for the Little Falls Pub...

Healing doesn’t always happen in a doctor’s office. Sometimes it happens on a stage, through story, music, or the courage to begin again. Dr. Joan Liman is a physician, public health leader, producer, and performer whose journey took her from healing bodies in medicine to healing hearts through the performing arts. After holding senior leadership roles in medical education and hospital administration, she retired from m...