FAQ NYC

Amid the silly season of transition speculation, New Yorkers are waiting to see how Zohran Mamdani, a brilliant messenger, handles the levers of power and who else he's bringing inside of City Hall to help him run the huge machine. While those staffing decisions are playing out, slowly and behind closed doors, the outgoing administration is taking some swipes at Mamdani, including about the mayor elect's pledge to end homeless encampment sweeps. Episode hosted by Christina Greer, Katie Honan and Harry Siegel, and engineered by Noah Smith.

Baruch Herzfeld, Founder and CEO of Pop Wheels, is on a mission to revolutionize battery charging in NYC with shared battery-swap cabinets. He shares how personal experiences with battery fires led him to create a safer solution for delivery workers. The discussion delves into NYC's regulatory challenges and Baruch's clever strategies, including using AI to engage potential partners. He envisions a future where communal batteries power not just bikes but also food carts and more. Baruch’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through as he connects deeply with NYC’s delivery culture.

A historical miscount reveals that New York's next mayor will actually be the 112th, changing the narrative of mayors in the city. The hosts delve into Julie Menin's victory in the speaker race and how it may shape the new administration. Exciting discussions cover ongoing protests against ICE, a recently deceased deputy chief from 9/11, and tensions surrounding the upcoming FDNY leadership changes. They debate the implications of mayoral counting and explore the dynamics of Mamdani's transition and his partner's potential role at Gracie Mansion.

Crystal Hudson, a Brooklyn City Council member and candidate for New York City Council Speaker, dives into her vision for the city, focusing on affordability, safety, and services for older adults. She shares insights on the importance of the speaker's role in maintaining accountability and working effectively with the mayor. Hudson emphasizes building consensus across diverse communities and her plans for a more responsive city government. She also discusses the complexities of the speaker race and her stance on council pay raises amidst the affordability crisis.

Hosts delve into New York's bustling political landscape, questioning if it's time for generational change in Congress. They analyze the crowded race to replace a veteran politician and debate the merits of age limits for candidates. Discussions shift to Mayor-elect Mamdani's potential challenges and opportunities in governance. Themes of hope versus skepticism emerge, especially regarding housing affordability and community safety. They wrap up with insights into transition staffing risks and a look at upcoming races.

Michael Rohatyn, a filmmaker and son of financier Felix Rohatyn, teams up with documentary filmmaker Peter Yost to explore New York City's precarious fiscal crisis in 1975 through their documentary, Drop Dead City. They discuss Michael's emotional interviews with his father as he faced Alzheimer's, uncover the significance of the Municipal Assistance Corporation, and reveal how archival footage shaped the film's narrative. The duo reflects on civic commitment, the evolving perception of public service, and the lessons this historic crisis imparts for today's policymakers.

The hosts dive into the intense Council Speaker race post-election and the rising tensions around Mayor Mamdani's agenda. Kathy Hochul faces chants of "tax the rich" at Somos, showcasing her political challenges. They also explore early movements for the 2026 Congressional elections, highlighting potential candidates. Discussion turns to the NYPD, community responses to recent events, and the implications of decision-making power within the new administration. As political dynamics shift, the hosts examine how deal-making could define the future leadership landscape.

Patrick Gaspard, a distinguished senior fellow and former Obama aide, shares insights on the historic transition to Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. He discusses Mamdani's all-female transition team, the significance of grassroots engagement, and how to maintain momentum for political renewal. Gaspard highlights the need for appointments that reflect the administration's vision and outlines strategies for addressing challenges, including persistent racist attacks. With a mix of optimism and pragmatism, Gaspard illustrates the exciting possibilities ahead for New York City.

Ben Frachtenberg, a visual editor and photographer for The City, joins hosts Harry Siegel and Amy Sohn to discuss the art of street photography. He shares insights from his solo exhibition, In Tension, showcasing the contrast between the isolation of COVID-era streets and vibrant public moments. Ben dives into the ethical dilemmas photographers face, the importance of capturing candid moments, and how he manages anxiety while doing his work. He also critiques pop culture portrayals of photojournalism, emphasizing the need for authenticity in storytelling.

New York City's mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, gives a hopeful victory speech that resonates with a diverse coalition. Excitement builds at his victory party, with emotional responses and robust volunteer efforts on display. The hosts delve into the implications of his expansive vision versus budget constraints, while also exploring potential challenges like Islamophobia and necessary community outreach. The rising influence of the Working Families Party and DSA shapes the political landscape moving forward, hinting at significant changes in local governance.