Things to Do, See and Experience in August: MedievalFest, End of Summer Escapes, and an $11 Million School Surprise

Written by:

Farnoosh Torabi

August 7, 2025

August in Montclair is a little quieter, but not on The Montclair Pod. In this season finale, co-hosts Farnoosh Torabi and Michael Schreiber make the most of the month, uncovering everything from town-wide budget drama to where you can sip medieval ale and train like an astronaut, all without leaving Essex County.

From listener-submitted August plans to a local true crime case that made international headlines, this episode is as packed as your kid’s sleepaway camp duffel bag.

True Crime and Spy Games in Suburbia

If you thought Montclair’s drama started with budget gaps, think again. Mike and Farnoosh revisit one of Montclair’s most shocking stories: the 2018 murder on North Mountain Avenue, which ended with a fugitive lawyer in Cuba. And in a twist fit for prestige TV, they also reveal how The Americans was inspired by a real-life Russian spy couple… living right here in town.

The $11 Million Hole in Montclair Schools

It’s official: Montclair’s school district is $11 million in the red. Superintendent Ruth B. Turner shared the staggering figure at a community meeting last week, sparking outrage, confusion, and numerous questions. Where did the money go? And why does the district say it can’t afford a forensic audit?

Farnoosh dives into the numbers and even a few Reddit theories. Spoiler: one of the more plausible takes is also the most relatable: bad budgeting.

MedievalFest Is Back

Turkey legs, wacky sword games, archery, and a full-blown Renaissance marketplace? It must be Montclair’s second annual MedievalFest, taking over the Montclair Art Museum on August 24. Farnoosh speaks with co-organizer Dana Hawkins Simons about the festival’s mission, music, and surprising appeal to millennials and Gen Z families alike.

Also on tap: custom-brewed medieval ale from Montclair Brewery, pomegranate cookies, hibiscus tea, and all the cold foam your crown can handle.

🎟️ Get your Medieval Fest tickets

Brain & Body Method: Workouts with a Space-Age Twist

Forget hot yoga. Mike and Farnoosh strap into a high-tech workout system inspired by NASA at Brain & Body Method, a new fitness studio on Bellevue Ave. Owner Lex LeBlanc guides them through altitude simulations and strength-building techniques designed for people over 40 who want to age strong and smart. Bonus: Montclair Pod listeners can get three free sessions by mentioning the show.

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