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Lost in Jersey

Rachel Martens and Janette Afsharian

So close to NYC, New Jersey is a melting pot of creativity, ambition, and culture. Everyone has a Jersey story and on Lost in Jersey, we’re here to share them with you.

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S3 · E48
Nov 4, 2025 · 53 min
Shine Global, Young Filmmakers, And The Power Of Impact Docs
At the Montclair Film Festival, Lost in Jersey sat down with Shine Global—the award-winning team behind War/Dance and Inocente—to explore how real stories drive change far beyond the screen. Co-founders Susan MacLaury and Albie Hecht trace their journey from a family trip to a war zone that inspired War/Dance to an Oscar win for Inocente and a mission to put children’s voices at the center of storytelling. We unpack two decades of hard-earned lessons: how The Wrong Light unraveled a “rescue” narrative into a deeper truth, why The Harvest brought child labor realities to Congress, and how the team’s newest work investigates the troubled teen industry’s hidden abuses with The Business of Trouble. Along the way, we meet this year’s Resilience Award winners—young filmmakers whose short In Case You Forgot proves that creativity, even music created on a kid’s DJ toy, can carry real emotional power. If you care about documentary ethics, storytelling as advocacy, and how art moves policy, this live conversation maps both the playbook and the pitfalls of making stories that matter. Thank you to Montclair Film Festival for having us! Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E47
Oct 28, 2025 · 39 min
Christian McBride's Road to Jersey
Nine-time Grammy winner Christian McBride says life is jazz—part preparation, part improvisation, and pure rhythm. In this conversation, the bassist, composer, and longtime NJPAC Jazz Advisor shows how listening deeply, reacting honestly, and staying curious keep his music (and life) in time. We discuss the surprising bass that travels the world with him, the art of arranging compositions for singers, and the balance between leading big bands and blending in with small ensembles. McBride shares the making of his new album, Without Further Ado, Vol. 1—a project that captures live energy across studios in New York, L.A., and London—and previews this year’s TD James Moody Jazz Festival. Get tickets to see Christian McBride's Big Band on November 21st, featuring Andra Day, José James, Ledisi, and more. It’s a masterclass in rhythm, resilience, and what it really means to find your groove. Book your jazz vacation cruise with Christian at McBridesWorldatSea.com Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E46
Oct 14, 2025 · 39 min
Jim Axelrod: From the White House to War Zones—And Finding His Why
What if the moment that nearly ended your life became the one that finally made sense of it? Veteran CBS reporter Jim Axelrod joins us for a raw, free-flowing conversation that moves from Iraq’s war zones to quiet moments with Bruce Springsteen. He reflects on how growing up in New Jersey—and summers working the Shore—taught him the art of connection. This one’s about resilience, reflection, and the question that keeps him grounded: Why are you doing what you’re doing? In the Long Run, A Father, a Son, and Unintentional Lessons in Happiness by Jim Axelrod Harvey Cedars Shellfish Company Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E45
Oct 7, 2025 · 35 min
Crisis Mode: Karen Kessler on Saving Reputations
What happens when your reputation is on the line? Karen Kessler has been in the room for some of the toughest calls in crisis PR—guiding clients through scandals, lawsuits, and the headlines they never wanted. In this episode, she shares why she walked away from Roger Ailes, how her firm later supported the women who spoke out, and what drives her firm's every decision. We discuss the anatomy of a genuine apology, the distinction between accountability and performance, and how to prepare for conversations that no one plans to have—such as telling a spouse about an affair, a board about a breach of trust, or a team about layoffs. Karen explains why most “crises” burn out in 48 hours, the cases that don’t, and the quiet work of rebuilding reputation when headlines fade. We dive into outrage ecosystems around Middle East commentary, doxxing, Karen also traces her path into high-stakes crisis communications with no business plan, just curiosity and persistence—and explains how she’s now helping turn New Jersey into a booming film and TV hub. If you care about leadership, resilience, and handling tough moments with integrity, this conversation is packed with lessons you can use right now. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs media-savvy guidance, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway! Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E44
Sep 30, 2025 · 39 min
Awards Buzz, Spike Lee & Springsteen: Montclair Film Festival 2025
The Bellevue Theater is back and so is the Montclair Film Festival. We sit down with Montclair Film’s Artistic Director, Tom Hall, to break down the 14th edition: what’s bold, what’s risky, and what’s bound for awards season. Highlights include opening night's Jay Kelly, Noah Baumbach’s meta comedy starring George Clooney and Adam Sandler. Nicholas Britell who scored the film will be there for a Q&A. Get tickets for headline events with Spike Lee and Stephen Colbert, and Pam Abdy on Hollywood’s future. Cinephiles can dive into Rebecca Miller’s Scorsese portrait, Richard Linklater’s black-and-white Godard homage, Jesse Plemons in Bugonia, and Palme d'Or winner It Was Just An Accident by Jafar Panahi. Docs bring the emotional punch with Come See Me In the Good Light (Tig Notaro + Ryan White), while Saturday pairs the deeply moving (Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value) with the urgent (Laura Poitras’s Cover Up). Brendan Fraser shines in Rental Family, and the festival closes on Christy, a fierce Sydney Sweeney performance that refuses the easy sports-biopic arc. Grab your tickets, join the Q&As, and meet us in the dark—this year’s festival promises films to argue over, cheer for, and remember long after. Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E43
Sep 16, 2025 · 35 min
Garden State Greatness: The New Jersey Hall of Fame
What does it really take to turn dreams into reality? In this inspiring episode of Lost in Jersey, we talk to Steve Edwards, President of the New Jersey Hall of Fame, to uncover the success secrets he’s gleaned from interviewing over 100 of the state’s most extraordinary achievers. Born and raised in Jersey (on the very same date as Bruce Springsteen and Jason Alexander!), Edwards has dedicated his life to celebrating the Garden State’s legacy of grit, creativity, and resilience. From the Hall of Fame’s cutting-edge exhibits at American Dream Mall—including interactive holograms with Frankie Valli and Judy Blume—to its mission of inspiring children with real-life role models, Edwards shows how honoring the past can spark the future. Along the way, he shares personal reflections from his new documentary Lucky Jack, which tells the incredible story of his father’s journey from high school dropout to neurosurgeon. His insights reveal a simple but powerful truth: perseverance, imagination, and consistency are the keys to achievement. Whether you’re a lifelong Jersey fan, a seeker of inspiration, or someone who loves a great underdog story, this episode will leave you believing in the power of dreams—and the Garden State spirit. Want to experience New Jersey's extraordinary legacy for yourself? Visit the New Jersey Hall of Fame at American Dream Mall or attend their 17th induction ceremony on November 21st, hosted by Danny DeVito and featuring the Jonas Brothers among this year's honorees. Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E42
Sep 9, 2025 · 32 min
More Than Music: How NJPAC Is Changing Newark
What if the arts could transform not just audiences, but entire cities? In this episode of Lost in Jersey, we sit down with John Schreiber, President and CEO of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), to explore how a lifelong passion for music and culture became the engine behind Newark’s cultural and economic revival. From his early days as an 11-year-old Broadway superfan to producing jazz festivals with legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Sarah Vaughan, Schreiber has spent five decades reimagining how arts institutions can thrive. His groundbreaking approach married corporate sponsorship with authentic cultural programming, reshaping how the arts are funded and experienced across America. At NJPAC, John has built more than a venue—it’s a movement. The center anchors Newark’s downtown, sparks residential and business growth, and provides life-changing opportunities for 100,000 students each year. Through the celebrated TD James Moody Jazz Festival, the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, and bold new partnerships like film studios and arts-focused schools, NJPAC proves that culture is both community and catalyst. This is a conversation about vision, impact, and the belief that everyone deserves a seat at the table. As Schreiber puts it: “Come on down. You all are welcome.” NJPAC Christopher Taylor's Road to Alvin Ailey Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E41
Sep 2, 2025 · 22 min
From Childhood Creations to Museum Masterpieces: Tom Nussbaum
What does it take to dedicate sixty years to a life in art? Artist Tom Nussbaum has been answering that question since childhood—first by tinkering in his dad’s Minnesota workshop, later by filling New York lofts with his whimsical, deeply human creations, and now through monumental public works that thousands encounter every day. With his first major retrospective opening at the Montclair Art Museum this fall, Tom sits down with us to reflect on the arc of his career—from playful childhood inventions to intricate welded steel works crafted in his East Orange studio at Manufacturer’s Village. Along the way, we talk about the duality in his art: the bold, planned installations that brighten public spaces and the improvisational studio explorations that dig into memory, psychology, and narrative. We also explore how New Jersey became Tom’s creative home, why community matters as much as craft, and how his lifelong curiosity continues to fuel new work. Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or just curious about the creative journey, this episode offers a rare look inside a six-decade practice still evolving with joy and purpose. Montclair Art Museum Tom Nussbaum: But Wait, There's More! Tom Nussbaum's website Instagram Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E40
Aug 26, 2025 · 40 min
From Civil War to Civil Discourse: Desh Amila’s Mission to Get Us Talking
What happens when you grow up in a war zone and decide the solution to division is… more conversation? For Desh Amila, witnessing the devastation of civil war in Sri Lanka shaped a lifelong mission: bringing people together to talk across differences with honesty, nuance, and humanity. From reinventing the way Australia engages with big ideas—marketing philosophers and scientists like rock stars—to launching Thinkable in Montclair, New Jersey, Desh has built a global platform for curiosity and connection. His speaker series will feature voices as diverse as Ta-Nehisi Coates, Richard Dawkins, Cornel West, John Wood Jr., Steven Pinker, John McWhorter, and Masih Alinejad, drawing thousands to venues that feel more like concerts than lectures. At the heart of it all is Desh’s belief: when you give people a chance to listen deeply—even to those they disagree with—you create not just understanding, but community. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation about the power of dialogue, why ideas need stages as much as songs do, and how Montclair is becoming the latest home for this global movement. Buy Tickets to the Season Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E39
Aug 19, 2025 · 26 min
Headlines, Harmonies & Medieval Magic: The Many Lives of Dana Hawkins-Simons
This week, our guest Dana Hawkins-Simons takes us on a journey that’s anything but ordinary — from her roots in rural Kansas to adventures around the globe. A celebrated journalist, singer, and tireless advocate, Dana’s story is equal parts grit, globe-trotting, and groove. We talk about her career in international journalism (including the Barcelona Olympics!), her battle with Pernicious Anemia, and the Wall Street Journal article that turned her into a voice for patients everywhere. And of course, we get into her passion for music — from belting the blues to Montclair Early Music's MedievalFest, where knights, hurdy-gurdy's, and costumes collide. Mark your calendar for August 24th from 11am-5pm at the Montclair Art Museum and prepare to be transported back in time as Dana shares how music, history, and community come together for a day that’s more than just an event. It's an experience you don't want to miss! Get Tickets for MedievalFest! Pernicious Anaemia Society Montclair Early Music Dana's Wall Street Journal article about Vitamin B12 Deficiency Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S2 · E28
Aug 12, 2025 · 24 min
College Drop-Off: The Parent's Experience
Have you ever experienced the emotional rollercoaster of sending your child off to college? For Rachel and me, Janette, that momentous milestone came with a whirlwind of emotions, from meticulous dorm preparations to chaotic last-minute packing. We'll take you back to our personal journeys from a year ago, sharing the raw feelings and surprises—like my son's unexpected transfer back home. This episode aims to support and connect parents navigating this unpredictable life event, touching on the pride, sadness, and hope that comes with watching your child step into a new chapter. As we recount the heartfelt moments of saying goodbye over dinners and breakfasts, you’ll find solace in knowing you're not alone in facing these bittersweet transitions. Shifting family dynamics and sibling bonds are part of the new normal, and we offer practical advice on managing expectations around communication with your college-bound children. Our stories underline the universal nature of this experience, highlighting the delicate balance between nurturing their independence and keeping the family connection strong. Lastly, we tackle the empty nest syndrome with a blend of humor and real talk. Imagine "parent rehab" as a lighthearted yet poignant way to address our struggles of letting go. From anthropomorphizing animal behavior to shared experiences of dropping kids off at college, we explore the emotional challenges parents face as their children grow up. Stay tuned for our ongoing saga of trying to get Milo to text his mom and catch a glimpse of our upcoming interviews that promise to entertain and support you through this life-altering journey. Produced by Rachel Martens and Jeanette of Sharian, don’t forget to follow us on social media and share your thoughts! #parenting #college #offtocollge #freshman Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E38
Aug 5, 2025 · 39 min
Evie Colbert - More Than Late Night
Who is Evie McGee Colbert? Most known as Stephen Colbert's wife, in this episode of Lost in Jersey, we get to know the many other facets of this remarkable woman. Evie joins us to talk about her journey from Charleston, SC, to Montclair, NJ—and how a lifelong love of the arts became a powerful tool for building community. As president and co-founder of Montclair Film, she has helped grow it into a nationally recognized cultural hub, with its annual October festival, robust year-round education programs, and now two movie theaters! Evie shares her infectious joy for family, food, and film, as well as her passion for creating spaces where authenticity and connection can thrive—both on and off screen. Montclair Film Does this Taste Funny? A cookbook by Stephen Colbert and Evie McGee Colbert ----podscan_aVg2AFyYZm2Tc2TctJ6r2TE54et86ldp Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E37
Jul 29, 2025 · 28 min
A Hidden Musical Legends of New Jersey
In this episode of Lost in Jersey, we sit down with renowned saxophonist Baron Raymonde—New York Blues Hall of Famer, longtime music educator, and go-to sideman for some of the biggest names in the business. Baron shares stories from a remarkable career that’s taken him from New York to Texas and back again, through jazz clubs, world tours, and iconic New Jersey venues. A classically trained musician, Baron carved out his path in jazz, blues, and R&B. From surprise auditions to last-minute gigs, his career includes performances with Rod Stewart, Gloria Gaynor, the Blues Brothers, Bruce Springsteen, and many more. He reflects on life on the road—luxury hotels one day, hauling gear the next—and how he’s managed to balance an elite performing career with over two decades of teaching music at Nutley High School. Throughout it all, New Jersey has played a starring role, offering chance encounters, community, and creative grounding that helped shape his signature sound. 🎶 Barron’s new record features an all-star cast, so don’t miss his December 11th release party at The Bitter End, and follow his latest performances at Baron Raymonde. Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E36
Jul 22, 2025 · 49 min
Protests Don't Work, Or Do They?
What does protest mean in 2025—and does it still work? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Julie Cohen—acclaimed filmmaker behind RBG and Julia—and her neighbor Liz Figenshu, a dedicated volunteer advocate. In the wake of growing political unrest, they found themselves walking the streets of Bloomfield, NJ, not just to clear their heads but to find a way forward. What emerged was organizing a weekly protest that has lasted over 21 consecutive Sundays. However, this conversation extends far beyond one town or gathering. Together we explore what it means to protest in the modern era and whether the tactics of past movements—such as marches, signs, and physical presence—still hold power in today’s fragmented, digital, and deeply polarized world. Julie and Liz discuss how authoritarian regimes thrive on chaos and isolation, and why their rallying cry, “You Are Not Alone” (YANA), is both a comfort and a call to action. We speak candidly about our doubts: Do small, local protests really change anything? Are we shouting into the void? Julie and Liz share the surprising joy that has emerged—friendship bracelets, multi-generational connections, laughter in the rain—as they’ve cultivated resistance rooted in community. We discuss the long arc of protest history, from civil rights marches to the Women’s March, and ask: How do you keep showing up? What does resilience look like when news cycles move on, but injustice remains? If you're wondering how to channel your concern into action, or wrestling with whether standing on a street corner with a sign still matters—this conversation offers honesty, perspective, and “micro hope.” Because protest isn't just about the moment—it's about the momentum. Follow Julie Cohen on Instagram Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E35
Jul 15, 2025 · 45 min
BATMAN 1989 Untold Origin Story from Jersey!
The Bat-Signal lit up the sky because one Jersey kid had a vision: bring a darker, more human Batman to the big screen. In this episode, Michael Uslan—the executive producer behind every Batman film since 1989—shares how his childhood love for comics sparked a cinematic revolution. Uslan takes us from Ocean Township to Hollywood, revealing how a decade of rejection, a strategic law degree, and lunch with Tim Burton helped erase the campy legacy of the 1960s Batman. Hear behind-the-scenes stories about Jack Nicholson’s Joker, the uproar over Michael Keaton’s casting, and the marketing blitz that created full-blown “Batmania.” Now chairman of the New Jersey Film Commission and with his memoir headed to Broadway, Uslan reflects on Batman’s lasting legacy—and the heartwarming moment a group of West Point cadets turned his story into their own battle cry. "The Boy Who Loved Batman" book New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission New Jersey Hall of Fame Class of 2025! The Dark Knight is #28 on the New York Times Best Movies List Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S1 · E34
Jul 8, 2025 · 54 min
The Man Behind Springsteen's Upcoming Film
Tune in to our talk with acclaimed author Warren Zanes about his road to writing music biographies, including his outstanding book, "Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska.” Film adaptation will be released in October 2025 with a roster of superstars including Jeremy Allen White, Jeremy Strong, and Stephen Gram. The album "Nebraska" was recorded by Springsteen on a simple cassette recorder, with just his guitar and harmonica, in Colts Neck, NJ. It was an industry-shocking release after his four massive studio album successes. In this conversation, why led Warren to write this book. And explore Warren’s experiences as a young rock musician in the band The Del Fuegos, his time at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and his transition into an acclaimed author. His fascinating journey sheds light on his writing approach and storytelling abilities, as well as the profound impact that the album had on Warren and on The Boss himself. Episode Topics: 🎸 Warren Zanes 🎸Bruce Springsteen 🎸 Nebraska Album 🎸 The Del Fuegos 🎸 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 🎸 The Band Experience 📚 School, Bikes, and Muppets Links Amazon Deliver Me from Nowhere: The Making of Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska Watchung Book Sellers https://www.watchungbooksellers.com/item/DayRjyMnwHknVSlRk5DuKQ CBS Morning News: See the room where Nebraska was recorded. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bruce-springsteen-on-nebraska-and-the-emergence-of-springsteen-the-poet/ Keywords: Bruce Springsteen, Nebraska, Music Legends, Warren Zanes, Authors, New Books, Rock, Biographies Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E29
Jul 1, 2025 · 37 min
1in6 Support -Transforming Disability Support
🎙️ Finding Strength, Community, and Purpose in Disability Parenting When Alma Schneider moved from a bustling apartment in New York City to suburban New Jersey, she didn’t expect to feel adrift. But after her son was diagnosed with disabilities, the shift in identity was both profound and isolating. In this heartfelt and powerful episode of Lost in Jersey, Alma shares how one conversation—a friend encouraging her to reconnect with her creativity—sparked a movement that has transformed lives. That first spark led to the creation of 1in6 Support, a growing organization that offers connection, advocacy, and practical resources for families raising children with disabilities. What began as a casual coffee group is now a vital network helping parents navigate challenges that are too often faced in silence—from mental health crises to behavioral struggles. Alma speaks candidly about the realities of parenting a child with disabilities and how community support can be a lifeline. Through events like Mother’s Day pampering day, Disability Pride Parade, and advocacy for inclusive hiring, 1in6Support is reshaping how we talk about—and show up for—families with special needs. Whether you’re a parent, an ally, or someone looking to better understand this experience, Alma’s story offers insight, hope, and a reminder that no one should have to do this alone. 🌐 Learn more at 1in6support.org 💬 “One in six children. One in three families. Together, we can do more.” More Links: Parents Who Rock Le Souk Sankofa Cafe Dhamaal #DisabilityParenting #CommunitySupport #InclusionMatters #MentalHealth #ParentingJourney #Podcast Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E28
Jun 24, 2025 · 38 min
Book Publishing Secrets Revealed
Ready to go from hopeful scribbler to published author? The Book Doctors, Arielle Eckstut and David Henry Sterry, are here to spill the literary tea. With years of industry smarts, hard-earned wisdom, and plenty of laughs, they break down what it really takes to get your book into readers' hands. In this episode, you'll learn: 📚 The two A’s every author must master: Authority (why you) and Audience (who’s reading) 🔍 How to make your book “unique but familiar” — with just the right comparison titles 🚀 Why self-publishing is having its main-character moment (and how publishers are taking notice) 💪 David’s epic tale of 113 rejections — and why perseverance pays off 👯‍♂️ The power of a “dream team” — from cheerleaders to tough critics 📝 Why protecting your work from feedback is a rookie mistake 📺 Submit for their new TV show, America’s Next Great Author — imagine Top Chef meets Queer Eye... but for books! Whether you're plotting your debut or dusting off a long-lost draft, this episode is your literary launchpad. Links: The Book Doctors America's Next Great Author Website The Essential Guide to Getting Your Book Published Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E27
Jun 17, 2025 · 45 min
Beyond Bourdain's Assistant - NYTimes Best Seller Comes Clean
What’s it like to be the right hand to two of the most iconic and complicated chefs of our time? Laurie Woolever dishes on life behind the scenes with Anthony Bourdain and Mario Batali, revealing the chaos, contradictions, and quiet moments that shaped her memoir, the New York Times Bestselling Care and Feeding. From a small town in upstate New York to the kitchens and offices of culinary giants, Woolever's journey is raw, riveting, and deeply personal. She opens up about toxic kitchens, battling addiction in a booze-soaked industry, and the long road to sobriety and self-worth. This isn’t just a peek behind the celebrity curtain; it’s a powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and claiming your own spotlight. Purchase her book: Care and Feeding a Memoir by Laurie Woolever Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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S3 · E26
Jun 10, 2025 · 45 min
Why is Rowan One of the Fastest Growing Colleges?
Our guest today takes us from Iran to innovation. Dr. Ali Houshmand’s journey to the top of Rowan University is anything but typical. Hear how he’s reinventing college with bold ideas, groundbreaking programs, and a hot sauce that funds scholarships. 🌍 From Tehran to Transformation: Born to illiterate parents in Iran, Dr. Houshmand worked his way through college in London, driven by grit and vision. 🏥 Revolutionizing Rowan: He turned Rowan into one of only two U.S. universities with allopathic and osteopathic medical degree programs. 🛠️ Engineering Success: His hands-on education model produces job-ready grads—Lockheed Martin and other giants actively recruit them. 🌶️ Hot Sauce for Scholarships: Raised nearly $3M for student aid by creating and selling hot sauce made from peppers grown on campus. 🧠 Rethinking Education: Believes college should teach students how to apply knowledge wisely, not just memorize facts. 🤝 Leadership with Heart: Leads with transparency, honesty, and dignity—values he believes are essential for real leadership. 🌾 Feeding Minds & Communities: Oversees the growth of thousands of pounds of produce annually to fight food insecurity and teach farming skills. 💡 Silicon Valley of the East? Sees South Jersey’s potential to become a thriving innovation hub thanks to its location and affordability. Listen to be inspired by transformational leader Dr. Ali Houshmand. Links! Rowan University Dr. Ali Houshmand Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
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