The Jersey Link
The Jersey Link
Podcast Description
The Jersey LINK is built on one idea: home is more than a house. It’s the people, the community, and the feel of the neighborhood. Jose Sanchez takes you through Central New Jersey, highlighting towns, visiting local spots, and sharing real stories. We go deeper than listings, diving into what it’s actually like to live, work, and connect in each area. From market updates to pizza joints, The Jersey LINK shows you what makes Central Jersey tick, whether you're moving in, already settled, or just curious. Pull up a chair. The Jersey LINK brings Jersey home.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on themes such as local community dynamics, real estate market insights, and the transformation of neighborhoods, with episodes discussing topics like market trends in South River, the role of longtime residents, and the impact of local eateries like Ria Mar on community culture.
The Jersey LINK is built on one idea: home is more than a house. It’s the people, the community, and the feel of the neighborhood. Jose Sanchez takes you through Central New Jersey, highlighting towns, visiting local spots, and sharing real stories. We go deeper than listings, diving into what it’s actually like to live, work, and connect in each area. From market updates to pizza joints, The Jersey LINK shows you what makes Central Jersey tick, whether you’re moving in, already settled, or just curious. Pull up a chair. The Jersey LINK brings Jersey home.
Jersey Freeze has been a Freehold favorite since 1952, but its story is about more than just ice cream. On this episode of The Jersey Link Podcast, Jose Sanchez and co-host Brianna Lundquist sit down with owners Katie DiNonno and Matt Cangialosi to talk about how a local landmark kept its roots while growing into something bigger.
Katie started working at Jersey Freeze when she was fifteen, never imagining she would one day own it. Matt came from law enforcement and a background in running gyms, bringing new energy to the business. Together, they took a snack-bar-style eatery and turned it into a fast casual spot with quality food that could stand next to the ice cream in reputation.
The conversation covers the unexpected turns that led to ownership, the challenges of modernizing without losing the charm, and why social media became a game-changer for the restaurant side. From packed summer nights to community events that draw thousands, Katie and Matt share how they balance tradition with innovation.
You will also hear about their commitment to the Live Like a Unicorn Foundation and how one young girl’s dream turned into a cause that now helps dozens of New Jersey families every year. It began in honor of Olivia Lipnicki, a young girl who loved Jersey Freeze and wanted to help other children with cancer. “Every bad thing turns into a good thing,” Katie says, reflecting on her journey and why giving back is non-negotiable for them.
Here are the key takeaways:
(3:22) The Jersey Freeze history
(28:10) What makes Jersey Freeze a New Jersey icon
(30:44) How Jersey Freeze Supports Businesses & Partners
(35:00) Community First: Trunk or Treat and community events
(35:46) The “Live Like a Unicorn” story
(42:24) From Losing a Parent to Raising $150K for Others
(45:52) How Sundaes and DIY kits saved sales
(50:41) The Turning Point: The moment Jersey Freeze felt “real”
(52:10) More Than Ice Cream: Why Jersey Freeze feels like home
(55:19) Meeting Bon Jovi and Springsteen fans
From pandemic pivots to expansion plans, this episode is full of the behind-the-scenes moments you never see from the other side of the counter. Tune in to hear what it takes to run a place that is part hometown tradition and part growing brand, straight from the people making it happen.
About Katie DiNonno and Matt Cangialosi
Katie DiNonno and Matt Cangialosi have owned Jersey Freeze since 2014, taking over from longtime owner Bruce Blackmore. They have expanded the menu, grown the business, and stayed active in supporting local causes. In 2020, they opened a second location at Bell Works in Holmdel, NJ, and continue to oversee both stores.
Connect with Katie DiNonno and Matt Cangialosi:
Website: https://jerseyfreeze.com/
About Jose Sanchez
Jose Sanchez is a Broker-Associate at Keller Williams Realty West Monmouth with 22 years of experience in real estate, financial sales, and business operations. He leads a team, oversees recruitment, and manages client relationships throughout the buying and selling process. Jose also directs marketing efforts and helps drive team performance. He works closely with the community to support local growth and development. His focus remains on guiding clients and building strong partnerships across the region.
Connect with Jose:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsanchez35/Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/josersanchez
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and reflects personal stories and community perspectives. It should not be considered professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with relevant experts for guidance on specific issues.
Disclaimer
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