Upper Westchester, NY April 2026

DESIGN + PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Rooted in Impact

There is something powerful about the intersection of place and purpose.

Upper Westchester has always been a region shaped by community. By people who build, create, give back, and quietly influence far beyond their zip code. This month’s issue is a reflection of that spirit.

We begin with a celebration of hope close to home. As Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley marks 40 years of granting life-changing wishes to children facing critical illness, three local artists have transformed the Wish House into a vibrant expression of joy. Their mural, created in honor of this milestone anniversary, is more than an installation, it is a reminder that impact is rarely individual. It is collective. It is shared. It is built by a community that believes in possibility.

That same sense of rooted influence extends to our cover story. Carola Lovering, who grew up in Bedford, has become a nationally recognized author whose novel Tell Me Lies evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Yet at its core, her storytelling remains grounded in the emotional landscapes of this region. The summer tennis courts, the shoreline evenings, the quiet ambition that hums beneath polished surfaces. Her work reminds us that vulnerability and honesty are not weaknesses, but bridges.

Purpose also takes center stage in our feature on Tim Tebow, whose commitment to service continues to impact vulnerable communities around the world. Leadership, at its best, is not about visibility, it is about responsibility.

And perspective matters just as much as purpose. This month, we take you to Florence, where Hotel Torre di Bellosguardo offers sweeping views of Renaissance rooftops from a centuries-old hilltop villa. Travel has a way of expanding our lens, reminding us that stepping outside our routine often clarifies what truly matters.

Closer to home, Tanya Meyers shares insight on fashion investments that actually pay you back, a thoughtful reminder that value isn’t just about price tags, but intention.

From art that uplifts to stories that resonate, from global escapes to local impact, this issue is about understanding what lasts.

Upper Westchester has long been a place where meaningful work begins.

Thank you for being part of it.

With gratitude,

Our publication serves the communities of Armonk, Bedford, Bedford Hills, Chappaqua, Katonah, Mount Kisco, Pound Ridge and Valhalla.

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Lara Casiple | lara.casiple@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Adam Vohra | adam.vohra@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Tanya Meyers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brook Road Photography, Peter T Michaelis, Dante Pierre Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

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inside the issue

Carola Lovering: Writing What We’re Afraid to Say

From Upper Westchester to Hollywood, the bestselling author reflects on love, vulnerability, and the stories that refuse to let us look away

Where Hope Meets Color

From Upper Westchester roots to a global cultural phenomenon, Carola Lovering opens up about vulnerability, modern love, and the fearless storytelling that transformed Tell Me Lies into a generationdefining conversation.

city scene

Regular service helps prevent costly breakdowns, improves e ciency, and extends the life of your system. Don’t wait for the problem to surface, secure your comfort and con dence today.

business monthly

Now Open in Pound Ridge: The Brunch House

The Brunch House, a longtime favorite in Mahopac, has opened its second location at 74 Westchester Ave in Pound Ridge. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully curated menu, it has become a preferred destination for special occasions, celebrations, and gatherings with friends. The restaurant features a well-rounded children's menu, while specialty pancakes, including Funfetti, Cannoli, and Strawberry Shortcake, continue to stand out as popular selections.

Now Open in Mount Kisco: Pizza Girls NY

Pizza Girls NY is now open in Mount Kisco at 38 E Main Street. Founded by Natalia Cardona and Laura Arias, the woman-owned business first built a loyal following through its artisan wood-fired pizza truck and is now opening its first brick-and-mortar location this spring. Known for its handcrafted, wood-fired oven pizzas, Pizza Girls NY brings its signature flavors and entrepreneurial spirit to the heart of Mount Kisco.

Coming Soon: La Mer Oyster Bar

La Mer Oyster Bar is set to open at 405 Main Street in Armonk, adjacent to the existing La Mer Seafood Market. This new venture by owners Sean and Sophia Wiener will showcase Southeast Asian and Japanese influenced seafood, introducing a distinctive dining experience to the area. The restaurant will also feature significant outdoor seating, adding an inviting new culinary destination to downtown Armonk.

Lighting Is Everything

• Installing indoor and outdoor lighting for over 55 years.

• Mark Mosello is a leading design expert in the field.

• Professionally light your art, home and landscaping with customized service.

• Smart & eco-friendly options.

• Certified generator dealer + installation.

• Our style illuminates dark spaces, creating a

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA | PHOTOGRAPHY

A medieval villa-turned-hotel in the rolling hills south of Florence, where sweeping views of red-tiled rooftops and ancient gardens make every moment feel extraordinary.

Set high on the verdant Bellosguardo hill, just a short drive from Florence’s historic center, Hotel Torre di Bellosguardo lives up to its name: the Tower of the Beautiful View. Perched above the Arno Valley and its terracotta-roofed skyline, this 13th-century villa offers an unparalleled panorama that unfolds from dawn’s first light to the golden hour glow of sunset.

Originally built as a hunting lodge and family residence for the Italian poet Guido Cavalcanti, a close friend of Dante, the structure evolved over centuries into a noble villa adorned with artistic treasures and echoing with stories of Florence’s rich cultural history.

Today, Torre di Bellosguardo remains a rare blend of historic authenticity and intimate hospitality. Its 16 uniquely appointed rooms and suites occupy an estate that once hosted Renaissance thinkers. Legend has it that Galileo Galilei studied the stars from this very tower, imbuing every stay with a sense of continuity and tradition.

The hotel’s location is its defining feature: a quiet hilltop sanctuary framed by olive groves, cypresses, and meticulously tended gardens. From the terraced lawns to the poolside lounge, each vantage point presents a sweeping tableau of Florence’s skyline, including the iconic Duomo and Palazzo Pitti, framed by Tuscan hills and sky. Guests here don’t just visit Florence, they  watch it, as centuries of history rise and recede beneath the shifting light.

Stepping through the gates feels like entering a private residence rather than a traditional hotel. Antique furnishings, original frescoes, vaulted ceilings, and carved stone fireplaces whisper of bygone eras, while modern comforts air conditioning, private baths, Wi-Fi, and mini-bars ensure every stay is relaxed and contemporary.

The villa’s story is woven into the very walls: in the early 1500s, the Michelin-rated residence saw frescoes commissioned by the Roti Michelozzi family, and its grand entrance still features sculpture and art that reflect the Renaissance spirit. Later, in the early 20th

century, Baroness Marion von Hornstein-Franchetti transformed the estate into a gathering place for intellectuals and nobility from across Europe, a legacy that lingered long before its conversion to a hotel roughly a quarter-century ago.

Despite its proximity to Florence which is just ten minutes by car, Torre di Bellosguardo delivers a sense of seclusion and serenity that few city stays can match.

Mornings here might begin with coffee on a private terrace overlooking rolling hills, followed by a leisurely stroll through the citrus-woodland garden or a swim in the pool with an unobstructed vista of the Renaissance city. As the sun dips, the rustling orchard and olive groves invite guests to linger with a glass of Chianti, watching as Florence’s terracotta hues melt into twilight.

While the atmosphere is rooted in history, modern touches ensure comfort and convenience. Daily housekeeping, poolside amenities, and attentive service create a welcoming environment for couples, families, and solo travelers alike, all eager to experience a view like no other

Perhaps the city’s greatest gift to guests at Torre di Bellosguardo is perspective. Not just the physical view stretching from hilltop to cathedral dome, but a deeper sense of place and history. Here, amid the whisper of olive branches and the glow of Tuscan sunsets, Florence isn’t merely a destination you visit; it’s a vista you carry with you

Learn more at https://www.torrebellosguardo.com

BEST TIMES TO VISIT HOTEL TORRE DI BELLOSGUARDO

APRIL–JUNE (SPRING IN BLOOM)

Arguably the most magical season on the Bellosguardo hill. The gardens are lush, olive trees shimmer in soft green, and temperatures are ideal for long mornings on the terrace. Florence is lively but not yet at peak summer intensity.

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER (GOLDEN LIGHT SEASON)

Early fall brings warm days, cooler evenings, and the kind of Tuscan sunsets that feel almost cinematic. The vineyard harvest season adds another romantic layer to the landscape, and the views from the tower glow in amber tones.

JULY–AUGUST (FOR SUN SEEKERS)

While Florence can be hot, the elevated position of the hotel offers more breeze than the city center. The pool becomes a welcome retreat after sightseeing, and evenings on the terrace feel expansive and celebratory.

NOVEMBER–MARCH (QUIET & REFLECTIVE)

A slower, more intimate Florence. Fewer crowds mean unhurried museum visits and a peaceful atmosphere. The villa’s historic interiors feel especially cozy during cooler months.

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOK ROAD PHOTOGRAPHY

Carola Lovering:

Writing What We’re Afraid to Say

From Upper Westchester to Hollywood, the bestselling author reflects on love, vulnerability, and the stories that refuse to let us look away

Before the television adaptation, before the Calvin Klein campaign, before  Tell Me Lies became a cultural obsession dissected across TikTok and late-night group texts, there was a girl growing up in Upper Westchester, spending summer days at the country club and watching boats drift across the Sound.

That girl was Carola Lovering.

And the emotional terrain of this region. Its privilege, its pressure, its intimacy, its drama would one day become the backdrop for the stories that made her a phenomenon.

“This part of the world has always been home to me,” she says. “Even when I’ve lived elsewhere. My family is here. My closest friends are here. And as a writer, I’m constantly drawn back to it because I know it so intimately, its people, its class distinctions, its emotional undercurrents.”

In  Tell Me Lies , Lucy’s hometown of Cold Spring Harbor mirrors Bedford in subtle but unmistakable ways. The lazy summer days at the tennis club. The ease and boredom of adolescence. The familiar ritual of meeting at the pool. The scene where Lucy and Stephen take a boat out onto Long Island Sound one summer night feels almost autobiographical to anyone who has grown up in Fairfield or Westchester County.

Readers recognize it because they’ve lived it.

And that intimacy, the specificity of place is part of what gives Lovering’s work its quiet power.

The Story That Changed Everything

Carola didn’t always know she would become a novelist. As a teenager, she loved writing and reading, but she wasn’t someone with a crystal-clear career trajectory.

That changed in the aftermath of an on-again, off-again toxic relationship during and after college.

When it finally ended, she was devastated. Confused. Unmoored. Overwhelmed by emotions she didn’t know how to process.

A friend suggested she write about it.

So she did.

What began as catharsis became  Tell Me Lies,  a raw, psychologically complex exploration of obsession, humiliation, longing, and the kind of love that fractures your sense of self.

“I think many people have been in Lucy’s shoes before,” she says. “Or at least know someone who has. It’s often the most humiliating, shameful experiences that tap into our deepest vulnerabilities and that’s what connects us as humans.”

That emotional honesty is precisely why audiences can’t look away.

The television adaptation didn’t just expand her readership, it ignited fandom. As a consulting producer, Lovering was closely involved in season one, visiting the set and watching her characters take physical form. Seeing Grace Van Patten as Lucy and Jackson White as Stephen felt surreal.

CONTINUED >

“I truly cannot think of a more perfect Lucy or Stephen,” she says. “Their casting is a huge part of what makes the show.”

By season two and especially season three, the response reached another level. Social media engagement exploded. The discourse deepened. And when the two leads appeared in a Calvin Klein campaign, it crystallized something.

“It felt iconic,” she says. “That was a moment where I realized this was bigger than I imagined.”

Yet what makes  Tell Me Lies culturally relevant isn’t chemistry or glamour. It’s restraint.

The show does not glorify toxicity.

“We all know Stephen is toxic and that’s the point. You’re not supposed to root for him and Lucy,” she explains. “I grew up watching shows that arguably glamorized certain unhealthy dynamics. I don’t think that was healthy for my generation. I’m glad  Tell Me Lies shines a light on toxicity instead of ignoring it.”

Why We Can’t Look Away

Part of what makes  Tell Me Lies resonate so deeply is that it captures a generational shift in how we talk about love.

For decades, pop culture romanticized dysfunction. The brooding bad boy. The push-pull dynamic. The woman who endures emotional chaos because the chemistry is electric. Those narratives weren’t presented as cautionary tales, they were presented as destiny.

Lovering’s work disrupts that.

Stephen is magnetic, yes. But he is also manipulative. Lucy is intelligent and self-aware, yet repeatedly pulled into a dynamic that erodes her confidence. The tension isn’t about whether they’ll end up together, it’s about whether she’ll survive herself inside the relationship.

That distinction matters.

In a post-therapy, post-#MeToo, emotionally literate culture, audiences crave stories that reflect the complexity of desire without romanticizing harm. They want to see the mess without pretending it’s aspirational. Lovering gives them that.

And perhaps no setting is more fertile ground for that kind of storytelling than the tri-state area.

This region, Westchester, Fairfield County, the commuter towns just outside Manhattan exist at a fascinating intersection of affluence and insecurity. Achievement is expected. Image is curated. Social hierarchies form early and harden quickly. Summers revolve around

country clubs and tennis courts. Friendships are intimate, but reputations are fragile.

There is privilege here, certainly but also pressure.

That emotional landscape of ambition, comparison, longing, and the fear of falling short seeps into Lovering’s fiction. The boats on the Sound, the poolside afternoons, the quiet, tree-lined roads: they are beautiful, yes. But they are also stages upon which identity is performed and tested.

Readers from this area recognize the subtext immediately.

They know the feeling of wanting something or someone who threatens their stability. They understand how easily external polish can mask internal unraveling. They see themselves in Lucy not because her circumstances are extreme, but because her vulnerability feels familiar.

By anchoring her novels in places she knows intimately, Lovering achieves something rare: specificity that becomes universal.

She writes about Bedford and Cold Spring Harbor, about tennis clubs and shoreline summers but she’s really writing about the universal ache to be chosen, to be seen, to matter.

And that’s why we can’t look away.

The Personal Layer

Success has changed her career but not the work itself.

“There are more eyes on my writing now,” she says. “And yes, success has boosted my confidence. But it hasn’t made the process any less daunting.”

There are no shortcuts in writing.

The joy, she explains, is in the work itself. The quiet hours at her desk, the frustration, the breakthroughs. Even when drafting feels clunky or agonizing, she feels grateful that this is what she gets to do.

At the moment, she’s navigating a new chapter in more ways than one. She welcomed her third baby in December and is on what she calls a “self-imposed maternity leave” in quotes, because writers don’t really get to turn off.

When she’s actively drafting a novel, her days are structured. Kids to school. Coffee. Emails. Then the manuscript. A thousand words a day, if possible. She writes until she hits her word-count goal or reaches a natural stopping point, closing her laptop around five when her children return home.

Writing is not a hobby.

“It’s very much a full-time job,” she says. “A job I happen to love, but a job nonetheless.”

To protect her creativity amid Hollywood attention and social media noise, she follows advice from her agent: start writing the next thing.

“Keep yourself busy creating,” she says. “That’s the best way to tune out the noise.”

When she needs to reset locally, she heads to Kaia Yoga in Darien, takes long walks near her home, or attends author events at Athena Books in Old Greenwich, Barrett Bookstore in Darien, and Elm Street Books in New Canaan, independent spaces that keep the literary community alive.

Her hometown, she says, is “community-oriented.”

That word feels fitting.

What’s Next

Her fifth novel,  Whiteout, will publish next winter. Set in Aspen, it explores motherhood, marriage, and mental health. Suspenseful, but not quite a thriller.

“I’ve been working on it since 2023,” she says. “I can’t wait to finally share it.”

“I’m currently collaborating with a studio on adapting another of my stories for TV; while I can’t share specifics yet I’m incredibly excited about this potential adaptation.”

Despite the scale of her success, she approaches new projects the same way she always has: trying to improve with each book.

At this stage of her life, raising three young children, she feels especially called to explore motherhood and how parenting reshapes marriage.

The emotional complexity never disappears. It simply evolves.

And perhaps that is what defines Carola Lovering most: a refusal to look away from what’s uncomfortable. Her advice to young writers growing up here is simple, and powerful:

“The thing you are most afraid to write. Write that.”

Because vulnerability breeds relatability. And relatability breeds connection.

From Bedford to Greenwich to Darien, her stories echo with the tension and tenderness of this region. The tennis courts. The country clubs. The Sound at dusk. The marriages under pressure. The ambition. The longing.

She writes what we’re ashamed to admit. And in doing so, she transforms shame into art.

On Writing Fearlessly

“The thing you are most afraid to write. Write that. So often what we’re most scared of sharing is exactly what people want to read. Vulnerability breeds relatability. Break through your shame and create art from it.”

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Where Hope Meets Color

For forty years, Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley has quietly and powerfully changed lives across the region. Since its charter in 1986, the Tarrytown-based chapter has granted more than 3,400 wishes to children facing critical illness, each one a moment of light, strength, and possibility during unimaginably difficult times.

This year, as the organization celebrates its 40th anniversary, that spirit of hope has quite literally been painted into its headquarters.

In honor of the milestone, three Westchester-based artists, Marla Beth Enowitz, Jessica Maricevic, Ed.D., and Sandra Schustack joined forces to create a vibrant chalk

mural installation at the Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley Wish House. Titled  “Make-A-Wish Is… YOU,” the mural is more than an artwork. It is a statement.

It is a reminder that a wish is not just an event, it is a community.

“We are excited to welcome visitors to the Wish House as we celebrate 40 Years of Wishes in the Hudson Valley,” said Kristine Burton, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley. “This milestone would not be possible without the support of our community partners… who help bring hope and joy to wish families throughout Westchester County.”

CONTINUED >

The trio of artists—affectionately dubbed “The Happy Muralists” share a belief that art should uplift, connect, and empower.

Marla Beth Enowitz, founder of Marla Beth Designs and known locally as the “Happy Art Artist of Westchester,” has built her creative identity around bold color and contagious positivity. From installations at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital to commissions shipped nationwide, her work radiates warmth. Based in Rye, she also hosts children’s art celebrations in her studio, nurturing creativity in the next generation.

Jessica Maricevic, known professionally as The Artsy Doc, brings a layered, mixed-media sensibility rooted in empathy and storytelling. An educator as well as an artist, her pop art–inspired murals and installations span Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Westchester. Her work often supports philanthropic causes, blending visual energy with emotional depth.

Sandra Schustack “Sanj” rounds out the trio with a background in animation and award-winning production. Her art centers encouragement and confidence, using playful words, bold lines, and expressive color to help children (and adults) feel seen and supported.

Together, their styles merge into a mural that is joyful without being simplistic, vibrant without being overwhelming. The message is intentional: Make-A-Wish is not just an organization, it is every volunteer, every donor, every artist, every family who believes in possibility.

For the children who walk through the doors of the Wish House, the mural offers something immediate and tangible: a burst of light. A pause. A smile. A moment that feels expansive.

As Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley celebrates its 40th year with signature events including the Wish Ball in April, the Summer of Wishes kickoff in June featuring alumni spanning four decades, and the 20th Annual Walk for Wishes in October, the mural stands as a visual symbol of what the organization has always represented.

Hope.

In a county known for its talent, generosity, and strong sense of community, this collaboration feels fitting. Three artists. One mission. Forty years of wishes. And a wall that now reminds everyone who enters: you are part of the story.

Closet Investments That Actually Pay You Back.

TIMELESS PIECES I RECOMMEND TO HELP YOU LOOK PULLED TOGETHER, SPEND SMARTER, AND GET DRESSED WITH LESS STRESS EVERY DAY

ARTICLE BY TANYA MEYERS

- FASHION STYLIST @MODE_T_

“Investment pieces” means different things to everyone. For me, it’s any piece you buy on purpose because you know you’ll wear it on repeat, and it makes the rest of your closet easier to use. That’s the real point, less stress, more outfits, and more wear out of what you already own.

What makes something feel like an investment is quality plus versatility, no matter where it comes from. I always start with fabrics that hold up, wool, merino or cashmere, crisp woven cotton, silk, real leather, and structured denim. Then I check the details, clean stitching, strong seams, and hardware that feels solid.

1. The blazer you can live in

Choose the shape that fits your real life. If you are constantly on the go, softer tailoring and a relaxed shoulder feel effortless. If you want more authority, look for cleaner lines and a sharper lapel.

Quality notes: A wool blazer or structured cotton will hold its shape better than thin synthetics. A good lining helps it glide and keeps it looking crisp.

3. Shoes that cover your calendar

Shoes can make or break an outfit, and the shoes you wear most should be comfortable and pulled-together. My top categories: a great loafer, a clean sneaker, and a simple boot that works with jeans, trousers, and dresses. For dinners and events, add one dressy option, either a classic pump or a minimal heeled sandal you can actually walk in.

Quality notes: Look for real leather uppers, clean stitching, and a sole that feels substantial. For heels, stability matters. Bonus points if they can be resoled.

2. The coat that upgrades every outfit

Outerwear is one of the smartest places to invest in because it is the first thing people see for months of the year. A great coat elevates everything underneath, even a simple sweater and jeans. Start with two workhorse options: a classic wool coat (camel, black, navy, charcoal) and a puffer or quilted coat that feels intentional, even when it is oversized. If you want an elevated third option, a shearling or fur piece is a true cold-weather investment, warm, timeless, and instantly chic

Quality notes: Choose weighty wool, durable outer fabric on puffers, quality filling, even stitching, and for shearling or fur, dense and even hide with clean seams and secure closures.

4. Denim that fits like it was made for you

The right jeans make everything else easier. I would rather you have one or two pairs you truly love than a row of jeans you keep skipping over.

For most people, a straight leg or slight wide leg is the most versatile. Dark wash reads refined. Medium wash feels casual.

Focus on the rise that flatters you and a leg shape that balances your proportions. Quality notes: Denim should feel structured. If you like stretch, keep it minimal so it bounces back. Quick test: sit, walk, reach. If you’re tugging or adjusting, they’re not the one.

CONTINUED >

5. A bag that works for your real days

A bag is an investment when it fits what you actually carry, sits comfortably, and works with most of your wardrobe. For everyday, I love a roomy shoulder bag, plus a crossbody for hands-free days. If you are regularly going out, add one small evening bag, a sleek clutch or mini shoulder bag. Neutrals are easiest, and "neutral" does not mean only black. Espresso, taupe, burgundy, and deep olive all wear like neutrals.

Quality notes: Look for real leather, solid stitching, and straps that feel secure and comfortable.

6. Knitwear that feels good and wears well

A great knit is comfort and polish in one piece. Your core knit lineup: a crewneck, a cardigan you can wear as a top, and a lightweight sweater for layering. And if you are a turtleneck person, add one to the mix, it is a true core piece when you love how it feels and looks.

Quality notes: A denser knit holds its shape better, especially at cuffs and hems.

7. Elevated basics that do the heavy lifting

A crisp button-down, a blouse with beautiful drape, a knit top that keeps its shape, and a tee that is not seethrough. They sound simple, but they are the pieces that make everything else work.

Quality notes: Choose smooth, structured woven cotton for button-downs, silk or a silk blend for drape, and heavier cotton jersey tees that keep their shape.

The rules I apply when looking for “investment pieces”

Can I style it at least three ways with what I own? Does it fit my real schedule? Will I choose it on a normal day? Is the fabric and construction good enough to last? Do I feel like myself in it?

A

final thought from my dressing room to yours

Building a closet you love is not about buying more. It is about buying smarter, with a clear idea of what you want your style to feel like. Start with the category that causes you the most daily stress, then invest there. When the foundation is right, getting dressed gets easy, and you actually wear what you own. And if you ever want a second set of eyes, I’m always here, just a call away. Sometimes it helps to refine what you have and make it work harder

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Inquiring Chef

START WITH A VEGETABLE

Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef. com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.

Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook,  Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.

“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”

The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side—they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.

As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.

“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”

Unlike most cookbooks,  Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.

“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”

Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.

“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”

After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under real-world conditions.

“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with reallife interruptions.”

To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.

“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”

To order a copy of the cookbook visit: InquiringChef.com

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APRIL 15TH

Rosen House Studio Nights: Art and Aperitifs

Caramoor | 7:00 PM

Unwind with a creative evening in this art class for adults led by Kristen Lowe, professional ceramicist, and painter. Take inspiration from Caramoor’s remarkable collection of vases and vessels, from grand ginger jars to classical urns and stone pitchers. Participants will study form, pattern, and design while creating a watercolor painting based on these distinctive objects.

APRIL 17TH

Byram Hills Education Foundation Spring Gala

Neuberger Museum of Art | 7:30 PM

The Byram Hills Education Foundation Spring Gala presents its first-ever Dueling Pianos, an interactive and high-energy evening of live music, food, and cocktails. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable performance while supporting Byram Hills students. This exciting community event combines entertainment and philanthropy, celebrating the arts and the students it helps empower.

APRIL 18TH

Echoes of the Eagles - Tribute Concert

Chappaqua Performing Arts Center | 8:00 PM

The #1 Eagles Tribute for Vocal Harmonies, Echoes of the Eagles is the hottest tribute band out there today wit their youthful exuberance and high energy performance that has pushed them to the top of the pack! They are known for their full lush harmonies with all six members as vocalists, recreating the iconic vocals of the Eagles.

APRIL 26TH

Bedford 2030's Earth Day Festival

Bedford Village Memorial Park | 12:00 PM

Picture this: local plant-based food, delicious drinks, live music drifting through the park, and hands-on experiences that celebrate what makes life here good. Bedford 2030 is throwing an Earth Day Festival to honor people, planet, and the everyday actions that protect our quality of life. Join neighbors, friends, and fellow Earth lovers for this joyful community gathering of the spring.

APRIL 30TH

Chappaqua School Foundation’s 2026 Spring Benefit

49 E Sunnyside Ln, Tarrytown, NY | 7:00 PM

The Chappaqua School Foundation’s 2026 Spring Benefit is an evening dedicated to advancing innovation, creativity, and academic excellence across the Chappaqua school system. The event raises essential funds for programs and initiatives beyond the public school budget, including Studio 7B, digital learning initiatives, and the Sustainability Research Center at Greeley, supporting educational opportunities that inspire and empower all students.

APRIL 30TH

Stars of Late Night Comedy

Bedford Playhouse | 8:00 PM

Back once again by popular demand! Enjoy live standup comedy featuring performers from  Last Comic Standing, The Tonight Show, America’s Got Talent and Comedy Central. Starring Maureen Langan, Ian Lara, Peter Revello and Brian Scolaro. Hosted by Ray Ellin.

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