Your Hometown Podcast

Advocating for the Gift of Life

Organ donation is one of the most powerful gifts a human being can offer. For thousands of people living with advanced kidney disease, that gift is not just meaningful … it’s essential. Behind every successful transplant is the compassion of a donor and the tireless advocacy of people who fight to give patients hope. Donna Tissot dedicates her life to supporting individuals whose kidney disease has progressed to the point where a transplant is their path forward. Her passion, persistence, and heart have made her a voice for those waiting, hoping, and fighting for another tomorrow.
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, offers strategies to navigate the holidays.
 
This episode is sponsored by:
Schumacher Chevrolet of Little Falls
Pure Balance Center
Super Fresh of Woodland Park

Your Hometown Podcast Woodland Park: The Changing Trends of Modern Media

The media has always played a powerful role in shaping how we see the world, but over the past few decades, that role has changed dramatically. From the trusted voices of evening newscasts to the endless scroll of social media, the way we get our news — and who we trust to deliver it — has evolved beyond recognition. These changes have left many of us wondering about the cost of this constant flood of information. Tina Pappas brings a wealth of insight to that conversation. She is a veteran journalist with decades of experience across television, cable, and local news. Early in her career, she landed an internship with the legendary Bill Beutel and went on to work at ABC News before expanding into various cable networks in New York City. After relocating to northern New Jersey, Tina returned to her roots in local reporting, where she is most proud of covering the issues that truly matter to her community.
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, offers strategies to navigate the holidays, and Dr. Madouna Hanna, chair of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation for Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, talks about the medical side of cosmetic enhancement.  
 
This episode is sponsored by:
Advanced Foot Care of NJ
Pizza City
Legal Leaf NJ
Super Fresh of Woodland Park

Your Hometown Podcast Little Falls: Writing Your Second Act

It’s never too late to chase a dream, rewrite your story, or start something entirely new. For many, the second act of life is where the real magic begins. Christine Hablitz is someone who’s living proof that reinvention isn’t just possible, it’s powerful. Christine has returned to school, serves as a councilwoman, organizes events that bring the Little Falls community together, and is constantly finding new ways to make a difference. She shares what it means to embrace change later in life, why community involvement matters, and how leaning into your next chapter can be the most fulfilling move you’ll ever make.
 
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about the importance of gratitude, and Darien Eletto, chief clinical officer of Behavioral Health Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, discusses why some depression doesn’t respond to standard treatment and what new options are offering hope.
This episode is sponsored by:
Schumacher Chevrolet of Little Falls
Pure Balance Center
Super Fresh of Woodland Park

Your Hometown Podcast Woodland Park: A Gateway to Imagination and Opportunity

Reading is more than just a fundamental skill, it's a gateway to opportunity, imagination, and lifelong learning. In a world increasingly shaped by digital media and fast-paced communication, the ability to read, understand, and critically engage with information is more important than ever. Linda Hoffman understands the transformative power of reading on a deeply personal and professional level. As the director of the Alfred Baumann Public Library, Linda has been a passionate advocate for literacy, learning, and community engagement. Under her leadership, the library has not only expanded its collection and programming but also deepened its impact as a vibrant, inclusive hub for readers of all ages.
 
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about the importance of gratitude, and Darien Eletto, chief clinical officer of Behavioral Health Services at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, discusses why some depression doesn’t respond to standard treatment and what new options are offering hope.
This episode is sponsored by:
Advanced Foot Care of NJ
Pizza City
Legal Leaf NJ
Super Fresh of Woodland Park

Your Hometown Podcast Little Falls: A Family's Journey Through Grief

Grief has a way of changing the shape of everything — how we remember, how we move forward, and how we hold on to the people we’ve lost. It’s especially complex when the loss is sudden, or when someone’s life feels unfinished—when their talent, their light, their presence, seemed like it should have lasted so much longer. Charlene Neopolitan Thomas experienced the heartbreaking loss of her brother, Bob who was a gifted artist whose creative spirit touched everyone around him. Bob’s life was full of color, depth, and passion, but it was also marked by health challenges that ultimately took him far too soon. Charlene discusses what it’s like to walk alongside a sibling through illness, to carry the weight of watching someone you love struggle, and to face the pain of saying goodbye.
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about Seasonal  Affective Disorder (SAD).
This episode is sponsored by:
Schumacher Chevrolet of Little Falls
Pure Balance Center
Super Fresh of Woodland Park

Your Hometown Podcast Woodland Park: Grief, Legacy, and the Road Forward

Loss has a way of reshaping everything—our sense of time, place, and even who we are. Grief is deeply personal, yet it connects us all. John Colie’s mother was a beloved guidance counselor and director of pupil personnel services at Passaic Valley High School. She dedicated her life to supporting students and helping them navigate their toughest moments. Tragically, she lost her life in a house fire, leaving a deep void in both her family and the community she served. John shares what it’s like to survive such a devastating loss, the process of grieving, and how his family is working to carry her legacy forward.
 
This episode is sponsored by:
Pizza City
Advanced Foot Care of New Jersey
Legal Leaf of New Jersey

Your Hometown Podcast Little Falls: Helping Kids Shine

The return to school marks more than just a change in schedule; it’s an important opportunity to create a positive, stable foundation for the year ahead. How we support our children during this transition can shape not only their academic success but their emotional well-being. Donna Scarpa Farraye discusses how parents and caregivers can ease the back-to-school adjustment for kids. From managing anxiety and setting healthy routines to fostering resilience and open communication, Donna offers thoughtful guidance to help make the school year a strong and healthy one for the whole family. Donna is a licensed professional counselor who is guidance counselor for the Woodland Park public schools.
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about the importance of self care, and Erica Higdon, clinical manager of Behavioral Health Services for Bergen New Bridge Medical Center discusses suicide prevention.
This episode is sponsored by:
Schumacher Chevrolet of Little Falls

Your Hometown Podcast Woodland Park: Backpacks, Books, and Big Feelings

The return to school marks more than just a change in schedule; it’s an important opportunity to create a positive, stable foundation for the year ahead. How we support our children during this transition can shape not only their academic success but their emotional well-being. Donna Scarpa Farraye discusses how parents and caregivers can ease the back-to-school adjustment for kids. From managing anxiety and setting healthy routines to fostering resilience and open communication, Donna offers thoughtful guidance to help make the school year a strong and healthy one for the whole family. Donna is a licensed professional counselor who is guidance counselor for the Woodland Park public schools.
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, talks about the importance of self care, and Erica Higdon, clinical manager of Behavioral Health Services for Bergen New Bridge Medical Center discusses suicide prevention.
This episode is sponsored by:
Pizza City
Advanced Foot Care of New Jersey

Your Hometown Podcast Little Falls: Living Your Dream

People have always been fascinated by the world of rock ‘n’ roll — the energy, the rebellion, the larger-than-life personalities. To be even a small part of that world, to work behind the scenes and contribute to its magic, can be truly amazing. Valerie Tompkins Freda has had a front-row seat to a world most only see from afar. She shares a few of her memories and why she feels blessed to do work she truly loves. For more than two decades, Valerie has worked as a sales representative for Greater Media, the parent company of New Jersey’s WDHA.
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, discusses getting ready for the new school year, and Dr. Greg Sorkin, chair of Emergency Medicine at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, talks about seeking emergency care for mental health challenges.
 
This episode is sponsored by:
Schumacher Chevrolet of Little Falls

Your Hometown Podcast Woodland Park: Keeping the Faith When Times Get Tough

Flooding can wash away more than just belongings, it can shake a person’s spirit, uproot a sense of safety, and forever alter the course of a life. Ginny Caroselli opens up about the challenges she faced in the aftermath of a flood her family experienced. She shares how she navigated profound loss, leaned on her faith, and found the strength to move forward. Her story is a powerful testament to endurance, community, and the unwavering belief that even in the darkest waters, hope can rise.
Also in this episode, Pamela Martorana, a licensed professional counselor and founder of Kinderkamack Counseling, discusses getting ready for the new school year.
 
This episode is sponsored by:Advanced Foot Care of NJ