Hey Stamford! Podcast

Youth Mental Health in Stamford: Jaime Baumann on Resources, Support & SYMHA

Jaime Baumann, LCSW, MSEd of the Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut joins the podcast to discuss youth mental health in Stamford, local resources for families, and the mission of the Stamford Youth Mental Health Alliance — a coalition launched in 2022 by Caroline Simmons that now unites more than 35 organizations working to improve mental health support for Stamford’s children and teens.
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Learn more about our guest:You can learn more about Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut by visiting: https://www.childguidancect.org/ 
Learn more about the Stamford Youth Mental Health Alliance by visiting: https://www.stamfordyouthmentalhealthalliance.org/ 
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🎙️ About The Hey Stamford! PodcastThe Hey Stamford! Podcast highlights the people, businesses, and stories that make Stamford unique—covering local culture, events, entrepreneurship, and community conversations.
🛍️ Sponsored by Hey Stamford! The Store
Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more.
📍 Visit us at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor)
🛒 Shop online: https://shop.heystamford.com
💸 Use code POD10 for 10% off your next order
📬 Stay ConnectedSubscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox:👉 https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd
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📱 Follow Hey Stamford!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heystamfordTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamfordFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamfordThreads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamfordX: https://x.com/HeyStamford
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⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Be sure to follow, rate, and review—it helps more people discover the show!
🎧 Watch & Listen 
Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
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A Conversation With My Mom! Stamford Memories, Motherhood & Family

In this special Mother’s Day episode of the Hey Stamford! Podcast, I’m joined by my mom for a fun, heartfelt conversation about family, motherhood, and growing up in Stamford.
We talk about her 45-year career as a paraeducator at Newfield School, memories of Stamford through the decades, her dreams of acting and dancing — including performing on the legendary Ed Sullivan Show — and what I was really like as a kid.
It’s a nostalgic, funny, and meaningful episode filled with local stories, family moments, and appreciation for an amazing mom.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there
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🎙️ About The Hey Stamford! PodcastThe Hey Stamford! Podcast highlights the people, businesses, and stories that make Stamford unique—covering local culture, events, entrepreneurship, and community conversations.
 
🛍️ Sponsored by Hey Stamford! The Store
Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more.
📍 Visit us at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor)
🛒 Shop online: https://shop.heystamford.com
💸 Use code POD10 for 10% off your next order
 
📬 Stay ConnectedSubscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox:👉 https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd
 
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📱 Follow Hey Stamford!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heystamfordTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamfordFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamfordThreads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamfordX: https://x.com/HeyStamford
 
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⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Be sure to follow, rate, and review—it helps more people discover the show!
🎧 Watch & Listen 
Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
 
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Stamford Real Estate Market 2026: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know with Jen Turano & Joseph Pasquino

In this episode, we sit down with Jen Turano and Joseph M. Pasquino, Licensed Real Estate Brokers with Compass, to break down current trends, pricing, inventory, and what buyers and sellers need to know right now.
From low inventory and rising demand to shifting buyer behavior, we cover what’s driving the market—and how to navigate it whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply stay informed.
You’ll learn:• What the Stamford real estate market looks like in 2026• Which price points are the most competitive right now• Where buyers can still find value• How to win in a competitive market• What sellers should be doing to maximize value before listing• Why Stamford continues to attract buyers from NYC, Westchester, and beyond
Whether you’re planning a move or just keeping an eye on the market, this conversation offers a clear, local perspective on one of Connecticut’s most competitive housing markets.
Connect with Jen Turano:Mobile: 917.291.5200Email: jennifer.turano@compass.comInstagram: @jenturanohomes
Connect with Joseph M. Pasquino:Mobile: 203.918.3538Email: j.pasquino@compass.comInstagram: @joeypasquinorealtor
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🎙️ About The Hey Stamford! PodcastThe Hey Stamford! Podcast highlights the people, businesses, and stories that make Stamford unique—covering local culture, events, entrepreneurship, and community conversations.
🛍️ Sponsored by Hey Stamford! The Store
Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more.
Visit us at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor)
Shop online: https://shop.heystamford.com
Use code POD10 for 10% off your next order
📬 Stay ConnectedSubscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox:👉 https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd
####
📱 Follow Hey Stamford!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heystamfordTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamfordFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamfordThreads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamfordX: https://x.com/HeyStamford
####
⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Be sure to follow, rate, and review—it helps more people discover the show!
🎧 Watch & Listen 
Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
####
00:00 Introductions & Podcast Overview01:00 Hey Stamford: Local Community & Store01:25 How Stamford Has Evolved02:13 PR, Marketing, and Real Estate03:36 Construction Background: A Homebuilder’s Perspective05:25 Is Stamford a Hot Market Right Now?06:39 Spring Market Insights & Bidding Wars08:48 Competition, Preparation & Strategic Buying10:09 Neighborhood Highlights & Changing Buyer Profiles11:48 Buyer Strategy: How to Stand Out13:52 Hidden Opportunities & Creative Buying Tactics15:26 Advice for Priced-Out Buyers16:55 What Makes Stamford Stand Out?18:13 Seller Strategy: When & How to Start Planning21:07 Seller Prep Mistakes & Maximizing Value23:33 Is Now a Good Time to Sell?25:15 Multi-Family vs Single-Family Properties26:02 Future Neighborhoods to Watch in Stamford27:43 Common Misconceptions About Stamford29:24 Final Advice for Buyers & Sellers33:00 What Sets This Team Apart35:47 Exciting Upcoming Projects36:19 Where to Connect & Closing
 

Meet Stamford’s 2026 Citizen of the Year: Dr. Maggie Young

Dr. Maggie Young, Stamford’s 2026 Citizen of the Year, joins the podcast to share her 40+ years of impact in recovery and mental health across Stamford, CT.
As Chief Recovery Officer at Liberation Programs, Dr. Young has helped shape addiction treatment, prevention, and family-centered care—supporting thousands of individuals and families throughout Stamford and Fairfield County.
In this episode, we discuss her personal journey, the importance of meeting people where they are, and how programs like Families in Recovery are transforming lives.
🎟️ Dr. Young will be honored at the Stamford Citizen of the Year ceremony on June 2 at Serafresca at the Italian Center. More details and ticket information: https://bit.ly/45HHiVx
You can learn more about Liberation Programs by visiting: https://liberationprograms.org
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🎙️ About The Hey Stamford! PodcastThe Hey Stamford! Podcast highlights the people, businesses, and stories that make Stamford unique—covering local culture, events, entrepreneurship, and community conversations.
 
🛍️ Sponsored by Hey Stamford! The Store
Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more.
📍 Visit us at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor)
🛒 Shop online: https://shop.heystamford.com
💸 Use code POD10 for 10% off your next order
 
📬 Stay ConnectedSubscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox:👉 https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd
 
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📱 Follow Hey Stamford!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heystamfordTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamfordFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamfordThreads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamfordX: https://x.com/HeyStamford
 
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⭐ Enjoying the podcast?Be sure to follow, rate, and review—it helps more people discover the show!
🎧 Watch & Listen 
Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
 
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00:00 Introducing Dr. Maggie Young
01:06 Community & Stamford Shoutout
01:43 Citizen of the Year Surprise Story
05:45 What the Award Means to Maggie
07:17 Maggie's Journey to Stamford
10:14 Reflections on Stamford Community
12:24 Rooted in the Community
12:48 Maggie's Personal Story and Challenges
17:17 Recovery and Turning Point
21:00 About Liberation Programs
25:16 Access to Care & Challenges
26:16 Families in Recovery Program
29:29 Discovering Purpose Through Helping Others
31:12 Changes in Addiction and Recovery
34:32 Prevention, Outreach, and Community Response
36:03 How the Community Can Help
37:13 Youth Prevention and Education
40:38 Maggie Beyond Work – Life and Joy
42:18 Citizen of the Year Reflection
43:47 Proudest Achievements & Recovery
45:08 Praise & Hall of Change Honor
47:03 Advice for Those Struggling
48:22 Where to Find Help & Event Info

The Return of Running in Stamford | AJ Schrag & Stamford Run Club

Stamford’s first half marathon in over 30 years is here.
AJ Schrag — coach, hybrid athlete, and co-founder of Stamford Run Club — joins the podcast to talk about the upcoming Stamford Run Club 5K, 10K & Half Marathon at Mill River Park on April 19, 2026.
We discuss the rise of run clubs, why running is more accessible than people think, and how this event is bringing the Stamford community together.
Whether you’re new to running or training for your next race, this conversation is for you.
For more on the Stamford Run Club, including the upcoming 5K, 10K & Half Marathon, visit: HeyStamford.com
You can follow AJ & Stamford Run Club on Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/aj_schrag
https://www.instagram.com/stamford.runclub  
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The Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com
Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd 
Follow Us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/heystamford 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford 
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford 
X: https://x.com/HeyStamford
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Stamford School Shakeup? Westhill Principal Michael Rinaldi on Potential Changes

There’s been a lot of conversation in Stamford around potential leadership changes at Westhill High School and within Stamford Public Schools.
In this episode, we sit down with Westhill Principal Michael Rinaldi to talk about what’s happening, what the community should understand, and what it means for students and families.
This is a community-focused conversation aimed at bringing clarity — not taking sides — and helping Stamford residents stay informed on an issue that impacts many local families.
Follow Principal Rinaldi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westhill_principal 
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Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com
Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd 
Follow Us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/heystamford 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford 
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford 
X: https://x.com/HeyStamford 
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Inside Connecticut’s Hospitality Rebrand: What It Means for Restaurants & Hotels

In this episode, Scott Dolch, President & CEO of the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association, breaks down the organization’s recent rebrand and what it means for Connecticut’s $21 billion hospitality industry. From restaurants and hotels to workforce development and tourism, we explore how the industry is evolving and what’s ahead.
If you’re a local business owner, hospitality professional, or just love the Connecticut dining scene, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at where things are headed.
For more on the CT Restaurant & Hospitality Association, visit, https://www.ctrestaurant.org
Or follow on Instagram: Instagram.com/CTRestaurantAssoc 
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The Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com
Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd  
Follow Us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/heystamford 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford 
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford 
X: https://x.com/HeyStamford 
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00:00 Introduction & Guest Background01:06 About the Association & Rebrand03:15 Impact of the Hospitality Sector06:13 Expanding to Accommodations & Hotels11:09 Association Growth & Strategies13:56 Connecticut’s Independent Restaurant Scene16:59 Connecticut as a Destination, Not a Pass-through19:15 Hospitality as an Economic Ecosystem22:32 Tourism, Events & Their Local Impact25:16 Current Priorities & Legislative Efforts29:02 Building Influence at the State Level30:23 Educational Foundation & Workforce Programs34:41 High School Programs & Next Generation35:54 The CRAzies: Connecticut’s Culinary Awards41:51 Culinary Tourism & Telling Connecticut’s Story44:48 Most Rewarding Moments & Personal Reflections47:02 Wrap Up & Where to Connect

Melissa Sheketoff: Inside WICC’s Morning Show & Local Journalism

Melissa Sheketoff is the host and executive producer of Melissa in the Morning on WICC 600AM / 959FM. In this episode, she shares her inspiring journey from intern to the youngest and first female morning host in WICC’s nearly 100-year history.
Melissa opens up about her time in television and radio, how she prepares for interviews, and the skills that make her one of Connecticut’s most respected broadcasters. She also talks about local journalism, the evolution of morning radio, and connecting with audiences across the region.
Whether you’re an aspiring journalist, a fan of morning radio, or just curious about the stories behind the mic, this episode offers insight, advice, and a few laughs along the way.
Tune in to hear Melissa’s advice for young broadcasters, favorite behind-the-scenes moments, and what keeps her passionate every morning.
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The Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com
Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd 
Follow Us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/heystamford
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford
X: https://x.com/HeyStamford
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From Mom’s Kitchen to Stamford’s Soul Food Scene | Chef Jean Gabriel of Soul Tasty

Join us on the Hey Stamford! Podcast with Stamford native Jean Gabriel, co-owner and chef of Soul Tasty — recently named one of Connecticut Magazine’s Top Restaurants for 2026.
Jean shares his journey from cooking in his mom’s kitchen to studying in Italy, working with celebrity chef Aarón Sánchez, competing on CHOPPED, and opening Soul Tasty. Hear the inspiration behind this Stamford soul food staple, the challenges of running a small restaurant, and what’s next for Soul Tasty.
🎧 A must-listen for food lovers, local entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about Stamford’s restaurant scene.
The Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com
Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd  
Follow Us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/heystamford 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford 
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford 
X: https://x.com/HeyStamford 
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00:00 Meet Chef Jean Gabriel Jr.01:05 About Hey Stamford and Local Pride01:51 How Soul Tasty Began02:46 Surviving as a Small Restaurant03:23 Early Inspiration and Kitchen Beginnings04:22 From Family Cooking to Career05:22 First Restaurant Jobs06:02 Learning and Growth in the Kitchen06:58 Formal Culinary Training and Lessons08:13 Culinary School and Studying in Italy09:34 Lessons from Italian Culinary Experience10:58 Impact of Italy on Cooking Style12:03 Career After Italy and High-Pressure Kitchens13:33 Working with Chef Aarón Sánchez14:41 Opening Soul Tasty15:56 Early Days and Community Support17:17 Challenges of Small Business Ownership18:03 The Realities of Being an Entrepreneur18:58 Giving Back and Community Leadership19:32 The Rewards of Surviving 10 Years20:25 Wearing Multiple Hats: Chef & Co-owner21:15 Staying Consistent and Focused21:32 Good Days in the Restaurant Business22:15 Menu Highlights and Fan Favorites23:09 Popular Dishes and Sunday Service24:09 Desserts and Recent Recognition25:25 Plans for Growth and Expansion26:10 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs26:58 Soul Tasty's Origins and Learning Moments27:44 Family Recipes and Cooking with Love28:16 First-Time Visitor Recommendations28:51 Soul Tasty's Location & Getting Involved29:32 Closing Thoughts and Thanks
 

Melissa Mulrooney’s Legacy at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center

In this episode, we sit down with Melissa Mulrooney, CEO of the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, to reflect on her more than 20 years of leadership and the legacy she leaves behind.
Melissa shares how the Stamford Museum & Nature Center has grown into one of Stamford’s most dynamic cultural institutions, spanning art, history, and nature across its 118-acre campus. We discuss major milestones from her tenure, including long-term planning, community impact, and the opening of the brand-new Planetarium & Astronomy Center.
The conversation also explores education, leadership, and why places like the Stamford Museum & Nature Center continue to play a vital role in inspiring curiosity, learning, and connection for visitors of all ages.
Follow the Stamford Museum & Nature Center on Instagram, visit: https://www.instagram.com/stamford_museum_naturecenter
For more on the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, visit: https://www.stamfordmuseum.org
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The Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com
Subscribe to The Friday Newsletter for the best of Stamford lifestyle, events, and local buzz—delivered straight to your inbox: https://bit.ly/4tBS9Kd 
Follow Us on Social Media:
Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/heystamford
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heystamford
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heystamford
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@heystamford
X: https://x.com/HeyStamford 
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00:00 Intro & Guest Welcome01:24 About The Stamford Museum & Nature Center02:01 Melissa’s Early Impressions & The Start of Her Tenure03:52 Restoring and Reimagining the Museum05:57 What Makes the Museum Unique06:42 Melissa’s Background: From Delaware to Newport10:42 Career Journey: Museums, Marketing & Major Projects16:26 Arriving at Stamford Museum & Nature Center19:37 Developing a Long-Term Vision24:16 Bendel Mansion History & Site Expansion27:27 Capital Projects: The Farmhouse & Planetarium32:56 Surviving Challenges & Growing Community Support35:16 New Planetarium: Programming & Community Impact39:00 The Role of Board & Community Leaders40:00 Melissa’s Retirement & Legacy42:00 Looking Back & Future Hopes for the Museum43:15 Closing Remarks & Farewell