Title: “Exploring the Enigmatic Guardians of New York City”
The luxurious building at 485 Park Avenue houses some of the city’s most affluent residents and is the setting for a unique talk show. Hosted by Sara Leeds, the show features intriguing interviews with doormen like Senad, a skilled karate practitioner who also serves as a doorman in the building.
Leeds, a marketing professional, launched Doorman Stories on social media to shed light on the lives of New York City’s gatekeepers. Through her interviews, she uncovers fascinating stories about the doormen and the buildings they work in, offering a glimpse into a world often overlooked by many.
The project has garnered significant attention, with others also delving into the world of doormen through photography exhibitions, memoirs, and novels. Leeds’ platform has become a popular destination for those interested in the unique experiences and perspectives of these city guardians.
With a growing following on TikTok and Instagram, Doorman Stories continues to share captivating stories, revealing the complex roles that doormen play in the lives of Manhattanites. Through her interviews, Leeds aims to highlight the humanity and significance of these often overlooked individuals in the fabric of New York City.
By connecting with doormen across the city, Leeds hopes to bridge the gap between residents and these silent stewards of luxury buildings, showcasing their stories and experiences in a compelling and engaging manner.
The man showcased on the account expressed his gratitude for the acknowledgment that Leeds’ account has brought to the longstanding profession. “We are like the windows of the world,” he articulated. “It’s a job just like any other, but it holds significant meaning.” Laura Meehan-Agasian, a realtor based in New York City, shared that she follows the account as she frequently engages with doormen and finds solace in listening to their narratives. “I am familiar with all those early risers,” she remarked. “I spend more time with these individuals than with corporate America.”
Despite the migration of the elite to locations such as Palm Beach, New York City continues to captivate interest worldwide. “Everyone desires a slice of it and craves authentic stories,” Meehan-Agasian mentioned. “She encapsulates that essence.” The creator of Doorman Stories, Sara Leeds, recently surprised a doorman on the Upper East Side with flowers.
While Doorman Stories may not be equivalent to The Tonight Show, the account offers a glimpse into the future of video content. Increasingly, social media accounts are generating serialized content that mirrors the rhythm of popular network programs. Other notable accounts include Boy Room, where the host tours untidy men’s apartments and provides décor suggestions, and SubwayTakes, where ordinary New Yorkers and occasional celebrities share candid opinions while riding the MTA train.
Leeds, who has earned revenue through sponsored videos, believes that her account could expand to other cities that are home to doormen. She also aims to delve into the residences that her guests oversee, potentially creating a coffee table book for households. “I strongly believe that there are various interpretations of what a ‘doorman’ is, with captivating tales existing in New York City and beyond,” she concluded.
