All Of It

WNYC and Gothamist education reporter Jessica Gould shares her reporting on how the cellphone ban at NYC's public school has changed the nature of lunchtime for kids around the city. She also shares her insights on school news to watch for in the new year. Plus, listeners call in with their questions, and to report how the cellphone ban has impacted their students.

Lunch has a long history in New York, and the midday meal has looked different throughout different eras of the city. In today's world of corporate bowls and fast casual spots, we want to know where your go-to lunch places from back in the day, whether it was meeting a friend, hosting a "power lunch," or taking a simple lunch break. In 2012, the New York Public Library organized an exhibit, "Lunch Hour NYC," about the history of lunch in the city. Co-curators Rebecca Federman and Laura Shapiro speak about what they learned.

Eater editor Nadia Chaudhury shares her list of New Years Eve celebrations around the city, and her tips for celebrating at home. Plus listeners call in to shout out their plans to celebrate the start of 2026.

On December 31, the MTA will stop selling new MetroCards for subway and bus riders, continuing the transition to a contactless tap-and-ride fare system. Jodi Shapiro, New York Transit Museum curator, discusses the end of the MetroCard and its legacy in the history of NYC Transit, and speaks more about the museum's exhibit, "FAREwell, MetroCard," on view now.

Before the New Year, hear updates from the world of podcasts, including industry trends, new and rising shows, and highlight episodes from 2025. Podcast industry expert Lauren Passell, curator of Podcast The Newsletter and podcast writer for LifeHacker, shares her recommendations and insights.