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In this special recap episode, host Jim Jockle hits pause to reflect on the first slate of I Live Here Westchester—what we’ve learned, what surprised us, and what made us laugh out loud. From deepfake scams to Christmas displays, real estate shifts to social equity wins, it’s a curated journey through the voices shaping Westchester County.

Jim threads together a powerful and surprisingly funny narrative, exploring how joy, advocacy, safety, growth, and collaboration are making Westchester stronger—one story at a time.

You’ll hear reflections on:

• The magic (and logistics) of American Christmas
• The evolution of Westchester’s real estate market
• How to stay safe from AI scams and digital fraud
• The impact of water affordability and conservation efforts
• Policy wins that are changing lives for local families and youth
• Workforce development, clean energy, and the future of jobs
• …and a heartfelt thank-you to the people making it all happen

Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the community, this episode offers a fast-paced, thoughtful, and occasionally hilarious look at what makes Westchester tick.

Featuring Guests From:

• Dan Casterella – CEO, American Christmas
• Lindsay Crotty Walsh – Real Estate Agent, Compass
• Hamza Zaman – Cybersecurity Expert
• Sophia Salis – External Affairs Manager, Veolia
• Allison Lake – Former Executive Director, Westchester Children’s Association
• Thom Kleiner – Executive Director, Westchester Putnam Workforce Development Board
• Joe Brancato & Andrew Horn – Penguin Rep Theater

Links & Resources:

• Veolia Water Affordability Program: mywater.veolia.us
• Westchester Children’s Association: wcaforkids.org
• Westchester Putnam Workforce: westchesterputnamonestop.com
• American Christmas: americanchristmas.com
• Penguin Rep Theater: penguinrep.org

Don’t Forget:

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow us on your favorite podcast platform, and tell your Westchester neighbors.

Got a story we should feature? Email us at jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com

I Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.
We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?
Email: jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com
Website: www.iliveheremedia.com
Follow us on Instagram: @iliveherewestchester

Subscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.

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Guest:
Sophia Salis, Public & Government Affairs, Veolia Water New York

Episode Summary:
In this episode of I Live Here Westchester, host Jim Jockle sits down with Sophia Salis from Veolia to explore critical topics affecting Westchester residents, including water affordability, sustainability, and community engagement.

Sophia shares details of Veolia's groundbreaking Water Affordability Program—the first of its kind in New York State—which offers up to a 25% discount on water bills for eligible customers. She also outlines the many ways Veolia is helping local residents conserve water, lower their bills, and stay connected through meaningful community partnerships.

From rebate programs and PromisePay options to smart irrigation tips and even the return of Bailey the Beaver, this episode provides practical advice and local inspiration.

🔗 Helpful Links & Resources:

• Veolia Water Affordability Program:
  https://mywater.veolia.us/nyaffordwater
  Check your eligibility and view the list of qualifying government programs.
• Apply for Rebates on Water-Efficient Appliances:
  https://conserve.veolia.us
  Submit receipts for rebates on EPA WaterSense and Energy Star appliances.
• Veolia Customer Service (Westchester Office):
  Palmer Avenue, New Rochelle, NY
  1-877-266-9101
  https://mywater.veolia.us (Be sure to enter your zip code for localized info)
• Programs Mentioned:
  • PromisePay: Flexible payment plans for outstanding water bills
  • Budget Billing: Consistent monthly payments
  • Veolia Cares: One-time hardship grants
  • Conservation Tips: Leak detection, smart irrigation, native landscaping
• Community Engagement:
  • Town of Rye EcoFest at Crawford Park
  • Spark the Sound Fireworks, July 4th at Five Islands Park, New Rochelle
  • Partnerships with local municipalities and Cornell Cooperative Extension

Stay Connected:
For community appearances, rebate updates, and conservation tips, follow Veolia and check your local municipal bulletins.

Final Thought:
Water is more than a utility—it's a community resource. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or simply conservation-minded, there’s a role for everyone to play.

I Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.
We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?
Email: jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com
Website: www.iliveheremedia.com
Follow us on Instagram: @iliveherewestchester

Subscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.

Send us a text

In this episode of I Live Here: Westchester, host Jim Jockle sits down with Thom Kleiner, Executive Director of the Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board, for a dynamic conversation on how local initiatives are shaping the future of work across the region.

Thom shares the mission of the Workforce Development Board and how strategic partnerships—with community colleges, employers, nonprofits, and even platforms like Indeed—are helping people not only find jobs, but build lasting careers. From training hundreds of residents for in-demand healthcare roles to pioneering clean energy workforce pipelines, Thom discusses the power of collaboration in driving economic opportunity.

Highlights include:

• How workforce training programs like the Healthcare Talent Pipeline and Jobs Waiting have placed hundreds into employment
• The role of AI and virtual career tools in reshaping job search and upskilling
• Programs aimed at youth employment and gun violence prevention
• Focused outreach to underserved communities including those with disabilities and reentry populations
• The growing opportunity in clean energy and the challenge of aligning job seekers, employers, and educators
• Thom’s reflections on public service and what gives him hope for the future of work in Westchester

Whether you're a job seeker, employer, policymaker, or simply a neighbor who cares, this episode offers a hopeful and practical look at how workforce development touches every aspect of community life.

Learn more: https://www.westchesterputnamonestop.com

I Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.
We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?
Email: jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com
Website: www.iliveheremedia.com
Follow us on Instagram: @iliveherewestchester

Subscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.

Send us a text

Episode Summary:
In this episode of I Live Here: Westchester, host Jim Jockle dives into the alarming rise of AI-driven scams affecting individuals and families across Westchester County and beyond. With new legislation introduced by County Executive Ken Jenkins aimed at combating these modern frauds, Jim is joined by cybersecurity expert Hamza Zaman to break down the real-world impact of these scams—and what you can do to protect yourself.

Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is being weaponized to impersonate loved ones, steal money, and trick even the most tech-savvy consumers. Hamza shares actionable tips on how to stay alert, how to educate others in your household, and what tools are available to help.

Topics Covered:

• What are AI scams and how do they work?
• Real examples of AI voice and image spoofing
• How much money is being lost annually to AI-enabled fraud
• The latest legislation in Westchester to curb these scams
• What residents can do to protect themselves and loved ones
• Resources and steps to take if you suspect you've been targeted

Guest:
Hamza Zaman – Cybersecurity & Privacy Expert

Key Takeaway:
AI scams are no longer science fiction. They're here—and growing. But with education, awareness, and smart digital hygiene, you can protect yourself and your family.

Learn More:
Visit iliveheremedia.com past episodes.

Call to Action:
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with friends and family—and don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

I Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.
We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?
Email: jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com
Website: www.iliveheremedia.com
Follow us on Instagram: @iliveherewestchester

Subscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.

Send us a text

In this festive episode of I Live Here Westchester, host James Jockle sits down with Dan Casteralla, a 20+ year veteran and CEO of American Christmas—a company behind some of New York City’s most iconic holiday displays. From humble beginnings as a Bronx-based plant company to a national leader in commercial Christmas décor, American Christmas is synonymous with seasonal joy—and it all happens from their massive headquarters right here in Mount Vernon.

What You'll Hear About in This Episode:

• The origin story of American Christmas and Dan’s journey from seasonal worker to senior executive
• How the company evolved after pivotal moments like 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic
• Behind-the-scenes of those jaw-dropping overnight installations across Manhattan
• How creativity meets logistics in a business that moves 300+ containers of joy annually
• The secret to highlighting architecture without overpowering it during the holidays
• The engineering and patents that make the magic possible
• The heartwarming success of Mount Vernon’s own Holiday Lane charity initiative
• The rise of Halloween as the next big decorating holiday (yes, really!)
• And a sneak peek into Christmas in July and what’s next for seasonal celebrations in Westchester

✨ Whether you’re a Westchester local, a lover of holiday magic, or just curious how NYC transforms overnight every November, this conversation offers a rare look into the business of joy.

Follow American Christmas and check out their local initiatives like Holiday Lane—where all proceeds go to support charities in Mount Vernon.

#ILiveHereWestchester #AmericanChristmas #MountVernonNY #HolidayLane #NYCHolidays #ChristmasInJuly #BuzzsproutPodcast #WestchesterLocal

I Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.
We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?
Email: jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com
Website: www.iliveheremedia.com
Follow us on Instagram: @iliveherewestchester

Subscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.

Send us a text

In this heartfelt episode of I Live Here: Westchester, host Jim Jockle sits down with Allison Lake, the outgoing Executive Director of the Westchester Children's Association (WCA), to reflect on her remarkable 25-year journey in advocacy. From expanding healthcare access and shaping youth justice policy to tackling the digital divide and amplifying mental health needs post-COVID, Allison has helped drive transformational change for Westchester’s children and families.

Listen in as Allison shares powerful stories, legislative victories like Raise the Age, and her vision for the next generation of child advocates. As she prepares for retirement, she leaves behind a legacy rooted in collaboration, policy influence, and a steadfast belief that every child—regardless of race or zip code—deserves a fair shot at a thriving future.

Topics Covered:

• Allison’s unexpected path to advocacy and leadership at WCA
• The fight for youth justice and the success of Raise the Age
  
  
• Bridging the digital divide during COVID and beyond
  
  
• Universal school meals and expanded child tax credits in New York State
  
  
• The lasting impact of social-emotional trauma on children post-pandemic
  
  
• Poverty Pulse and real-time data-driven advocacy
  
  
• Why coalition building is messy but essential
  
  
• How the public can support advocacy beyond direct service
  
  

Notable Quotes:

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
– Allison Lake, on the power of coalition building

“Raise the Age wasn't just about changing a law. It was about changing lives.”
– Allison Lake, on youth justice reform

“Rest is resistance—and after 25 years, I’m ready to breathe before I decide what’s next.”
– Allison Lake, on her upcoming retirement

Resources & Links:

• Westchester Children’s Association: wcaforkids.org
• Learn about WCA’s Poverty Pulse and data-driven initiatives
• Sign up for WCA Advocacy Alerts
• Take action in your local community: support advocacy, not just service

I Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.
We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?
Email: jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com
Website: www.iliveheremedia.com
Follow us on Instagram: @iliveherewestchester

Subscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.

Send us a text

It’s not every day a hay barn becomes a nationally celebrated theater. But in Stony Point, New York, that’s exactly what happened. In this episode of I Live Here Westchester, host Jim Jockle speaks with Joe Brancato and Andrew M. Horn—the creative minds behind Penguin Rep Theater.

From its founding in 1977 to staging Off-Broadway hits and global tours, Penguin Rep has transformed into a powerhouse of new plays, bold voices, and community connection. Joe and Andrew share how it all began, what drives their mission today, and how they’re tackling big themes—from AI to accessibility—on a small but mighty stage.

You’ll hear:

• The incredible story of converting a barn into a theater
• Penguin’s role in launching major productions like Finding Neverland and The Devil’s Music
• What makes a 108-seat venue more powerful than Broadway
• Why their latest shows—Miracle on South Division Street and Flawless—are striking timely chords

With special guests:
Joe Brancato – Founding Artistic Director
Andrew M. Horn – Executive Director

Learn more:
Visit www.penguinrep.org
Email: info@penguinrep.org

About the Podcast:
I Live Here Westchester is hosted by Jim Jockle, highlighting the people, places, and stories that shape life in Westchester County, NY.

I Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.
We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?
Email: jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com
Website: www.iliveheremedia.com
Follow us on Instagram: @iliveherewestchester

Subscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.

Send us a text

In this episode of I Live Here Westchester, host Jim Jockle sits down with lifelong Westchester resident and real estate expert Lindsay Crotty Walsh to explore how our county has evolved—and continues to transform—in 2025. From booming downtowns to commuter patterns reshaped by remote work, Lindsay offers an insider, on-the-ground perspective that both newcomers and long-time locals will find indispensable.

What You’ll Learn:

• A County of Contrasts: Discover how Westchester’s diverse regions—from the urban pulse of Yonkers and New Rochelle to the pastoral charm of North Salem—offer unique lifestyles and investment opportunities.
• Market Dynamics & Inventory: Lindsay breaks down why inventory remains critically low, why it’s a seller’s market, and how competing buyer segments—from first-timers to downsizers—are driving prices upward.
• Post-COVID Commute & Location Shifts: Learn why buyers are expanding their searches farther north, how hybrid work models have loosened the traditional 35-minute commute constraint, and what that means for towns like Somers, Katonah, and beyond.
• Revitalized Downtowns & New Developments: Explore the remarkable revitalization projects in Port Chester, White Plains, and Yonkers, including waterfront redevelopments and the meteoric rise of mixed-use communities.
• Hidden Gems for Savvy Buyers: Get Lindsay’s top recommendations on under-the-radar neighborhoods—Port Chester’s bustling food scene, Irvington’s riverside charm, Tuckahoe’s convenient rail links, and North Salem’s equestrian acreage.
• Soft-Skill Insights: Beyond schools and taxes, discover the everyday quality-of-life factors—like sanitation services and community engagement—that truly differentiate one town from another.
• Professional Advice: Lindsay’s twofold guidance for any prospective buyer: (1) ensure your financials (and pre-approvals) are in impeccable order, and (2) remain resilient by focusing on your top priorities and partnering with a seasoned real estate professional.

Why Tune In?
Westchester County is in the midst of a transformative era. Whether you’re considering a move, an investment, or simply curious about the forces shaping our communities, Lindsay’s deep local knowledge and clear, actionable advice will equip you with the insights you need to make informed decisions in today’s fast-moving market.

Connect with Lindsay Crotty Walsh

• Phone: 305-915-3123
• Email: lindsay.walsh@juliabfee.com

Join us as we decode Westchester’s real estate landscape—one town, one trend, and one transformation at a time.

I Live Here Westchester is a production of I Live Here Media.
We spotlight the voices, visionaries, and stories that make Westchester County more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Have a guest suggestion or want to partner with us?
Email: jimjockle@iliveheremedia.com
Website: www.iliveheremedia.com
Follow us on Instagram: @iliveherewestchester

Subscribe, rate, and share to support local storytelling.