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

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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

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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

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