Wendy Phaff-Gennaro is the Director of Development at Queens Centers for Progress (QCP), an organization dedicated to promoting the independence of individuals with developmental disabilities. QCP provides personalized services that help people maximize their abilities, make meaningful choices, a...

On the 24th anniversary of September 11th, we sat down with retired FDNY firefighter Hank Molle, who responded to both the 1993 and 2001 World Trade Center attacks. Hank recounts the morning of 9/11, arriving at Ground Zero just minutes after the second tower collapsed, and the months he spent wo...

Join us for a powerful conversation with Dr. Alethea Taylor, Executive Director of Hour Children, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women and children impacted by incarceration. Dr. Taylor shares how Hour Children provides housing, education, employment training, and family reunification ...

Sneaker artist Junie Ortiz, the creator of Kickz by Beast, joins us for an in-depth interview about his journey from music to custom sneaker design. He talks about his early passion for art, the inspiration behind his unique creations, and what it’s like designing for athletes, musicians, and cul...

In this powerful conversation, pianist and composer James A. Norkawich reflects on his journey from a musical childhood in Connecticut to a career that spans jazz, gospel, classical, and cinematic sound. He opens up about his deep belief in music as ministry, his work in education and healing, an...

In this interview, Joan Wildermuth shares how she went from advertising to opening Beem Light Sauna in Park Slope. She talks about the inspiration behind bringing infrared and light therapy to Brooklyn, the benefits of each treatment, and what clients can expect when the doors open—plus details o...

Jackie DiMaggio is a powerhouse vocalist known for her warmth, grace, and a voice that bridges generations. From iconic tributes to heartfelt originals, her performances captivate audiences with emotional depth and classic charm. A proud Italian-American, Jackie blends faith, family, and music in...

We sat down with Jackie Mendez — the soulful songstress with a love for all things retro — to chat about music, inspiration, and finding her voice in a crowded industry. With her smooth vocals and throwback style, Jackie’s bringing something fresh to the table. This is one artist you’ll want on y...

Hal Keshner joins The AM Show to share his journey from doo-wop stages to directing youth musicals at the Kaplan JCC. From his pandemic-born Hal’s Piano Lounge to mentoring young performers, Hal opens up about the joy of creating community through music and theatre.

Michele Kreuzer is a Certified Behavioral Sleep Specialist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst who helps families and professionals sleep better, feel better, and live better. With over 25 years of experience, she turns sleep science into simple, effective strategies that actually work — from to...

George Russo is a lifelong Queens resident, attorney, and community leader. A former Assistant District Attorney, he went on to build a successful real estate law practice before founding United American Title Agency. He’s the second-generation owner of Villa Russo Catering Hall and currently ser...

Sophia Angelica is a bilingual pop artist and activist blending American and Latin sounds with powerful, emotionally driven lyrics. From her debut album #Angelicas to new singles like “Parte de Mí” and “Época,” Sophia fuses English and Spanish to tell stories of heartbreak, identity, and self-emp...

Dr. Roger D. Howard is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and founder of SemiKolon Society, a brand and movement that challenges the stigma surrounding mental health. With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Howard specializes in guiding individuals—particularly within communities of color—through g...

Boxer Elijah Gonzalez brings both grit and grace to the ring. Beginning his journey in combat sports at just eight years old, Elijah found his true calling in boxing, where his striking skills, discipline, and mental toughness set him apart. Raised in a family that valued hard work and dedication...

On Memorial Day, we had the honor of sitting down with Raul Vicente Jr., a Vietnam War veteran whose story of service and sacrifice offers a powerful reminder of the meaning behind the day. Raul bravely served his country during one of the most turbulent times in American history, and his firstha...

Grammy-nominated pianist, composer, and international speaker Freddie Ravel blends music and leadership into a powerful message of harmony. With a career that spans collaborations with music legends like Earth, Wind & Fire, Madonna, and Santana, Freddie brings audiences on a transformative journe...

Elissa Montanti is a humanitarian force whose compassion has transformed lives around the world. She is the founder of the Global Medical Relief Fund (GMRF), a nonprofit dedicated to helping children who have been injured in war, natural disasters, or illness. Since 1997, Elissa has helped hundre...

Composer and producer Patrick Soluri joins us to talk about his work across ballet, opera, and jazz. As the founder of Prohibition Productions and bandleader of the Hot Toddies, he shares how he’s helped shape New York’s swing dance culture through events like the Gotham Jazz Festival.

Meet Randy Novick—founder of American Softball and the man behind the mic as Rock n Randy. In this uplifting conversation, Randy shares how he turned a simple coaching request into a thriving nonprofit softball league for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. He also dives into ...

We sit down with recently retired world championship boxing referee Benjy Esteves Jr., who opens up about his four-decade career officiating some of the sport’s biggest names and bouts. From Tito Trinidad and Miguel Cotto to Canelo Alvarez and Floyd Mayweather, Benjy shares what it was like to be...

In this interview, Sal Rodriguez — longtime drummer for the legendary band WAR — opens up about his journey through music, acting, and nearly 14 years of sobriety. From touring with music icons to appearing on shows like Full House and George Lopez, Sal reflects on the highs, the struggles, and ...

Designer and entrepreneur Derrick Lawton—better known as Dice 700—shares how he transformed his creativity into a multi-layered movement. From launching The 700 Weirdhouse to supporting underground artists and building custom fashion pieces from scratch, Dice is all about originality, empowerment...

Award-winning actress, teacher, and talent manager Susan Rybin joins us to reflect on her remarkable 40-year journey in entertainment. From her early days on stage as a child to founding Rybin Talent Management and Rybin Studio of Drama, Susan has been a driving force in advocating for Latino rep...

Retired FDNY Captain Anthony Varriale joins us to reflect on his remarkable 35-year career with the New York City Fire Department. From his early days in Brooklyn to leading companies in Manhattan and Queens, Varriale shares powerful memories—most notably his harrowing experience responding to th...