ENTERTAINMENT
WHERE CLASSICAL MUSIC MEETS ROCKSTAR ENERGY
JAMES “MURR” MURRAY: BEYOND THE JOKES
FITNESS WITH PHORM FITNESS, MARK STEINFIELD IS BRINGING A NEW VISION OF STRENGTH, RECOVERY AND LONGEVITY TO LONG BRANCH JUNE 2026
Men Who Do It Their Way
Happy June, Greater Long Branch! In honor of our Gentlemen’s Issue and Father’s Day this month, I thought I’d open with a classic dad joke about construction, but unfortunately, I’m still working on it. If that earned an eye roll, I’d say we’re off to the right comedic start. Last month, our pages were filled with incredible women. This month, we’re celebrating the men. For me, that starts with Jake—the ultimate girl dad to our three daughters and now coach of our youngest daughter’s soccer team. Watching him balance encouragement, very little listening from the players and a whole lot of sideline energy has been a pretty perfect picture of fatherhood in real time.
That same mix of talent, drive and personality comes through in this month’s cover story. Head to page 30 for NGXB, a Central Jersey performer redefining what a modern musician can look like. With classical training, rock-star energy and a style entirely his own, NGXB has built something that feels both polished and electric. His story is about discipline, creativity and making people pay attention.
You’ll also find my story on page 14 featuring James “Murr” Murray, and writing that piece was such a fun experience. Sitting down with him was a great reminder that behind the humor and familiar TV presence is someone thoughtful, hardworking and deeply grounded. He was exactly as funny as you’d hope, but also sincere and reflective in a way that made the conversation especially memorable.
And don’t miss page 38 for Readers’ Choice: Gents Edition. From grooming and wellness to hospitality, recreation and everyday essentials, Greater Long Branch residents helped spotlight the local businesses that keep men looking sharp, feeling confident and moving through life with ease. Our Readers’ Choice: Gents Edition reflects the voices of locals who value quality, consistency and trusted service, and I’m so proud to be sharing this month’s winners with you. Be sure to follow along with us at @GreaterLongBranchCityLifestyle as we continue celebrating the people and businesses that make this community so special.
Here’s to the dads, father figures and everyday role models who lead with humor, patience and love—and to the men who show up, pitch in and make life a little better, dad bods and all. We hope this issue makes you smile and maybe even send a few Father’s Day compliments where they’re due.
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Brooke Boyer | brooke.boyer@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Rose Balisi | rose.balisi@citylifestyle.com
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
INTERNS
Riley Burns | riley.burns@citylifestyle.com
Dina D'Aiuto
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Carly Mac Manus
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brandon Herman, Joe Papeo, Jack Morgan, Olga Kolleeny, TBS, Kartheek Photography, Jordan Gershowitz, Michael Lago Creative Company, The Makeshift Project, Elly Alenka Dream, Andrea Phox Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
FROM YOUR STREET TO WATERFRONT DREAMS
Dedicated, and Motivated!
Our real estate journey doesn’t end at closing Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or just explore your options, I'm with you every step of the way Let's connect for a free consultation! SANDRA
Realtor Associate ® Serving New Jersey
M: 732-639-1371 | O: 732-444-7575
inside the issue
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1—2: Lyons & Associates, YMCA, and community partners planted a pinwheel garden in Freehold for Child Abuse Prevention Month. 3—4: Monmouth advanced to the CAA Championship as Hawks fans traveled to Washington, D.C., in support. 5: Monmouth women’s lacrosse defeated Old Dominion 9–5 on Senior Day behind Grace Curtin’s five goals. 6: Amelchenko Gallery opened its spring exhibition Second Nature featuring James Gortner and selected artists.
LYONS
Monmouth County MedStar Expands EMS Service to Long Branch
Long Branch transitioned emergency medical services to the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office EMS Operation, MedStar, beginning May 1. The partnership provides citywide coverage with ambulances based in Long Branch and no direct billing to residents. MedStar operates as the primary EMS provider, supplemented by volunteer squads. The expansion follows MedStar’s regional growth and strengthens response times and emergency care throughout the city.
Photography by City of Long Branch
The Monmouth Park Charity Fund, which has invested more than $11 million in local nonprofits over 78 years, is undergoing a rebrand to better align with its grantmaking mission. The organization will continue to focus on funding strategic solutions in areas including healthcare, arts, education, housing, and strengthening support for Monmouth County communities. The official launch of its updated identity is planned for late summer, marking a new chapter in its long-standing philanthropic work.
Amelchenko Gallery Opens ‘Second Nature’ Exhibition in Red Bank
Amelchenko Gallery in Red Bank opened its spring exhibition, Second Nature, on April 16, featuring contemporary artists James Gortner, Roddy Wildeman, C. Finley, Joseph Hart, Lee Tal, Suzan Globus, Audun Grimstad, Verdiana Patacchini and Loren MacIver. The exhibition explores abstraction through texture, form and color, blending modern and historical influences. On view through June 11, the show highlights meditative interpretations of nature and material expression.
to be featured?
Photography by Monmouth Park Charity Fund
Photography by James Gortner
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 pound busiate, or similar pasta
• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds
• 2 to 3 cloves garlic
DIRECTIONS:
• 1/2 cup fresh basil
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated pecorino romano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
Busiate al Pesto ALLA TRAPANESE
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER
Chef Bill’s love of cooking began early—in his father’s pizzeria in Garfield, where he started working at 11 and learned the values of hospitality, hard work and tradition. Long before he launched Piatto Di Pasta, the kitchen was already home.
Over the years, Chef Bill worked across the food industry, from line cook to restaurant management, while studying hotel and restaurant management at Bergen Community College. He later worked in high-volume kitchens serving corporate facilities, private schools and universities, building the kind of versatility and consistency that only comes from experience.
But some of Chef Bill’s most meaningful lessons came from home. He learned traditional Italian and Sicilian recipes from his mother and grandfather, where food was never just about the meal—it was about family, memory and bringing people together. That spirit still shapes the way he cooks today.
1. If desired, lightly toast the almonds in a dry pan until golden; let cool.
2. In a food processor, blend garlic with a pinch of salt into a paste. Add almonds and process until finely ground.
3. Add tomatoes and blend until smooth. Add basil and pulse briefly.
4. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth and emulsified.
5. Transfer to a bowl and stir in grated pecorino. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook pasta in well-salted water until al dente, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
7. Add pasta to the sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water and toss until evenly coated.
8. Finish with olive oil and extra pecorino, if desired. Serve immediately.
A Sicilian Classic—Fresh, Emulsified and Rooted in Tradition
After surviving a heart attack and undergoing open-heart surgery, Chef Bill decided to fully pursue his passion. He founded Piatto Di Pasta to create hands-on cooking experiences centered on fresh pasta, shared stories and genuine connection.
For Chef Bill, dishes like Pesto alla Trapanese reflect the simple, rooted flavors that first inspired his love of cooking.
NOTES:
This Sicilian pesto from Trapani offers a fresh twist on the version many readers know. Made with almonds, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, basil and pecorino, it is bright, rich and deeply tied to the flavors of the region.
To learn more about Chef Bill’s private cooking classes, pasta parties and events, visit piattodipastanj.com
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This beautifully designed 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home features a spacious, flowing floor plan with abundant natural light, hardwood floors, a laundry room, and garage access. Located just a few blocks from the beach.
A LOOK AT JAMES “MURR” MURRAY’S QUIETER STRENGTHS— PATIENCE, FRIENDSHIP AND THE WORK OF BUILDING SOMETHING THAT LASTS.
MORE THAN THE PRANK
When I sat down with James “Murr” Murray, one of the stars and creators of “Impractical Jokers,” I asked him whether he sleeps with one eye open. He laughed and told me that, after all these years, he was skeptical of almost everything. In fact, before agreeing to our interview, he said his team thoroughly vetted both me and City Lifestyle. In his world, a perfectly ordinary interview was exactly the kind of thing that could turn into a setup, and with a new season of “Impractical Jokers” in the works, he was not taking any chances. I told him that, should he ever need a willing participant for a future punchline, I would be more than happy to volunteer. Consider that my official hint—my offer stands.
It was a funny exchange, but it was also a revealing one.
The version of Murray most people know is the one on screen— quick-witted, charismatic, game for almost anything and always one beat from disaster. What people do not always see is the man underneath that amplified persona: a producer, writer and creative force who spent years working, pitching and waiting to bring his dream to life.
For all the chaos “Impractical Jokers” sells, Murray’s career tells a much steadier story. It is a story about patience, friendship and staying with the work long enough to create something that lasts.
That is what makes Murray a natural fit for our Men’s Issue. He is not just a familiar face from a hit show. He is someone who builds.
Long before “Impractical Jokers” became a success, Murray and his lifelong friends were doing improv together, sharpening the chemistry that eventually became the foundation of an entire franchise. The roots of that friendship go all the way back to high school. What audiences see on screen is funny because it is real. These are friends who grew up together and understand exactly
how to push, challenge and support one another. There is real trust there, and that trust is the backbone of everything they have built together.
Murray is also quick to point out that none of it happened by accident. “It was a very calculated business decision,” he says. Before “Impractical Jokers” ever landed on television, he spent a decade working in TV development, learning how shows were made and what networks wanted. He eventually went on to pitch his own show.
That kind of patience says a lot about a person.
It also says a lot about why the show has lasted. Nearly 16 years after its debut, with season 13 in the works, “Impractical Jokers” proves that meaningful success does not come from luck alone. It comes from consistency and caring long after it’s easy to coast. One of the most compelling things about Murray is that he does not sound like someone phoning it in. He still talks about the show with energy and sounds invested in what comes next.
When Murray talks about success, what comes through most is perspective. He tells me they were 34 years old when they finally got on TV, old enough to understand what it took to get there and wise enough not to take it for granted. By then, they were not just aspiring comics—they were adults with real jobs and responsibilities, which may be part of why the opportunity never seems lost on him. “It keeps us humble,” he says.
He also seems especially proud that “Impractical Jokers” is a show grandparents, parents and kids can all watch together. In a culture where shared entertainment is rare, that connection clearly matters to him.
That history gives weight to the advice he offers now. He knows what it’s like to work tough temp jobs in New York, paying bills by day and writing at night. So when he says, “Find what you love and do it and don’t give up on it,” you believe he means it.
James “Murr” Murray and Melyssa Murray
Photo Credit: Brandon Herman
That same groundedness feels especially clear when the conversation turns to New Jersey. Murray lives in Princeton now, and some of the work he cares about most is happening just minutes away in Rocky Hill.
In 2025, Murray purchased the iconic Rocky Hill home that houses Pacific Southern Railway, a nonprofit model railroad club he was determined to help save. The property is the longtime home of the club’s legendary HO-scale railroad, a 5,000-square-foot layout with more than 12,000 feet of hand-laid track that has been a cornerstone of model railroading since 1964. After the passing of longtime steward Carl Pate III in 2024, the future of the layout was uncertain. Murray, a lifelong train enthusiast, stepped in and bought the property to secure its future.
That detail matters because it says so much about who he is. He did more than appreciate the railroad. He invested to preserve it.
When Murray talks about the railroad, what comes through is a real sense of care. This is not simply an interesting side project. It is a way of preserving wonder, protecting local history and keeping something tactile and imaginative alive in a world that increasingly lives behind screens. As Murray puts it, “You have to protect that and save it and grow it.”
The house itself becomes part of that vision. Under Murray’s ownership, Pacific Southern is expanding its reach with virtual memberships, a refreshed online presence and more community-facing events, including open houses and fundraisers.
He is also not done taking big swings.
Beyond “Impractical Jokers,” Murray continues connecting with audiences through Murr Live, his solo comedy tour, where fans get to see more of his off-screen storytelling and personality. He is also the author of several novels, continuing to stretch into a very different creative lane. His thriller, Don’t Move, originally published as a novel, has now grown into a film project set to be released soon. Murray is not coasting on one successful idea. He is still creating, still evolving and still building what comes next.
That forward momentum is what ties everything together—friendship, patience, creativity, longevity and local impact. Murray comes across as someone who understands that meaningful success rarely happens quickly. Sometimes it takes years of rejection, years of work and years of belief. The real gift is staying with it long enough to see what it can become.
James “Murr” Murray may be best known for making people laugh, but that is only part of the story. The fuller picture is even more interesting. He is still creating, still taking risks and still building something lasting—just with one eye open at night.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
MURR LIVE AND OFFICIAL UPDATES jamesmurrayofficial.com
PACIFIC SOUTHERN RAILWAY pacificsouthern.org
Photo Credit: Brandon Herman
FROM IRON GYMS TO LIFESTYLE CENTERS: WHERE FITNESS MEETS
RECOVERY AND LONGEVITY
Inside the new generation of fitness and longevity taking shape in Long Branch
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY KARTHEEK PHOTOGRAPHY
Mark Steinfield has spent nearly four decades in the fitness industry—but he believes the most important transformation is happening right now.
After nearly 40 years owning and operating some of the leading East Coast Gold’s Gym franchises, Steinfield is now applying that experience to something new: Phorm Fitness,
“Today’s generation still wants to train hard—but they want a clean, modern environment. And they want longevity.” —Mark Steinfield
a next-generation fitness and wellness destination now open in Pier Village, Long Branch.
More than a gym, Phorm Fitness reflects a broader shift in health—combining strength training, group fitness, recovery and longevity into a single, integrated concept.
Steinfield believes the industry is entering a new era, and he wants the local community to be part of building it.
“We’re creating something people can grow with no matter what their age is,” Steinfield says. “It’s not just a gym. It’s a lifestyle.”
FROM IRON TO INNOVATION
Long before boutique fitness studios and biohacking became industry buzzwords, Steinfield was already shaping the fitness landscape in New Jersey.
In the late 1970s and early ’80s, he worked in entertainment— producing concerts, managing bands and recording radio commercials. In 1989, he pivoted careers to pursue his passion for fitness. By combining his experience in entertainment with the
atmosphere in fitness clubs, Steinfield has always understood the vibe has to be right to keep members engaged and motivated.
Over the years, he owned several clubs, including locations in Howell, Point Pleasant and Long Branch—some of the most recognized Gold’s Gym locations on the East Coast.
But the industry has evolved and members have new ideas about their ideal gym.
“The definition of hardcore fitness is different,” Steinfield says. “Today’s consumer isn’t chasing aesthetics alone—they’re chasing longevity for a better life. This isn’t a trend. It’s a shift in the way people set their fitness goals.”
Following the pandemic, Steinfield made the decision to launch Phorm Fitness, a concept designed to merge traditional strength training with modern recovery and wellness technologies.
THE TECHNOSPA ERA
One of the most distinctive elements of Phorm Fitness is its investment in recovery and anti-inflammatory therapies.
Mark Steinfield
In 2025, Steinfield invested more than $500,000 into Fire & Ice, a “technospa,” bringing advanced recovery treatments under one roof.
The facility includes full-body cryotherapy, infrared sauna, red light therapy and electromagnetic therapy.
“These are the same protocols professional athletes are using,” Steinfield says. “We’re just making them accessible to everyone at an affordable price.”
The cryotherapy chamber delivers a controlled three-minute exposure designed to reduce inflammation and accelerate recovery.
Red light and infrared therapies are designed to support collagen production, sleep and cellular repair.
“It’s not just about looking fit anymore,” Steinfield says. “It’s about how you feel.”
FITNESS MEETS MEDICINE
Perhaps the most innovative component of Phorm Fitness is its partnership with a medical doctor specializing in longevity and hormone optimization.
Through the collaboration, members have access to services including vitamin IV drips, NAD+ therapy, peptide treatments, testosterone replacement therapy and hormone-balancing programs.
“It’s the marriage of fitness and wellness,” Steinfield says. “Your primary doctor treats you when something is wrong. We focus on keeping you well.”
Designated IV therapy areas overlook the gym floor, intentionally blending medical wellness with the energy of a training environment.
“The goal is to make preventive health part of everyday life,” he says.
A NEW GENERATION OF GROUP FITNESS
Group exercise remains a cornerstone of the Phorm Fitness experience, and the programming continues to expand.
One of the newest additions is hot yoga, which will feature several premier instructors joining the club’s growing group exercise roster.
It reflects Steinfield’s belief that fitness should evolve with members, blending strength, recovery, mobility, and mindfulness.
“We want people to have options,” he says. “Strength, recovery, yoga, conditioning—it’s all part of the same wellness lifestyle.”
EXPANDING THE DEFINITION OF STRENGTH
For Steinfield, the future of fitness is not driven solely by aesthetics. It is about longevity and inclusivity.
“One of the most ignored segments of the population is seniors,” he says. “What are we supposed to do when we get older?”
Phorm Fitness focuses on functional movement, mobility, and sport-specific training for aging athletes like golfers, tennis players, and pickleball players.
The goal is not lifting the heaviest weight possible. It is maintaining independence, mobility and vitality.
“Your primary doctor treats you when something is wrong. We focus on keeping you well.”
—Mark Steinfield
“You modify,” Steinfield says. “You respect your body. But you stay strong.”
The club also offers small-group training formats, including women-only and men-only sessions, recognizing that comfort and cultural preferences play a role in how people train.
“The market is growing,” Steinfield says. “Fitness has to be for everyone.”
BUILDING A HOMETOWN WELLNESS BRAND
Steinfield describes Phorm as a three-part ecosystem: the main fitness club, a dedicated personal training studio and Fire & Ice—the umbrella brand for longevity, recovery and anti-aging services.
After decades in the industry, Steinfield has seen enough cycles to recognize when transformation is permanent.
“Some companies dip their toe in the water,” he says. “I didn’t have any doubt.”
His long-term vision includes youth training, expanded wellness services, senior fitness, and possibly franchising the Phorm model.
But for now, the focus remains local—building a wellness destination rooted in community.
Just steps from the Jersey Shore, Steinfield believes Phorm Fitness represents the next chapter in how people approach strength, longevity and overall well-being.
“Where do you want to be at age 70?” he asks. “That’s the question.”
PHORM FITNESS
Pier Village Long Branch, NJ 07740 phormfitness.com
JERSEY ROOTS.
GLOBAL REACH.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN GERSHOWITZ
Before he was writing for one of the most iconic live entertainment brands in the world, Jordan Gershowitz was a kid in South Jersey staging a one-act play about the trial of Benedict Arnold.
Born in New Brunswick and raised in Westampton, Gershowitz credits New Jersey with shaping his creativity. In middle school, he wrote and directed his first production, complete with improvised effects and a one-night performance, and by eighth grade, he was student director.
High school brought a new stage. Gershowitz performed in a punk band that toured New Jersey, playing venues like The Stone Pony and sharing bills with the Plain White T’s and a rising Justin Bieber in 2009. The group was later nominated for a VMA for Best Breakout Artist.
“That really increased my love for live performance and storytelling,” Gershowitz says.
BUILDING A CAREER IN ICONIC ENTERTAINMENT
JORDAN GERSHOWITZ
A Westampton native and two-time Emmy-nominated writer Gershowitz has shaped iconic brands including Hot Wheels, Thomas & Friends and Ringling Bros. Now based in Los Angeles, he serves as a showrunner and creative producer, blending nostalgia and reinvention across television, publishing and arena-scale live entertainment.
After college, Gershowitz transitioned from performing to writing, carving out a career in children’s and family entertainment. He has earned two Emmy nominations and worked on major properties including “Tom and Jerry,” “Peanuts,” “Thomas the Tank Engine” and “Monster High.” He also serves as a creator and head writer on Netflix’s animated “Hot Wheels Let's Race” series.
Live productions became a natural extension of that work. Gershowitz developed shows for Disney on Ice and wrote a “Sesame Street Live: Make Your Magic” stage production. Most recently, he wrote the 148th edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, helping revive one of entertainment’s most iconic brands.
The modern circus reflects changing audience expectations, focusing on storytelling and spectacle without animal acts. For Gershowitz, seeing it performed at venues like Newark’s Prudential Center is a full-circle moment.
“It’s cool to know something I helped bring to life is now in an arena I grew up going to,” he says.
LEADING THE NEXT CHAPTER
Now based in Los Angeles, Gershowitz is stepping into his first showrunner role, focused on building momentum and continuing to grow.
As AI advances, Gershowitz stresses the irreplaceable value of human creativity—technology can help, but instinct and emotion drive storytelling.
He sees his success as an extension of New Jersey, with a consistent focus on performance, connection, and craft.
For this Jersey-born creative, big stages can start in small towns.
For more information visit jordangershowitz.com
Jordan Gershowitz on Crafting Iconic Entertainment for a New Generation
THE MAKESHIFT PROJECT
FROM BASEMENT BANTER TO A SIX-MILLION-STRONG BRAND
Every empire has an origin story.
For Brian Conz and Zach Misischia, it began in a suburban basement in New Jersey—childhood desk, old gaming setup, random memorabilia on the walls. Not a sleek studio. Not a polished launch strategy. Just two best friends and a microphone.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL LAGO CREATIVE COMPANY, THE MAKESHIFT PROJECT
Before the 6 million followers. Before the sponsorship deals. Before the brand expansion. There was a banner they bought on a whim and a decision to stop talking about creating—and actually create.
Brian Conz and Zach Misischia
Brian and Zach met in first grade, growing up making videos and experimenting with creative projects long before content creation was a career.
“Brian does this every day for other people,” Zach says, referencing Brian’s professional work in sports media. “Let’s do it for ourselves.”
At the time, it was less business plan and more instinct. They filmed once. It flopped. They hesitated. Then they filmed again.
The first intro video pulled roughly 50,000 views. The second—a video game bracket—surged past half a million.
“I guess we’ve got to keep doing this,” Zach recalls.
That moment wasn’t viral luck. It was validation.
The Makeshift Project is not niche in the traditional sense. It is deliberately broad—sports debates, pop culture commentary, entertainment breakdowns and the kinds of arguments that spiral at a bar long after they should have ended.
“It’s two best friends starting a podcast in a basement,” Brian says. “Everything you didn’t know you cared about.”
The brilliance lies in its simplicity. The show captures the cadence of real friendship—interruptions, laughter, sharp takes and ridiculous hypotheticals that somehow become serious conversations.
It feels unfiltered because it is.
Five years later, The Makeshift Project has grown into a multiplatform ecosystem spanning TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat. Across platforms, the brand reaches more than 6 million followers.
But the real evolution is strategic.
Underneath the main channel, Brian and Zach have launched subchannels focused on golf, football, basketball and music—content verticals that allow them to speak directly to specific audiences while maintaining a larger umbrella brand.
The long-term vision resembles a modern media network model—one central, personality-driven brand expanding into specialized lanes.
“We’re not co-workers. We’re friends having a good time creating content together,” Zach says.
Their team includes childhood friends, former teammates and siblings. It is a tight circle by design.
Viewers. Fans. Community.
Success in digital media is often measured in numbers—views, impressions, subscribers. But Brian and Zach are focused on something deeper.
“I feel like we have the viewership,” Brian says. “Now it’s going from viewers to fans to community.”
That progression is intentional. Viewers scroll. Fans return. A community builds alongside you.
The Makeshift Project is about participation—creating a space where debates continue and listeners feel part of the conversation.
Despite the growth, the basement remains central to the brand’s identity. It is not a gimmick. It is a reminder.
The microphones are better. The cameras are sharper. The reach is global.
But the foundation remains unchanged—two lifelong friends pressing record and letting the conversation unfold.
In a digital landscape obsessed with polish and production, The Makeshift Project proves something refreshing: authenticity scales.
From a childhood basement to a 6-million-strong audience, Brian and Zach did not reinvent themselves. They amplified who they already were.
And that may be the most strategic move of all.
Visit themakeshiftproject.com for podcast episodes, platform links and more. You can also listen to The Makeshift Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, follow @themakeshiftproject on Instagram, and watch on YouTube.
Brian Conz and Zach Misischia
Brian Conz and Zach Misischia
Brian Conz, James “Murr” Murray and Zach Misischia in The Makeshift Project studio.
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
NGXB
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLY ALENKA DREAM
Raised Classically. Plays Like a Rockstar.
There is a moment, somewhere between the precision of classical training and the chaos of rock ’n’ roll, where tradition breaks open and something entirely new takes shape.
Nicholas George Xavier Blum, known professionally as NGXB, lives in that moment. At 27, the Central Jersey native has built a career that feels as unconventional as it does inevitable. A virtuoso pianist with more than 1.5 million followers and millions of digital impressions, NGXB is not just playing music. He is redefining what it looks like to be a modern performer—one viral video, sold-out show and standing ovation at a time.
“I’ve been playing piano since I was 4 years old,” he says. “My dad was my teacher. I grew up in it.”
That foundation matters. His father, a classically trained pianist, introduced him to discipline early. Technique came first. Structure followed. But creativity—the kind that would later define NGXB’s brand—took shape somewhere else entirely.
As a child, his home moved effortlessly between genres. Classical compositions gave way to Rat Pack standards, then to rock icons like Queen and Mötley Crüe. That duality left a lasting impression.
“I loved both worlds,” he says. It was not enough to choose one.
By middle school, he had stepped away from the piano altogether. The pressure had built. The passion dimmed. But in high school, a missed role in a musical and a return to performance reignited something deeper.
That second act would define everything that followed.
After earning acceptance to both Berklee College of Music and the University of the Arts, NGXB chose Philadelphia, where a six-figure scholarship made the decision clear. There, immersed in jazz studies, he found both friction and growth.
“They broke me down musically,” he says. Then he rebuilt himself.
The breakthrough did not come from abandoning structure. It came from reimagining it.
While preparing for a national television appearance on PBS’ “Celebration of Music,” NGXB realized something critical. Talent alone was not enough. Differentiation was everything.
“I was like, ‘I have to make myself different somehow,’” he says.
So he did.
He began arranging rock songs through a classical lens, layering technical precision with high-energy performance. Over time, those arrangements grew into a catalog of more than 200 pieces, forming the backbone of a career that now spans hundreds of performances each year.
“A LOT OF PIANISTS PRESENT THEMSELVES VERY SERIOUSLY. THAT’S JUST NOT MY VIBE.”—NGXB
It is a style that resists easy categorization. Classical crossover, yes. But also something more.
It is controlled chaos. It is discipline meeting instinct. It is Mozart colliding with arena rock.
For NGXB, the music is only part of the story.
“A lot of pianists present themselves very seriously,” he says. “That’s just not my vibe.”
Instead, he leans into personality, humor and energy—a kind of unpredictability that turns a performance into an experience.
That instinct translated seamlessly to social media, where his early content—equal parts comedic and technically impressive—quickly gained traction. What began as playful experimentation evolved into a powerful growth engine.
Viral videos led to collaborations. Collaborations led to bookings. Bookings led to a global stage.
Today, NGXB performs more than 300 shows annually, from corporate events and luxury venues to destinations including Las Vegas, the Bahamas and beyond.
And yet, the approach remains the same: engage the audience, break expectations and make people feel something.
“I interact with the crowd,” he says. “It’s not just sitting there playing.”
What separates NGXB is not just technical ability. It is vision.
Over the past two years, he has been developing a new concept show, “Rhapsody for Destruction” an all-instrumental production that blends rock energy with classical structure. It is designed not just as a performance, but as a headlining experience.
He is represented exclusively for cruises by TAD Management, which is working to bring Rhapsody for Destruction to audiences at sea. For all other performance opportunities, he is self-managed through NGXB Entertainment Inc.
At the same time, he is building a solo show that pushes even further into audience interaction.
“Think Mozart meets Matt Rife,” he says.
It is a fitting description. Equal parts musician and entertainer, NGXB is not interested in staying in one lane.
In an era where attention is currency and authenticity is everything, NGXB represents a new kind of artist—one who understands that mastery matters, but connection matters more; one who honors tradition, but is not bound by it; and one who can move seamlessly from a concert hall to a casino stage to a viral clip on a phone screen.
From Central Jersey to global audiences, his trajectory feels both organic and inevitable.
Because at its core, NGXB is not just playing the piano.
He is performing an identity.
And people are listening.
For bookings and more information, call 732-3309491, email ngxb@thengxb.com, visit thengxb.com , or follow @thengxb on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube or @NGXB on TikTok.
Photoshoot location: Asbury Ocean Club Hotel
Designs That Make a Difference
At Sheila Rich Interiors, every project begins with listening. As an award-winning, full-service interior design firm, we create bespoke residential and commercial spaces that reflect how our clients truly live and work. By blending elegance with intention, we design environments that feel personal, functional, and deeply considered spaces that support comfort, well-being, and connection.
SheilaRichInteriors
SheilaRichInteriors.com
A StraightShooter
Matt Casper, owner of Casper Plumbing & HVAC, brings old-school work ethic to modern business ownership
Matt Casper, owner of Casper Plumbing & HVAC, doesn’t waste words. He’s direct in a way that feels refreshing, clear about who he is and how he runs his business. That no-nonsense mindset has helped him build a growing company grounded not just in skill, but in something he values just as much: respect.
Serving Monmouth and Ocean counties, Casper built his business with the same hands-on approach he developed growing up in Neptune. As a kid, he helped his dad with projects, discovering early that he liked building and fixing things. Independence came just as naturally—and eventually pushed him to build something of his own.
By 16, he was in plumbing school while still in high school. After a brief attempt at college, he moved on, working for other companies, earning his HVAC license and gaining experience. Even then, it was clear he wasn’t meant to stay in someone else’s system.
“I didn’t know it until I was 23 that I was supposed to run my own show,” Casper says. He started his business in 2017 while still working full-time, building it on nights and weekends and returning to school for his plumbing license. The grind was intense—over
ARTICLE BY TIFFANY SLOWINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY
ANDREA PHOX PHOTOGRAPHY
three and a half years, he took just three days off. Holidays and birthdays came second to the goal, and consistency became one of the defining factors in his early growth.
Casper is clear that nothing was handed to him. Aside from borrowing his mom’s extension ladder in the early days, he built the company through work, sacrifice and determination, steadily growing his reputation through word of mouth and repeat customers.
“I don’t want to be labeled. I don’t want to be a number,” he says.
That independence still defines how he runs the business. What stands out is how direct he is—older than his years in the way he speaks and decides. For Casper, being “friendly” isn’t branding— it’s respect. He cares how customers and employees are treated. Skill matters, but so does attitude. He wants people to feel taken care of, not talked down to, and believes professionalism starts with that foundation.
Matt Casper
That discipline extends beyond work. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at 25, Casper made major lifestyle changes—improving his diet, prioritizing exercise and sleep, and focusing on his health with the same intensity he brings to his business.
“My diet’s locked down. I’m on a good medicine. I’m healthier than most people,” he says. “I made a complete 180.”
He speaks about it without selfpity—just another challenge he handled and adapted to over time.
Outside of work, he’s drawn to intensity: motorcycles, off-roading, working out, traveling and MMA. He’s also built a race car over time, applying the same focus and patience he brings to everything else in his life.
His advice to younger men, especially those considering the trades, reflects his mindset: “Do what you want. Don’t listen to anybody else. Do what you feel is best… Never stop learning.”
For Casper, it all comes back to building something real—a business, a reputation and a life on his own terms, shaped by discipline, independence and a clear sense of purpose.
Learn more at casperfriendlyservices.com or call 732-759-4568
Readers Choice ’
GENTS EDITION — JUNE 2026
From classic barbershops to neighborhood staples and coastal favorites, Greater Long Branch offers no shortage of places that define everyday style and routine. This month’s Readers’ Choice: Gents Edition highlights the businesses locals count on for quality service, consistency and a well-earned reputation.
These winners reflect the community’s go-to spots— trusted for their craftsmanship, care and attention to detail. With that, we’re proud to announce the June 2026 Readers’ Choice winners for Greater Long Branch.
EVERYDAY STYLE, LOCAL EXPERTISE
In Greater Long Branch, everyday style is shaped by the places locals know and trust. This month’s Readers’ Choice winners represent barbers, wellness providers and neighborhood favorites that deliver dependable service and a strong local reputation.
Follow us for upcoming categories and voting at @GreaterLongBranchCityLifestyle
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREATER LONG BRANCH CITY LIFESTYLE
BEST BARBER
Modern Man Barber Studio
Modern Man Barber Studio delivers sharp, modern cuts in a polished setting, with readers highlighting consistency and attention to detail. modernmanbarberstudio.com | (908) 839-0485
BEST CHIROPRACTOR
Natural Healthcare Center
Voters cited a holistic approach and attentive care, supporting overall wellness and long-term health. naturalhc.com | (732) 222-2219
BEST BAR
Jack’s Goal Line Stand
A longtime local favorite, Jack’s Goal Line Stand stands out for its lively atmosphere, with readers pointing to great food, drinks and community feel. jacksgoallinestand.com | (732) 870-8800
BEST GOLF COURSE/COUNTRY CLUB
Deal Golf & Country Club
Deal Golf & Country Club offers a classic, well-maintained course and welcoming environment. dealcountryclub.com | (732) 531-1190
BEST DRY CLEANER/TAILOR
Monmouth Beach Cleaners & Tailors
Known for reliable service and careful garment handling, with readers recognizing consistent, high-quality results. monmouthbeachcleaners.com | (732) 222-0505
Nice? Is Whiskey On Ice
In speaking to Whiskey lovers (most happen to be men, but do accept me in their brethren as a fellow enthusiast, writer, and educator), I’ve learned a great many opinions on how to drink Whiskey. Specifically, preferences on adding water and ice vary greatly.
A brand ambassador that I had the privilege of listening to recently said the obvious: both dilution and temperature change when you add ice, so if you are going to add something, a little water is best. I personally prefer to use a water dropper, so I can add one drop at a time until I get to the desired taste.
HERE ARE THE DIFFERENCES:
THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY YOUR WHISKEY: ON THE ROCKS, ROCK, NEAT, OR WITH WATER
Rocks: Provides the highest rate of dilution as a lot of ice melts quickly. If you are drinking a barrel proof Whiskey, it kind of defeats the purpose as the distiller didn’t add water as they do in every other type of finished Whiskey.
On the Rock: The single rock, cube, or sphere is the slowest to melt and thought to be the most aesthetic. It’s nice if you want to stretch out your tasting. I often order on the rock if I want my drink to last longer.
Neat: This is the way single malt Scotch is served at a tasting event, in a branded Glencairn or Neat glass so that proper nosing for aromas can be achieved - and a dram of Scotch, smaller than an ounce, fits in them perfectly.
Water: As I mentioned above, quoting the brand ambassador, a little water is better for a fine Whiskey over any kind of ice. Often, if ordered with water, the water is served in a separate vessel on the side so you can add in as much as you want.
Quoting another expert on the subject, Richard Paterson of The Dalmore famously and enthusiastically demonstrates in his Scotch classes how to drink single malt Scotch Whiskey: Paterson fills a lowball glass to the rim with ice, adds Scotch and then ceremoniously throws it over his shoulder onto the carpet of the classroom – because that much ice makes the drink worthless. One more quote, never “add green tea or milk to Whiskey. You can add a little water, but not a lot of ice.”
Ultimately, the reason we add ice can be for aesthetics, to stretch out the time spent on one glass, for cooling, and for dilution. However, the number one reason enthusiasts add water is … drumroll please … because adding a little water actually opens up a Whiskey to show more aromas and flavors.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 7TH
54th NJ Irish Festival
Monmouth Park, 175 Oceanport Ave., Oceanport, NJ 07757 | 11:00 AM
Celebrate Irish culture with live music, dance, food and family activities at Monmouth Park. The annual festival features traditional bagpipers, step dancing and authentic cuisine for a full day of entertainment. This vibrant heritage celebration is a premier summer outing for families looking to explore Irish traditions and professional performances. Find tickets and schedules at njirishfestival.com.
JUNE 13TH
Sand & Sea Arts Festival
18 Ocean Pathway, Ocean Grove, NJ 07756 | 10:00 AM
This vibrant, open-air celebration brings together talented makers, crafters and artists for a day of seaside shopping in historic Ocean Grove. Enjoy live coastal-inspired music, family activities and artisan goods ranging from fine art to home decor. It is a perfect summer shopping experience just steps from the beach. Find more details at oceangrovenj.com.
JUNE 13TH
Haskell Preview Day and Beach Tote Giveaway
Monmouth Park, 175 Oceanport Ave., Oceanport, NJ 07757 | 12:00 PM
Experience the thrill of live horse racing at Monmouth Park during Haskell Preview Day. Watch top competitors hit the track as they prepare for the summer’s biggest race. Arrive early to secure a highly anticipated beach tote giveaway. It is an exciting weekend outing for casual fans and seasoned pros alike. Find details at monmouthpark.com.
JUNE 17TH
Downtown Farmers Market
33 Washington St., Toms River, NJ 08753 | 10:00 AM
Return for a fresh season at the Downtown Farmers Market. Located near the municipal courtyard between the Ocean County Library and Town Hall, this outdoor market features New Jersey-certified fresh produce, local makers and specialty vendors. It is the perfect midday stop for fresh ingredients and community connections. Find more details at downtowntomsriver.com.
JUNE 20TH
Red Bank Classic 5K
Broad Street, Red Bank, NJ 07701 | 8:30 AM
The seventh annual Red Bank Classic returns to the heart of the borough. This vibrant community 5K brings together runners and families to celebrate the scenic waterfront and lively downtown district. Enjoy a post-race celebration featuring local shopping, dining and entertainment. Proceeds support Red Bank youth programs. Register at redbankclassic.com
JUNE 21ST
Donuts With Dad/Pup
Doggie Sweets, 15 Morris Ave., Long Branch, NJ 07740 | 10:00 AM
Celebrate Father’s Day with your favorite human and canine companions at Doggie Sweets. This casual gathering features gourmet donuts for dads and specialty pet-friendly treats for the pups. Enjoy a relaxed community atmosphere at the Jersey Shore while honoring the special bond between dads and their dogs. View more event details at unation.com
