Auditioning in New York City is challenging, especially for a living. For foreign-born artists, attempting to succeed on the Great White Way is even more complicated. In this episode, Costa Rican actress Nea Somogyi takes us behind the curtain of the auditioning world in the eyes of an international performer. Content Warning: This episode may include some mature language. Hosted and reported by Max Martinez Villalobos. Reported and produced by Owen Racer. Edited by Curtis Fox. Engineering support by Chad Bernhard and Amber Watson. Music by Owen Racer and Kevin Macleod. Special thanks to the cast and crew of “Suitcase of Dreams, Next Stop: New York”.

Reporters Lauren Rapp and Perry Gregory explore what it's like to create a new life in New York City after decades of incarceration. Older adults are a growing population in US prison systems. When these individuals get out, they have to deal with a whole new set of problems: understanding technology, finding housing, and navigating the city. In this episode, “What’s is Like” reporters visit the Marcus Garvey Supportive Housing apartment complex in Brooklyn, New York, where all the residents are older adults adjusting to a life of freedom. Please be advised this episode mentions violent crime and adult language. Credits Reported, produced, voiced, and edited by Lauren Rapp and Perry Gregory. Edited by Curtis Fox. Studio Recording and Audio Engineering by Chad Bernhard and Amber Watson. Featured music: “Lakkalia” and “Only Lara”— all by Blue Dot Sessions. [https://www.sessions.blue/] Graphic Design by Shira Golden Kresch

Every day, pet owners around the country choose euthanasia to prevent prolonged suffering for their animal companions. But what happens when a person wants that same peace? In this episode, we explore what it’s like to live without the right to die. This episode deals with death and medical aid in dying. Please take care while listening. Credits: Hosted, narrated, produced and reported by Shira Golden. Produced by Pamela Appea. Edited by Meg Cramer. Engineering support by Chad Bernhard. Music by Blue Dot Sessions. Thank you to Stacy and Dr. Dani McVety for sharing your stories with us. Special thanks to Curtis Fox, Cynthia Rodriguez, Mitra Kaboli, Amber Watson, Libby Lussenhop, Thaddeus Pope, Ilana Kresch, the folks at A Better Exit, and everyone else we spoke to for this story. We’d also like to thank our colleagues in the Narrative Podcast Workshop at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, Fall 2024. Music: “Durna Vila” by Blue Dot Sessions “Cigar Singles” by Blue Dot Sessions “Fissure Forming” by Blue Dot Sessions “Campsite 9” by Blue Dot Sessions

The first time Kathy Collins voted in person, she had to tell someone else who she was voting for. We take privacy for granted when it comes to voting, but for many disabled Americans, that hasn’t been the case. Join us for the lead up to election day as we talk to Kathy and Dr. Sharon McLennon Wier about what it’s like to vote without privacy in New York – and what activists are doing about it. This show was written and produced by Sasha Linden Cohen and Cullen Fagan. It was edited by Meg Cramer, with thanks to Curtis Fox and Chad Bernhard for help with sound engineering. Thank you to Kathy Collins and Dr. Sharon McLennon Wier for sharing their stories, as well as Anna Humphrey and CIDNY for letting us come to work with them. Some of our music was composed by Sasha Linden Cohen, and the rest was sourced from Blue Dot Sessions. The host was Cullen Fagan. Photo Credit: Sasha Linden Cohen Photo Caption: Kathy votes early on Halloween 2024.

In this AudioFiles special bonus episode, we meet New Yorkers in their element, from the studio to the stage to among the pigeons. CREDITS: Managing Producer: Melanie Marich Producer: Melanie Marich Host: Graham Hartmann Reporters: Perry Gregory and Jesse King. Editors: Kalli Anderson and Richard Yeh Audio Engineer: Chad Bernhard, with help from Amber Watson For more info on AudioFiles: www.audiofilespodcast.com

On this bonus episode of AudioFiles, we’re showcasing audio documentaries about belonging, from the people and things that make us feel seen to the places that turn into home. First, meet the Latina women from the Bronx transforming New York’s nightlife. Reporter Laura Rojas Aponte takes us to the club to hear from Ultraviolet, Dana Lu, Dada Cozmic, and others who are making waves as DJs. K-pop’s demand in the US has skyrocketed. But, critics say the genre is guilty of cultural appropriation. Reporter Marissa Braswell dives into K-Pop’s history, its cultural connections to Black culture, and the ongoing debate between appreciation and appropriation. For more than 10 years, the Center for African and Diaspora Dance has been serving Brooklyn with a selection of dance and music classes rooted in Africa. But for many who dance there, the studio is more than just a place to move their body. Reporter Hannah Kathryn Valles explores the rhythms of CUMBE. This episode was hosted and produced by Melanie Marich.

On this bonus episode of AudioFiles, we’re showcasing audio documentaries about defiance, and the ways people challenge, disrupt, or reinterpret traditional systems, spaces, and expectations. A Kansas public school teacher punked a state house committee considering a voucher bill. It went viral garnering two million views and over 200,000 likes. Currently and formerly incarcerated writers explore how the process of writing, as well as the core tenants of fiction itself, are disrupted by the realities of incarceration. To close the show, reporter Mike Matteo hops a fence with some teens and tries to find out why so many people like hanging out at cemeteries and mausoleums, especially teens, and there’s no better way to learn than by doing. This episode was hosted and produced by Melanie Marich.

On this bonus episode of AudioFiles, we’re showcasing audio documentaries about legacy, and the ways our pasts shape present realities. New York City's street racing culture has veins that run deep. Over several generations, black and brown youth have found community, success, and wealth, in the elicit side of motorsport. But in the wake of a new NYPD crackdown after a deadly crash, will this community go under the radar or step into the spotlight? When firefighter Jared Lloyd died in a gruesome apartment fire, it raised questions about housing safety and unchecked development in the Town of Ramapo Here’s a closer look at the politics of code enforcement and a culture of compliance. What happens when unsafe conditions turn fatal? Adults conceived through the anonymous IVF industry are grappling with the consequences of modern technology that has effectively ended donor anonymity. As DNA testing and online databases reveal genetic connections, many are navigating complex emotions and legal uncertainties while seeking to understand their origins. Reporter Emily Davis explores the end of anonymity, and what it means for her personally. Content Warning: Strong Language and Violence This episode was hosted and produced by Melanie Marich.

In this season finale of AudioFiles, we meet an Ecuadorian dance crew keeping their culture alive, what a recent court decision means for subway safety in New York, and visit some legendary Christmas lights with an electrical engineer who teaches us the true meaning of Christmas: protecting the environment. CREDITS: Managing Producer: Melanie Marich Producer: Marissa Braswell Host: Graham Hartmann Assistant Producer: Evelin Fajardo-Alvarez Reporters: Perry Gregory, Nathaly Cisneros, and Melanie Marich Editors: Kalli Anderson, Richard Yeh and Maggie Freleng Audio Engineer: Chad Bernhard, with help from Amber Watson Music Credits: Beat Mekanik, Jason Shaw, The United States Marine Band and hollis nacco For more info on AudioFiles: www.audiofilespodcast.com

For this episode of AudioFiles, we’re looking ahead to election day. We talk to voters deciding whether to vote in Puerto Rico or where they live in the mainland United States, check in on local congressional races that could help tip the balance of power in Congress, and talk to advocates for a ballot proposition to amend the New York state constitution. Plus, we’ll meet a couple making 50’s style doo-wop music in the name of Satan. CREDITS: Managing Producer: Melanie Marich Producer: Graham Hartmann Host: Marissa Braswell Assistant Producer: Perry Gregory Reporters: Jesse King, Evelin Fajardo-Alvarez, Ana Garcia-Colón and Graham Hartmann Guests: Gabbi Timmis, Brent Morden, and Candace Pedraza Editors: Kalli Anderson and Richard Yeh Audio Engineer: Chad Bernhard, with help from Amber Watson Music Credits: Jason Shaw, Holiznacc0, Mathieu Tissandier, Peppa Pig Edit And Mcgrogo For more info on AudioFiles: www.audiofilespodcast.com

In this episode of AudioFiles, we celebrate the New Yorkers who survive and shape the urban landscape. We visit a Manhattan exhibit celebrating Shirley Chisholm, her political life, and how her legacy connects to Kamala Harris. We’ll also dive into Eric Adams’ war on rats, check in with street vendors on Roosevelt Avenue facing police crackdowns, and break down a new bill concerning broker fees in New York’s housing market. CREDITS: Managing Producer: Melanie Marich Producer: Jesse King Host: Evelin Fajardo-Alvarez Assistant Producer: Graham Hartmann Reporters: Marissa Braswell, Nathaly Cisneros, Melanie Marich Guests: Rachel Kahn Editors: Kalli Anderson, Richard Yeh, Cynthia Rodriguez and Maggie Freleng Audio Engineer: Chad Bernhard, with help from Amber Watson Music Credits: Holizna, Beat Mekanik, Jahzzar, And The Crypts Special thanks to Gwynne Hogan. For more info on AudioFiles: www.audiofilespodcast.com

What was once old can be new again. In this episode of AudioFiles, we’re looking at the revival of congestion pricing, New Yorkers who practice the ancient sport of gladiator fighting, and Irish descendants keeping the Irish language alive in Queens. CREDITS: Managing Producer: Melanie Marich Producer: Evelin Fajardo-Alvarez Host: Marissa Braswell Assistant Producer: Nathaly Cisneros and Graham Hartmann Reporters: Jake Duffy, Jesse King, Steve Kastenbaum and Perry Gregory Editors: Kalli Anderson, Richard Yeh and Maggie Freleng Audio Engineer: Chad Bernhard, with help from Amber Watson Music Credits: National Sweetheart, Rafael Krux, Holiznacc0, And Beat Mekanik. For more info on AudioFiles: www.audiofilespodcast.com

For this season premiere of AudioFiles, we explore the rising tension on New York college campuses as they crack down on student protests and gatherings. Then, we dive into a key ballot measure that could shape New York City’s future. Later, we feature an incoming boat captain whose mission is to protect the Hudson River from polluters. Managing Producer: Melanie Marich Producer: Evelin Fajardo-Alvarez Host: Graham Hartmann Assistant Producer: Marissa Braswell Reporters: Perry Gregory, Jesse King, and Steven Kastenbaum Guests: Sophie Hurwitz, Elana Frankel, and Renee Huff Editors: Kalli Anderson and Richard Yeh Audio Engineer: Chad Bernhard Music Credits: Jason Shaw, Holiznacc0, Mathieu Tissandier, Peppa Pig Edit And Mcgrogo For more info on AudioFiles: www.audiofilespodcast.com

Audiofiles is proud to share another episode of our narrative podcast, "What's it Like?" Reporters Rebecca Rand and Caroline Handel explore planning for the unplannable–how do you hold on to what’s important to you when you’re losing touch with reality? It starts with a conversation with a fascinating woman, Elyn Saks. She’s a law professor at UCLA who advocates for the rights of people with severe mental illness. Because SHE knows what it's like.

Audiofiles is proud to share an episode of our narrative podcast, "What's it Like?" from reporters Sari Soffer Sukenik and Maja Clasen. Divorce is seemingly ubiquitous in the U.S. But what happens when divorce is not an option for you in your community? In this episode, we follow Flatbush Girl: a woman on a mission to free women from their unwanted marriages. Her shameless pursuit to upend the systems stacked against Orthodox Jewish women are impressive. But are they sustainable? Please be advised that this episode contains mentions of domestic abuse that may be difficult for some listeners. "What's it Like?" is a production of the New York City News Service, from the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism. Hosted by Sari Soffer Sukenik. Reported, produced, and sound designed by Sari Soffer Sukenik and Maja Clasen. Edited by Meg Cramer. Studio recording and sound engineering by Chad Bernhard. Special thanks to Curtis Fox, Rebecca Rand, and Caroline Handel for your helpful feedback. This episode's intro and outro music comes from the song “Hills”, by Mello C. This episode also features portions of the songs: “Post Drone” by Uuriter, “Drone Pine” by Blue Dot Sessions, “Parody” by Crowander, “Camp” by Podington Bear, and “Principles in Action” by David Hilowitz, all sourced from FreeMusicArchive.org. This episode also includes “Victory Fanfare" by “Luis Humanoide", sourced from freesound.org. Thanks to Holizna for the use of his song "Bus Stop" at the top of the show. For more "What's it Like?" visit https://podcasts.nycitynewsservice.com/

In the final episode of AudioFiles season 12, we hear about a historic vote happening at the Nostrand Houses in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn and learn about why activists are working to try and put an end to the NYPD’s controversial gang database. We also hear from an organizational leader working on nail salon rights about the importance of the anticipated Nail Salon Minimum Standards Council Act. Later in the show, we hear from a postpartum chef who has found a unique way to serve her clients and learn how local artists are using music to help destigmatize mental health in Black communities. Also, union president for the Queens Library Guild, John Hyslop, joins us in the studio to talk about the importance of city libraries and how the newest budget cuts in city agencies have impacted them. Managing Producer: Ashley reed Producer: Amanda Kari McHugh Associate Producer: Rachel Goldman Host: Aaliyah Fisher and Nicolas Magrino Reporters: Kimberly Izar, Ashley Reed, Aaliyah Fisher, Safiyah Riddle, Sajina Shrestha, and Christian Nazario Editors: Maggie Freleng and Richard Yeh Sound Engineers: Amber Watson and Chad Bernhard. Guests: Pabitra Dash, Ariella Messing And John Hyslop. Music credits: Allison Soul, Audioautix, Catherine Elia, Dekobe, Ignatz, Jimmy Fontanex & Media Right Productions, Monplasir, Richard Anthony and Sean Elliot

In this episode of AudioFiles season 12, We head to Midtown, Manhattan where thousands of Service Employees International Union members rally ahead of the first day of contract negotiations. We also meet Indian Americans celebrating Diwali, and learn more about what it means to have the holiday recognized by the city government. Later in the show, Reporter Kimberly Izar heads to Hostos Community College where PSC-CUNY union members at three Bronx campuses delivered petitions to their college presidents to demand a new contract. Then, our host Christian Nazario sits down with Robert Fanuzzi, the president of the Bronx Council For Environmental Quality, to talk about how the Mayor's new program to extend the city’s greenway corridors is beneficial to New Yorkers. Managing Producer: Ashley Reed Host: Christian Nazario Show Producer: Nicolas Magrino Associate Producer: Amanda Kari McHugh Reporters: Rachel Goldman, Kimberly Izar, Amanda Kari McHugh, Aaliyah Fisher, Safiyah Riddle, Sajina Shrestha, Cullen Fagan and Jiana Smith Editors: Maggie Freleng and Richard Yeh Sound Engineers: Amber Watson and Chad Bernhard. Guests: Marcella Moslow, Robert Fanuzzi, and Justin Pines. Music credits: Jason Shaw, Benjamin Tissot, Justin Pines, Celdro & Emil Wennerholm, Monplaisir, Beat Mekanik, and Aldous Ichnite

On this episode of AudioFiles season 12, we hear from New Yorkers affected by the Israel and Palestine conflict and hear from union actors who are still protesting for better contracts and livable wages. Then we head to the Bronx, where we visit the last ever Bronx night market, and hear from a local artist making therapeutic art accessible for her community. We also learn about the growing popularity of the ancient board game Weiqi or Go. Later in the show, Host Aaliyah Fisher sits down with Reporter Elias Guerra about what government officials are doing to prevent severe flooding and the effects of major storms as we approach the 11th anniversary of Hurricane Sandy. Managing Producer: Ashley Reed Producer: Christian Nazario Host: Aaliyah Fisher Assistant Producer: Nicolas Magrino Reporters: Rachel Goldman, Kimberly Izar, Amanda Kari-McHugh, Alex Krales, Safiyah Riddle, Sajina Shrestha Editors: Maggie Freleng and Richard Yeh Sound Engineers: Amber Watson and Chad Bernhard. Guests: Graham Rayman, Elias Guerra, Samuel Turvey And Cezar Nicolescu. Music credits: Jason Shaw on audionautix.com, Benjamin Tissot on Bensound.com, Infraction, and Komiku on Freemusicarchive.com

On this episode of AudioFiles season 12, we bring you stories about Tibetan organizers using momos to shed light on an independence movement and a local DJ breathing new life into traditional jewish music. Then, we talk to health reporter Sarah Luft to learn about Long Covid and its impact on New Yorkers. Later in the show, host Amanda Kari McHugh sits down with journalist and audio producer Austin Cope to talk about new regulations enforced by New York City’s Department of Sanitation to tackle the ongoing trash problem. Managing Producer: Ashley Reed Producer: Aaliyah Fisher Host: Amanda Kari McHugh Assistant Producer: Christian Nazario Reporters: Sajina Shrestha, Rachel Goldman, Kim Izar, Alex Krales, and Safiyah Riddle Guests: Austin Cope, Sarah Luft, Dr. Kevin Nadal and Samantha Maldonado. Editors: Maggie Freleng and Richard Yeh Sound Engineers: Chad Bernhard and Amber Watson Music Credits: Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com, Benjamin Tissot on Bensound.com, Chaia Berman Peters, Eleanore Weill, Monplaisir on freemusicarchive.com

In this episode, we hear from one of New York's fastest triathletes, who just happens to be blind. Then we visit Queens, where there is an exhibit that raises questions about touching art and a dance festival where the performers are advocating for resources. Our host sits down with journalist Nick Morgan, who has been following the crypto case closely. Then, we go on a tour to learn how some members of the Crown Heights neighborhood are combating Jewish hate. Later in the show, we take a look at prison reform and hear from Darren Mack, a formerly incarcerated activist and spokesperson for the freedom agenda. Managing Producer: Ashley Reed Producer: Amanda Hughes Host: Nicolas Magrino Assistant Producer: Aaliyah Fisher Reporters: Christian Nazario, Rachel Goldman, Safiyah Riddle, Sajina Shrestha, Kimberly Izar, Amanda Mchugh, and Alex Krales Guest: Nicholas Morgan, Fae Weichel and Darren Mack Editors: Maggie Freleng and Richard Yeh Sound Engineers: Chad Bernhard and Amber Watson Music: Audionautix.com,Takio ItoYocchore composed for the Yosakoi Soran Festival, Live music from the Ayazamana Dance Group, Moisei Productions