Advertise on podcast: Greetings From the Garden State

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, we welcome acclaimed author and cultural critic Peter Ames Carlin, who joins us to discuss his latest book Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of Born to Run. Carlin takes us deep into the pivotal 20 months leading up to the release of Bruce Springsteen’s legendary third album, Born to Run. At that time, Springsteen was at a career crossroads — beloved by critics but struggling commercially, with Columbia Records questioning his future on the label. With his back against the wall, Bruce faced an all-or-nothing moment that would ultimately define his career and launch him into global stardom. We cover: Why Springsteen’s first two albums didn’t initially resonate on the radio.How Born to Run became the breakthrough that turned Bruce into a household name.The painstaking detail of researching this period in Bruce’s career, down to the day-to-day struggles and triumphs.Why Carlin has returned to Springsteen as a subject after already publishing a full biography in 2012.Stories of Bruce playing to nearly empty rooms before ultimately filling stadiums across the world.Carlin also shares details about his book tour stops across New Jersey and his upcoming appearance at the Born to Run symposium at Monmouth University. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves Springsteen, American music history, or the story of an artist fighting to define his place in the world. Links Pick up a copy of Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of Born to Run wherever books are sold. Support the show

Send us a text We visit Steve Bauer, owner of Ghost Hawk Brewing Company in Clifton, NJ. Mike and Steve try several beers while learning about Steve's background, difficulties he has faced in life, and how he's overcome those. We also learn the meaning behind the name "Ghost Hawk" which is more than just a cool name, it has significant meaning to Steve and his story makes you appreciate it even more.  Ghost Hawk Brewing Co.: 321 River Rd #6, Clifton, NJ @ghosthawkbrewingco www.ghosthawkbrewing.com Thank you to our sponsors: New Jersey Lottery Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com Contact the show: [email protected] Support the show Support the show

Send us a text In this episode, join entrepreneur and oyster farmer Matt Matusky as he shares his fascinating journey into oyster farming with Love Oysters. Recorded at Captain Mike's Marina in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, located in the Great Bay, one of the Northeast's largest preserved wetlands, Matt discusses his transition from marine biology to oyster farming right out of college. Discover the unique challenges and learning curve of oyster farming, as Matt sheds light on the impact of weather, tides, and lunar cycles on his day-to-day operations. Learn about the distinct-tasting oysters cultivated in the Great Bay region, influenced by factors such as salinity, algae, and environmental conditions. Explore the pivotal role of the Barnegat Oyster Collective, a consortium of oyster farmers simplifying distribution and marketing processes. The podcast unravels the diverse flavors of oysters from different Great Bay regions and the thriving renaissance of oyster farming in New Jersey. As the episode concludes, join the host and Matt in a tasting session featuring six random Love Oysters, showcasing the exceptional products and the quality harvested from the bountiful waters of the Great Bay. Don't miss this insightful journey into the world of oyster farming, highlighting its impact on the environment, the unique flavors of regional oysters, and the collaborative efforts of the Barnegat Oyster Collective. To learn more about Matt's Love Oysters NJ, visit loveoysters.farm, or explore the Barnegat Oyster Collective at barnegatoysters.com. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes and more exciting insights into diverse topics on the podcast's website. Love Oysters: loveoysters.farm @loveoystersnj Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines jacksonpines.com Thank you to our sponsors: New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co UCS Advisors: ucsgreatness.com Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar OMG Tarot: omgtarot.com Contact the show: [email protected] Support the show

Send us a text We head to Freehold, NJ, to visit the headquarters of New Jersey Youth Soccer for a conversation about Every Kick Counts—a unique FootGolf fundraiser supporting Top Soccer programs for athletes with disabilities. First, NJYS CEO Evan Dabby and Vinny Nasuda, President of Toms River FC, share how Top Soccer provides free, community-based soccer opportunities for players of all ages and abilities, supported by passionate volunteers and partners like RWJ Barnabas Health. Vinny details Toms River’s thriving program, which includes drills, giant soccer balls, pizza, and a dedicated crew of “buddies” who return year after year to make game day special. Next, event founder Zack Dabby explains how his friendship with fellow athlete Jack inspired the first Every Kick Counts, bringing together over 50 participants and raising nearly $10,000. Zack talks about the challenges of launching an event from scratch, the importance of community support, and his vision to expand the program statewide and beyond. Jack and his mom Michelle join in to share what inclusion, teamwork, and lasting friendships mean to special needs families. Finally, legendary U.S. soccer player and coach Tab Ramos reflects on his own journey through New Jersey soccer, why giving back matters, and how events like Every Kick Counts unite communities through the universal language of sports. Whether you’re a soccer fan, a parent, or someone who loves seeing sports used for good, this episode will leave you inspired by the teamwork, passion, and heart that power New Jersey’s youth sports community. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What Top Soccer is and how it supports athletes with disabilities across New JerseyThe story behind Every Kick Counts and how FootGolf is making a differenceHow community volunteers create lasting impact in youth sportsWhy inclusivity and friendship matter both on and off the fieldInsights from Tab Ramos on the growth and future of New Jersey soccerResources & Links: New Jersey Youth Soccer: njyouthsoccer.comTop Soccer Program Info: NJYS Top SoccerFollow Every Kick Counts on Facebook & InstagramGreetings from the Garden State: greetingsfromthegardenstate.com Support the show

Send us a text This week on Greetings from the Garden State, powered by the New Jersey Lottery, we’re at the New York Red Bulls training facility in East Hanover talking with two Jersey-born standouts — Daniel Edelman (Warren) and Peter Stroud (Chester). We dive into:  ⚽ Their early days growing up in New Jersey soccer culture — from local fields to PDA to the Red Bulls Academy  🏆 What it’s like to play professionally for your hometown team with friends and family in the stands  🔥 Their MLS Cup Final run and the moments that meant the most to them on the pitch  🇺🇸 How the 2026 World Cup could change the trajectory of soccer in the U.S., and why Jersey is ready to represent  💪 Why playing in front of a passionate Jersey crowd hits different Whether you’re a soccer fan, a New Jersey lifer, or just love hearing stories of homegrown success, this one will get you hyped for the future of the sport in the Garden State. 🎧 Listen now to hear why these two believe Jersey soccer is stronger than ever — and why they wouldn’t want to play anywhere else. Support the show

Send us a text In this inspiring episode of "Greetings from the Garden State," host Mike Ham welcomes Eric LeGrand at LeGrand Coffee House in Woodbridge, New Jersey. Eric shares his remarkable journey, having overcome a paralyzing injury sustained during a college football game. The episode unfolds with warm greetings and highlights LeGrand Coffee House's commitment to quality coffee that aligns with Eric's high standards. The conversation explores Eric's upbringing in Woodbridge, his passion for football, and his decision to attend Rutgers University to represent his home state. As the podcast delves into Eric's football career at Rutgers, his Denver Broncos fandom, and the origins of his jersey numbers, the host applauds Eric's dedication to the local community and his businesses. The discussion transitions to the life-changing injury on October 16, 2010, where Eric describes the moments of paralysis on the field and the subsequent uncertainty about his future. Despite the challenges, Eric emphasizes the unwavering support from his community during hospitalization and recovery. The episode covers Eric's post-injury challenges, including his three-month stay with family during house reconstruction and his commitment to continuing education through online classes. The unexpected opportunities that emerged, such as his broadcasting career, public speaking engagements, and a book deal, are explored. Eric's motivational speaking journey takes center stage, highlighting his refined storytelling skills, connection with diverse audiences, and finding purpose in his experiences. The first segment concludes, paving the way for a deeper exploration of Eric LeGrand's impactful post-injury endeavors and contributions to the community in subsequent podcast episodes. Throughout the interview, Eric's dedication to quality products under his name is evident, spanning LeGrand Coffee House, Grand Whiskey, and potential future business ventures. LeGrand Coffee House is poised for national expansion and franchise plans, while Eric's foundation, associated with the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, continues to raise funds for spinal cord injury research. The episode encapsulates Eric LeGrand's resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to making a positive impact, offering listeners insights into his ongoing recovery efforts, dedication to physical activity, and future business expansions and collaborations. The episode serves as a testament to Eric's journey and his unwavering determination to inspire and support those affected by spinal cord injuries. ericlegrand52.com GET YOUR JERSEY FEST TICKETS NOW! https://www.seetickets.us/event/jersey-fest/588283 Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines jacksonpines.com Thank you to our sponsors: New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com Helix NJ: helixnj.com New Jersey Innovation Institute: njii.com Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co UCS Advisors: ucsgreatness.com Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar OMG Tarot: omgtarot.com Contact the show: [email protected] Support the show Support the show

Send us a text This week’s episode brings you straight to the sand as Greetings From the Garden State hit the beach for a special live broadcast from the 17th Annual Jetty Coquina Jam in Brant Beach on Long Beach Island! 🌊☀️ Hosted by Mike Ham as part of the Radio Garden State Roadshow, this episode features highlights and interviews from a six-hour beachside broadcast celebrating community, surfing, and some seriously good causes. The Coquina Jam, a female surf competition and fundraiser, benefits both the Jetty Rock Foundation and David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation—organizations dedicated to environmental stewardship and holistic support for families impacted by cancer. 🎧 In This Episode 🏄‍♀️ Live from the beach! Cam kicks off the show with vibes, waves, and tunes🏌️‍♂️ Ryan from Nine Iron Golf shares how golf can be accessible, fun, and community-focused—even on the beach🎗️ Tim from David’s Dream & Believe walks us through the inspiring story of the foundation and its deep roots in the LBI community🦪 Danielle & Isabelle from High Tide Oyster Co. talk oysters, sustainability, and the joy of shucking shellfish at weddings, parties, and now Coquina Jam!Whether you were there or just wish you were, this episode captures the energy of the day and the people behind the magic. Huge thanks to Jetty, David’s Dream & Believe, and all the amazing guests and attendees for making it unforgettable. 📲 Follow & Support: Radio Garden State — @radiogardenstate Jetty Rock Foundation — jettyrockfoundation.org David’s Dream & Believe — ddbcf.org Nine Iron Golf — 9irongolf.com High Tide Oyster Co. — hightideoysterco.com 💌 Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for updates on events, new shows, and everything loud and local in New Jersey. 🎙️ Keep New Jersey Loud. Support the show

Send us a text Mike Ham sits down with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy inside the Choose New Jersey offices to talk about all things Garden State. From his international economic missions to bring jobs to NJ, to his deep love for Monmouth County, to the growing impact of the film and soccer industries in New Jersey — this conversation touches on the past, present, and future of one of the most iconic states in the U.S. Governor Murphy shares his thoughts on: Why New Jersey is a global destination for business and talentHis family's decision to plant roots in Monmouth CountyThe booming film industry and Netflix's billion-dollar investment at Fort MonmouthNew Jersey's role in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Club World Cup 2025The importance of small businesses and local legacyHis passion for soccer, local wine, and the “you talking to me?” Jersey attitudeWhether you're a lifelong resident or just Jersey-curious, this episode celebrates the diversity, grit, and cultural power of the Garden State. Don't miss Governor Murphy's reflections on his legacy and why he believes “New Jersey is unlike anywhere else in America.” 🎧 Listen now and learn why we’re from Jersey, baby — and you're not. 🌐 Links & Resources: Choose New JerseyFIFA Club World Cup 2025 TicketsMayo Performing Arts CenterNew Jersey Wine Growers AssociationRadio Garden Statehttps://nj.gov/governor/ Facebook, Instagram, XSupport the show

Send us a text Live from the Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, NJ — it’s the Radio Garden State Roadshow! On this special episode of Greetings From the Garden State, Mike Ham and Chris Vaglio broadcast for three hours from one of New Jersey’s most unique beer festivals: Brew at the Zoo. With 2,400 tickets sold out and dozens of local breweries pouring everything from hazy IPAs to dry ciders, this episode brings the full Jersey flavor to your ears. 💬 In this episode: Mike and Chris talk live music, foster dogs (shoutout to sweet Eeyore 🐶), bald sunburns, and their favorite zoo animalsInterviews with local legends including:Heath Traver of Glenbrook Brewery (Morristown)Mark Costa of Veritage Brew Works (Bloomfield)Jim from Birdsmouth Beer (Oceanport)Emily from The Frisch Team (Weichert Realtors, Morristown) — sponsors of the branded beer cups!Announcements about new shows on Radio Garden State, including The Back Three, a soccer show produced in partnership with Veritage and NJ soccer voicesA look at Veritage’s speakeasy-style dinner series, Whisper Cellar Society, and a sneak peek into Ironbound Cider’s new Lackawanna Station collab🐕 Adopt Eeyore! Mike and his fiancé are fostering Eeyore, a 5-month-old Aussie shepherd mix who’s sweet, smart, crate-trained, and ready for his forever home. If you're interested, DM @radiogardenstate or email [email protected]. Support the show

Send us a text Mike Ham brings the noise from the 10th annual Jetty Rock Foundation Hop Sauce Festival in Beach Haven, NJ! Broadcasting live from the Taylor Avenue waterfront, this episode captures the essence of one of the most beloved summer events at the Jersey Shore. With over 50 craft beers, a spicy selection of hot sauces, and vendors bringing the heat, Hop Sauce is where food, music, and community collide. Mike kicks things off solo while waiting on co-host Danny Coleman, who’s battling the parking chaos (classic LBI). Sunshine Spazz is rocking the stage, the sun is blazing, and the beer is cold—so if you're nearby, pull up. Throughout the day, you'll hear: Interviews with organizers and vendorsPerformances and chats with bandsPlenty of chaos, commentary, and Jersey prideWhether you were there or just wish you were, this episode is your front-row pass to the Hop Sauce Festival, Jetty-style. Powered by the New Jersey Lottery! Powered by: Radio Garden State & the Jetty Rock Foundation Tagline: Keep New Jersey Loud. Keep it Spicy. Support the show

Send us a text In this milestone 180th episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham takes you deep into one of New Jersey’s most fascinating hidden gems: the South Side of Ellis Island. Joined by Jim Dessicino, Director at Save Ellis Island, they explore the forgotten history, powerful stories, and untold legacy of this rarely seen side of one of America's most iconic landmarks. While most people associate Ellis Island with New York and the famed Immigration Museum, Jim breaks down the reality: over 80% of Ellis Island’s acreage — including the 29 hospital buildings on Island 3 — technically belongs to New Jersey. Together, Mike and Jim tour the contagious disease hospital, end-of-life care wards, and discuss the massive public health effort that shaped the immigrant experience for millions arriving between 1892 and 1954. 👉 Topics Covered in This Episode: The Supreme Court ruling that determined New Jersey’s ownership of most of Ellis IslandThe 29 hospital buildings that treated infectious diseases like tuberculosis, measles, and trachomaThe incredible sacrifices made by nurses, doctors, and staff who lived and worked on the islandPersonal immigrant stories — including Jim’s own Italian-American heritage and how his family name changed after arrivingThe shocking reality that some immigrants saw their first shower or tasted their first banana hereThe challenges Save Ellis Island faces in restoring and preserving this national treasureHow Ellis Island connects to today’s conversations on immigration, public health, and preserving history🎨 Special Spotlight: Save Ellis Island’s Art Workshops Jim also shares exciting new programming bringing world-class artists, like New Jersey-based painter Mario Robinson, to offer workshops on-site — helping people experience Ellis Island in a whole new way. 🚢 Why This Episode Matters Ellis Island isn’t just a New York landmark — it's a critical part of New Jersey’s history and America’s immigration story. With only 30,000 annual visitors compared to millions on the North Side, the South Side remains one of New Jersey’s best-kept secrets. This episode sheds light on the ongoing mission to preserve its legacy for future generations. 🎧 Perfect for Listeners Who Love: New Jersey historyHidden gems and untold storiesImmigration history & genealogyPublic health historyPreservation, restoration, and cultural heritagePOWERED BY THE NEW JERSEY LOTTERY! CHECK OUT MAYOARTS.ORG 🔗 Links & Resources: 👉 Save Ellis Island: Learn, Donate, Visit or Volunteer👉 Book a Tour of Ellis Island’s South Side👉 Greetings From The Garden State - All Episodes Support the show

Send us a text In this jam-packed episode, Mike sits down with Savvy Seats founder Tommy Gucciardo at Radio Garden State HQ to dive into the chaos, strategy, and heart behind one of the area's most ambitious ticketing and event brands. From running massive tailgate activations outside MetLife to redefining customer service in the secondary ticket market, Tommy keeps it real about what it takes to build a brand that’s about more than just selling seats. 🔑 Key Topics Covered: How Savvy Seats got started after Tommy walked away from a successful partnershipThe grind behind running 40+ tailgates a season — and why MetLife wasn’t the long-term answerWhy American Dream became home base for Savvy Seats' flagship eventsThe real difference between Savvy Seats and the big aggregators like StubHub, Vivid, and GameTimeWhat it’s like to help other entrepreneurs and creators bring their events to lifeWhy transparency, trust, and text messages beat hidden fees and customer support limboHow the dynamic pricing game really works — and why it usually backfires if you're playing chicken with ticket prices💡 Quotes To Remember: “Every ticket is a VIP ticket — because you’re my customer.”  “Everybody has big dreams and small pockets. That’s why we help make it real.”  “If you’re not delegating, you’re not building a business — the business is owning you.”🎟️ Listener Perks: Use code RGS10 at savvyseats.com to get $10 off every ticket purchase, every time — whether it's Knicks, Yankees, Springsteen, or Stone Pony. 📍 Where to Find More: All tailgate events, ticket options, and Savvy Seats’ DIY ticketing platform can be found at savvyseats.com. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or just trying to see Taylor Swift without selling your car, this is your go-to. 🎧 Powered by the New Jersey Lottery.  📻 Keep it locked to Greetings From the Garden State and Radio Garden State – and keep New Jersey loud. Support the show

Send us a text This week, host Mike Ham heads to the stunning Park Château Estates & Gardens in East Brunswick to sit down with three legends of New Jersey hospitality — Barry Maurillo, Joe Maurillo, and Vito Cucci. These lifelong friends and business partners are the visionary team behind three of the state’s most celebrated event venues: Nanina’s in the Park, The Park Savoy Estate, and Park Château. In this warm, wide-ranging, and often hilarious episode, the guys dive into: The story behind acquiring and transforming these historic propertiesHow their deep friendship and shared Nutley roots shaped a decades-long business partnershipWhat it takes to pull off 800+ weddings a year with heart, style, and precisionTheir nonprofit work, including The Cheer Me Up Foundation and Shining Stars, supporting kids, families, and special needs performersThe legendary Nanina’s sauce story (yes, it’s a college class project gone deliciously right)Vito’s unexpected journey into elite horse racing and breeding (spoiler: he’s got winners)And the secret to staying happily married while running one of the most demanding businesses aroundWhether you're planning a wedding, chasing a dream, or just a sucker for a good Jersey hustle — this one’s got it all. Links Mentioned: Park Château Estates & GardensThe Park Savoy EstateNanina’s in the ParkCheer Me Up FoundationShining Stars NetworkNanina’s SaucePowered by: 🎟 New Jersey Lottery — Remember, anything can happen in Jersey. Listen to more episodes at GreetingsFromtheGardenState.com Support the show

Send us a text In this episode of Greetings from the Garden State, Mike heads to Whippany to sit down with Yael Averbuch West, General Manager and Head of Soccer Operations at NJ/NY Gotham FC. A proud Montclair native and former U.S. Women’s National Team player, Yael shares her journey from Jersey youth soccer fields to global tournaments—and now to the front office of one of the most ambitious clubs in women’s soccer. They dive into the unique soccer culture of New Jersey, what it takes to build a world-class roster, and how Gotham FC is carving out its own path—separate from the traditional models of women’s teams riding the coattails of men’s clubs. Yael also opens up about the ongoing learning curve of being a GM, the importance of community engagement, and how Gotham FC is growing its reach as both a competitive franchise and cultural movement. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Yael’s upbringing in Montclair and New Jersey’s reputation as a soccer hotbedThe evolution of her playing career and transition into club leadershipBuilding a team with international stars and world-class talentHow Gotham FC is redefining what it means to be an independent women’s sports brandThe club’s vision to become a globally recognized name in women’s soccerGame day experiences, theme nights, and community initiatives like “Keep Her in the Game”Why New Jersey and the NYC metro area offer something for everyoneHow fans, from casual supporters to die-hards, help shape Gotham FC’s futureResources & Links: 🎟 Tickets, newsletter sign-up, and more: GothamFC.com 📱 Follow Gotham FC on Instagram and Twitter: @GothamFC Support the show

Send us a text In this episode, we step behind the curtain at Sushi by Sea, a private omakase dinner experience hidden in plain sight in Ridgefield, NJ. Mike sits down with co-founder Jay Powles to talk about how a global business consultant from South Africa partnered with a master sushi chef to build one of New Jersey’s most exclusive and community-driven dining spots. Jay shares the journey from underground pop-ups during the pandemic to earning a coveted spot on USA Today's Top 24 Restaurants list. They dive into the restaurant's secretive (but not-so-secret-anymore) location, how Chef Chris commands a 14-seat sushi counter with precision and personality, and why dry-aged fish and direct sourcing from Japanese auctions make Sushi by Sea truly stand out. More than just a meal, Sushi by Sea is about connection, energy, and community — offering guests a chance to arrive as strangers and leave as friends. Jay and Mike also discuss the power of partnerships, building a brand without traditional marketing, and what’s next for this growing culinary concept. Highlights Include: The origins of Sushi by Sea during the COVID pandemicWhy you can’t just “make a reservation” — and how to really get inJay’s transition from nightlife and finance to high-end hospitalityChef Chris’s global background and mastery at the counterThe art of dry-aging fish (and why it’s not just for steak)Creating community through collaboration — even dessert is a local partnershipWhat makes true omakase different — and how Sushi by Sea keeps it realHints at expansion, new concepts, and a request for liquor license leadsThe custom password for Greetings listeners to skip the waitlist🎟 Exclusive Listener Password: MikeHam — use this when registering at sushibysea.com to bypass the waitlist and book your experience. Follow Sushi by Sea: 📷 Instagram: @sushibysea 🌐 Website: sushibysea.com Presented by: 🎭 Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) — visit mayoarts.org for world-class entertainment in Morristown, NJ. New Jersey Lottery - Anything Can Happen in Jersey! Support the show