The Manhattan Sideways Podcast

Welcome back to the Manhattan Sideways Podcast! In this episode, Ellie and Betsy reflect on the publication of Betsy's first book, "Walking Manhattan Sideways", and share some exciting news about the upcoming publication of another book: "The Art of Walking Manhattan Sideways", which will be released in October of 2021. The new book includes chapters focused on the arts, nonprofits, museums, places of worship, and much more -- all on the side streets of Manhattan. You can place an order for either (or both!) of the books now at www.gosideways.nyc/books. If you are a business owner or would like to order in bulk, e-mail Betsy directly at betsy@sideways.nyc -- we'd love to hear from you!

In this week's episode, Ellie speaks with founder of Manhattan Sideways, Betsy Bober Polivy, about her new book, "Walking Manhattan Sideways". They talk about how Betsy got started documenting the side streets, how the book came to be, and how Betsy chose the incredible businesses that are featured in "Walking Manhattan Sideways". Betsy's creativity, care and passion are awe-inspiring, and the book is nothing short of the same. Find the book here Also mentioned in the episode: Episode 2: Grandma's Place

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Tiziana Agnello, the founder and owner of Love Thy Beast, a boutique pet store in the East Village. Tiziana started her business on her kitchen table, where she made her first pet totes, inspired by her own dog's love of bags. Since beginning her business, Tiziana has refused to stray from her vision and values, and today Love Thy Beast offers everything you need for the dogs in your life -- all ethically sourced, and often locally made. Big thank you to the editor of this episode, Aiman Walid Najah!

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Linda St. John, designer and co-owner of the East Village boutique D.L. Cerney, which also serves as Linda's creative studio. It was in this space that Linda wrote her book, "Even Dogs Go Home to Die", and in this space that Linda designs most of her gorgeous vintage-inspired clothing, which she makes out of deadstock fabrics and materials. Linda's resilience and optimism is deeply inspiring, and is something we could all use a little more of these days!

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Santo Mollica of The East Village's own The Source Ultd. Print and Copy Shop, opened in 1979. Santo and the shop he owns with his wife Margaret are something of an ode to the Village in the 80s and 90s: before it was a copy shop, in fact, it was a performance space for local bands and artists, and Santo continues this legacy by producing tourbooks for the likes of Arcade Fire and Mumford and Sons. Santo is self taught in much of his trade, and is the first to say that failure is a necessity to success — something we all need to hear sometimes.

In this episode, Ellie and Betsy interview clothing designer Kathy Kemp, founder of ANNA, along with creative collaborator and dear friend Rebecca Kaye. They discuss the strong community of women that comes together over ANNA (and Kathy!), the East Village, and Kathy's creative process, among other things. Kathy and Rebecca's positivity spills right into our interview, and we hope you'll come away from this conversation feeling as inspired as we did.

In this episode, Ellie speaks to New York-based artist Mikel Glass, whose "business" is to reflect on the world around him and encourage others to do the same. They discuss his artistic trajectory, the challenge of balancing financial stability with passion and ethics, the New York gallery scene, and some of Mikel's recent work. Mikel's perspective is thoughtful and unique, and absolutely deserves to be heard through both his art and your headphones.

This week we have put together a special episode of our podcast to report on the effects of the Covid-19 epidemic on New York's small businesses. Ellie makes phone calls to five business owners from all over the city: Seren Morey of Guerra Paint and Pigment Corp., Alan Heron of The Hunterian, Mike Spitz of Mr. Throwback, Nic Faitos of Starbright Floral, and the eponymous Jill Herlands. Each interview offers insight into the new realities and challenges of daily life, as well as projections of what is to come, and suggestions about how we can all adjust and support each other in this time. Each owner interviewed for this special episode has been previously featured in his or her own full-length episode, and we encourage you to learn more about them by giving their episodes a listen!

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Jim and Stoney of Ryan's Daughter Pub. Stoney came to the U.S. in 1958, began bartending in '68, found the space for Ryan's daughter in 1979, and has been there ever since, joined by Jim in 1999. Jim grew up in Hawaii, and Stoney grew up in Ireland, both finding their homes in New York City. This laugh-out-loud interview covers everything from stick-ups to equality in the United States, and the ways that owning a bar is like running a farm.

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Tilde Mariani Giacche, whose family owned Asti's Restaurant, and still owns the building that now houses Strip House Steak House. Tilde shares amazing stories of her father and his singing waiters, her experiences growing up around the restaurant, and tells about her continued connection to this special place.

In this episode, Ellie and Betsy speak with Deborah Koenigsberger of Noir et Blanc NYC and Hearts of Gold. They discuss Deborah's modeling career, what it's like to help others find their style, and how the Hearts of Gold and the Thrifty HoG help to transition women and their children out of the shelter system.

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Voza Rivers of the Harlem Chamber of Commerce. They chat about the rich history of Harlem, Vozza's own past, and his journey to the positions he currently holds at the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce as well as the Harlem Arts Alliance.

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Andy Tarshis of Tiecrafters, a longstanding business now found on 29th street. They dive deep into the niche business of tie alterations: a niche that motivates customers to travel from far corners of the globe to support Andy's work. They also discuss the importance of sentimental values, the well-chronicled tragedies of bolognese sauce, and much more.

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Chad Beightol of Consigliere. Chad speaks about the current trends in men's grooming and beauty, the origin of his shop's name (hint: "I'll make him an offer he can't refuse."), Chad's own personal care routine, and the role of gender in cultural beauty standards. Absolutely everyone has something to learn from this interview!

In this episode, Ellie interviews Seren, Jody and Art, owners of Guerra Paint and Pigment Corporation in New York's East Village. Art shares stories about the more chaotic years of the neighborhood, Jody and Seren talk about their "origin story", and all together they explain some of the science and business behind pigment and color -- and why it all matters.

In this episode, Ellie speaks with the three sisters — Judith Lowry, Naomi Hample, and Adina Cohen — behind the Argosy Bookstore. They discuss Argosy's foundation in their father's deep love of books, and tell many stories about their adventures in the business … all while laying bare the sisterly elasticity that defines the “rubber band” of their relationship to each other.

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Alan Heron, bartender and co-owner of The Hunterian Bar on East 70th Street. They discuss Alan's move to the U.S., how the bar-scene is changing (and Alan's hopes for his own space), and whether or not to offer an open bar at a wedding in the Scottish highlands.

On this episode, Ellie speaks to Lorcan Otway of William Barnacle Tavern, Theatre 80, and the Museum of the American Gangster -- all of which are connected and housed in the historic buildings at 80 St. Mark's. Lorcan discusses the "mobbed-up" past of the building as well as its deeper origins in New Amsterdam, and then goes on to share his perspectives on how New York is changing today and the role he hopes to play in the city's evolution. And -- of course -- Lorcan's story wouldn't be complete without an introduction to the building's resident ghost, Gia.

In this episode, Ellie and Betsy speak with Dimitri Gatanas of Urban Garden Center. Dimitri discusses his Greek roots, tells of uprooting an 18 foot tree, and talks about what it means to be an “urban” business, along with how UGC strives to be a positive part of its Harlem community.

On this episode, Ellie speaks with Suzanne Newman, owner of Suzanne Couture Millinery. Suzanne tells us about her design process, as well as the ways she's seen New York change, and how she sold her car to work in the fashion industry. Suzanne's charm (and beautiful accent) is sure to brighten up your day!

On this week's episode, Ellie interviews Kate Coyne, CEO, and Ann Hohenhaus, Veterinarian, at the Animal Medical Center. Kate describes her journey into the medical field and why she loves working at AMC, a nonprofit clinic started in 1910. Having previously worked in human hospital management, Kate reflects on the similarities and differences between animal and human care, and makes an argument for the value of ensuring access to good animal care. Later, Ann offers tips on minimizing your pets' hospital anxiety and considers the ways that animal care has changed over time.

In this episode, Ellie and Betsy speak with Kelly Jaime of The Sweet Shop. They chat about the Upper East Side, running a business as a family, chocolate production, and the Ronald McDonald house -- among many other things. Be sure to have a bag of candy nearby for this one.

On this episode, Ellie speaks with Matt and Enrique, co-owners of men's accessory and vintage shop Fine and Dandy. They chat about starting online, moving into pop ups, and the decision to open a brick and mortar. The episode also delves into how the fashion industry has changed, as well as how New York as a whole has evolved -- while some things don't seem to change at all.

Welcome to season two! On this episode, Ellie speaks with Bella Meyer, owner and creative director of floral studio Fleurs Bella, and granddaughter of artist Marc Chagall. They speak about bringing color to New York, the magic of moss, and, of course, Marc Chagall.

Welcome to season two of the Manhattan Sideways Podcast! Here's a sneak peek of what's in store.

On this episode, Ellie sits down with jewelry artist Jill Herlands to speak about her eponymous brand, Jill Herlands. They speak about the importance of finding and acknowledging passion, balancing brand aesthetic with collaboration, the role of social media in today's business world, and much more. We hope that listening to Jill will brighten your day as much as it did ours!

In this episode, Ellie speaks with Laura Maioglio, owner of the esteemed Northern Italian Restaurant Barbetta, and her head waitor, Eduardo. They cover a variety of topics, including Laura's renovation of the restaurant in the style of historic Piemonte, The Rolling Stones, the evolution of New York and of the restaurant world, and dogs on stage at Carnegie Hall. Barbetta celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2006, and is the oldest restaurant in New York still owned by its original founding family.

In this episode Ellie sits down with Nic, owner of Starbright Floral Design, to talk about the mood boosting properties of flowers, the process of growing a business, overnight tulip-planes, and how, coming from Wall Street, Nic "redeemed himself and became a florist."

On this episode, Ellie sits down on location in the storefront of Gramercy Typewriter Company to chat with father and son partners Paul and Justin "Jay" Schweitzer. They speak about carrying the business across multiple generations of their family, and also offer some clues as to why typewriters have remained popular despite technological development, and how the company has grown with or stood fast against such technological changes.

In this episode, Ellie sits down with Ken Wampler, founder of The Alpha Workshops. They speak about running a non-profit, the HIV crisis, the New York design industry, and what it means to be an artist.

In this episode, we sat down with David Segal, owner of David Segal Violins, to talk about classical music, making and repairing instruments, and David's adorable grandson.

Ellie and Mike talk about vintage sportwear, pretzel-nuggets, buying vs. browsing, and collaboration in the East Village - and they make a quick shout out to the real MVP: Mike's barber.

In this episode, Ellie speaks to Marta, owner of Skin Laser Studios. They chat about beauty standards, the Cuban revolution, finding the perfect skin care products for your skin, and much more.

Eduardo and Mary Silva have been married for 48 years, and have lived and worked on the Upper West Side almost as long. In this episode, Ellie speaks with this husband and wife team about the success of their restaurant - despite notable setbacks - and why they love what they do alongside loving each other.

In this episode, Zach and Ellie "lumber" through a huge chunk of topics: work-life balance, the value (or non-value) of a college education, the importance of emotional supporters, bring-your-kid-to-work days, and much, much more. Despite some technical issues with the microphones, we hope you will enjoy what Zach had to share with us. We appreciate your understanding!

In this episode, we speak with the co-owners of Le Fanion about sourcing, street parties, the evolution of the West Village, how to maintain a successful partnership, and how to sell the Picasso family broken pottery for a dollar.

In this episode, we sit down with Saeed Pourkay owner of Taste of Persia - a name you may recognize from the Union Square Christmas market, where Saeed has had a booth for the last seven years. Ellie and Saeed chat about his background in print-graphics, his childhood in Iran, his year round location on 18th street and, of course, his food.

This episode focuses on Dave Ortiz, who runs Our/New York Vodka, the New York branch of the global Our/Vodka franchise. Ellie and Dave talk about branding, pranks, graffiti, "Old New York", and how his past experiences as an entrepreneur have affected his work with Our/New York Vodka.

In this episode, we chatted with Mike and Amanda, owners of Salon Riz and Amanda Gagnon Dog Training, and husband and wife duo. You'll learn about the Upper West Side, anthrozoology, community care, immigration, what to do if you own a shy dog, and -- maybe inspired by how much these two learn from and respect each other -- how to be just a little bit more like the lovely Mike and Amanda.

In this episode, there's almost nothing that Alex, Ellie, and Kendra don't talk about. Alex was born in the south and moved to New York as a young person in the middle of the 20th century, where he ultimately found his niche in the Lower East Side. Alex's photography strikes at the core of what it is to be human, especially in New York - so what makes it all possible?

In this episode, Ellie and Rebecca discuss the physical and emotional benefits of art making, and explore Rebecca's journey as owner of The Art Studio NY. Originally started in Rebecca's bedroom, The Art Studio NY now offers the highest rated art classes in Manhattan.

In this episode Guy Vaknin, founder of Beyond Sushi, discusses some of his tips for success in the restaurant business, veganism, Shark Tank, sustainability, expansion, and the absolute importance of caring about what you do.

In this episode, we spoke with Bill Rhodes, the one and only New York City purveyor of the characteristically West Coast-brand See's Candies. We chat about Bill's love of New York and his roots in the Midwest, See's expansion east, the evolution of the West Village, and, of course, chocolate.

In this episode, we sat down with Pauline Sokol Nakios, founder of Lilla P Clothing. We discuss how she got started and what it's like being an international company, sourcing choices, lifestyle -- and that little hole that shows up in your t-shirts right around the belly button.

In this episode we meet Sal Scognamillo, current owner, chef, and grandson of the original owners of Patsy's Italian Restaurant. We speak with Sal about Frank Sinatra, the Yankees, Brett Eldredge, classic Italian food, Ben Stiller, and what it's like to own a family business. We are also paid a surprise visit by sportscaster, writer, and Yankees community advisor Ray Negron. Visit Patsy's at 236 West 56th street.

In this episode, we sit down with Grandma Dawn of Grandma's Place. Dawn shares stories about education, community, business, and gentrification in Harlem. Visit Grandma's Place at 84 West 120th street, or shop online at grandmasplaceinharlem.com

In this episode, we speak with Will and Julie Horowitz, the brother-sister team behind Ducks Eatery. We discuss everything from pingpong to climate change, and chat about the Horowitz's new book "Salt Smoke Time: Homesteading and Heritage Techniques for the Modern Kitchen." Visit Ducks in the East Village at 351 East 12th street.

In this mini episode, we give you a taste of what the Sideways Podcast is about and who we are at Manhattan Sideways. Nice to meet you!