About This Episode
In this debut episode, I introduce my new podcast exploring the places, people, and hidden histories that make our neighborhoods vibrant. Learn how this journey grew from my art practice, deep curiosity about local history, and desire to connect people with the stories beneath their feet.
About Me
I am is an artist and storyteller who moved to Jersey City from Germany in 2013. My fascination with urban architecture and neighborhood history has led me to document buildings through painting, research the stories of past residents, and connect with community organizations working to preserve local heritage. I am currently writing a book titled "If These Walls Could Talk," where my house serves as the narrator witnessing generations of Jersey City history.
Key Insights
The podcast grew out of my art practice and my curiosity about the buildings and places I painted
My personal connection to local history deepened when I began researching my own house, discovering remarkable residents like Dr. Edwina Drake Frech
My book project "If These Walls Could Talk" uses our house as the narrator of Jersey City's history
While many conversations will center on Jersey City, the podcast will also feature voices from other cities whose work resonates with local experiences
The podcast aims to help listeners see their neighborhoods with fresh eyes and feel more connected to the places they call home
Upcoming guests include Charlene Burke, Jin Jung, and Kelly Carroll, each bringing unique perspectives on community, art, and preservation
New episodes will be released on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month through August, with a break in September before Season 2
Visual Documentation
Related Resources
"If These Walls Could Talk" - my ongoing book project using my house as narrator
Dr. Edwina Drake Frech's pure milk dispensary initiative
Explore Further
Sign up for my Substack where I'll share additional stories, photos, paintings, and articles that complement each podcast conversation. The Substack will feature deeper dives into the histories discussed on the show, visual documentation of historic places, and reflections on how these conversations inspire new creative work.
Nat’s Sidewalk Stories is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Coming Up Next
On April 10th, join me for a conversation with Charlene Burke, whose dedication to Jersey City spans decades. Charlene has been a familiar face at public hearings and a driving force behind “my” historic district. Learn how Charlene's practical wisdom about speaking up and showing up changed my approach to civic engagement.
Connect with Me
Website: natkalbach.com
Substack: natkalbach.substack.com
Instagram: @natkalbach
Email: podcast@natkalbach.com
Music: Our theme music is "How You Amaze Me," composed by Jim Kalbach and performed by Jim Kalbach, Bryan Beninghove, Charlie Siegler, and Pat Van Dyke.
Support the Show: Subscribe to the podcast and sign up for my Substack to receive additional stories and visuals that complement each conversation.
Share Your Story: What sidewalk stories have you discovered in your neighborhood? Share them with me in the comments or via email.
Nat's Sidewalk Stories explores the intersection of place, community, and storytelling through conversations with practitioners, community leaders, and local changemakers. New episodes release on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month through August, with a break in September before Season 2 begins in October.
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