Advertise on podcast: This is Beacon

Beacon is back together after a busy fall. The hosts look back at the rescheduled I Run Beacon 5K, celebrate its 15-year history and community-funded scholarships, and thank the volunteers, local businesses, and city departments who helped make it happen. They also share ways to get involved, including Turkey on Every Table and the November 12 Show Up community mixer. Then the conversation turns to Beacon City Hall: the hosts discuss recent appointments, transparency in the hiring process, the city budget, and how residents can make their voices heard. They also weigh community questions about Flock cameras, privacy, and public safety. The episode closes with a reminder about Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the importance of looking out for one another in Beacon. Topics: Beacon community events, I Run Beacon 5K, local scholarships, Beacon NY City Council, city budget, Flock cameras, community engagement.

On a #JoinTheConversation episode of This Is Beacon, hosts Rueben, Brianna, and Brandon discuss creating real “spaces” that build community and reduce mental-health stigma, featuring guest Dave Eisenstadt, owner of CrossFit 845 in Wappingers and co-owner in Poughkeepsie. Dave shares his background (Stormville/Carmel), discovering CrossFit in 2008 in NYC, building a garage group that grew to 30 people, and opening CrossFit 845 in 2012. He explains CrossFit’s origins (2002), its functional purpose, misconceptions fueled by the CrossFit Games, and how pricing reflects coaching, accountability, and culture. Dave recounts staying open during COVID and emphasizes gyms as mental-health sanctuaries. The conversation highlights onboarding new members and introduces Dave’s free Saturday 6:30 AM Strong Dad Society, a fast-growing fathers’ group combining discussion, workout, and support to promote leadership, vulnerability, and family engagement, plus a planned Fathers of Impact Summit on April 4, 2027.

Former Beacon Mayor Randy Casale joins the podcast for a deep dive into why Beacon, New York still lacks a full-scale community center despite decades of need. Drawing from his 26 years as Superintendent of Streets and two terms as mayor (2012–2019), Casale traces Beacon's community support history from church-run programs like the Catholic Youth Organization and St. Andrew's Parish to the independent Beacon Community Center and Martin Luther King Center that served generations of youth before closing in the early 2010s. The episode reveals previously unknown details about Casale's 2013–2015 initiative to secure a $10 million Downtown Revitalization grant for a community center at Hammond Field—a plan presented three consecutive years to state economic development boards but denied due to Beacon's perceived affluence. Casale shares the comprehensive architectural plans developed with planner John Clark, which included bike lanes, pocket parks, and veteran housing partnerships, and explains why establishing dedicated funding mechanisms and embedding the project in Beacon's Comprehensive Plan are critical to preventing another decade of delays. The conversation explores how turnover in city leadership erodes institutional memory, why current Recreation Department programs—while expanded—cannot replace a centralized facility, and what concrete steps the new Beacon Community Collectives nonprofit can take to finally move this project forward, including locating the existing 2013–2015 plans through FOIL requests and securing protected land and maintenance funding before construction begins.

Born and raised in Beacon, Erika Ricottilli comes from a family deeply rooted in the community and in the beauty industry. As the owner of Saint Della Rosa Hair Collective, Erica has built more than a salon. She has created a space that reflects her passion, creativity, and commitment to the city she calls home. In this episode of This Is Beacon, Erika sits down with Brooke, Reuben, and Brianna to talk about growing up in a large Beacon family, spending nearly two decades away from home, and ultimately finding her way back. She shares what it was like being raised by a second-generation hairstylist, working in salons from the age of 14, and following a career path that always felt like part of who she was. The conversation explores family legacy, entrepreneurship, motherhood, and the unique experience of raising children in the same community that shaped you. Along the way, Erica reflects on the people, places, and memories that continue to make Beacon feel like home. This is a conversation about roots, identity, and building something meaningful right where your story began.

In this episode of “Untitled, for now”, Rueben, Brooke, Rob Lanier, and producer Brandon continue their ongoing discussion about city government, civic engagement, and the future of Beacon. The conversation begins with a passionate public comment from longtime resident Theresa Craft, whose remarks spark a deeper discussion about transparency, public participation, and the current structure of City Council meetings. The team examines concerns about workshop discussions and votes occurring on the same night, the challenges residents face when trying to stay informed, and the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for public input. Topics discussed include: • The current City Council meeting format and concerns about rushed decision-making • Public access to information and meeting materials • Communication between elected officials and residents • The role of transparency in building trust within local government • The transition of leadership within City Hall and questions surrounding the City Administrator position • The importance of civic engagement and resident participation in local government • Beacon’s upcoming Comprehensive Plan and Capital Plan processes • Community concerns regarding project priorities • The Rail Trail and Greenway Trail discussions • The ongoing call for a community center in Beacon • The role nonprofits, volunteers, and residents play in shaping the future of the city • Why informed citizens make stronger communities The panel also reflects on the value of community leadership, volunteerism, and collective action, encouraging residents to stay engaged, ask questions, and make their voices heard as Beacon plans for the future. Special Recognition The episode concludes with a tribute to former Beacon Police Chief John Johnson Sr., honoring his service, leadership, and lasting impact on the Beacon community. Community Event: An Evening with Don Pruitt Join This Is Beacon host Rueben for a special live conversation with author Don Pruitt. Date: June 28, 2026 Time: 6:00 PM Location: Howland Public Library, Beacon, NY Rueben will sit down with Don Pruitt to discuss his writing journey, published works, and connections to the Hudson Valley. RSVP Today Reserve your spot through the Howland Public Library website: www.beaconlibrary.org Stay Connected Help more people discover conversations that matter in Beacon: • Subscribe to This Is Beacon on your favorite podcast platform • Rate and review the show to help it reach new listeners • Share episodes with friends, neighbors, and community members Sponsor or Support the Show Interested in sponsoring an episode or partnering with This Is Beacon? Email: [email protected] Support the mission of I Am Beacon and help strengthen local storytelling and community engagement: www.iambeacon.org Thank you for listening and for being part of an informed, engaged Beacon community.

Beacon is changing fast. The question is, do residents fully understand how and why? In this first episode of a new series, the team breaks down what’s happening across the city and why so many people feel like decisions are moving faster than they can keep up with. Joined by longtime resident and former zoning board chair Robert Lanier, the conversation pulls back the curtain on leadership transitions, City Council dynamics, and the real impact of the Comprehensive Plan. The episode digs into what residents are seeing and feeling every day: Fast-tracked leadership decisions and what that means for transparency A new City Council navigating complex issues at a rapid pace Parking pressure as a sign of deeper planning challenges Rising housing costs and what “affordable” really means A recent public safety incident and the impact of limited communication This is not about politics. It’s about understanding how decisions made at City Hall show up in your daily life. If you’ve ever asked, “How did we get here?” this episode is for you.

In this special Women’s History Month episode of This Is Beacon, Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon welcome guest co-host Tara Simmons for a conversation celebrating the women shaping Beacon’s past, present, and future. The episode kicks off with the city buzzing after the Beacon High School Varsity Boys Basketball team’s Sectional Championship win, while also highlighting the incredible leadership behind Beacon’s girls basketball program, led by Christina Ricottilli and Maritza Anderson. The hosts reflect on the lasting legacy of women in Beacon—from trailblazing educators to Beacon’s first female mayor, Clara Lou Gould—and recognize the strong presence of women-owned businesses throughout Main Street. They also acknowledge the legacy of BJ’s Restaurant, a longtime community staple run by Barbara and Brenda Sims. Guest Tara Simmons introduces her new faith-based women’s initiative, Rooted and Unbothered, focused on personal growth, resilience, and building authentic sisterhood in a time when many women are seeking deeper connection and support. The conversation also highlights the upcoming EmpowerHer Women’s Health Event, hosted by Les Soeurs Amiables Civic Club, taking place March 21 from 10am–2pm at St. Andrew & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Beacon. The event will feature sessions on women and wealth with Jasmine Vasquez, navigating menopause with Thomasina Brock of M.E.A.N. Girls, and yoga and meditation with La’Shawn Martinez, creating space for women to prioritize their health, knowledge, and wellbeing. The episode wraps with ways to get involved locally—from supporting women-owned businesses to showing up for community moments like EmpowerHer, the Parade of Green, and other events that bring Beacon together. Because when women lead and communities show up for one another, Beacon thrives.

In this ICYMI episode of This Is Beacon, Reuben and Brandon are joined by Jamie from Faregrounds to recap a some community work in action. They highlight the Back 2 School Block Party, 138 supply kits distributed, and the 14th Annual I Run Beacon 5K securing their fundraising goal for their Making a Difference scholarship. They introduce Turkey on Every Table and discuss what’s next with community fridges. Want to support local community fridges or need food today? Visit Fareground.org or contact Jamie Levato at (845) 375-7194

In this episode of This is Beacon, hosts Reuben and Brandon engage in a deep and insightful conversation with Shandi Speller, a seasoned family peer advocate with CoveCare Center for over eight years. Shandi shares her journey from being a classroom teacher in the South Bronx to becoming a family peer advocate. She discusses the importance of addressing children's behavioral issues by involving the entire family, the role of community resources like public libraries and recreation departments, and the necessity of building robust support systems for effective advocacy. Shandi also emphasizes the critical need for parental involvement in special education and the benefits of persistence in navigating available services. Her inspiring stories and valuable advice shed light on how communities can come together to support the mental health and well-being of families. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 00:43 Meet Shandi Speller: Family Peer Advocate 01:02 Shandi’s Journey to Advocacy 04:21 Hobbies and Personal Interests 10:47 Building a Village: The Importance of Community 14:31 Challenges and Strategies in Family Support 22:39 Advocating for Special Education 34:09 Success Stories and Community Impact 40:20 Teaching Life Skills and Community Engagement 42:29 The Importance of Community Centers 45:02 Supporting Families and Youth 47:46 Community Resources and Services 53:22 Challenges and Success Stories 55:43 The Role of Empathy and Advocacy 58:53 Final Thoughts and Reflections

This episode of 'This is Beacon' features Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon welcoming special guest Courtney Rovere, PhD, LCSW(NY), LICSW(MA) as part of the #Jointheconversation series. The conversation centers around the importance of mental health, wellness, and Courtney's journey in the field. Courtney shares her experiences working in the Hudson Valley, her education in Boston, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her decision to return home. She highlights the need for systemic change in the mental health field, particularly emphasizing the role of women who constitute a majority of the workforce. Courtney discusses her research and thesignificant issues like burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and workforce turnover.She suggests solutions such as creating safe and affirming workspaces,elevating the voices of those with lived experiences, reducing rigid fundingconstraints, and focusing on collective care. The episode underscores theimportance of small, everyday efforts to foster community and support mentalhealth.

In this episode of This is Beacon, part of the #Jointheconversation series, hosts Brooke, Rueben, and Brandon sit down with Licensed Mental Health Counselor JoAnn Streany, whose work spans New York, New Jersey, Florida, Connecticut, and Delaware. JoAnn brings over two decades of experience as a former school counselor and now runs a remote private practice specializing in Integrated Nutrition for Mental Health. She shares how nutrition, movement, and sleep play a foundational role in mental wellness and elaborates on how she supports clients using Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in partnership with Journey Clinical. Listeners will learn how KAP differs from traditional talk therapy by targeting healing at both the biological and psychological levels. This episode explores: JoAnn’s transition from school counseling to private practice The intersection of nutrition, sleep, and movement with mental health The science and safety of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) What Journey Clinical is and how it partners with providers KAP’s psychiatric medication management model Key FAQs on KAP, including pricing, modalities, and insurance Real-life applications of KAP in areas like mental health, athletics, and eating disorders The importance of adaptability in leadership and communication How policy, training, and emotional regulation play a role in educational and workplace environments Why modeling contentment and resilience matters Whether you're a mental health professional, a leader, or someone seeking better self-care, JoAnn offers practical insights and thoughtful strategies that foster understanding, connection, and growth. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest JoAnn 02:47 JoAnn's Professional Journey and Insights 32:34 The Culture of Productivity and Its Impact 38:53 Balancing Mental Health and Workplace Expectations 40:28 Reevaluating Workplace Priorities 42:26 Balancing Professional and Personal Life 01:01:39 Addressing Emotional Regulation in Education 01:04:09 The Importance of Policies and Training 01:17:20 Understanding Skill Deficits and Choices

In this episode of 'This is Beacon's #jointheconversationseries, hosts Reuben, Brandon delve into an insightful discussion with actress, writer, and director Rachel Handler. As a disability advocate and a recent participant in the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, Rachel shares her inspiring journey in the film industry, her relocation from Jersey City to the Hudson Valley, and the profound impact of authentic disability representation in media. The conversation covers the challenges and triumphs of her career, the significance of the Disability Film Challenge, and the crucial need for inclusiveness in Hollywood. Rachel also highlights her personal experiences and creative endeavors, providing a compelling narrative of resilience, adaptability, and artistic passion.   00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:33 Meet Rachel: Actress, Writer, and Advocate 01:03 Life in Beacon and Personal Background 09:19 Challenges and Triumphs in the Film Industry 13:01 The Disability Film Challenge Experience 18:53 Community Support and Filmmaking in Hudson Valley 28:51 Backlash and Representation in Media 29:48 Authentic Casting and Inclusivity 31:25 Challenges and Stereotypes in Hollywood 33:04 Intersectionality and Disability 34:08 The Disability Film Challenge 37:10 Promoting the Film Challenge 39:21 Impact and Opportunities from the Challenge 43:24 Personal Experiences and Microaggressions 45:33 Behind the Scenes of Filmmaking 49:05 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Community Insights & Future Plans: Beacon's Q1 2025 RecapIn this episode of 'This is Beacon,' hosts Reuben and Brandon provide updates on community events, notable achievements, and future plans for Beacon, New York. The episode starts with shoutouts to community members Brooke and Brianna for their personal and business milestones. The hosts share their personal experiences attending local events and discuss the return of Dunkin' Donuts to Beacon, including debates around drive-thrus and traffic concerns. They also highlight Beacon's local donut shops, Glazed Over and Peaceful Provisions.The conversation then shifts to community initiatives, notably the launch of 'Easter Dinner Baskets' as an extension of the 'Turkey on Every Table' program. The hosts thank all contributors and emphasize the importance of community involvement.Upcoming events include the 'Volunteerism: The Fabric of Our Community' panel discussion aimed at encouraging community engagement and volunteering. They also talk about the 'Join the Conversation' series focusing on mental health, with this year's theme centered around building support systems and resilience.The episode closes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the recent loss in the Murphy family due to a tragic fire, and information on how the community can assist with donations. The hosts emphasize the importance of community support during tough times.00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:34 Meet the Hosts: Ruben and Brandon00:43 Shoutouts to Brooke and Brianna01:07 Recap of Recent Events02:27 Dunkin' Donuts Debate04:37 Drive-Through Controversy09:10 Community Development and Traffic Concerns13:54 Bicycle Safety and Future Planning18:08 Donut Love: Peaceful Provisions and Glazed Over19:54 First Quarter Reflections and New Initiatives20:18 Shoutout to Junior and Easter Dinner Baskets20:43 Recalibrating Community Efforts21:41 Reintroducing Turkey on Every Table23:22 Easter Dinner Baskets Initiative24:33 Community Support and Gratitude27:03 Upcoming Events and Initiatives28:08 Volunteerism and Community Engagement37:48 Mental Health Awareness Series45:52 Community Tragedy and Support49:29 How to Support This is Beacon

In this episode of the 'This is Beacon' podcast, hosts Brooke, Ruben, Brianna, and Brandon recount the highlights of 2024, share personal growth stories, and discuss their organizational goals for 2025. They talk about the impact of events such as the Back to School Block Party, the I Am Beacon 5K, and the Turkey on Every Table initiative, expressing gratitude to sponsors and community partners. Additionally, they detail their mental health resilience workshops for high school students and adults. Looking forward to 2025, the hosts emphasize the importance of community collaboration, personal well-being, and sustaining growth while maintaining the organization's authentic spirit. 00:00 Welcome to This is Beacon 00:31 Reflecting on 2024: Personal Growth and Achievements 11:51 Community Events Recap: Highlights and Successes 28:50 Mental Health Initiatives: Workshops and Impact 36:47 Community Foundation of Hudson Valley 36:49 Early Days and Impact 37:50 Challenges and Successes 39:06 Reflecting on Growth 41:31 Collaboration and Community 46:07 Looking Ahead to 2025 52:48 Authenticity and Inclusivity 01:06:27 Gratitude and Support

In this special episode for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are honored to sit down with Tara Simmons, founder of Flip It for Life and a powerful voice for change. Tara shares her personal journey, shedding light on the challenges she has faced, the strengths she has discovered along the way, and what drives her to help others overcome adversity. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and empowerment, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss. Join us as we dive deep into Tara's mission to uplift and inspire those impacted by domestic violence.