Shows
The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - James McGoey
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2011 death of James McGoey, 43. McGoey was shot by an off-duty NYPD officer while robbing a pharmacy for prescription drugs. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit:
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2021-06-1921 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 55 9/11: In Memoriam - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOn this week's episode, we commemorate the upcoming 20th anniversary of September 11th with a visit to memorials in all five boroughs, including the rebuilt - and still rebuilding - World Trade Center complex. All memorials visited were found via the 9/11 Memorial website, which documents every 9/11 memorial site throughout NYC and around the world.
2021-06-151h 12The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Mario Sanabria
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2017 death of Mario Sanabria, 69. Sanabria was shot by police entering his apartment while executing a no knock warrant for a narcotics investigation unrelated to Sanabria. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York o...
2021-06-1326 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 54 Stadium Tour with Kevin Corrigan - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's our 50th week (!!) of 5 marathons a week and we're celebrating by going sporty, visiting all the major stadiums in NYC: MSG, Barclays Center, Citi Field and Yankee Stadium. Joining us for the podcast is New York City Super Fan Kevin Corrigan, a Queens native and 38 year Yankees season ticket holder. We cover everything about his history of fandom, from the most memorable games he's seen, the famous athletes he's met and all the sports road trips along the way.
2021-06-081h 21The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Kyam Livingston
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2013 death of Kyam Livingston, 37. Livingston died in custody at Brooklyn Central Booking after being ignored by officers for seven hours while complaining of abdominal pain. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York o...
2021-06-0621 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 53 '25th Hour' with James Morrison - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's our last of our movie-themed walks, and this week we're tracking down the locations referenced in Spike Lee's 2002 film '25th Hour'. Joining us to discuss the film is talented and insightful NYC filmmaker James Morrison. We talk the iconic 'F*ck New York' scene on which the route is based, how the film has aged over the past twenty years, the relationship between NYC 2002 vs. NYC 2021, and so much more.
2021-06-011h 41The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Unidentified Man, 2015
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss police shooting of an Unidentified Man in December of 2015 during an automobile chase. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit:
https://highleyvarlet.com/posts/Use_of_For...
2021-05-3014 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 52 BK Loose Ends, Marine Park - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's our last full week in Brooklyn and we're spending the episode touring one of our favorite spots in the city: Marine Park. We tour its marshlands in search of beat up car wrecks and talk what it feels like being so close to the project's end. Plus, we talk some details into our wedding just four weeks away at this same park!
2021-05-251h 05The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Shantel Davis
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Shantel Davis, 23. Davis was shot by a police officer after being pursued for reckless driving. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit:
https://hig...
2021-05-2320 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 51 Famous Women Musicians and Their BK High Schools - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOn this week's walk, we go hopping around Brooklyn to visit the high schools of the borough's greatest female musical talent. From Carole King to Lil' Kim to 'Babs' herself, we learn the fascinating backgrounds of both the buildings and the stars.
2021-05-181h 03The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Osbourne Broadie
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Osbourne Broadie, 39. Broadie was shot by police officers following a domestic dispute after charging at them with a pair of hair clippers. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past...
2021-05-1623 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp.50 'In Pursuit of Freedom,' A Brooklyn Abolitionist Tour - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastWe're back in Brooklyn for the month of May and this week we're doing something we've yet to do this project: basing a large portion of our marathon route off an existing tour. It's an educational program called 'In Pursuit of Freedom,' developed to highlight the rich history of the Brooklyn abolitionist movement. Areas visited this week include DUMBO, Downtown Brooklyn, Brooklyn Heights and the Weeksville section of Crown Heights. 'In Pursuit of Freedom' was developed by the Brooklyn Historical Society, the Irondale Ensemble Project and the Weeksville Heritage Center.
2021-05-111h 36The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - James Young
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2011 death of James Young, 49. Young was choked to death by officers while they were in the area investigating an unrelated drug case. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit: ...
2021-05-0919 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 49 Exploring Southeast Bronx - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's the last week of our month in the Bronx and we're out exploring the South East coast, including the expansive Ferry Point Park. Topics this episode include model airplanes, the time Jessi was a waitress for Bill De Blasio, and our overall impression of the Bronx after 500 miles. Plus it's that time again: our Mileage Report upate!
2021-05-041h 06The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Manuel Rosales
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2016 death of Manuel Rosales, 35. Rosales was shot by police after responding to calls of a domestic dispute / mental health episode. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit:
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2021-05-0230 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 48 City Island and Pelham Bay Park - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOur third week of touring the Bronx finds us in a totally new environment even after 10 months of city walking: the seaside town and natural landscape of the Pelham Bay region! We walk the length of City island to show off its unique charms then head over to Pelham Bay to explore its beaches, coastal trails and abandoned ruins.
2021-04-271h 16The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Antonio Williams and Brian Mulkeen
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2019 death of Antonio Williams, 27, and Officer Brian Mulkeen, 33. Williams was approached by plainclothes officers while waiting for a car and a struggle ensued. Mulkeen shot Williams multiple times before being shot himself being shot by friendly fire. For more...
2021-04-2522 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 47 The New York Botanical Gardens - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's week two of our month in the Bronx and we're back in garden mode visiting the premiere flowering venue of NYC, the New York Botanical Gardens! We hit the peak of the season this time around and catch an extra surprise: the premiere of Yayoi Kusama's new exhibit 'Cosmic Nature'. Lots to explore on this episode; come take a walk around with us!
2021-04-201h 04The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Michael Hansford
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2018 death of Michael Hansford, 52. Hansford was shot by police while carrying a knife during a dispute with his landlord. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit:
h...
2021-04-1821 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 46 Van Cortlandt Park with Leila Bakhtiari - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastWe start our month long walk around the Bronx rambling about Van Cortlandt Park with good friend and NYC Parks professional Leila Bakhtiari. We take a high level overview of Leila's decade long work journey, talk about what makes a good NYC park bathroom, rank our favorite city parks and much more!
2021-04-131h 24The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Denis Reyes
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2015 death of Denis Reyes, 40. Reyes was smothered by police while trying to restrain him during a mental health episode. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit:
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2021-04-1126 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 45 Dueling Botanic Gardens (And More!) - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastWith this week falling between two months, it's time once again for one of our patented multi-borough treks! This time we're flipping between Queens and Brooklyn to visit their respective Botanic Gardens! Along the way we find special surprises. What you may ask? Tune in to find out!
2021-04-061h 33The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Naim Owens
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Naim Owens, 22. Naim was shot by an undercover officer while walking home at night after the officer noticed him reaching for his waistband. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the...
2021-04-0424 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 44 The Cloisters with Mae Colburn - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOur final week in Manhattan has us doing something we've yet to do during this project - walk interior spaces! We visited five different museums throughout the week and capped it off with a podcast recording way uptown at The Met Cloisters. Joining us for the episode is Mae Colburn - a weaver, art historian and frequent textile collaborator with Jessi. We dive deep into Renaissance-era art, discussing religious background, art technique and the massive undertaking involved in creating the tapestries The Cloisters is famous for.
2021-03-301h 14The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - David Felix
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2015 death of David Felix, 24. Two detectives entered Felix's room without a warrant on suspicion of purse theft. The ensuing chase and struggle resulted in Felix being shot at point blank range. For more information including a mapping of lethal...
2021-03-2819 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 43 The Loose Ends, Manhattan - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis is a big week of milestones for the 'Total Clarity' project: 5,000 miles walked (and counting), the end of the winter season and the original project end were it not for the pandemic. This week, we take the opportunity to do a check-in on our project pillars - Physicality, Companionship, Communication and Clarity - to see how our pre-project goals meet our current trajectory and accomplishments. Plus, we call out 5 aspects that have changed and 5 that stayed the same since we first started.
2021-03-232h 08The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Garry Conrad
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2016 death of Garry Conrad, 46. Conrad was shot by police after getting into a verbal altercation with them while trying to purchase alcohol. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit: ...
2021-03-2129 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 42 Royal Tenenbaums Movie Locations with Ramsey Ess - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's our second walk week dedicated to movie locations and we're tackling Wes Anderson's 2001 NYC dollhouse The Royal Tenenbaums. "Takin' it out and choppin' it up" with us this week is comedian, educator and longtime friend Ramsey Ess. We cover locations both BK and Manhattan, do some filmography ranking, plus talk about what it's like to know people for over a decade in New York City.
2021-03-161h 46The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Charles Mozdir
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of lethal use of force in New York City over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Charles Mozdir, 32. Modzir was a suspected sex offender on the run from California authorities when a television show led to information on his whereabouts, prompting U.S. Marshalls and NYPD to seek his arrest. F...
2021-03-1426 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 41 Writers of New York - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastWe're back in Manhattan for the month of March and digging into another arts theme: writing! NYC has a rich history of literary talent living in the city and feeding off of its inspiring culture. We bop around the borough (plus one spot in BK!) to visit just a small cross section of homes where writers were either born or lived in during their lifetime, and even one rumored to be spending their afterlife!
2021-03-091h 39The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Angel Alvarez
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of police use of force in New York City over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss an August 2010 event involving Louis Soto (deceased) and Angel Alvarez, 23. Soto and Alvarez were involved in a late night altercation at a barbeque and guns were drawn. Soto was killed by Alvarez; police shot Alvarez 23 times along w...
2021-03-0726 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 40 The Loose Ends, Queens with Paul DiBenedetto - The 'Total Clarity PodcastWe're starting to see real progress on our year-long walk around New York City, as this week represents our final all-Queens marathon! This route is all about hitting areas in Queens we've missed previously, touching the Northeast (Douglaston, Little Neck, Bayside) and Southeast (Rochdale, Brookville, Springfield Gardens) corners of the borough. Joining us this week is Bayside Historical Society President and Bayside native Paul Dibenedetto. We talk the history of the Historical Society, the struggles of single family homes and NYC zoning laws, as well as how COVID has impacted Paul's work in film production. It's also been 5 weeks...
2021-03-021h 21The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Shereese Francis
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of lethal use of force in New York City over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Shereese Francis, 30. Francis was suffocated to death by four NYPD officers after her family had called 311 to get her metal health assistance. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York o...
2021-02-2820 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 39 Hip-Hop in Queens with Miss Mar - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's our second of three music-themed walks around NYC, and this week we spanned the entire borough of Queens to visit five havens of hip-hop: Queensbridge, Corona, Jamaica, Hollis and St. Albans. We were joined for our walk through Queensbridge by the fantastic Miss Mar, a young MC with over a decade plus of music already to her name. We talk growing up in the borough, her hip-hop beginnings, the state of the music scene and her clothing company, The Cool Table NYC.
**CLARIFICATION** On the topic of Kiing Shooter's death @ 46:20 - Shooter passed away due...
2021-02-231h 38The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Edgar Owens
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of lethal use of force in New York City over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Edgar Owens, 46. Owens was shot by an MTA police officer John Barnett after he stabbed Barnett in the eye with a knife. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York o...
2021-02-2123 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 38 Queens Movie Locations with Frank Lin - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastNew York City has been the setting for thousands upon thousands of films over cinema's history. This week, we tackle three with strong ties to Queens - Men in Black, Goodfellas and Coming to America. Joining us to discuss the filming locations is actor, Queens native, and best accountant in New York City (our opinion) Frank Lin. We also take a deep dive into the world of taxes during the exceptional age of COVID.
2021-02-161h 27The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Brian Simonsen
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of lethal use of force in New York City over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2019 death of Brian Simonsen, 42. Simonsen, an NYPD detective, was killed by friendly fire while responding to a robbery call at a cell phone store. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York o...
2021-02-1435 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 37 The Two Racetracks (Blizzard Edition) - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt was a wild week for 'Total Clarity' as we walked 5 marathons through the biggest snowfall NYC has seen in 5 years! We talk at length about what it's like to walk all day through a blizzard, plus the intended theme of the week: a visit to New York's two racetracks, Belmont and Aqueduct.
2021-02-091h 36The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Jeffrey Ragland
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of lethal use of force in New York City over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Jeffrey Ragland, 50. Ragland, a former corrections officer, was shot by an off-duty corrections officer during an altercation with a mutual romantic partner. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York o...
2021-02-0717 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 36 The Native Roads - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis week's route traces its origins back to before New York, New Amsterdam or any European presence in the New World. In 1946, Brooklyn Borough Historian James A. Kelly published a map that catalogued all instances of Native American roads pre-colonial settlement. Rediscovered in 2015 by blogger Heather Quinlan, we used the map to chart our marathon route for the week. It was a great opportunity to familiarize ourselves with the past traditions and current culture of New York's native people, the Lenape nation.
2021-02-021h 27The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Carlos Alcis
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2013 death of Carlos Alcis, 43. Police were responding to reports of a stolen cell phone when they entered an apartment complex and began entering apartments without a warrant. Alcis entered cardiac arrest as a result of the incident and was...
2021-01-3117 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 35 Green-wood Cemetery with JP and Patrick - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOn this week's episode we canvas the beautiful and historic Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn. Joining us on this effort are Jessica Polaniecki and Patrick Weaver, two intrepid walkers that made a project out of covering every road and path on the grounds! We talk with them about that effort, along with discussing the native parakeet population, Sophie Calle's secret burning project at Green-wood, the problem with Civic Virtue (?) and so much more!
2021-01-261h 30The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Michael Romero
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2010 death of Michael Romero, 32. Police were searching for a suspect with a pellet gun when they stopped Romero to ask for ID. Romero attempted to shoot one officer with a revolver, prompting the second officer to shoot him. For...
2021-01-2423 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastInsurrection and Impeachment - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastAs we strive to maintain a log of our thoughts and feelings throughout the "2020: Total Clarity" project, we thought it was important to spend some time talking about the events that took place on the capital January 6th and the subsequent second impeachment of Donald Trump. You can find it here as a separate segment from the usual podcast due to its length.
2021-01-1951 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 34 The Battle of Brooklyn - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis week we go back - waaay back - all the way to the Revolutionary War! From Fort Hamilton to Broadway Junction, Prospect Park to Fulton Ferry, the borough of Brooklyn is packed with historical sites tied to the United States fight for independence. Come join us for a comprehensive survey of The Battle of Brooklyn!
2021-01-191h 24The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Saheed Vassell
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2018 death of Saheed Vassell, 34. Vassell was shot by police after calls went to 911 saying he was brandishing a firearm when he was not. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade...
2021-01-1728 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 33 The Three Bridges w/ Laura Peterson - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis week's marathon route brings us over the three great spans joining Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn: the Williamsburg, Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. We talk the history and present day experience of these modern wonders with artist, professor and architect Laura Peterson. There's so much fun stuff to learn; come have a listen!
2021-01-121h 30The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Antwain White
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Antwain White, 17. White was shot by an off duty officer after he and another teen threatened robbery by physical force. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit: ...
2021-01-1019 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 32 Following the BQE w/ Bahij Chancey - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastWe're closing out 2020 with a walk under, over and next to the Brooklyn Queens Expressway, or BQE. Joining us this week is our friend and student of all things urban planning Bahij Chancey. We cover Robert Moses, the future of the BQE, biking advocacy in NYC, the impact of highways on cities and so much more. We learned so much from Bahij; we hope you do too!
2021-01-051h 33The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force -Tyjuan Hill
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Tyjuan Hill, 22. Hill was shot in the back of the head while being restrained by six officers after fleeing a prostitution sting operation. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the...
2021-01-0329 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 31 The Bridges of Upper Manhattan - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastDid you know there are over 15 train, pedestrian and motor vehicle bridges between the top of Manhattan and 59th street alone? We didn't know ourselves until this week, but we sure learned a lot trekking across as many as we could! This episode you'll learn a little bit about the oldest bridge in the city, the largest lift bridge in the world, a mob-led bridge demolition and much, much more. Come cross the river with us!
2020-12-291h 39The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Orlando Santos
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2011 death of Orlando Santos, 28. Santos was shot by police after attempting to flee in a vehicle with a burnt out headlight while having a warrant out for his arrest. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in...
2020-12-2724 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 30 'The Nexus of the Universe,' A Seinfeld Walk - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis week we've got one of our most highly anticipated episodes to date: our marathon path visiting some of the many Seinfeld locations throughout NYC! Joining us on this journey is musician and longtime Seinfeld fan Max Hiersteiner, who sat down with us at Jessi's dye studio in Bushwick. We cover the show from so many angles this week that it's hard to sum up. If you like Jerry and the gang, this is the episode for you!
2020-12-221h 27The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force -Emmanuel Paulino
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2010 death of Emmanuel Paulino, 24. Paulino called 911 after getting in a fight with his girlfriend asking for police to be sent to his location so he could kill them. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New...
2020-12-2019 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 29 Mid Project Performance Review! - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIf you can believe it, we are 25 weeks, 3,300+ miles and six months into our year-long journey around New York City!! This week we take a moment to check in with ourselves and assess how we're doing with the three big pillars of the project: our marathon walking, our seasonal clothing and the podcast itself. Plus it's time for another mileage report, where we see how far our total mileage could take us. Have a listen!
2020-12-151h 36The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Mohamed Bah
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Mohamed Bah, 28. Bah was shot in his home while having a psychiatric episode after officers responded to an ambulance request by his mother. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the...
2020-12-1319 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 28 The Music of Manhattan with Tom Wolfson - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastWe're back in the big city for December and are starting off witha great theme: The Music of Manhattan. Joining us to review the route and compare playlists is musician, actor, and New York native Tom Wolfson! We talk about his pilgrimage to Mandolin Brothers in Staten Island, the most underrated New York band he knows, and why he HATES Billy Joel. You don't want to miss it!
2020-12-081h 33The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Michael McBride
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Michael McBride, 52. McBride was shot by officers in a firefight at the 145th & St. Nicholas Avenue train station after being tracked for a shooting in Rockaway, Queens the day prior. For more information including a mapping of...
2020-12-0613 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 27 The Graveyards of Near Queens with Mark Thomas - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOn this episode, we rewind to several weeks past when we skipped a regular update to talk about the election. We go on a walk through Old Calvary Cemetery with classical pianist, audio artist and forensic genealogist Mark Thomas as he shows us all the secrets the area has to offer, along with a broad history of NYC cemeteries in general. We cover so much fascinating ground in the episode, you don't want to miss it!
2020-12-011h 22The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Joseph Prilo
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Joseph Prilo, 29. Prilo was shot by officers at an apartment complex in Flushing, Queens after moving towards them with a box cutter. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past...
2020-11-2915 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 26 The Queens Coast Pt. 1 with Zach Abramson - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOur two week endeavor to trace the entire Queens coast finds us taking a pit stop in Astoria Park to chat with acclaimed video game composer and Queens local Zach Abramson! Zach tells us about how he made the transition to game composition; his recent work on Avalanche Studios' dinosaur shooter Second Extinction; what goes into running a successful audio house like NYC's own YouTooCanWoo and so much more. We learned so much on this episode, you're not gonna want to miss it!
2020-11-241h 20The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Noel Polanco
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Noel Polanco, 22. Polanco was shot by officers on the Grand Central Parkway after being pulled over for driving under the influence of alcohol. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the...
2020-11-2223 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 25 The Road to Fort Totten - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOur month walking Queens continues with a trek out to historic Fort Totten Park, a hidden gem of military architecture, old New York lineage and Native American history. We touch on all of it, along with a recap of our mileage traveled to date (big milestones to report!) and the upcoming rollout of our Fall Dichototee tee-shirt line.
2020-11-171h 11The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Jonathan Efraim
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2015 death of Jonathan Efraim, 30. Efraim was shot by officers in Jamaica after discharging a pistol in a bar and fleeing on foot. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit:
2020-11-1615 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 24 Election 2020 Recap - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis week on the podcast we hit pause on our weekly walk recap to take a more macro view of 2020. In the midst of a pandemic, America has chosen a new President-elect in Joe Biden. We talk about what this means for us personally, for the country, and for the ongoing story of our nation.
2020-11-0854 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Zach Bingert
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2010 death of Zach Bingert, 21. Bingert was shot by officers in Glendale after menacing his mother and the reporting police with a knife. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit:
2020-11-0817 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 23 East Brooklyn with Loren Beri - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis week brings a special treat: Loren Beri, the composer of the 'Total Clarity' theme song, sits down for a delightfully absurd podcast episode. We talk the origins of the song (titled "Chess Street"), the struggles of NY apartment life, the Monkey incident of 2018 and our recollection of this week's East Brooklyn sites, all while passively playing a game of chess.
2020-11-031h 23The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - George D’Amato Jr.
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2010 death of George D'Amato Jr., 22. D'Amato was shot by officers in Sheepshead Bay after brandishing an imitation pistol in front of a school. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, v...
2020-11-0115 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 22 Lower Bay Brooklyn - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastFoggy days descend on the city this week as we take a walk along the boardwalk of Lower Bay Brooklyn. We hop from practical to existential, talking our need to improve rainwear; how our sense of time has changed walking ten hours a day; the beach battle between Coney Island and the Rockaways and much, much more.
2020-10-271h 19The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Dennis Volchkin
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Peter Jourdan, 28. Volchkin was shot by officers in Bergen Beach after being called to the home for a domestic dispute with his mother. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the p...
2020-10-2524 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 21 A Brooklyn Conversation - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIn continuing our tradition of experimenting with the podcast form, this week we're doing something a little different. Instead of doing a recap of the week's sights and sounds, we recorded the entirety of our Thursday walk and edited it down to the meaty parts to give a "day in the life" perspective of our marathon strolls. Whether it's Avril Lavigne vs. Pink, Pigeons vs. Rats or the functionality of the Omron Altiva Pedometer, we've got all the hot topics covered.
2020-10-201h 18The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Peter Jourdan
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2013 death of Peter Jourdan, 37. Jourdan was shot by officers at a Fort Hamilton subway station after drawing a gun on them when being pulled aside for walking between train cars. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in...
2020-10-1824 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 20 The Coast of Brooklyn with Nina Bowers - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis week we tackle the long coast of Brooklyn, from the top of Greenpoint down to Coney Island. Tagging along on this journey is friend and shoreline advocate Nina Bowers, who shares her firsthand knowledge of BK's waterfront development with us. We also talk the Sukkot holiday, the concept of "placemaking," our most recent mileage report and our first attempt at Total Clarity on the age old discussion: New York vs. LA.
2020-10-131h 26The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Oleg Tcherniak
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2015 death of Oleg Tcherniak, 58. Tcherniak was shot by a transit officer in Brighton Beach after an altercation with a grocer and an older woman. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past de...
2020-10-1124 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 19 The Parks of Olmsted and Vaux with Ariel Abrahams - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's our first of many theme walks to come on The 'Total Clarity' Podcast, this one focusing on the partnership of the famous landscape architect duo Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. For this episode we traverse the many hills and valleys of Brooklyn's Prospect Park while chatting with friend and local park enthusiast Ariel Abrahams! Topics covered include the nature of creative duos; ongoing response to the 'Total Clarity' Project; LISTSERVS and text chains as art and video game completion as ritual. Come join us!
2020-10-061h 25The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Rafael Laureano & Francisco Carvajal
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 deaths of Rafael Laureano, 51, and Francisco Carvajal, 47. The two were shot by police in an Ocean Parkway apartment complex on response to a domestic dispute. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the pa...
2020-10-0519 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 18 South Shore Staten Island - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's the final week of our "September in Staten Island" and we spend it down on the South Shore, home of wonderful parks, beautiful homes and miles of political flags. We discuss the energy of the environment, along with the concept of 'bad neighborhoods,' our new fall walking uniforms, and a comprehensive review of the bagel scene on Staten Island.
2020-09-291h 35The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Ilya Iglanov
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2011 death of Ilya Iglanov, a 48-year old who was shot and killed in Huguenot, Staten Island after he killed and serious injured two business associates in their home. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New...
2020-09-2817 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 17 Ganas Intentional Community with Michael Johnson - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastRather than commute for our month of walking Staten Island, we chose to rent a room at Ganas, a local intentional community with roots in the area stretching back 40 years. This week, we have a conversation with one of Ganas' founding members, Michael Johnson. We talk about the community's early days, its founding philosophies, the evolution to current day and much, much more.
2020-09-221h 36The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Eric Garner
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Eric Garner, a 43-year old man who was famously choked by NYPD police officers in Tompkinsville, Staten Island over selling loose cigarettes. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past...
2020-09-2122 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 16 East Shore Staten Island - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's week two of our 'September in Staten Island' and we're headed to check out the East Shore, land of beaches and boardwalks. With all this amazing nature, easy access to the city and - turns out - affordable housing, we discuss why Staten Island isn't considered more of a moving destination. We also share our recently spotted wildlife, local food delicacies, and a pair of new parks for us: Great Kills and Fort Wadsworth.
2020-09-151h 24The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Faustino Dioso
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2018 death of Faustino Dioso, a 50-year old who was shot and killed in Rosebank, Staten Island after a he charged officers with a knife asking to be shot. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New...
2020-09-1419 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 15 West Coast Staten Island - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastIt's week one of our September in Staten Island and already we're floored by what we've found! This episode covers the industrial West coast, with frequent stops at some top tier parks the area has to offer. We also divert into some wildly trivial topics this week, such as the fluffy slide fashion trend, when is okay to trespass, and the legitimacy of the word 'Superette'. We also have our latest mileage report, where we detail where else we could have gone so far with the distance we've walked. Welcome to the island!
2020-09-081h 33The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Garland Tyree
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2015 death of Garland Tyree, a 38-year old who was shot and killed in Mariners Harbor, Staten Island after a prolonged standoff involving negotiation units and automatic weapons. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York o...
2020-09-0626 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 14 Uptown Manhattan - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastWe've got a shorty but a goody this week as we conclude our August survey of Manhattan with a tour through the green forests, rocky cliffs and bustling neighborhoods of Uptown! We talk about the natural beauty, the exuberant culture, and maybe the coolest skatepark in NYC. Plus, we talk a little Staten Island as today is moving day for the month of September!
2020-09-0151 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Rudolph Wyatt
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Rudolph Wyatt, a 23-year old who was shot by a retired police officer while fleeing a pharmacy robbery. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit https://highleyvarlet.c...
2020-08-3021 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 13 Downtown with Alexa Strautmanis - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastOur wander through Downtown Manhattan brings with it some local flavor: SoHo native Alexa Strautmanis! We talk what it's like to go to the "Famed" LaGuardia High School; where to get the best fake ID's; her noteworthy artist grandfather and what SoHo was like before the Crocs store moved in. Plus, we get some dirt on how she met - and almost met - her husband and previous 'Clarity' guest Chris Supino.
2020-08-251h 22The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force -Joshua Williams
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2019 death of Joshua Williams, a 32 year old undergoing gender transition who was shot by police after attacking their domestic partner with a knife on the Lower East Side. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New...
2020-08-2421 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 12 Central Park with Chris Supino - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastThis week we walk around the world's most famous park with a man raised in its shade, Chris Supino. We talk about his Upper West side roots; where the bad kids drank; getting married in the age of COVID and his time living in Trump Tower - and yes, he had a run-in with the man himself. This is the first week we both walk and talk with our guest. Come join us!
2020-08-181h 27The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Scott Kato
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Scott Kato, a 45-year old man who was tracked and killed after stealing prescription drugs from an Upper East Side pharmacy. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade...
2020-08-1619 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastEp. 11 Midtown with Duncan Horst - The 'Total Clarity' PodcastAs we venture into Manhattan for our first time in the project, we head straight to Midtown to grapple with the parallel avenues that make up 'The Grid'. Joining us on this physical and cerebral navigation is Duncan Horst, who defies introduction so we let him do his own. Strap in for a wild journey up and down the mental lattice.
2020-08-111h 25The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Darrius Kennedy
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2012 death of Darrius Kennedy, a 51-year old man who was shot and killed near Times Square by officers after being confronted during a stop and frisk for smoking marijuana. In this episode, Jessi also talks about a recent police...
2020-08-1121 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastThe 'Total Clarity' Podcast Episode 10 - South QueensOur tenth episode takes us back to the beaches for a survey of South Queens! From Broad Channel to Bayswater, every sea salted neighborhood is covered as NYC experiences a July heat wave. We talk accidental fishing, beach preachers, ferocious mosquitoes and what it's like to walk a marathon in 100 degree weather!
2020-08-041h 43The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Unidentified Man, 75th Precinct
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the death of an unidentified man in the East New York section of Brooklyn who reportedly robbed an auto shop at gunpoint. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit https://hi...
2020-08-0218 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastThe 'Total Clarity' Podcast Episode 9 - East QueensOur third week of Queens sends us East, covering busy transit hubs, historic housing districts, and deep woods parks all in one walk! Topics of the week include the shopping center of Jamaica Avenue; even stranger exercise habits observed in the parks; the aesthetics of elevated trains and comparing our mileage walked with our distance from other major cities. Route details and more at highleyvarlet.com
2020-07-281h 25The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Zale Thompson
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the 2014 death of Zale Thompson, a 32-year old man who charged a group of four officers with a hatchet. The incident was later linked to terrorism after investigation revealed Thompson's browser history and religious conversion. For more information including a...
2020-07-2623 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastThe 'Total Clarity' Podcast Episode 8 - North QueensIt's our second week doing a First Impressions sweep of the borough of Queens. This go around we cover mostly Northern territory, passing through Flushing, College Point and Bayside among many other neighborhoods. Topics of discussion include New York diners, homing pigeons, exercise etiquette in playgrounds and much, much more. Route details and more at highleyvarlet.com
2020-07-211h 26The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Unidentified Man, 111th Precinct
"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the death of an unidentified man in the Bayside section of Queens who was classified as an Emotionally Disturbed Person or EDP. We also talk about what EDP means to the NYPD and recent efforts to change the language. For more...
2020-07-1920 minThe 'Total Clarity' PodcastThe 'Total Clarity' Podcast Episode 7 - Tropical Storm Edition!Our quest to walk 5 marathons a week throws us headlong into a confrontation with the flood-level rains of Tropical Storm Fay. We talk about what it's like to walk through the rain all day, along with all our Northwest Queens route had to offer: bridges, pigeons, bagels, graveyards and zoomba! Route details and more at highleyvarlet.com
2020-07-141h 29
The 'Total Clarity' PodcastUse of Force - Unidentified Man, 104th Precinct"Use of Force" is a sub-series of the podcast where we highlight one instance of NYPD use of lethal force over the past decade along the route we're walking for the week. The name refers to the Use of Force reports the NYPD generates each year where descriptions of these events are compiled. This week we discuss the death of an unidentified man during a 'Buy and Bust' in the 104th Precinct of Ridgewood, Queens. For more information including a mapping of lethal force in New York over the past decade, visit https://highleyvarlet.com/posts/Use_of_Force
2020-07-1100 min