East Brunswick is changing, and so is the way people see it. On this episode of The Jersey Link Podcast, Jose Sanchez and co-host Kate Vargo sit down with Mayor Brad Cohen to talk about what makes this town tick and where it’s headed next.

Brad never planned on being mayor. In fact, his career started in medicine, not politics. But a few moments pushed him to step up, first for the schools, then for the whole community. “Public service, if you’re doing it right, is solving people’s problems,” he says. And you can hear how much that drives him as he talks about his vision for the town.

From a two-rink ice complex to new neighborhoods that feel like real communities, Brad shares just enough to get you curious about what’s coming. There’s also a bigger conversation here about what it means to grow without losing your roots and why East Brunswick feels like home to so many different people.

Jose and Kate bring their own stories to the table, asking the questions you’d want to know if you’ve ever driven down Route 18 and wondered what’s next. And yes, there’s even a surprising moment or two that might change the way you think about how a town works behind the scenes.

Here are the key takeaways:

(7:22) Brad’s Journey to Becoming Mayor

(13:51) Leadership and Teamwork

(15:18) Public Service vs. Politics

(16:56) Why People Move to East Brunswick

(23:30) Designing Unique Communities

(27:17) Balancing Growth and Character

(36:15) Business Growth and Competition

(39:25) Buying Into a Community

(42:32) First-Time Homebuyer Window

(44:01) Mayor Cohen’s Charity Fund

(47:12) Why Move to East Brunswick

(53:42) Most Rewarding Part of Serving

This isn’t just about buildings or roads. It’s about people, pride, and the future of a place that’s right in the heart of Central Jersey. Tune in and hear East Brunswick through the eyes of the people shaping it.

About Mayor Brad Cohen

Brad Cohen has served as Mayor of East Brunswick since 2016. He began public service in 2010 on the East Brunswick Board of Education, later becoming Board President. A longtime resident, he is a practicing gynecologist with offices in East Brunswick and Somerset. He lives in East Brunswick with his wife and their two children.

Connect with Mayor Brad Cohen:

Website

https://www.eastbrunswick.org/360/Mayor-Administrator

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:

LinkedIn

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.