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EPISODES

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How a Jersey Kid Made Batman a Movie Icon — Michael Uslan on Lost in Jersey
REPLAY: Warren Zanes on Nebraska, Springsteen, and the Art of Restraint
The Book Doctors: Publishing Secrets Revealed
Laurie Woolever – Care and Feeding – NYT Best-Selling Memoir
Dr. Ali Houshmand, President of Rowan University
Governor Phil Murphy Unfiltered: Talks Jersey, Trump & The Future
Facts to Fiction: Neal Lipschutz Writes a Killer Debut
Rolling Into NJ’s First Film Expo
Kate Greenfield
From 30 Rock to NJ: Holly Palmieri & Alfred Schulz on Life and Media
Impact of a Prank – Surviving the Seton Hall Fire – Shawn Simons
Craig Newmark
What do Inclusivity, New Jersey, and Iron Maiden Have in Common? Andrew Lacey!
The ACLU’s Role in Safeguarding Civil Liberties
Brand Wiz Craig Dubitsky Takes on Coffee
Carla Gutiérrez, the Director of “FRIDA”
The Wellmont Theater
Director Julie Cohen’s Road to Film & The Path Forward
Jennifer Tripucka
Montclair’s History with Angelica Diggs
Yana Collins Lehman
Jonathan Koppell
Liz Vaccariello
Craig Dubitsky 
Maria Afsharian
Watchung Booksellers
Alex Hall
Kate Zernike, Pulitzer Prize Author of The Exceptions
Jorge Aguirre
Road to Excellence – Alvin Ailey
MO RIZA
Renee Baskerville
APRIL MARCH
Tom Hall
Charles Rosen
Jo LaMarca Mathisen
IRA WAGNER
Jeff Jarvis
Liz George
Peter Yacobellis
Joe Colangelo
Dionne Ford
Wendy Lacey
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EPISODES

  • All
  • New
  • Episode
  • Spotlight
  • Arts
  • Biz,Ed,Tech
  • Politics
  • Lifestyle
  • OpEd
How a Jersey Kid Made Batman a Movie Icon — Michael Uslan on Lost in Jersey
REPLAY: Warren Zanes on Nebraska, Springsteen, and the Art of Restraint
Alma Schneider – The Power of One
The Book Doctors: Publishing Secrets Revealed
Laurie Woolever – Care and Feeding – NYT Best-Selling Memoir
Dr. Ali Houshmand, President of Rowan University
Governor Phil Murphy Unfiltered: Talks Jersey, Trump & The Future
Armando “Outthere” Diaz – Capturing Community
The Devil & Daisy Dirt Creators
Facts to Fiction: Neal Lipschutz Writes a Killer Debut
Rolling Into NJ’s First Film Expo
What to Watch & Read Now – April – May 2025
Learning Life Skills Through Dance
The Power of Positivity: A Winning Formula for Hyper-Local Magazines
Kate Greenfield
More Than a Haircut: How Barbershops Shape Culture and Connection –  Zane Keyes’ Story
From 30 Rock to NJ: Holly Palmieri & Alfred Schulz on Life and Media
Second Act Success with Career Transition Coach Shannon Russell
Building a Community Radio Station – The Story of Radio Free Montclair
Impact of a Prank – Surviving the Seton Hall Fire – Shawn Simons
Expert Dating Tips from Matchmaker Michelle Frankel
Craig Newmark
What do Inclusivity, New Jersey, and Iron Maiden Have in Common? Andrew Lacey!
The ACLU’s Role in Safeguarding Civil Liberties
The Creative Librarian Spotlighting New Jersey Stories and Artists
2025 Don’t Think – Do!
Parenting Tips with Debbie Kravitz
2024 Top 5 New Jersey Stories
2024 What Do You Love About New Jersey Winners!
Exploring the World of Photography with Neil Grabowsky
Anastasia Rubis – Author of ORIANA
Eric Tash Reveals Common Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs
Brand Wiz Craig Dubitsky Takes on Coffee
Jason Foster, Award-Winning Filmmaker
Top 5 Books and 5 Must-Watch Shows for November 2024
Improv Insights with Luke Ward
Public Speaking Tips with Laurie LeFever
Carla Gutiérrez, the Director of “FRIDA”
The Wellmont Theater
Director Julie Cohen’s Road to Film & The Path Forward
2024 Montclair Film Festival – Must-See Films and Events
Kevin Scott Cosme
Angel Abrego Gris – A Father’s Gift to His Son
Jennifer Tripucka
Allison Baer PhD
Stop Saying Everthing Happens for a Reason
Spring House Restaurant
Helen Archontou, MSW, LSW
College Drop Off
Pick & Skips: Exploring the NYTimes 100 Best Books of the 21st Century – July
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ADVERTISE
PRESSKIT
CO-HOSTS
M

Lost in Jersey was created by Janette Afsharian and Rachel Martens, two NYC expats who traded their shoebox apartments for the Garden State. Like many newcomers, they initially felt "Lost in Jersey" but have since embraced it as their home sweet home.

Through engaging interviews and lively discussions, they explore all things New Jersey—unearthing fascinating stories connected to the state. From "What's your connection to New Jersey?" to news, politics, family, arts, food, movies, and books, no topic is off-limits.

Pop on your headphones and join us as we celebrate the unique charm of New Jersey. Get lost in Jersey with us!

Rachel Martens

Rachel Martens

Co-Creator, Co-Host & Editor

Voice-over artist, writer, violinist, Montclair Story Salon member, reads a lot, and is the podcast sound engineer. Grew up in Long Island. Moved from Brooklyn to NJ. Has some kids, one husband, and a decent amount of friends. Finds life is okay most of the time, other times, it’s hilarious. Lives - in Jersey, just outside of NYC.

Janette Afsharian

Janette Afsharian

Co-Creator, Co-Host & Visuals

Graphic artist, coder, painter of an excessive amount of straight lines on canvas, and titan of digital design with a few awards. Does the tech and art for the podcast. Grew up in Iran/Texas. Moved from NYC to NJ. Has some kids, one husband, and a decent amount of friends. Finds life is okay most of the time, other times, distractions are needed. Lives - in Jersey, just outside of NYC. 

REVIEWS
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Reviews!

Five Stars on Apple Podcast! Thank you! 

{
Loved today’s (Yana’s) podcast! So fascinating not only her life but the fiance arm of the industry. Learned lots! Thank you!!!
5
Michelle N.
{

Cousin in Australia: “Hola primo! I’m listening Lost in Jersey Podcast, it’s such a great interview. Very funny as well”

5
Aguirre Family - Cousin
{

“Loved that podcasts! Your hostesses were funny and nice! Loved your story telling!!! Feel like you should have more quickly clarified you DID NOT get a dui 😆 I learned some about you and that was fun! I think you were prob very good at accounting. You downplayed this.

5
Aguirre Family - Sister 3
{

Whoa! Ladies! Just finished listening to your first episode and I am blown away! I giggled with you, I learned so much and it was really fun. Great interview with Chanda and great voices all around! Everyone needs to hop on and listen!

5
Liz
{

Just spent my morning listening to this amazing first episode! So inspiring to spend my morning with three talented, creative, and cool women.

5
Georgette
{

Okay, what do I have to do to be a guest on this? What a great idea!

5
Julie
{

I thought the funniest thing you said was that you time how long it takes you to get home from the city, let people know, and that you are in your jammies. I truly laughed out loud on that one. It is hard to believe this is your first podcast. Stay the same, don’t change.

5
Maria
{

We were driving back from Vermont today and listened to every episode of lost in jersey. Rob described it as an introvert’s dream – it’s like being at a fascinating dinner party. Congrats to you, Rachel, and all your guests. 😘 👏

5
Elizabeth
{

We need part 2 of Roger’s episode.

5
Steve
{

I’ve listened to all the episodes and it might be one of my favorite shows. Every Monday, I want to hear who is on.

5
Maria
{

You’re my new favorite people. I actually smiled the entire time I was listening. Thanks again for having me. It was a lot of fun chatting. – It’s Kimmunity approved!

5
Kim
{

I listened to the Craigslist’s episode on the way home and was so impressed by Craig’s openness to share about his growth to becoming a better person. Great episode!

5
Roger
{

Nice work on the Zanes’ podcast.

5
William B.
{

Oldest Sister: “Oh wow, Jorge. I’m watching now! I loved that they could pronounce your name properly. Both ladies are cute and smart.” Btw I’m following their podcasts now because I loved it. ”

5
Aguirre Family - Sister 1
{

Thank you for providing the opportunity to listen to mtc candidates. It’s been very helpful and informative about the candidates and their positions (and ability/lack of ability to articulate them)

5
kpny - Spotify
{
Loved today’s (Yana’s) podcast! So fascinating not only her life but the fiance arm of the industry. Learned lots! Thank you!!!
5
Michelle N.
{

Cousin in Australia: “Hola primo! I’m listening Lost in Jersey Podcast, it’s such a great interview. Very funny as well”

5
Aguirre Family - Cousin
{

“Loved that podcasts! Your hostesses were funny and nice! Loved your story telling!!! Feel like you should have more quickly clarified you DID NOT get a dui 😆 I learned some about you and that was fun! I think you were prob very good at accounting. You downplayed this.

5
Aguirre Family - Sister 3
{

Whoa! Ladies! Just finished listening to your first episode and I am blown away! I giggled with you, I learned so much and it was really fun. Great interview with Chanda and great voices all around! Everyone needs to hop on and listen!

5
Liz
{

Just spent my morning listening to this amazing first episode! So inspiring to spend my morning with three talented, creative, and cool women.

5
Georgette
{

Okay, what do I have to do to be a guest on this? What a great idea!

5
Julie
{

I thought the funniest thing you said was that you time how long it takes you to get home from the city, let people know, and that you are in your jammies. I truly laughed out loud on that one. It is hard to believe this is your first podcast. Stay the same, don’t change.

5
Maria
{

We were driving back from Vermont today and listened to every episode of lost in jersey. Rob described it as an introvert’s dream – it’s like being at a fascinating dinner party. Congrats to you, Rachel, and all your guests. 😘 👏

5
Elizabeth
{

We need part 2 of Roger’s episode.

5
Steve
{

I’ve listened to all the episodes and it might be one of my favorite shows. Every Monday, I want to hear who is on.

5
Maria
{

You’re my new favorite people. I actually smiled the entire time I was listening. Thanks again for having me. It was a lot of fun chatting. – It’s Kimmunity approved!

5
Kim
{

I listened to the Craigslist’s episode on the way home and was so impressed by Craig’s openness to share about his growth to becoming a better person. Great episode!

5
Roger
{

Nice work on the Zanes’ podcast.

5
William B.
{

Oldest Sister: “Oh wow, Jorge. I’m watching now! I loved that they could pronounce your name properly. Both ladies are cute and smart.” Btw I’m following their podcasts now because I loved it. ”

5
Aguirre Family - Sister 1
{

Thank you for providing the opportunity to listen to mtc candidates. It’s been very helpful and informative about the candidates and their positions (and ability/lack of ability to articulate them)

5
kpny - Spotify
CONTACT

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Lost in Jersey LLC  | All Rights Reserved 2024 | Website Design by Bluemarker LLC

New Jersey Legend Behind Batman – Michael Uslan
byRachel Martens and Janette Afsharian

The Bat-Signal lit up the sky because one Jersey kid had a vision: bring a darker, more human Batman to the big screen. In this episode, Michael Uslan—the executive producer behind every Batman film since 1989—shares how his childhood love for comics sparked a cinematic revolution.

Uslan takes us from Ocean Township to Hollywood, revealing how a decade of rejection, a strategic law degree, and lunch with Tim Burton helped erase the campy legacy of the 1960s Batman. Hear behind-the-scenes stories about Jack Nicholson’s Joker, the uproar over Michael Keaton’s casting, and the marketing blitz that created full-blown “Batmania.”

Now chairman of the New Jersey Film Commission and with his memoir headed to Broadway, Uslan reflects on Batman’s lasting legacy—and the heartwarming moment a group of West Point cadets turned his story into their own battle cry.

”The Boy Who Loved Batman” book

New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission

New Jersey Hall of Fame Class of 2025!

The Dark Knight is #28 on the New York Times Best Movies List

Follow us: Website | Apple | Spotify | Audible | Youtube | Youtube | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok

New Jersey Legend Behind Batman – Michael Uslan
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New Jersey Legend Behind Batman – Michael Uslan
July 15, 2025
Rachel Martens and Janette Afsharian
Episode play icon
The Story Behind Springsteen’s Upcoming Film
July 8, 2025
Rachel Martens and Janette Afsharian
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