Your Hometown Podcast

12/24/2025

What better Christmas present than to offer the gift of life?

Organ donation is one of the most powerful gifts a human being can offer. For thousands of people living with advanced kidney disease, that gift is not just meaningful … it’s essential. Behind every successful transplant is the compassion of a donor and the tireless advocacy of people who fight to give patients hope. Donna Tissot dedicates her life to supporting individuals whose kidney disease has progressed to the point where a transplant is their path forward. Her passion, persistence, and heart have made her a voice for those waiting, hoping, and fighting for another tomorrow.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, offers strategies to navigate the holidays.

Episode 18: Donna Tissot talks about the life-changing impact of organ donation and why she works to inspire others to register, give hope, and save lives.

12/17/2025

A new episode of Your Hometown Podcast: Woodland Park is now available.

The media has always played a powerful role in shaping how we see the world, but over the past few decades, that role has changed dramatically. From the trusted voices of evening newscasts to the endless scroll of social media, the way we get our news — and who we trust to deliver it — has evolved beyond recognition. These changes have left many of us wondering about the cost of this constant flood of information. Tina Pappas Marousis brings a wealth of insight to that conversation. She is a veteran journalist with decades of experience across television, cable, and local news. Early in her career, she landed an internship with the legendary Bill Beutel and went on to work at ABC News before expanding into various cable networks in New York City. After relocating to northern New Jersey, Tina returned to her roots in local reporting, where she is most proud of covering the issues that truly matter to her community.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, offers strategies to navigate the holidays.

Click link below to listen to the conversation:

Episode 20: Tina Pappas discusses the rise and fall of traditional media.

11/26/2025

A new episode of Your Hometown Podcast: Little Falls is now available.

It’s never too late to chase a dream, rewrite your story, or start something entirely new. For many, the second act of life is where the real magic begins. Christine Kalodes Hablitz is someone who’s living proof that reinvention isn’t just possible, it’s powerful. Christine has returned to school, serves as a councilwoman, organizes events that bring the Little Falls community together, and is constantly finding new ways to make a difference. She shares what it means to embrace change later in life, why community involvement matters, and how leaning into your next chapter can be the most fulfilling move you’ll ever make.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about the importance of gratitude, and Darien Eletto, chief clinical officer of Behavioral Health Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, discusses why some depression doesn’t respond to standard treatment and what new options are offering hope.

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Episode 17: Christine Hablitz shares what it means to embrace change later in life, why community involvement matters, and how leaning into your next chapter can be the most fulfilling move you’ll ever make.

11/19/2025

Reading is more than just a fundamental skill, it's a gateway to opportunity, imagination, and lifelong learning. In a world increasingly shaped by digital media and fast-paced communication, the ability to read, understand, and critically engage with information is more important than ever. Linda Hoffman understands the transformative power of reading on a deeply personal and professional level. As the director of the Alfred Baumann Public Library, Linda has been a passionate advocate for literacy, learning, and community engagement. Under her leadership, the library has not only expanded its collection and programming but also deepened its impact as a vibrant, inclusive hub for readers of all ages.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about the importance of gratitude, and Darien Eletto, chief clinical officer of Behavioral Health Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, discusses why some depression doesn’t respond to standard treatment and what new options are offering hope.

Episode 19: Linda Hoffman explains why reading is a gateway to opportunity, imagination, and lifelong learning.

10/22/2025

A new episode of Your Hometown Podcast: Little Falls is now available.

Grief has a way of changing the shape of everything — how we remember, how we move forward, and how we hold on to the people we’ve lost. It’s especially complex when the loss is sudden, or when someone’s life feels unfinished. Charlene Neapolitan Thomas experienced the heartbreaking loss of her brother, Bob, a gifted artist whose creative spirit touched everyone around him. Bob’s life was full of color, depth, and passion, but it was also marked by health challenges that ultimately took him far too soon. Charlene discusses what it’s like to walk alongside a sibling through illness, to carry the weight of watching someone you love struggle, and to face the pain of saying goodbye.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

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Episode 16: Charlene Neapolitan-Thomas discusses what it’s like to walk alongside a sibling through illness, to carry the weight of watching someone you love struggle, and to face the pain of saying goodbye.

10/15/2025

A new episode of Your Hometown Podcast: Woodland Park is now available!

Loss has a way of reshaping everything—our sense of time, place, and even who we are. Grief is deeply personal, yet it connects us all. John Colie’s mother was a beloved guidance counselor and director of pupil personnel services at Passaic Valley High School. She dedicated her life to supporting students and helping them navigate their toughest moments. Tragically, she lost her life in a house fire, leaving a deep void in both her family and the community she served. John shares what it’s like to survive such a devastating loss, the process of grieving, and how his family is working to carry her legacy forward.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

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Episode 18: John Colie shares his journey through sudden loss, the weight of grief, and how his family honors his mother’s lasting legacy.

09/17/2025

A new episode of Your Hometown Podcast: Woodland Park has dropped.

The return to school marks more than just a change in schedule; it’s an important opportunity to create a positive, stable foundation for the year ahead. How we support our children during this transition can shape not only their academic success but their emotional well-being. Donna Scarpa Farraye discusses how parents and caregivers can ease the back-to-school adjustment for kids. Donna is a licensed professional counselor who is guidance counselor for the Woodland Park public schools.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about the importance of self care, and Erica Higdon, clinical manager of Behavioral Health Services for Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, discusses su***de prevention.

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Episode 17: Donna Scarpa-Farraye offers thoughtful guidance to help make the school year a strong and healthy one for the whole family.

08/27/2025

A new episode of your Hometown Podcast: Little Falls is now available.

People have always been fascinated by the world of rock ‘n’ roll — the energy, the rebellion, the larger-than-life personalities. To be even a small part of that world, to work behind the scenes and contribute to its magic, can be truly amazing. Valerie Tompkins-Freda had a front-row seat to a world most only see from afar. She shares a few of her memories and why she feels blessed to do work she truly loves. For more than two decades, Valerie has worked as a sales representative for Beasley Media, the parent company of New Jersey’s 105.5 WDHA

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, discusses getting ready for the new school year, and Dr. Greg Sorkin, chair of Emergency Medicine at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, talks about seeking emergency care for mental health challenges.

Click link below to listen to the conversation.

https://www.cyacyl.com/your-hometown-podcast-episodes/valerie-freda

This episode is sponosred by
Schumacher Chevrolet of Little Falls
Evolution Restaurant & Bar
Healthlink Advocates
Chem-Dry Of Passaic County
Body Bonanza
Metro Hypnosis Center
Crystal Clear Energies
GPS Empowerment

Episode 14: Valerie-Tompkins-Freda shares what is has been like working in the world of rock and roll.

08/20/2025

A new episode of Your Hometown Podcast: Woodland Park is now available.

Flooding can wash away more than just belongings, it can shake a person’s spirit, uproot a sense of safety, and forever alter the course of a life. Ginny Caroselli opens up about the challenges she faced in the aftermath of a flood her family experienced. She shares how she navigated profound loss, leaned on her faith, and found the strength to move forward. Her story is a powerful testament to endurance, community, and the unwavering belief that even in the darkest waters, hope can rise.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, discusses getting ready for the new school year.

This episode is made possible by our sponsors. Please support the companies who are dedicated to bringing positive programming to the community.

Advanced Foot Care of NJ,
Evolution Restaurant & Bar
Dawn Cox - Weichert, Northern NJ Real Estate
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center
Lisa's Thermography & Wellness
Body Bonanza
Affan Indo-Chinese Bangladeshi Restaurant
Metro Hypnosis Center
Crystal Clear Energies

Episode 16: Ginny Caroselli shares how she navigated profound loss, leaned on her faith, and found the strength to move forward.

07/23/2025

Your Hometown Podcast: Little Falls episode 13 is now available.

Imagine water rushing into your home like a tidal wave—sudden, violent, and unforgiving. Now picture yourself trapped in the basement as that relentless force crashes in, rising higher with every second. You cling to life in a shrinking air pocket, lungs burning, heart pounding, every breath a desperate fight to survive.

Karen Slinger doesn’t have to imagine it … she lived it. Karen brings us a deeply personal and powerful story of loss, survival, and rebuilding. Karen lived in Little Falls for 30 years when her home was tragically destroyed during Hurricane Ida. In a matter of hours, everything she had built was swept away and she suddenly found herself navigating the heartbreaking aftermath of losing her home. Karen talks about the emotional toll of disaster, the courage it takes to start over, and the unexpected gifts that can emerge from devastation.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, discusses the importance of holidays and rituals to our mental health, and Dr. Sunitha Moonthungal, director of Primary Care Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, talks about the importance of preventative care.



Please support our sponsors who make these shows possible.
Schumacher Chevrolet of Little Falls
Evolution Restaurant & Bar
Body Bonanza
Chem-Dry Of Passaic County
Healthlink Advocates
Metro Hypnosis Center
Crystal Clear Energies
GPS Empowerment

Episode 13: Karen Slinger talks about the emotional toll of disaster, the courage it takes to start over, and the unexpected gifts that can emerge from devastation.

07/16/2025

A new episode of Your Hometown Podcast: Woodland Park is now available.
Nursing is the heart of healthcare where compassion meets clinical expertise to provide holistic, life-saving care. Nurses are often the first to comfort, the last to leave, and the steady presence that holds the system together. Jennifer Kula Spirio brings a lifetime of wisdom and heart to the world of healthcare. Jennifer is a seasoned nurse with decades of experience at the bedside, in leadership roles, and now as an educator shaping the next generation of nurses. She’s witnessed firsthand the evolution of the medical field. She discusses the changes she’s seen, the lessons she’s learned, and where she believes the future of nursing needs to go in order to truly serve both patients and providers. Jennifer has worked as a registered nurse, nursing educator, and adult nurse practitioner.

Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, discusses the importance of holidays and rituals to our mental health, and Dr. Sunitha Moonthungal, director of Primary Care Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, talks about the importance of preventative care.

Episode 15: Jennifer Kula Spirio shares what she has learned from decades of experience at the bedside, in leadership roles, and now as an educator shaping the next generation of nurses.

07/15/2025

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