Montclair has a new superintendent—and she’s stepping into the role at a critical moment. In this episode, Farnoosh and Mike sit down with Ruth B. Turner, the newly appointed head of Montclair Public Schools, for an unfiltered conversation about the district’s financial audit, recent staffing cuts, and her vision for rebuilding trust in the community. To learn more about Turner's upcoming Listen and Learn sessions check out our site.

Turner shares how her background in social work informs her leadership style, what “equity” means to her in practice, and how she plans to engage with families, teachers, and taxpayers.

Also in this episode:

• Adam Sandler is spotted shooting hoops in town.
• The Montclair Brewery's big plans for FIFA World Cup.
• Montclair’s CFO departs after a $1.25M whistleblower settlement.
• A new bakery opens in Upper Montclair (arrive early for croissants!)
• What’s happening this July 4th weekend.
• And: Farnoosh and Mike call on listeners to help shape future episodes on dating, climate, and the arts in Montclair.

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This week on The Montclair Pod, we’re taking a closer look at how safe it feels to get around Montclair and what’s being done to improve it.

We sit down with Laura Torchio, the town’s new Complete Streets Director, in her first public interview since stepping into the role. Torchio shares her vision for making Montclair’s streets safer and more accessible for everyone, whether they’re walking, biking, or driving. She also talks candidly about the obstacles: slow change, coordination, and the need for community trust.

You’ll also hear from residents about how safe they feel moving through town and what they'd like to see change. And we take a joyful ride with the Montclair Bike Bus, the weekly event that’s turning the morning school commute into something kids and parents actually look forward to.

Events this weekend:

Montclair Film's Summer Showcase

Author Event at Montclair Book Center

Caribbean Fete at Montclair Brewery

New Jersey Symphony with Fireworks Spectacular in Newark

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This week, The Montclair Pod goes deep on all things food. First up, the pizza crawl. We hit five of Montclair’s most talked-about pizza spots, all within walking distance of downtown Bloomfield Avenue. Along the way, we debate what makes a true Jersey slice, swap pronunciation tips and crown a surprise winner.

Stops include:

• My Little Pizza Heaven – Food truck nostalgia and Jersey-style pride
• Luigino Parmigiana – A gourmet lamb flatbread that sparks debate
• Ah’ Pizz – A rustic pie with big flavor
• Teglia Pizza Bar – Thick sourdough squares
• Leone’s – A buffalo chicken slice with hot honey and old-school vibes

Also in this episode:

• Ironbound Farm Market at Lackawanna Plaza Charles Rosen, the visionary behind Ironbound Farm, talks about the market’s bold mission to bring regenerative agriculture and economic equity to Montclair through a revolutionary “farm stop” model. Bonus: no pesticides, no middlemen, and some pretty incredible cider apples.
• Pendragon's Smokehouse BBQ (Delivery Only) Co-owner Charlie Holbech shares how he’s building a hyperlocal barbecue business in Montclair—with no apps, no shortcuts, and recipes rooted in community. Plus: last-minute tips for hosting a Juneteenth cookout, including how to make smoky chicken thighs without a smoker.

Special thanks to our sponsors:

Sarah Elizabeth of Sarah Elizabeth Design

Karin Diana, Montclair Real Estate Agent with The Home Collective

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