Preservation expert Kelly Carroll joins Nat to discuss how community-driven historic preservation strengthens neighborhoods even when buildings can't be saved. Kelly shares success stories from Brooklyn's diverse communities and draws intriguing parallels between Jersey City and Brooklyn through their industrial heritage, legacy businesses, and built environment.

In this episode, Nat speaks with longtime Jersey City advocate Charlene Burke about her journey from magazine publisher to neighborhood preservationist. Learn how Charlene helped establish the West Bergen-East Lincoln Park Historic District, her practical wisdom on civic engagement, and why speaking up at public meetings matters—even when you're nervous.

In this premiere episode, host Nat Kalbach introduces her journey from artist to storyteller, sharing how her paintings of Jersey City architecture led to deeper questions about neighborhood history and community connections. Learn how researching her own historic home inspired a book project and ultimately this podcast, where we'll explore the intersection of place, preservation, and personal stories.