How to Be a New Yorker
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In this episode of All of It on WNYC, host David First speaks with Julia Edelstein, Features Editor at New York Magazine, about the publication's 2026 edition of 'How to Be a New Yorker'—a curated list of 259 practical, often overlooked tips for thriving in the city. The guide, which evolved from a previous 'Best of New York' series, focuses on 'advanced New Yorking,' covering categories like celebrating life’s milestones, raising children in the city, learning new skills, and navigating daily life with finesse. Edelstein shares insider knowledge on hidden party venues, affordable education opportunities like CUNY auditions for seniors, quirky classes at Brooklyn Brainery, and pet-friendly spots across the boroughs. Listeners contribute real-life strategies, from volunteering to build community to connecting with elderly neighbors, underscoring the theme that belonging in New York is as much about human connection as it is about logistics. The episode highlights how the city’s complexity can be mastered through curiosity, resourcefulness, and community engagement.
Volunteering is a powerful way to build community and feel rooted in New York.
CUNY offers affordable auditing for seniors—$65 per class—with access to high-quality courses.
Many elite venues like La Vida Or and Circle Line have private event spaces for intimate or large celebrations.
Talking to parents outside schools is often more effective than online research for finding the right school.
Dog-friendly spaces like Bark in the Park and pet-friendly stores offer fun, social opportunities for pet owners.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction and Sponsorship
The episode opens with a sponsored message from Shopify, highlighting its ease of use for entrepreneurs. Host David First introduces the theme of the episode: how to truly 'be a New Yorker' in 2026.
The Evolution of 'How to Be a New Yorker'
“We really want them to be things we didn't know, and we're very knowledgeable New Yorkers. These are the ones that made it in for this year.”
Celebrating the Good Stuff: Hidden Party Venues
“You can have your wedding there. And there's also a great place in Staten Island called Zara Forest where they do flaming plates of meat and the waiters all sing to you.”
Raising a City Kid: Practical Parenting Tips
“It's something that a lot of New Yorkers know, but many don't. And so people pick the wrong program and then they don't get a good placement for 3K.”
Learning and Enrichment: Affordable Education & Quirky Classes
“There's a history of toilets class. History of toilets. Sure. That's a first date right there.”
“I've introduced Rosalind to my children and we've all come together. She's a different religion than we are, and we will go and celebrate holidays with her, and she'll join in our holiday celebrations.”
“You can have your wedding there. And there's also a great place in Staten Island called Zara Forest where they do flaming plates of meat and the waiters all sing to you.”
“We really want them to be things we didn't know, and we're very knowledgeable New Yorkers. These are the ones that made it in for this year.”
Host
Guest
Julia Edelstein
person
David First
person
New York Magazine
other
CUNY
other
La Vida Or
other
Leah
person
Brooklyn Brainery
other
Carla
person
B&H Dairy
other
Zara Forest
other
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