The Best of New Jersey Podcast

Melissa Ferrara (Fitness/Lifestyle Influencer) - The Best of New Jersey Podcast Episode 10

In this Episode of The Best of New Jersey Podcast, Amanda chats with Melissa Ferrara, a dynamic fitness and lifestyle influencer who blends wellness with a relatable sense of humor. The conversation dives deep into Melissa’s personal journey, sharing health struggles, her favorite local spots in Hoboken and Weehawken, and how she got into the best shape of her life. Originally gaining a following as "Mrs. New Jersey" in the Peloton community during the pandemic, Melissa has since evolved her platform to cover much more. From navigating the challenges of motherhood and a high-risk pregnancy in 2020 to her professional life as a corporate event planner in New York City, she shares an unfiltered look at balancing a busy life while staying mentally and physically fit. Whether she’s imitating Moira Rose for a viral reel or losing her daughter in T.J. MAXX, Melissa brings a refreshing "Real Jersey" energy to the podcast. Connect With Melissa Ferrara - * Instagram: @itsmelissaferrara [https://www.instagram.com/itsmelissaferrara/] * TikTok: @itsmelissaferrara [https://www.tiktok.com/@itsmelissaferrara] Follow Amanda @dontsithome [https://www.instagram.com/dontsithome/] For More from The Best of New Jersey Podcast: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Keep Up with Best of New Jersey (BestofNJ.com) - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bestofnj [https://instagram.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj [https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey [http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast]

Stefanie Lachenauer (New Jersey Teacher of The Year) - The Best of New Jersey Podcast Episode 9

Step inside the classroom of a true hometown hero as *The Best of New Jersey* podcast welcomes Stefanie Lachenauer. A "Jersey girl" through and through, Lachenauer shares her inspiring journey from a Nutley upbringing to her 19-year tenure at Montgomery Township schools, where she empowers middle schoolers through innovative courses on global leadership and mindfulness.  Whether she's discussing the science of breathing with her students or recounting the surprising student question that led to an entire book chapter on "is farting mindful?" Stefanie’s passion for education and mental health shines as a beacon for the Garden State.  Connect With Stefanie Lachenauer  * Visit Her Website: https://stefanielachenauer.com/  [https://stefanielachenauer.com/ ] * Buy Her Book: https://www.amazon.com/Let-Glitter-Settle-Mindfulness-Teens/dp/B0FVW3FVFL/ [https://www.amazon.com/Let-Glitter-Settle-Mindfulness-Teens/dp/B0FVW3FVFL/ ] * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/njstoy2025/ [https://www.instagram.com/njstoy2025/] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Stefanie-Lachenauer-2025-NJ-State-Teacher-of-the-Year-61559565622585/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Stefanie-Lachenauer-2025-NJ-State-Teacher-of-the-Year-61559565622585/] Follow Amanda @dontsithome [https://www.instagram.com/dontsithome/] For More from The Best of New Jersey Podcast: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Keep Up with Best of New Jersey (BestofNJ.com) - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bestofnj [https://instagram.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj [https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey [http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast]

Matthew Sims (Actor/Singer) - The Best of New Jersey Podcast: Episode 8

In this Episode of The Best of New Jersey Podcast, Amanda hangs out with the incredibly multi-talented Matthew Sims, Jr. Tune in as he opens up about his "accidental" move to New Jersey (we’ve all been there, right?), performing just over Cynthia Erivo's shoulder at the 2025 Tony Awards, and at SNL 50, plus his online Math Tutoring business, MathYOU Tutoring.  Connect with Matthew Sims, Jr.  Website: https://matthewsimsjr.com/ [https://matthewsimsjr.com/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewsimsjr [https://www.instagram.com/matthewsimsjr?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Matthewsimsjr [https://www.tiktok.com/@Matthewsimsjr?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Official Podcast Synopsis: The Best of New Jersey Podcast is a dynamic podcast that celebrates the deep-rooted connection between New Jersey’s most influential figures and the communities that shaped them. Each episode features engaging conversations with high-profile celebrities, executives, athletes, and entertainers who have lived, worked, or continue to be a part of the Garden State. Through personal stories, nostalgic reflections, and shout-outs to their favorite local businesses—from beloved coffee shops to iconic pizzerias—we explore what makes New Jersey truly special. More than just a storytelling platform, The Best of New Jersey Podcast is a tribute to the state’s vibrant culture and thriving business scene, spotlighting the places and experiences that have left a lasting impact on those who call New Jersey home. Whether you’re a proud Jersey native or just curious about what makes this state so unique, our podcast offers an entertaining and insightful look at the personalities and businesses that define the heart of New Jersey. Follow Amanda @dontsithome [https://www.instagram.com/dontsithome/] For More from The Best of New Jersey Podcast: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Keep Up with Best of New Jersey (BestofNJ.com) - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bestofnj [https://instagram.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj [https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey [http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast]

Jake Thistle (Singer/Songwriter) - The Best of New Jersey Podcast: Episode 7

Connect with Jake Thistle Website: https://jakethistle.com/ [https://jakethistle.com/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakethistlemusic/ [https://www.instagram.com/jakethistlemusic/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4BUgwO5xK19G3Ch6MCq8EW [https://open.spotify.com/artist/4BUgwO5xK19G3Ch6MCq8EW?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jakethistle [https://youtube.com/@jakethistle?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jakethistlemusic [https://www.tiktok.com/@jakethistlemusic?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] Support Our Sponsor, SoJo Spa Club Website: https://sojospaclub.com/ [https://sojospaclub.com/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] Book a Day Pass or Treatment: https://sojospaclub.com/book/ [https://sojospaclub.com/book/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sojospaclub/ [https://www.instagram.com/sojospaclub/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sojospaclub/ [https://www.tiktok.com/@sojospaclub/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Podcast_Jake_Thistle&utm_term=North_Jersey_Bergen_County_Edgewater&utm_content=SoJo_Spa_Club] For More from The Best of New Jersey Podcast: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Keep Up with Best of New Jersey (BestofNJ.com) - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bestofnj [https://instagram.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj [https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey [http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Follow Amanda @dontsithome [https://www.instagram.com/dontsithome/] For More from The Best of New Jersey Podcast: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Keep Up with Best of New Jersey (BestofNJ.com) - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bestofnj [https://instagram.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj [https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey [http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast]

Ricardo Roig (Artist) - The Best of New Jersey Podcast Episode 6

In this Episode of The Best of New Jersey Podcast, host Amanda Morrison enters the vibrant world of New Jersey art with award-winning artist Ricardo Roig. Roig, who went to Westfield public schools and later Kean University, shares his journey from being an art teacher in Westfield to a full-time professional artist, a transition that occurred after an opportunity with the W Hoboken.  Listen in and learn about the development of Ricardo’s unique hand-cut stencil screen print method, the personal reason behind his life-altering decision to leave art school in Florence, Italy, and about his upcoming major mural project in one of NJ’s most popular cities. Learn More About Ricardo Roig * Visit his Website: https://www.roigcollection.com/ [https://www.roigcollection.com/] * Follow Ricardo on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roigcollection [https://www.instagram.com/roigcollection] * Follow Ricardo on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RoigCollection/ [https://www.facebook.com/RoigCollection/] * Subscribe to Ricardo on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0Cmocy4qNmtXk7wicJLgAQ [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0Cmocy4qNmtXk7wicJLgAQ] * Roig Family Art Scholarship at Kean University: https://www.keanfoundation.org/roig-family-art-scholarship [https://www.keanfoundation.org/roig-family-art-scholarship] For More from The Best of New Jersey Podcast:   - Follow Amanda on Social Media @DontSitHome   * Instagram: https://instagram.com/dontsithome [https://instagram.com/dontsithome] * YouTube:  ⁨ [http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey]https://www.youtube.com/@DontSitHome [https://www.youtube.com/@DontSitHome] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dontsithome [https://www.tiktok.com/@dontsithome] - Follow Best of New Jersey @BestofNJ  * Website: https://bestofnj.com/   [https://bestofnj.com/] * Instagram: https://instagram.com/bestofnj [https://instagram.com/bestofnj] * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj   [https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj] * YouTube:  ⁨http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey [http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey]   * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com   [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com] - Follow the Podcast @bestofnjpodcast   * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/] * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast] Intro Music: Safety Net - Riot (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faEtFGEqEAo [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faEtFGEqEAo])  The Best of New Jersey Podcast Synopsis:   The Best of New Jersey Podcast is a dynamic podcast that celebrates the deep-rooted connection between New Jersey’s most influential figures and the communities that shaped them. Each episode features engaging conversations with high-profile celebrities, executives, athletes, and entertainers who have lived, worked, or continue to be a part of the Garden State. Through personal stories, nostalgic reflections, and shout-outs to their favorite local businesses—from beloved coffee shops to iconic pizzerias—we explore what makes New Jersey truly special.   More than just a storytelling platform, The Best of New Jersey Podcast is a tribute to the state’s vibrant culture and thriving business scene, spotlighting the places and experiences that have left a lasting impact on those who call New Jersey home. Whether you’re a proud Jersey native or just curious about what makes t Follow Amanda @dontsithome [https://www.instagram.com/dontsithome/] For More from The Best of New Jersey Podcast: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/bestofnjpodcast/?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnjpodcast?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] Keep Up with Best of New Jersey (BestofNJ.com) - Instagram: https://instagram.com/bestofnj [https://instagram.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj [https://www.facebook.com/bestofnj?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey [http://www.youtube.com/@bestofnewjersey?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast] - TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com [https://www.tiktok.com/@bestofnj.com?utm_source=BestofNJ&utm_medium=Outbound&utm_campaign=Feature_The_Best_of_New_Jersey_Podcast]