Fresno's Best

Deidre Adams and Rosalina Nunez, Candidate for Fresno County Judge

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 18:12:49 +0000

Seven seats are open on the Fresno County Superior Court bench this June — the largest judicial shakeup in recent memory for a system that touches almost every resident, usually on their worst day. Jordan sits down with two of the candidates running for Seat 6: Rosalina Nunez, a 16-year family and civil attorney whose path into law began as a second-grader in immigration court during the Reagan amnesty era, and Deidre Adams, a deputy public defender on Fresno County's Major Crimes team who decided to become a lawyer at age nine, after reading the police report of her father's death.

The conversation moves past campaign talking points and into the texture of the job itself: what trial judges actually do versus what television depicts, the role of empathy in sentencing, Prop 36 and the mental health placement crunch, the flagging of Fresno County's care courts, the bumpy eCourt rollout, the quiet interpreter crisis hitting smaller language communities, AI-generated case law showing up in real motions, and the philosophical tension between rehabilitation and accountability when someone has failed treatment more than once. Both candidates weigh in on pretrial detention, juvenile sentencing, court backlogs, and why representation on the bench matters in a county as diverse as Fresno.

Plus: the best tater tots in downtown Fresno, Deidre's systematic march through every meal of the day, and book recommendations from Bruce Springsteen to Ketanji Brown Jackson to The Alchemist.

Election Day is June 2nd. The judge races sit at the very bottom of the ballot.

Books recommended:

Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen

Lovely One: A Memoir by Ketanji Brown Jackson

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Minkah Taharkah, Multidisciplinary Artist, Land Steward, and Environmental Justice Advocate

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 16:08:10 +0000

In this episode, Jordan sits down with Minkah Taharkah — multidisciplinary artist, land steward, and coordinator for the California Farmer Justice Collaborative — for a wide-ranging conversation about food, equity, and what it means to put down roots in Fresno.

Minkah traces her relationship with ecology from her childhood on Crenshaw Boulevard, where she watched the city cut down a boulevard full of trees to make way for the Space Shuttle, to her years farming with Black Earth Farms in the Bay Area, to her current work supporting BIPOC growers across California. Along the way, she and Jordan dig into the real barriers to agricultural equity — from a farmer driving refrigerated produce from Fresno to San Francisco each week just to make ends meet, to the challenge of getting small farms the marketing support they need to sell local.

They also get into it on permaculture and regenerative agriculture (and why the definitions matter more than people think), the spirituality of planting a seed and trusting it to grow, and what happened when the city of Fresno sent Minkah a complaint about her front yard garden — which she promptly got certified as an official wildlife habitat.

Links

Books recommended:

Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler

Collective Courage: A History of African American Cooperative Economic Thought and Practice by Jessica Gordon Nembhard

Maria Pacheco, Mayor of Kerman and Candidate for Fresno County Supervisor District 1

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 21:34:18 +0000

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Kerman Mayor Maria Pacheco, who is now running for Fresno County Supervisor, District 1. Drawing from her lived experience growing up in poverty, raising children as a young parent, and navigating social services firsthand, Pacheco offers a deeply personal perspective on the systems that shape life in the Central Valley.

The conversation moves from education and mental health to housing, homelessness, and the challenges facing rural communities like Kerman. Pacheco makes a case for rethinking how the county invests in social services—especially mental health care—and argues that real change begins by listening to the people most affected by policy decisions. She also reflects on her time as mayor, the realities of rural infrastructure and transportation, and what it would mean to bring a more community-centered voice to county government.

Maria's County Supervisor Campaign Website

Books:

The Housemaid by Freida McFadden

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez

For Brown Girls with Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts by Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez

Ariana Martinez-Lott, Community Organizer and Candidate for Fresno City Council District 7

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:29:49 +0000

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, Jordan Mattox sits down with Ariana Martinez-Lott—community organizer, District 7 city council candidate, and longtime advocate for neighborhood-driven change.

Ariana shares how her background in child development, her family’s immigrant experience, and her early exposure to disability through her brother shaped the way she understands systems, culture, and community. The conversation explores the tension between science and culture in public-facing work, and how organizers can better “translate” across those divides.

They dive deep into Fresno-specific issues, including:

The unique challenges of representing District 7’s complex and fragmented geography
A vision for Manchester Mall and the Blackstone corridor
The role of Fresno City College as a community anchor
Parks, Measure P, and the realities of implementation and accountability
Transparency, media fragmentation, and civic engagement in Fresno

Jordan and Ariana also explore what makes an effective city council member—from project management to neighborhood-level civic engagement—and how the culture of City Hall could shift toward greater responsiveness and trust.

Plus, a lively Overrated vs. Underrated segment covering everything from protected bike lanes to faith-based organizing to burritos.

This episode is ultimately about what it looks like to move from frustration with systems to building new ones—starting one conversation, and one neighborhood, at a time.

Books:

Emergent Strategy: Shaping Change, Shaping Worlds adrienne maree brown

Homegoing Yaa Gyasi

One Hundred Years of Solitude Gabriel García Márquez

Zach Ocegueda, High School Tennis Coach and Private Instructor

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:46:02 +0000

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, Jordan Mattox sits down with tennis coach Zach Ocegueda for a wide-ranging conversation about the state of tennis in Fresno and what it takes to grow as a player. Zach shares his coaching philosophy, emphasizing accessibility, repetition, and building confidence in athletes of all ages—arguing that anyone can become a great tennis player with the right mindset and practice.

The conversation explores key debates in youth sports, including specialization vs. multi-sport development, the role of mental toughness, and how to recognize and overcome performance plateaus. Zach also offers practical insights on equipment, training routines, and injury prevention, while highlighting Fresno’s underrated tennis scene and the importance of community courts like Roeding Park. The episode wraps with a fun “Overrated vs. Underrated” segment and a glimpse into Zach’s journey as a young coach finding his voice and leadership style on the court.

Miguel Arambula, Executive Director of the San Joaquin Valley Housing Collaborative and Co-Owner of Moses McQueens

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:57:11 +0000

Fresno’s Best host Jordan Mattox sits down with Miguel Arámbula, executive director of the San Joaquin Valley Housing Collaborative, for a wide-ranging conversation about housing, entrepreneurship, and the future of downtown Fresno.

Miguel shares how his early experience rehabbing homes and working in community development led him into housing policy, and why he believes the Central Valley needs a stronger regional voice when competing for state housing resources. The conversation explores the complexity of housing—from land use regulations and financing to the cultural narratives around suburban development—and why increasing housing supply remains one of the most important factors in addressing affordability.

The second half of the episode turns to Miguel’s entrepreneurial projects in downtown Fresno. He discusses the origin story of Moses McQueen’s, a new bar he co-owns near the stadium and brewery district, and the long process of renovating a historic building and navigating the challenges of financing and development. Miguel also talks about launching a neighborhood farmers market in Tower District and why small, walkable gathering spaces are essential for vibrant communities.

San Joaquin Valley Housing Collaborative

Moses McQueens

Books:

The Master and His Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World Ian McGilchrist

On the Aesthetic Education of Man Friedrich Schiller

Linda Furnas, President of the Fresno County University of California Master Gardener Advisory Board

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:05:45 +0000

Gardening is one of the most practical ways to reconnect with the land we live on—and in a place like Fresno, where climate, water, and ecology are constant topics of conversation, it can also be a civic act. In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Linda Furnas, President of the Fresno County University of California Master Gardener Advisory Board and a member of the Board of the Master Gardener Association of Fresno County, to explore what it means to garden responsibly in the Central Valley.

Linda explains what distinguishes a Master Gardener from a typical backyard enthusiast: certification through the University of California Cooperative Extension and a commitment to sharing science-based, environmentally responsible gardening knowledge with the community. From answering questions on the Master Gardener helpline to organizing community classes and managing demonstration gardens like the Garden of the Sun, the program blends education, environmental stewardship, applied science, and volunteer service.

The conversation ranges widely—from soil health and composting to pollinator gardens, lawn culture in Fresno, and the philosophy of how much control we should exercise over our landscapes. Linda also weighs in during a rapid-fire “overrated vs. underrated” segment, tackling topics like front lawns, heirloom vegetables, rain barrels, artificial turf, and more.

Along the way, Jordan and Linda discuss how gardens shape a city’s identity, why green space matters for Fresno’s future, and how small decisions in our yards can affect water use, biodiversity, and the overall health of our community.

If you’ve ever wondered how to start gardening in Fresno—or how to do it better—this episode offers practical insights from someone helping lead one of the region’s most important gardening education programs.

Fresno Master Gardeners Website

Books:

The Blind Assassin Margaret Atwood

The Sunset Western Garden Book Editors of Sunset Magazine

The Antidote: A Novel Karen Russell

Francisco E. Alvarez, President and Senior Instructor at Tai Chi Center of Fresno

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:25:18 +0000

On this episode of Fresno’s Best, Jordan Mattox sits down with Tai Chi instructor Francisco E. Alvarez to explore the discipline, philosophy, and lineage behind one of Fresno’s longstanding martial arts communities.

Inspired as a child by Bruce Lee’s appearance in The Green Hornet, Francisco began training in different martial arts, building a foundation of discipline that eventually led him toward the internal arts. In 1995, he began formal study at the Tai Chi Center of Fresno, later apprenticing and becoming an instructor. Today, he serves as President of the nonprofit and senior instructor, teaching the 37-movement Yang-style form of Professor Cheng Man-ch’ing with a commitment to preserving its integrity and lineage.

In this conversation, Jordan and Francisco discuss the difference between external and internal martial arts, the philosophy embedded within Tai Chi practice, and how traditional forms continue to shape modern lives here in Fresno. This episode is about patience, mastery, community, and the quiet power of long-term discipline.

Tai Chi Fresno Website

Books Recommended:

Tao Te Ching Lao Tzu

T'ai Chi The Supreme Ultimate Excercise for Health, Sport and Self-Defense Cheng Man-ch'ing

Ian Ashby, Certified Master Arborist and Consultant

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 21:37:26 +0000

Today we’re talking about something that quietly shapes our daily lives in Fresno—our trees. From the ones lining our streets and shading our homes to the big, aging oaks that define entire neighborhoods, trees are one of the most important—and most misunderstood—parts of our city.

My guest today is Ian Ashby, a board-certified master arborist and consulting arborist based here in Fresno. Ian helps homeowners, cities, insurance companies, and even attorneys understand what’s actually happening with their trees—when they’re healthy, when they’re under stress, and when well-intentioned care can actually make things worse.

We talk about everything from hot pot restaurants and Ethiopian food to drought stress, pruning myths, urban canopy planning, soil compaction, mulching mistakes, and why Fresno’s trees so often suffer at the hands of bad trimming practices. If you’ve ever wondered why your tree looks sick, why topping is such a bad idea, or how Fresno could rethink its urban forest for a hotter future, this conversation is for you.

Evan Nebeker, Event Organizer, Co-Founder of Grizzly Fest, and Founder of Grand Rising Sober Parties

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 17:04:29 +0000

What does it really take to build community in Fresno — and why does alcohol sit at the center of so many of our public spaces?

On this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Evan, entrepreneur and founder of Grizzly Fest, to talk about food, festivals, sobriety, and the hidden structures that shape life in the city. Evan shares why The Mad Duck remains his go-to Fresno restaurant.

The conversation digs deep into the rise and fall of Grizzly Fest, the politics of noise complaints, downtown development, and why Fresno struggles to support long-term cultural projects. From there, the episode pivots to Evan’s current work with Grand Rising, a daytime, sober community event that blends music, movement, wellness, and social connection — and challenges the idea that alcohol is necessary for people to gather.

Along the way, Jordan and Evan explore:

Why younger generations are drinking less — and what that means for restaurants and events
The economics of alcohol, mocktails, and sober nightlife
Weed culture, potency, and the shift from “event” use to everyday ambient use
Overrated vs. underrated
Why Fresno may be leaving money — and cultural energy — on the table by making events so hard to produce

The episode closes with a look ahead to the next Grand Rising event and a reflection on what Fresno could become if it invested more seriously in public life, creativity, and inclusive community spaces.

Paris Gaines and Dr. Chris Telesmanic, Recover Lab

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 20:07:32 +0000

What does “recovery” actually mean — and why does it matter so much for how we live, move, and age?

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Paris Gaines and Dr. Chris Telesmanic, Doctor of Physical Therapy, from Recover Lab — a Fresno-based recovery and wellness studio focused on personalized, evidence-informed approaches to healing and longevity.

The conversation explores the difference between active and passive recovery, why modern medicine often struggles to individualize care, and how modalities like assisted stretching, infrared saunas, cold plunges, red light therapy, and mobility work fit into a broader picture of health. Dr. Telesmanic breaks down what’s actually happening in the body during inflammation, soreness, and recovery — and why blunting symptoms without understanding them can sometimes do more harm than good.

Jordan also presses on bigger questions: youth sports specialization, injury prevention, flexibility, longevity, and how Fresno schools and communities could better support health through movement and education. Along the way, the group dives into cold plunge science, sauna benefits, sleep, diet, and the psychology of discomfort — plus a rapid-fire “overrated vs. underrated” segment covering everything from hot yoga and sensory deprivation tanks to Fresno pizza and NFL running backs.

This episode is a thoughtful, grounded look at recovery not as a luxury, but as a foundation for a longer, healthier, and more functional life — right here in Fresno.

Recover Lab Website

Luke Hoekstra, Executive Director of the Kings River Land Trust

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:29:22 +0000

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Luke Hoekstra, Executive Director of the Kings River Land Trust, for a wide-ranging conversation about one of the Central Valley’s most important—and most misunderstood—natural resources. Luke shares his favorite Fresno restaurants, then dives into the true nature of the Kings River: its volatile flows, its complex system of forks and irrigation diversions, and how the river once supported salmon runs all the way to the Pacific. Jordan and Luke unpack flood risks, groundwater recharge, and why river strainers and spring runoff make the Kings so dangerous. From there, they explore what land trusts actually do, how conservation easements work, and why protecting farmland, ranchland, and riparian habitat matters for the region’s long-term environmental and economic health. The conversation also touches on recreation, environmental psychology, balancing human needs with ecological stewardship, the politics of California water, and the practical challenges of restoring rivers in a changing climate. Luke closes with insights into the Kings River Land Trust’s vision, an update on recent conservation projects, and some favorite books and hiking spots.

Donate to Kings River Land Trust

Christopher Reyes, Owner of Clovis We Rock the Spectrum Inclusive Gym

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:13:09 +0000

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, Jordan talks with Christopher, owner of the soon-to-open We Rock the Spectrum inclusive sensory gym in Clovis, beginning with a tour of Fresno’s Filipino food scene—including food-truck favorites and the eternal question of when Fresno will finally get a Jollibee—before diving into what makes an inclusive gym truly inclusive. Christopher explains how his experience raising two children on the autism spectrum motivated him to bring this franchise to the Central Valley, and he describes how sensory-friendly equipment, child-directed play, calming spaces, and a philosophy of belonging shape every decision he’s making as the gym prepares to open. Jordan and Christopher explore some of the biggest questions facing families of kids with disabilities, including balancing structure and freedom, navigating overstimulation, understanding risk, creating opportunities for social connection, and partnering with schools and therapists. Christopher also offers insights on why Fresno needs more inclusive public parks, how “play with purpose” differs from therapy-led play, what parents should expect during a visit, and ways the gym keeps pricing competitive to remain accessible.

Robert Scott, President of Fresno Cactus and Succulent Society

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 21:31:14 +0000

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox talks with Robert Scott, President of the Fresno Cactus and Succulent Society and Caltrans environmental specialist, about the surprising richness of succulents and cacti in the Central Valley. Scott explains how his environmental work informs his love of plants, shares practical tips on caring for and propagating succulents, and discusses the ethics of collecting, the debate over hybrids, and the importance of drought-tolerant landscaping in California. Together, they explore how Fresno’s plant enthusiasts are cultivating both sustainability and community.

Fresno Cactus and Succulent Society Website

Mona Cummings, CEO of Tree Fresno

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 04 Sep 2025 22:12:09 +0000

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Mona Cummings, CEO and Director of Tree Fresno. Mona shares her fascinating journey from serving in the Peace Corps on islands off the coast of Africa to leading international forestry projects in Mozambique, and how those experiences shaped her approach to community work in Fresno. The conversation dives into the role of trees in urban life—from cooling neighborhoods and improving air quality to the deep inequities reflected in canopy cover across the city. Along the way, Mona reflects on the power of storytelling and data in nonprofit fundraising, the cultural meanings of trees, and the importance of engaging communities in building greener, healthier neighborhoods. Whether you’re passionate about the environment, local equity, or just love Fresno, this episode will leave you looking at the city’s trees in a whole new way.

Jordyn Houseworth, Love on Tap Speed Dating

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 18:05:50 +0000

In this episode, Jordan sits down with Jordyn Houseworth, the creative force behind Love On Tap, a unique singles experience bringing speed dating to breweries and venues across California. They dive into the ins and outs of modern romance—how dating apps are changing the game, why in-person connection still matters, and what it takes to organize a successful speed dating event in today’s world.

Book Recommendation:

I'm Glad My Mom Died Jennette McCurdy

Crystal Uyeno and Nayantara Rodrigues, Rooted Heart Yoga

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 00:05:18 +0000

Today we have Crystal Uyeno and Nayantara Rodrigues on the show. They're the co-founders of Rooted Heart Yoga, a 200-hour, all-levels yoga teacher training located here in Fresno. Between these two amazing women, there is so much knowledge and perspective—not only about yoga, the body, and mental health, but also about the qualities of a good teacher and developing a business-minded approach to fitness.

Rooted Heart Yoga's Website

Stephen Wilson, President and CEO of the Fresno Philharmonic

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 15 May 2025 17:54:13 +0000

Today, we have Stephen Wilson. Stephen is the President and CEO of the Fresno Philharmonic, a gem in our community, and is one of our city's biggest advocates for the arts. Stephen and I had a fantastic conversation covering classical music, of course, but also exploring the arts more broadly. Please enjoy!

Fresno Philharmonic's Website

Books:

Authority and Freedom: A Defense of the Arts Jed Perl

The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York Robert Caro

Middlemarch George Eliot

Molly DeFrank, Author of Mothering Boys and Digital Detox

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 12 May 2025 21:55:21 +0000

Today, we have Molly DeFrank on the show. Molly is a mom to six children and the author of two parenting books, Mothering Boys: 8 Things Your Son Needs From You Before He Turns 10, and Digital Detox: The Two-Week Tech Reset for Kids. Before children, Molly worked as a press aide to Governor Schwarzenegger.

Molly's Website

Books:

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness Jonathan Haidt

Pride and Prejudice Jane Austen

Dustin Hail and Matt Denson, Burning Sun Brewing Company

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:54:28 +0000

Today we have another edition of our brewery tour through Fresno and Clovis, and we are going to meet Dustin Hale and Matt Denson, the founders of Burning Sun Brewing Company, right on Clovis Avenue in Clovis, California.

Burning Sun's Mission Statement:

Our mission at Burning Sun Brewing Company is to craft exceptional, high-quality beers that ignite passion and inspire moments of enjoyment. We strive to create a memorable experience for our customers by combining innovative brewing techniques, unique flavors, and a commitment to excellence. Through our craft, we aim to foster a sense of community and connection while leaving a positive impact on the environment and the beer industry.

Burning Sun Brewing Company Website

Books:

How To Brew: Everything You Need to Know to Brew Great Beer Every Time John Palmer

The New IPA: Scientific Guide to Hop Aroma and Flavor Scott Janish

Danielle R. Shapazian, Founder and Director of the San Joaquin Valley Bookfest

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:46:37 +0000

Danielle R. Shapazian is a registered nurse and writer who lives in Fresno. Her essays have appeared in the Fresno Bee and the Los Angeles Times. She is the founder and director of the San Joaquin Valley Bookfest. We dig into all things books, literary culture, audio vs. print books, keys to hosting events in Fresno, and more.

Bookfest Website

Get (Free) Tickets Here

Books:

Esperanza Rising Pam Muñoz Ryan

Tell Me Everything: A Novel Elizabeth Strout

James Ellett, Pinky's Pizza

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:50:21 +0000

Today, we have James Ellett on the show. James is the pizza genius behind Pinky’s Pizza, my favorite place to get pizza in town. We talk about all the mechanics and minutiae of the world of pizza.

Pinky's Hotplate Link

Books:

Flour Water Salt Yeast: The Fundamentals of Artisan Bread and Pizza Ken Forkish

The Pizza Bible: The World's Favorite Pizza Styles, from Neapolitan, Deep-Dish, Wood-Fired, Sicilian, Calzones and Focaccia to New York, New Haven, Detroit, and More Tony Gemignani

The Lies of Locke Lamora Scott Lynch

Tower Porchfest 2025 with Alleha Navarro, Joshua DeFisher, and Jessica Mendrin

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 19:54:47 +0000

Today, we're gonna be covering my favorite event of the year in Fresno: Tower Porchfest. I have three guests on to tell us more about the event in this particular upcoming Porchfest.

The first one is Jessica Mindren, who's the lead organizer of Porch Fest. We also have Joshua DeFisher who is the social media and merch lead. And then Alleha Navarro, who's a three time Porch Fest host. Each of these individuals offers a different perspective and an interesting insights on what makes Porchfest so incredible.

Tower Porchfest Website

Ruth Soderlund, Artist and Founder of The Artist Mentorship Project

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 17:22:18 +0000

Today, we have Ruth Soderlund on the show. Ruth is a Fresno artist passionate about building connections within the art community. Her new endeavor, The Artist Mentorship Project kicks off this month, April, 2025. The project aims to link artists of varied skill and professional experience to provide young and emerging artists with support as they pursue their individual career goals.

Ruth hopes that this will be a catalyst to bring some big ideas to life, drawing attention and economic growth to the art made here in Fresno. This was a wonderful conversation. Ruth and I are aligned on so many of our goals for Fresno, and I know you'll love her.

The Artist Mentorship Program

Books:

Demon Copperhead Barbara Kingsolver

Art Is Life: Icons and Iconoclasts, Visionaries and Vigilantes, and Flashes of Hope in the Night Jerry Saltz

Dana Pellerin, Owner of South of Shaw Beer Company

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 21:37:00 +0000

Today we have Dana Pellerin on the show. Dana is the owner of South of Shaw Beer Company in downtown Fresno, California on Broadway Street. Not only do they have great beer, but they also have some of my favorite pizza in town.

South of Shaw is one of the places that I love to hang out at. If you're there on a Friday night, there's a high probability you'll see me. It's become kind of institution of downtown, and I wanted to understand the culture and the concept behind it. And I asked Dana to come on to talk about his history, talk about his understandings of beer making, and the big world of pizza.

Books:

Brewing Classic Styles: 80 Winning Recipes Anyone Can Brew Jamil Zainasheff and John Palmer

The Affordable Brewery Tom Hennessey

Kat Kavner Woolf, Founder and Co-CEO of Heyday Canning Co.

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 01:40:26 +0000

Today, we have Kat Kavner Woolf on the show. Kat is the Founder and Co-CEO of Heyday Canning Co, which produces some of my favorite bean products on the market right now. Kat leveraged her experience working in the industry to start Heyday combining beans with amazing sauces and ingedients. We dig into all things beans in this conversation. Nerdy bean conversations was not on my bingo card, but I honestly can say that it has been a while that I've had this much fun on an episode.

Heyday's Website

Ryan Parsley and Cody Sturgis, Reborne Brewing Company

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 22:08:31 +0000

Today, we have Ryan Parsley and Cody Sturgis of the Reborne Brewing Company in Clovis, CA on the show.

Ryan has called Fresno California his home since he was five years old. He has been married to his amazing wife for 15 years, and they both have two beautiful children. Ryan also, has proudly been serving in the California Air National Guard for over 14 years, which helped him complete his education through the University of Maryland, Global Campuses, earning his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management. In 2018, Ryan discovered an appreciation of brewing Craft Beer in his garage and made the decision to ’one day’ open a brewery. Over 25 Craft Beer recipes later, in early 2023, it was official. Reborne Brewing Company received its ABC license to Brew and Distribute and its Business License with the City of Clovis.In addition to developing and launching Reborne Brewing Company, Ryan continues to serve, proudly, in the CA Air National Guard and was promoted to Technical Sergeant (E6) in November 2024.

Cody has taken root in the central valley, graduating California State University, Fresno in 2014 with a degree in Cellular/Molecular Biology and minor in Chemistry to build a life focused on the beverage industry. Cody spent some time in the wine industry, eventually settling into the world of coffee processing and roasting for 7 years. He joined Reborne Brewing in late 2020 with a focus on the scientific side of the brewing process, honing in on refining brewing processes and developing a multitude of recipes that strive for quality beyond quantity. His involvement has become invaluable to our small team.

Reborne Brewing Company

Books:

Hops, Malt, Yeast, and Water: A Novice's Guide to Craft Beer and Homebrewing Stan Kaminski

Cocktail Codex: Fundamentals, Formulas, Evolutions Alex Day, Nick Fauchald, and David Kaplan

Innovation Series: Emily Dinino, Founder & CEO of ThermoShade

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 21:56:39 +0000

We are continuing our series highlighting some of the amazing businesses that are supported through the WET Center at Fresno State's Valley Ventures Accelerator program. Today, we have Emily Dinino on the show. Emily is the Founder & CEO of ThermoShade. She spent two years studying the problem of extreme heat as her master’s thesis and is passionate about finding solutions to protect people and animals impacted by heat stress. Emily has extensive experience in finance and entrepreneurship across investment banking, venture capital, and nonprofit finance. She has been an investor in mission-driven technology and consumer companies from Pre-Seed to Series C and is intimately familiar with the challenges early-stage companies face. Emily holds a BA from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management.

WET Center Website

ThermoShade's Website

Roque Rodriguez, Filmmaker and Founder of Swede Fest

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:17:54 +0000

Today, we have Roque Rodriguez on the show. Roque is a Fresno based filmmaker and creative working to cultivate a vibrant and diverse film community throughout the San Joaquin Valley. After growing up in the rural farming town of Firebaugh, Rodriguez earned his degree in graphic arts from Brooks College in Los Angeles, only to eventually plant himself in what he calls the “Goldilocks” city of Fresno. In 2008, Rodriguez founded the independent film festival Swede Fest — a quirky collection of locally produced Hollywood remakes using low budget resources and high key creativity. Swede Fest became a cultural institution in Fresno, inspiring multiple satellite festivals across the country and garnered submissions from around the globe. Though the film festival ended in 2023, the legacy of Swede Fest carries on in a new generation of filmmakers who were able to dip their toes in an art form often seen as difficult to break into.

In 2025, Rodriguez launched his newest project: Cen Cal Cinema — an all ages, free film screening series hosted in communities throughout the Central Valley that might otherwise lack access to a movie theater. By removing travel and cost barriers, Cen Cal Cinema hopes to make film more accessible and democratic, while also celebrating the unique ways that cinema can foster community bonding, harkening back to Rodriguez’s own personal experiences.

Manuel Bonilla, President of the Fresno Teachers Association

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 20:37:31 +0000

On today's show, we have Manuel Bonilla, president of the Fresno Teachers Association. We dig into education practice, policy, organized labor, and more in this episode. If you are looking to dig into the weeds of education, this is the episode for you.

Fresno Teachers Association Website

Books:

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy J.R.R. Tolkien

The Infinite Game Simon Sinek

On Bullshit Harry G. Frankfurt

De-Escalate: How to Calm an Angry Person in 90 Seconds or Less Doug Noll

VA Central California Health Care System Conversation

Jordan Mattox — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 20:42:49 +0000

We have a special episode for you today with some of the leaders of the VA Central California Health Care System. We brought in three knowledgable leaders to discuss the state of this organization and their services. This was recorded at the end of last year, so any Trump administrative moves will not be covered here. Here are the three guests who shared in this episode:

Froylan “Froy” Garza, Interim Executive Director of VA Central California Health Care System
Amy Ruiz, HCHV Supervisor
Kimberly Booze BSN, RN, Women Veterans Program Manager

VA Central California Health Care System Website

Alex Van Horne, President of Central Valley Brewers Guild and Co-Owner of Summer Fox Brewing

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 21:32:16 +0000

Today, we have Alex Van Horne on the show. Alex is the president of the Central Valley Brewers Guild and the co-owner of Summer Fox Brewing, one of my favorite breweries in Fresno. I was so excited to record this podcast with Alex! If you really want to nerd out on beer, this is the episode for you.

Summer Fox Brewing

The Central Valley Brewers Guild

Books:

Tasting Beer, 2nd Edition: An Insider's Guide to the World's Greatest Drink Randy Mosher

Any and All Star Wars Books!

Josh Huckaby, Owner of Cybersecurity Firm Hoodwink Consulting

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 19:52:07 +0000

Today, we have Josh Huckaby on the show. Josh is the owner of Hoodwink Consulting, a central valley cybersecurity provider. Josh has spent the last six years focused on cybersecurity, which led to him opening up Hoodwink Consulting here in Fresno. They specialize in helping companies understand cybersecurity risk and provide services to protect them. And his free time, Josh enjoys spending time with his family and watching 49ers football and eating great local food. Josh is a friend, and this conversation was a true pleasure and hopefully this conversation inspires you to take better care of your life online as there are many risks and dangers out there.

Hoodwing Consulting

Books:

The 6 Types of Working Genius: A Better Way to Understand Your Gifts, Your Frustrations, and Your Team Patrick M. Lencioni

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones James Clear

Innovation Series: Ken Camarco, CEO and President of DMax Plasma

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 18 Jan 2025 18:09:35 +0000

We're beginning a series of episodes with the WET Center at Fresno State. WET stands for water, energy and technology. The WET Center's mission is to empower central Valley's core industries by providing access to cutting-edge resources, innovative research and industry expertise, driving sustainable growth and regional prosperity.They have supported amazing startups and companies around the world right from our own backyard.

Our first episode in this series features Ken Camarco, CEO and President of DMax Plasma. Ken has spent his career in all facets of global manufacturing, energy operations, supply chain, information, technology, and management. DMax Plasma utilizes plasma technology to attack contaminants in our water supply. Something that has never been more pressing in today's world.

The Wet Center

DMax Plasma

Kellee Williams, Instructor and Owner at Tower Yoga

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 16:33:22 +0000

On today's show, we have Kellee Williams, owner and teacher at Tower Yoga. Kellee is a deeply experienced and knowledgable teacher and practitioner of yoga. We dig into a lot of topics in this conversation. Please enjoy!

Tower Yoga Site

Books:

Eastern Body, Western Mind: Psychology and the Chakra System As a Path to the Self Anodea Judith

Tantra of the Yoga Sutras: Essential Wisdom for Living with Awareness and Grace Alan Finger

The Path of the Yoga Sutras Nicolai Bachman

Lynda Oniah, Founder and Creative Director of StandTallJeans

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 22:38:12 +0000

Lynda Oniah, founder and creative director of StandTallJeans, is a tall woman who faced the challenge of finding stylish, long-enough denim for herself. Driven by this personal struggle and inspired by her father’s entrepreneurial spirit, Lynda transitioned from a successful banking career to pursue her passion for fashion. After earning a Master’s Degree in Management and graduating with honors from the San Francisco Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, she founded StandTallJeans to address the market gap for well-fitting, fashionable denim for tall women. Based in California, Lynda is dedicated to creating high-quality, stylish pieces while upholding ethical and sustainable production practices.

StandTallJeans Website

Discount code: STJTHX20 for 20% off your purchase plus an extra 10% if you sign up for our VIP emails. Gift cards also available

Books:

Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind Al Ries and Jack Trout

Daniel Gonzalez, Senior Program Coordinator at the Youth Leadership Institute

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 22:02:50 +0000

Today, we have Daniel Gonzalez on the show. Daniel is a Central Valley native originally living in the rural community of Easton on the outskirts of Fresno. They are passionate about youth-driven policy change and decision-making, and have a strong commitment to local issues.

Daniel is a proud alum of Fresno State with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, a minor in Philanthropic Community-Based Leadership, and a certificate in Applied Sociological Research. They completed the Humanics@Fresno State program and are a former Bulldog Pride Fund Harvey Milk Humanics Hope Award Scholar.

As a Senior Program Coordinator at the Youth Leadership Institute, Daniel oversees over 60 youth participants in Fresno’s youth journalist and storytelling programs: The kNOw Youth Media, Multilingual Storytelling and Journalists of Color. They organize weekly meetings with young people building up their capacity in storytelling and community advocacy. Additionally, Daniel coordinates an annual youth-led multimedia positive social norms campaign around youth gambling prevention with the Betting On Our Future, a project of the California Friday Night Live Partnership.

On weekends, you can find Daniel at local drag shows alongside friends, watching horror movies, or listening to countless hours of pop music.

Youth Leadership Institute

Books:

When We Rise: My Life in the Movement Cleve Jones

Thinner Stephen King

The Velvet Rage: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Man's World Alan Downs

Dr. Shawn Beaty, Senior Pastor at Clovis Hills Church

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 17:29:35 +0000

Today, we have Dr. Shawn Beaty on the show. Shawn is the senior pastor at Clovis Hills church. In 1995, Shawn left a record deal and a career as a professional musician to go full-time into pastoral ministry. He moved from to Clovis in 2012 to join the team at Clovis Hills and was voted in by the church members as the senior pastor in 2013. Shawn holds a BA and. Sean holds a BA in organizational psychology, a master's in divinity and a doctor of ministry. This is another one of those conversations where there's a lot of inside baseball talk.Whenever you get two people with seminary degrees together, that tends to happen. But even if you're not within a religious world, I think there's a lot you can learn and appreciate about this conversation.

Clovis Hills Church Website

Books:

Is God Real?: Exploring the Ultimate Question of Life Lee Strobel

Relaxed: Walking with the One Who Is Not Worried about a Thing Megan Fate Marshman

Jonathan Linden, Podcast Producer and Journalist at KVPR

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 01:15:47 +0000

Today, we have Jonathan Linden on the show. Jonathan is a podcast producer at KVPR. Born and raised in Riverside, he's a Southern California native. Jonathan's passion for public radio began at a young age when his brother would play NPR while driving him home from middle school. He earned his B.A. in journalism from Biola University in 2019.

Jonathan has worked at several NPR affiliates, including serving as Morning Edition host at KCLU and reporting at KAZU and KVCR. While reporting at KAZU, Jonathan covered the flooding of the town of Pajaro and the first U.S. Women's Open held at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Both stories helped contribute to KAZU's two 2023 regional Edward R. Murrow awards.

When not working, Jonathan can often be found walking or running his Alaskan Malamute Balto or keeping up with the latest Dodgers game.

Link to Central Valley Daily

Amber Balakian, Balakian Farms and College Professor

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:04:31 +0000

Today, we have Amber Balakian on the show. Amber is the owner of Balakian Farms, a fourth-generation organic farm rooted in Reedley, CA. Growing up surrounded by agriculture, Amber developed a deep respect for sustainable farming and a passion for bringing high-quality, organic produce to my community. At Balakian Farms, Amber focuses on preserving her family’s farming legacy while innovating to meet today’s demands, from tree fruit to our unique line of organic blended heirloom tomatoes. Amber is also a college professor, supporting students in developing entrepreneurial skills, and a passion for business. Amber’s ultimate goal is to honor her farm’s heritage while paving the way for sustainable and inclusive growth in the farming industry.

Balakian Farms

Books:

Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne

David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants Malcolm Gladwell

Paul Swearengin, Unconventional Pastor Paul

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 22:15:33 +0000

Today we have Paul swearing-in on the show. Paul is a former TV and radio sportscaster who transitioned to ministry after being ordained by the vineyard association of churches. Paul founded and led an evangelical church in Fresno, California for over a decade before stepping down to focus on content creation, coaching and podcasting . Through social media discussion groups and one-on-one coaching. Paul supports those questioning their faith and seeking emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

Paul was a former guest of the podcast, and I invited Paul back on the show to get some updates on Paul's spiritual journey, and their perspectives on the world of religion today.

Paul's Website

Books:

Searching for Sunday: Loving, Leaving, and Finding the Church Rachel Held Evans

Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation Kristin Kobes Du Mez

Love Wins: A Book About Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived Rob Bell

Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don't Know Malcolm Gladwell

Dr. Tania Pacheco-Warner, Executive Director of The Central Valley Health Policy Institute

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 19:39:31 +0000

Today we have Dr. Tania Pacheco-Warner on the show. Dr. Pacheco-Warner is a sociologist and public health researcher known for her work in health equity, and social determinants of health, especially in the Central Valley. She currently serves as the Executive Director of The Central Valley Health Policy Institute at Fresno State, which is focused developing on data driven policies to address health disparities among underserved communities. Dr. Pacheco-Warner's expertise is widely sought in areas of community health, environmental justice, and policymaking that impacts rural populations.

Central Valley Health Policy Institute Website

Books:

The Logic of Practice Pierre Bourdieu

Collected Works Of Kahlil Gibran Kahlil Gibran

Blake Zante, Executive Director of the Kenneth L. Maddy Institute

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 16:39:54 +0000

Today, we have Blake Zante on the show. Blake is the executive director of the Kenneth L. Maddy Institute and has worked as a district representative to former Speaker of the House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy, as press secretary to state Senator Andreas Borgeas, and operated a public affairs consultancy. We dig into public policy, education, political persuasion, Division I sports, and a lot more. Please enjoy our conversation.

Maddy Institute Website

Books:

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln Doris Kearns Goodwin

Leadership in Turbulent Times Doris Kearns Goodwin

Bob Nelson, Assistant Professor and Former Superintendent of Fresno Unified

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 01:59:28 +0000

Today, we have Bob Nelson on the show. Nelson was the Superintendent of Fresno Unified for nearly seven years and worked in many capacities in the public school system. He’s now an assistant professor at Fresno State focusing on educating future leaders of our schools. Also, he has a great new podcast called #MilitantPositivity Podcast, which I feel is operating on a similar wavelength of this program. Please enjoy my conversation with Bob Nelson!

Link to #MilitantPositivity Podcast

Books:

The Anatomy of Peace, Fourth Edition: Resolving the Heart of Conflict The Arbinger Institute

The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World Desmond Tutu and Dalai Lama

Fresno's Best Podcast Update: Fresnolandia, New Podcast Series, and Soliciting Questions

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 17 Sep 2024 01:38:10 +0000

There's been a lot of changes going on behind the scenes, so I thought it would be important to take a minute to update you all on what's been happening.

Email me: jordanmattox@gmail.com

David Higdon, Co-Founder of Kern Venture Group

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 21:10:32 +0000

Today, we have another Bakersfield Connection podcast. I like doing these because I think the Valley needs to be a lot more integrated in order to be successful. And so today we have David Higdon on the show. David is the co-founder of Kern Venture Group, a venture capital fund based out of Bakersfield, California, that's focused on funding founders and businesses that want to develop and improve the Central Valley, which I think is such an admirable mission and project to focus on, in particular for the Central Valley's future.

KVG's Website

Courtney McNulty, Zoological Animal Manager of the Bird Show at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 10 Aug 2024 19:05:35 +0000

Courtney McNulty is the Zoological Animal Manager of the Bird Show at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, a position she has held for three years. She developed a passion for wildlife through early exposure to zoos and aquariums in southern California, leading her to pursue a career in animal care and education. With over nine years of experience in the field, including specialized training in exotic animal management, McNulty has dedicated herself to bird care and is committed to advancing animal welfare and conservation for future generations.

Chaffee Zoo Website

Book Recommendations:

Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. Brene Brown

Monday Morning Leadership: 8 Mentoring Sessions You Can't Afford to Miss David Cottrell

The Invisible Wall: A Love Story That Broke Barriers Harry Bernstein

Dr. Carole Goldsmith, Chancellor of the State Center Community College District

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 17:54:25 +0000

Today, we have Dr. Carole Goldsmith on the show. Dr. Goldsmith became Chancellor of State Center Community College District on January 1, 2022, leading efforts to create a welcoming environment for all. She oversaw the adoption of a new mission, vision, and values, delivered a balanced budget supporting District goals, aligned curriculum for optimal student outcomes, and developed partnerships to enhance faculty effectiveness and student achievement. Prior to this role, Dr. Goldsmith served as President of Fresno City College from 2016 to 2021 and brought 13 years of experience from West Hills Community College District, including her tenure as President of West Hills College Coalinga. She holds a bachelor's degree in history from California State University, Fresno, a master's in educational administration from National University, and a doctorate in higher education leadership from the joint program at Fresno State and UC Davis.

Books:

Star Trek: Discovery: Wonderlands Una McCormack

Lindsay Anton, Chef at Moto Delicatessen

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:02:57 +0000

Today, we have Lindsay Anton on the show. A graduate of the San Francisco Cooking School, Lindsay Anton is currently the chef at Moto Delicatessen. Having started her cooking career in New York in 2008, Lindsay has almost 15 years experience in the food and restaurant industry. Lindsay has spent time in the uber successful kitchens of Nopa, Delfina and Locanda in San Francisco, with the majority of her time spent cooking and consulting for private clients in Seattle, San Francisco and New York. She spent over 7 years working with Chef Coreen Carroll of Cannaisseur Series creating multi-course infused and elevated cannabis cuisine at dozens of events in the bay area. In 2016 Lindsay also consulted and created a menu for the wine bar Local and Vine located in New York's posh West Soho neighborhood. With a focus on accessible flavors, fresh ingredients and comfortable yet sophisticated eating environments, Lindsay’s food represents her versatility as a chef and her ability to meet the needs of her diverse client base.

Books:

All Fours: A Novel Miranda Huly

Leslie Young, Business Consultant, Instructor, and Founder of MVM Advisory Group

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 13 Jul 2024 17:26:47 +0000

Leslie Young, a Fresno native with a Master's from Pepperdine, is a dynamic entrepreneur and educator making waves in small business consulting. She founded MVM Advisory Group during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on helping small-medium enterprises grow through strategic development and emotional intelligence methodologies. Leslie's impact extends to over 400 small businesses, various nonprofits, and educational initiatives, including designing a course at UCSD and supporting the Mexican Consulate in San Diego with a business certificate program. Balancing her professional success with family life as a wife and mother of three, Leslie continues to inspire women in business while pursuing her passions for sushi and travel.

MVM Advisory Group Website

Books:

The Bible

Discipline Is Destiny: The Power of Self-Control Ryan Holiday

The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level: Transform Your Habits, Transform your Life Gay Hendricks

Dr. Harman Virk DO, Internal Medicine Physician and Owner of The Modern Medicine Group

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 21:30:33 +0000

Today we have Dr. Harman Virk DO on the show. Dr. Virk is a board certified Internal Medicine physician that grew up in Fresno and is now one of the owners of a new medical clinic called The Modern Medicine Group. He hopes to offer a deeper understanding of the unique healthcare challenges faced by residents in Fresno. He is committed to promoting preventive care, and is excited to discuss his compassionate and patient-centered approach to medicine and is eager to continue making a difference in the lives of his patients through his continuous work with his medical clinic.

The Modern Medicine Group

Books:

Being Mortal Atul Gawande

Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order: Why Nations Succeed and Fail Ray Dalio

Marco Tovar, Photographer and Educator

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 16:53:53 +0000

Marco Tovar is a Fresno-based photographer and educator specializing in the Wet Plate Collodion process, a photographic process from the 1850's. Marco's process documents the people of the Central Valley.

Marco's Website

Books:

The Creative Act: A Way of Being Rick Rubin

Manage Your Day-to-Day: Build Your Routine, Find Your Focus, and Sharpen Your Creative Mind Jocelyn K. Glei

The Pleasures of the Damned: Poems, 1951-1993 Charles Bukowski

Diane Friederichs, Founder of FART (Foster - Adopt - Rescue - Transport)

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 30 May 2024 03:30:00 +0000

Today, we have Diane Friederichs who is the founder of FART (Foster - Adopt - Rescue - Transport), an amazing animal rescue service in Fresno. Diane is doing amazing work for animals without homes. This was an incredibly fun and wide-ranging conversation. Below the book recommendations, you can find all the links for how you can support her amazing work.

Books:

Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. Brene Brown

Diane's Links:

Danny Bernstein, Founder and Managing Partner of HawkTower

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 16 May 2024 21:04:03 +0000

Today, we have Danny Bernstein on the show. Danny is the Founder and Managing Partner of HawkTower, an early-stage venture capital firm focused on underleveraged California, including the Central Valley. HawkTower invests in scalable early-stage technology companies that address real-world opportunities and imperatives outside traditional entrepreneurial patterns and investment behaviors.

Prior to HawkTower, Danny spent 20 years in Silicon Valley, holding executive roles at Google and Microsoft. In 2012, Danny successfully sold Meebo, a Sequoia Capital-backed Web 2.0 startup, to Google. At Google, he ran business development, strategic partnerships, and developer programs for products like Google Search, Google Assistant, Google Research, Chrome/Web Platform, Google Identity and Sign-In, Firebase, and others. At Microsoft, he led critical product lines for Microsoft Teams.

Books:

Startup Communities: Building an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Your City Brad Feld

The Rainforest: The Secret to Building the Next Silicon Valley Victor W. Hwang and Greg Horowitt

Dr. Lorin Lachs, Professor and Chair of the Psychology Department at Fresno State

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 10 May 2024 15:41:02 +0000

Today, we have Dr. Lorin Lachs on the show. Dr. Lachs is a professor of psychology and the chair of the psychology department at Fresno State. He has a number of research interests including Multimodal speech perception, Perception of Spoken Language, Psycholinguistics, Perception of Virtual Reality, and Video Gaming Behavior, having published a number of academic articles in these fields. We have a wide ranging conversation that includes many of these topics, their practical, and a host of other topics including free will and determinism, neuralink, online language tools, the replication crisis and much more. Please enjoy our conversation.

Books:

The Language Instinct: How the Mind Creates Language Steven Pinker

Gödel, Escher, Bach: An Eternal Golden Braid Douglas R Hofstadter

The Expanse Boxed Set: Leviathan Wakes, Caliban's War and Abaddon's Gate James S. A. Corey

Leonard L. Longmire, Professional DJ and Vibe Creator

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 06 May 2024 15:57:20 +0000

Today, we have Leonard L. Longmire on the show. Leonard is a professional DJ and general creator of vibes for the city of Fresno. This is an episode we gush about the music we love, explore DJs craft sets, discuss the importance of music venues, and much more.

Books:

The Isis Papers: The Keys to the Colors Frances Cress Welsing

Miles: The Autobiography Miles Davis

Jon Forrest Dohlin, CEO and Zoo Director of the Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:04:35 +0000

Today, we have Jon Forrest Dohlin on the show. Jon has been the Chief Executive Officer and Zoo Director of Fresno Chaffee Zoo since February 2021. Born and raised in California, Dohlin received a BA in Biology from Humboldt State University in Arcata, CA, and a Masters of Architecture from Parsons School of Design in New York. He worked for the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) at the Bronx Zoo as an Exhibit Designer and in Construction Management before becoming the Director of the WCS New York Aquarium in 2008. This was such a fun conversation about one of Fresno's greatest attractions, and Jon seems like the perfect person to be at its helm. Please enjoy!

Books

A Different Nature: The Paradoxical World of Zoos and Their Uncertain Future David Hancocks

Alexander: The Ambiguity of Greatness Guy Maclean Rogers

The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store: A Novel James McBride

Mas Masumoto, Farmer and Writer

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 13:59:00 +0000

Today, we have Mas Masumoto on the podcast. A farmer, writer, and a repository of memories of the valley, Mas is a central voice in the region. I am so excited to have him on the show to talk about farming, memory, writing, agrarian ideas, glyphosate, real estate development, tell intimate family stories, mental illness, pickled peaches, and much more. Please enjoy my conversation with Mas Masumoto.

Masumoto Family Farm Website

Books:

Wendell Berry

Michael Pollan

Book of Delights: Essays Ross Gay

The Grapes of Wrath John Steinbeck

San Joaquin Valley Bookfest with Joseph Rios

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 03:10:34 +0000

In this episode, Joseph Rios makes a return to the podcast to discuss the upcoming book festival on May 4th from 9am-4:30pm at the Fig Garden Swim & Racquet Club. Mark your calendars!

Grace Berg and Andrew Feil, Every Neighborhood Partnership

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 21:56:57 +0000

Today, we have Grace Berg and Andrew Feil of the Every Neighborhood Partnership (ENP) on the show. Partnering with churches, the ENP seeks to provide a number of critical resources to neighborhoods across Fresno, including school support, health and fitness, training, and much more. Grace and Andrew both bring a wealth of experience to their work and have just launched a new podcast called What's Good in the Neighborhood. Please enjoy our conversation!

ENP Website

Books:

Andrew:

American Dirt Jeanine Cummins

The Power of Saying No: The New Science of How to Say No that Puts You in Charge of Your Life Vanessa Patrick

Grace:

She Deserves Better: Raising Girls to Resist Toxic Teachings on Sex, Self, and Speaking Up Sheila Wray Gregoire, Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach, and Joanna Sawatsky

Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation Kristin Kobes Du Mez

Ariel Davis and Mikaela Silva, CCC Speech and Debate

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 21:56:24 +0000

Today, we have Ariel Davis and Mikaela Silva on the show. Ariel and Mikaela are members of Clovis Community College's Speech and Debate Club and team. Speech and Debate is one of the most intellectually rigorous activities available for students, and, as a former member of a speech debate team both in high school and college, I can't recommend the activity more highly.

CCC Spech and Debate Club Site

Books:

The Poppy War: A Novel R.F. Kuang

The Body Keeps Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma Bessel van der Kolk M.D.

Simon Biasell, Pastor at the Big Red Church and Executive Director of Woven Coalition for Justice

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 15:35:20 +0000

Today, we have Rev. Simon Biasell on the show today. Simon is the pastor at the Big Red Church and Co-Executive Director of Woven Coalition for Justice. For more than twenty years, Simon has worked to build radical hospitality within faith-based groups and is passionate about connecting and organizing community members to speak truth to power. Simon graduated from Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary with a Master of Divinity. He and his wife live in the Fresno High neighborhood with their two children. Simon is a doctorate student at the University of Dubuque where his research explores how the next generation of churches can best serve their communities.

Big Red Church Website

Books:

Black Liturgies: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Staying Human Cole Arthur Riley

Jarron Young, BBQ Master and Co-Owner of Phill's Corner Grill

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:13:07 +0000

Today, we have Jarron Young on the show. Jarron was born and raised in fresno California and is the co-owner and operator of Phill's Family Grill. In partnership with older brother Phillip Young, they thrive to excel as entrepreneurs by continuing the legacy of late Father Phillip Young owner and operator of Phills Corner Grill in Clovis They are excited to soon be serving Fresno with their twist on California-style backyard BBQ. We talk about all things BBQ, and I know you will love this conversation!

Phil's Corner Grill

Books:

Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World Admiral William H. McRaven

Naomi Marie, Artist, Muralist, and Educator

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 02:13:58 +0000

Today, we have Naomi Marie on the show. Naomi is a Fresno Artist born and educated in Fresno, California. She is involved in everything from Art Hop to Murals to teaching Art to students. Her goal, above all, is to bring more positivity back to Fresno’s Art scene.

Books:

Van Gogh: The Life Steven Naifeh and Gregory White Smith

Artist Recommendations:

https://www.instagram.com/aiww/

https://www.instagram.com/keithharingfoundation/

https://www.instagram.com/end_in_eon/

Emily Dewise, Founder of Emmie's Swim School and Certified Instructor

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 09 Mar 2024 20:02:00 +0000

Today, we have Emily Dewise on the show. Emily is the founder of Emmies Swim School, where she gives swim and aquatic instruction. Coming from a family of aquatic instructors, Emily found her passion early and hopes to teach many kids across Fresno to learn to love swimming. With the days starting to warm up, I thought this would be the perfect conversation as we start to dream about swimming pools, lake fronts, and the beach.

Emmie's Swim School Website

Books:

The Silent Patient Alex Michaelides

All the Devils Are Here Louise Penny

Jeremy Hofer, Lending Manager for Self Help Credit Union and Co-Founder of Tower Porchfest

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 22:00:01 +0000

Today, we have Jeremy Hofer on the show. Jeremy is the Lending Manager for Self Help's Charter School division where he assists mission-oriented developers and nonprofits finance charter schools that lead to deep community impact. Before joining Self-Help in 2018, he directed Access Plus Capital, a CDFI loan fund serving small businesses. Over the course of ten years he developed and managed the fund helping hundreds of Central Valley entrepreneurs get financed to start and expand their businesses. Jeremy is a board member of the Central California Land Trust, and serves on several loan committees of community lenders in his hometown of Fresno, CA. In addition, Jeremy is a co-founder of Porchfest, an amazing outdoor music event in Tower that takes place on a number of porches. Jeremy is also a talented musician and regularly plays live music around Fresno. Jeremy has a master’s in Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University and an Economic Development Professional certification from the National Development Council.

Porchfest Website

Self Help Credit Union

Reading Recommendation:

Geography Subreddit

Patrick Burriel, Client Advocate with My Time Recovery and Sober Living Manager at Next Door Ministries

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 02 Mar 2024 18:28:09 +0000

Today, we have Patrick Burriel on the show. Patrick is a Client Advocate with My Time Recovery and runs a sober living community with Next Door Ministries. Patrick is an incredible person and has a lot of deep wisdom to share. This podcast is deeply personal for me as I have watched family members struggle to work through addiction and I know a lot of people have family members or friends who have struggled with this issue, and perhaps you have struggled with it as well. This podcast is for all of you.

My Time Recovery Website

Next Door Ministries Website

Books:

Think and Grow Rich: The Landmark Bestseller Now Revised and Updated for the 21st Century Napoleon Hill

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! Robert T. Kiyosaki

Kaysha Rajani, Founder and Creative Director of Curated Giftables

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 01:19:23 +0000

Today, we have Kaysha Rajani on the show. As the Founder and Creative Director of Curated Giftables, Kaysha Rajani is passionate about building and strengthening relationships through gifting. After enjoying a fifteen-year career in marketing and communications, she launched her company that specializes in large-scale, custom gifting for businesses and events, primarily serving California’s Central Valley.

Kaysha is actively engaged with every part of her business operations from client communication to designing and assembling gifts. Her expertise in curating products that are thoughtfully chosen to fit a brand aesthetic or event theme, paired with her creative eye for design result in beautifully presented gifts that leave a lasting impression.

As a graduate of the University of Alabama, Kaysha loves to cheer on the Crimson Tide! When she isn’t tying bows, you can find her enjoying the local restaurant scene and indulging in craft cocktails with friends, or exploring new cities and cultures with her husband.

Curated Giftables Website

Instagram and Facebook: @curatedgiftables

Books:

How to Win Friends & Influence People Dale Carnegie

Keith Newton, Woodworker

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 04:17:16 +0000

Today, we have Keith Newton on the show. Keith has been a woodworker since his early teens. Over the course of a lifetime, he has honed his skills. He always strives for harmony with the wood and the piece the wood finally becomes. Keith chooses his logs carefully and orients them on the sawmill for the maximum benefit the log will yield. The cut slabs dry for three and a half years. Logs are urban salvage and farm field pull-outs. It is important to him that the wood he chooses has been saved from a trip to the biomass plant.

Always driven to try new things, he taught himself to make violins. It was in that self-imposed tutelage he perfected his finishing techniques. Over the course of many years, Keith has accumulated many machines and tools instrumental to his woodworking. Sanding and surfacing machines, elbow grease, and a fortune in sandpaper are the formula behind his smooth finishes. Keith also has outstanding veneer and pressing capabilities for lovely panels, chests, and cabinets. His work predominately incorporates live edge.

He is inspired by the beauty in nature and wants to bring that natural feeling that the outdoors brings.

Keith works from his studio/shop on 2.5 acres in Fresno, CA. His many dogs are his constant companions and will greet you at the gate.

Keith's Website

Books:

Understanding Wood: A Craftsman's Guide to Wood Technology R. Bruce Hoadley

Diego Arambula, Vice President of Educational Transformation at the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 00:37:36 +0000

Diego Arambula is transitioning into the role of Vice President of Educational Transformation at the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, following over five years as a Managing Partner at Transcend, where he collaborated with educators nationwide to reimagine learning environments. His journey in public education began in 2005 at Summit Public Schools, where he served in various capacities including classroom teacher, founding principal, and Chief Growth & Innovation Officer, driving the school's shift towards personalization and scalability. Additionally, he founded GO Public Schools Fresno, an advocacy nonprofit focused on innovative school models. Diego's commitment to educational change extends to his volunteer roles on several boards, including the California State University system and Summit Public Schools. With a background in politics and degrees from Harvard and Stanford University, Diego resides in Fresno with his wife and two daughters, actively contributing to educational transformation in his community.

We discuss status in education, Teach for America, teaching social science, how much time administrators should spend in classrooms, summer break vs year round school, reducing teacher turnover, offramp schools, poverty’s role in educational outcomes, expensive education consultants, The Orange Theory, Flipped Classrooms, whether Fresno Unified is too big, and much more.

Books:

The End of Average: How We Succeed in a World That Values Sameness Todd Rose

The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion Jonathan Haidt

The Name of Wind Patrick Rothfuss

Isabel Dieppa, Fresno Skate Party

Jordan Mattox — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 21:21:19 +0000

Today, we have Isabel Dieppa on the show. Isabel is a journalist, roller skater and performing artist. She founded Fresno Skate Party in 2021. When she is not roller skating Isabel spends her time cosplaying and dancing. You can follow her on Instagram, and Tik Tok @isabelsdieppa

Use the code frensoskateparty people can get %5 at Pigeon Roller Skate Shop (link here)

Books:

Pride and Prejudice Jane Austen

Be Water, My Friend Shannon Lee

Arthur Moye, CEO of Full Circle Brewing Company

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 22:29:40 +0000

Today we have Arthur Moye on the show. Arthur is the CEO of Full Circle Brewing, Co. in Fresno, California. Formerly a CalCPA Chapter President, after 15 years of homebrewing, he went rogue and sold his CPA practice to purchase Fresno’s longest running brewery. With a background in accounting, he took a leap of faith to see how he could extend his experience with numbers to drive his passion for craft beer. From 2016-2024, he increased Full Circle Brewing's production by 25,000%, and expanded from a 7.5BBL brewhouse with a local footprint, to a 30-barrel brewhouse with packaging and distribution throughout the United States. These numbers continue to grow to this day. Additionally, as a black entrepreneur and brewer, Arthur is proud to have Full Circle Brewing, Co. contribute to the 1% of black majority owned craft breweries in the United States. Arthur is originally from the Bay Area and is an alumnus of San Jose State University. He has chosen the Central Valley as his home to raise his family and grow and his businesses.

Books:

The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level Gay Hendricks

StrengthsFinder 2.0 Don Clifton

Enrique Meza, Meza Studios

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 18:44:07 +0000

Today, we have Enrique Meza on the show.Enrique is the founder and creative director of Meza Studios. He was born and raised in California’s Central Valley. He is a proud son of immigrant labor workers. Connection is a recurrent theme in his creative work, and deriving human emotions is what challenges him. His goal is to leave his audience with a sense of connection and adoration for its subject while maintaining the human element. His craft has granted him the opportunity to travel all over the world, in turn inspiring him to convey that message through his work. Enrique started MEZA in 2003. Since then, he has built a forward-thinking business using creative concepts, campaigns, and collaboration with both traditional marketing agencies and mid to large-sized companies. Enrique’s favorite part of the job is working with different industries and meeting various people from all walks of life. Outside the studio, Enrique loves to hang with his family, travel, hike, and explore the local food scene wherever he might be.

Books:

Creative Calling: Establish a Daily Practice, Infuse Your World with Meaning, and Succeed in Work + Life Chase Jarvis

Nat Strafaci, Therapist, Supervisor, Medium, and Herbalist

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 22:49:04 +0000

Nat Strafaci is a licensed therapist, clinical supervisor, psychic medium, and spiritual herbalist living and working on Lenape and Yokuts land. Their private practice centers the healing of Queer and Trans People of Color at the intersection of spirituality and mental health. They are a graduate of Columbia University School of Social Work and the Sacred Vibes Apothecary Spiritual Herbalism Apprenticeship Program. Informed by almost 15 years of school and community-based work, Nat also provides consultation and training to groups and organizations seeking to deepen their understanding of gender, sexuality, pleasure, trauma, and intuition.Nat offers tarot, mediumship, and consultation sessions at En Las Nubes Spa in Tower District.I really enjoyed talking with Nat and love that they have relocated and will share their knowledge and experience with us.

Books

Mean Miriam Gerba

What My Bones Know: A Memoir of Healing from Complex Trauma Stephanie Foo

Sour Heart: Stories Jenny Zhang

Alison LeClair, Breadroom Bakery

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 03:00:49 +0000

Today, we have Alison LeClair on the show of the Breadroom Bakery. Alison made her first loaf of bread in 2008, while studying speciality cake baking. Almost 10 years later and still thinking fondly of that first Pullman loaf, she began keeping a sourdough starter and casually baking with it in 2017. It wasn’t long before she realized that baking bread for people was a very cool way to spend her time. She continued to bake for her community while transitioning to a new city in 2020, where she left her moving boxes full of baking supplies, labeled “the bread room”, sitting around long enough that there was no choice but to call her workspace Breadroom Bakery. Alison (and the breadroom) reside in a 100+ year old house in a very charming part of Fresno, CA, with a porch just big enough for a few dozen loaves of bread (sometimes sourdough cookies) to be picked up by friends and neighbors every week. To her, baking bread as an occupation feels like commitment to a lifelong discovery of people, relationships and of the romance of food that we can all be partaking in a bit more often than we do. She hopes to help offer those moments of discovery to everyone she connects with through breadroom.

Books:

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking Samin Nosrat (Author), Wendy MacNaughton (Illustrator)

A Real American Breakfast: The Best Meal of the Day, Any Time of the Day Cheryl Alters Jamison and Bill Jamison

Tartine Bread Chad Roberston

Elliott Balch, President and CEO of The Fresno Downtown Partnership

Jordan Mattox — Sat, 30 Dec 2023 00:46:04 +0000

Today we have Elliott Balch on the show. Elliott is the president and CEO of the Downtown Fresno Partnership, which is a 501(c) 6. The Partnership is leading downtown Fresno toward its future as a vibrant hub of business activity by promoting downtown’s image; supporting physical improvements and development; advocating for merchants; and hosting special events that bring new life to the historic core of our city. We discuss a lot in this conversation including Public Private Partnerships, signage, parking meters, Chukchansi Park, police presence and the benefits of bicycle patrols, the homeless issue, Christmas Tree Lane, Oppenheimer, Peeve’s, Gentrification, Noise Ordinances, and so much more.

Books:

Paved Paradise: How Parking Explains the World Henry Grabar

Suburban Nation: The Rise of Sprawl and the Decline of the American Andres Duany, Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, and Jeff Speck

Dr. Mallika Nocco and Dr. Samuel Sandoval, Hosts of Water Talk Podcast

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 22:49:59 +0000

Today we have another crossover episode with the sister program to this show that I produce called The History of CA Podcast. The interview is with two of the wonderful hosts of the amazing podcast Water Talk, one of my personal favorite podcasts which explores all things related to water, with an emphasis on California Water issues, but also covering broader areas as well. The first is Dr. Mallika Nocco. Mallika is an Assistant Professor in Cooperative Extension specializing in soil-plant-water relations and irrigation management and director of the Conservation Irrigation Lab at the University of California, Davis. We also have Dr. Samuel Sandoval. Samuel is an Associate Professor in Cooperative Extension and Water Resources Management at University of California, Davis. He has developed effective communication programs in English and Spanish for topics related to water and created virtual forums that foster communities of scientists for exchanging ideas, collaborative projects, fact checking and myth busters. We cover so much in this conversation and I know you will enjoy it.

Christa Wiens, Executive Director of the Central Valley Justice Coalition

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 23:00:02 +0000

Today, we have Christa Wiens on the show. Christa is the executive director of Central Valley Justice Coalition and the focus of our conversation is human trafficking, both globally and locally. We dig into definitions, tactics used by traffickers, signs someone is being trafficked, differences between sex trafficking and forced labor, beyond the obvious, common misconceptions, approaches to education the public, Hollywood depictions of trafficking, fritters, fair trade, law enforcement approaches, and more.

Central Valley Justice Coalition Website

Books

A Church Called Tov: Forming a Goodness Culture That Resists Abuses of Power and Promotes Healing Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer

A Cry of The Heart: Human Trafficking: One Survivor's True Story Debra Rush and Penelope Childers

Marilyn Cowley, CEO and Founder of PREM PR and Social

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 17:27:15 +0000

Marilyn Cowley is CEO and founder of PREM PR and Social and if there is someone in town whose opinion on marketing in this complicated environment I would trust, it would definitely be Marilyn’s. In this episode, we discuss internships, strategizing majors in college, old school marketing tactics, the state of email marketing, motivational speakers, the importance of habits, ballroom dancing, ethics in marketing, building a social media brand, Taylor Swift of course, local news, why certain people are better in front of cameras, and more.

PREM PR and Social Website

Books

Marketing Made Simple: A Step-by-Step StoryBrand Guide for Any Business Donald Miller and Dr. J.J. Peterson

The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure Grant Cardone

Liana Pierce, Owner of Four Corners Yoga

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 03:53:23 +0000

Today, we have Liana Pierce on the show. Liana is the owner of and instructor at Four Corners Yoga Studio in Northeast Fresno. We discuss pain in Yoga, the comparison game, yoga and fitness, common mistakes, conflicts with religious worldview, overrated poses and clothes, the benefit of retreats, the business side of operating a studio, what she has learned about Fresno in teaching classes and operating a studio, and more. Liana is wonderful and I know you’ll love this conversation.

Four Corners Yoga Website

Books:

Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art James Nestor

The Way Forward (The Inward Trilogy) Yung Pueblo

The Measure Nikki Erlick

Ellen Armour, Director of Marketing & Development for the Fresno Philharmonic

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 21:15:35 +0000

Today we have Ellen Armour on the show. Ellen is a native of California's San Joaquin Valley, where she lived until attending UCLA. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music Composition from the School of Arts & Architecture, and went on to work in project management for the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, Google, Chevron, international consulting firm Turner & Townsend, and TETER Architects & Engineers before landing at the Fresno Philharmonic, where she currently serves as Director of Marketing & Development, developing relationships and marketing best practices for an outstanding non-profit arts organization.

Ms. Armour serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of California Symphony Orchestras and is the immediate past Board President and Marketing Chair for the Fresno Arts Council. Ellen is also a classically trained pianist, vocalist, and composer of 33 years and loves sharing the beauty and joy of music with others. You can find some of her music on Spotify, Apple Music, and all streaming platforms.

Ellen's Website

Books:

The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business Charles Duhigg

The Midnight Library Matt Haig

A House for Mr. Biswas V. S. Naipaul

Alex Treas and Jenn Guerra, Reclaim Technologies

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 02:46:19 +0000

Today, I have an interview with Alex Treas and Jenn Guerra. Both from the valley, they share a passion for the growing technology industry here and, after the fallout from Bitwise, are striking out with a new venture called Reclaim Technologies that aims to help businesses and organizations leverage technology to achieve their goals.

Reclaim Technologies Website

Books:

Running Lean: Iterate from Plan A to a Plan That Works Ash Maurya

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones James Clear

The Mountain Is You: Transforming Self-Sabotage Into Self-Mastery Brianna Wiest

Anna Covarrubias and Marcee Rodriguez, The Pie Mamas

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 21:34:30 +0000

Today, we have Anna Covarrubias and Marcee Rodriguez of The Pie Mamas on the show. These two home bakers turned a passion into a thriving business and are baking some of the most beautiful pies in Fresno. Please enjoy our fascinating conversation about our favorite holiday dessert.

The Pie Mamas Website

Timothy Yeager, Chief Clinical Officer at Centria Healthcare

Jordan Mattox — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 17:52:27 +0000

Today, we have Timothy Yeager on the show. Yeager is the Chief Clinical Officer at Centria Healthcare which is the leading provider of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy to children with autism in the country. Our conversation is wide-ranging covering ABA, pragmatism, NY-style pizza, reducing burnout in the helping industry, diagnosis as determinism, and more.

Books

Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity Kim Scott

Meaningful Differences in the Everyday Experience of Young American Children Todd R. Risley and Betty Hart

Brooke Payton, Tower District Library Project

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:18:00 +0000

Brooke is spear-heading a campaign to bring a library to the Tower District of Fresno. As a librarian, the host of this podcast couldn't be more supportive of expanding library access to as many people as possible. Please support the project in any way you can!

The Campaign's Website

Books:

Tempests and Slaughter by Tamora Pierce

The Alienist by Caleb Carr

A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

Katherine Blunt, Wall Street Journal Reporter and Author of California Burning

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 01:41:10 +0000

Today's episode is a repost from my other podcast, History of California Podcast, with Katherine Blunt. Katherine Blunt is a reporter for the Wall Street Journal and author of California Burning: The Fall of Pacific Gas and Electric and What it Means for America’s Power Grid. The book, a national bestseller, won the 2022 Golden Poppy award for nonfiction. Her coverage of PG&E, a collaboration with two colleagues, was a finalist for the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for National Reporting and earned a Gerald Loeb award, the highest honor in business journalism.

Scott Miller, President of the Fresno Chamber of Commerce

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 20:10:31 +0000

Today, we have Scott Miller on the show. Scott is the President of Chamber Commerce and the owner of Gazebo Gardens. Please enjoy our conversation!

Arianna Chávez, Executive Director of Arte Américas

Jordan Mattox — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 21:04:05 +0000

Today we have Arianna Chavez on the show. Arianna is the executive of Arte Americas. Born and raised in Fresno, Arianna attributes her passion for art to formative years spent at Arte Américas. She is returning home with a decade of experience in nonprofit arts organizations including the M.H. de Young Memorial Museum in San Francisco, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and artist endowed foundations in New York. Thus far, Arianna’s career has been devoted to creating meaningful experiences and entry points to the arts with and for diverse communities. Arianna is an alumna of the National Association of Latino Arts and Cultures (NALAC) advocacy and leadership programs. She earned a BA in Art History and Arts Management at the University of San Francisco and an MA in Art History from Syracuse University in Florence, Italy where she studied sixteenth-century Mexican art in Italian collections. This is a wide-ranging conversation centered around art.

Books:

Puritan Conquistadors: Iberianizing the Atlantic, 1550-1700 Jorge Cañizares-Esguerra

Super Cilantro Girl / La Superniña del Cilantro Juan Felipe Herrera (Author), Honorio Tapia (Illustrator)

Jason Castro, Consul General of the El Salvadorian Consulate

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 16:26:54 +0000

Today, we have the Jason Castro on the show. Mr. Castro is the Consul General of the El Salvadorian Consulate in Fresno. We talk about all things El Salvadorian, from the culture and history of the country to issues facing El Salvadorian immigrants in the central valley.

Reis Thebault, Washington Post Reporter Covering Bitwise

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 21:23:01 +0000

Today we have Reis Thebault on the show. Reis reports on the American West Coast from Los Angeles for The Washington Post. He joined The Post in 2018 and has covered national breaking news, European politics and D.C. city hall. He previously worked on the local desks of the Boston Globe and the Columbus Dispatch. We have him on the show today because he wrote a front page story on the Bitwise situation and has done some excellent reporting on the subject, interviewing both former Bitwise employees as well investors and local political figures. Most of all, he is an outside perspective, less clouded by personal connections or vested interests to look at the whole situation clearly.

Link to the Washington Post Article discussed here.

Books:

The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein

On Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond

The Dreamt Land: Chasing Water and Dust Across California by Mark Arax

Kiel Lopez-Schmidt, Executive Director of the South Tower Community Land Trust

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 03:37:27 +0000

Today we have Kiel Lopez-Schmidt on the show. Kiel is a trained architect and the Executive Director of the South Tower Community Land Trust. In this conversation, we discuss affordable housing, planning commissions, AirBnB’s effect on the housing stock, homelessness as a housing problem, historical preservation, and more.

Link to Sign Up for the Queer Housing Summit

Books:

Pleasure Activism: The Politics of Feeling Good by Adrienne Maree Brown

The First Sister by Linden Lewis

Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler

Renee Delport, Director of Communications at Central Valley Community Foundation

Jordan Mattox — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 02:20:04 +0000

Renee Delport is the director of communications at the Central Valley Community Foundation, an organization that does a lot to steward and direct resources to support our community. Drawing on her experience working in a variety of contexts, Renee has a deep love for community service, articulating a strong message, and recruiting others to join causes. This interview is chocked full of insight and I know you will gain a lot from listening to her thoughts.

Book Recommendations:

The Bible

The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together Heather McGhee

Reframing Organizations: Artistry, Choice, and Leadership Lee G. Bolman and Terrence E. Deal

Gung Ho! Turn On the People in Any Organization Ken Blanchard

George Scott, Sinister Boxing MMA Academy

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 20:12:33 +0000

Welcome to Fresno’s Best podcast, I’m your host Jordan Mattox. Today we have George Scott on the show. Scott is the co-founder of the Sinister Boxing MMA Academy and a highly experienced coach with over 25+ years of expertise in various martial arts and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. With his vast knowledge and passion for coaching, George is dedicated to helping his clients take their skills to the next level and reach their full potential in both martial arts and fitness. This was an awesome conversation and a bit different than our typical episodes as we dig into a lot of fitness and health topics here. One note before we get started, I will be taking the next few weeks off and will return with our next episode on July 17th. Hopefully, you are also taking some time this summer for some rest and restoration.

Books:

The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi

The WET Center, Benjamin Francis and Samuel Fairbanks

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 30 May 2023 18:52:20 +0000

Today, we have two representatives from the WET Center at Fresno State: Benjamin Francis, Growth Operating Partner and Samuel Fairbanks, Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist. Francis’s key experience includes investment analyst functions, establishing a successful accelerator program, working one-on-one with ventures to secure funding and growth opportunities. Francis has successfully developed and launched the WET Center’s accelerator program – the only accelerator in the CSU system – and has graduated successful companies. Francis holds a Master of Science in Finance from Vanderbilt University and a Bachelor of Arts in Entrepreneurship from California State University, Fresno.

Samuel Fairbanks - Community Engagement and Outreach Specialist Fairbanks is the WET Center’s on-the-ground point person responsible for identifying and cultivating the participation of community stakeholders,
partners, and students. He develops, implements, and provides oversight for outreach and engagement activities to solicit and strengthen community interaction. Fairbanks holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in
History and a Master of Arts in Education, Administration, and Leadership both from California State University, Fresno. He has 10+ years of experience interacting with a wide range of groups and a deep passion for the Central Valley. He is also a proud Downtown Fresno resident.

This is a pretty optimistic conversation about the state of Ag and innovation in the valley.

Books:

1. The Challenger Sale: Taking Control of the Customer Conversation by Matthew Dixon and Brent Adamson

2. Crossing the Chasm: Marketing and Selling Disruptive Products to Mainstream Customers by Geoffrey A. Moore

3. The Fred Factor: How Passion in Your Work and Life Can Turn the Ordinary into the Extraordinary by Mark Sanborn

Joseph Rios, Poet Laureate of Fresno

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 22 May 2023 16:16:42 +0000

Today, we have Joseph Rios on the show. Joseph is the newly minted poet laureate of Fresno. He’s also the author of the claimed poetry collection, Shadowboxing: Poems & Impersonations, which won the 2018 American Book Award. This was a fun, all-over-the-place style conversation, with deep insights about the connection between poetry and Fresno, but then also reminiscences about bars, living in the Bay Area, and underrated 90s hip hop.

Books:

Yellow Rain: Poems Mai Der Vang

Heart Like A Window, Mouth Like A Cliff Sara Borjas

The Rendering Anthony Cody

Shadowboxing: poems & impersonations Joseph Rios

All Things Gary Soto

Wilma Hashimoto, Executive Director of CASA of Fresno and Madera

Jordan Mattox — Mon, 15 May 2023 18:47:56 +0000

Today we have Wilma Hashimoto on the show. Wilma is the Executive Director for CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties. She has dedicated her career to positively changing the trajectory of at risk children. Before becoming the Director, Wilma had a long career as an educator. Our conversation will give you a broad overview of what CASA volunteers do, their impact, and what we need to keep supporting at-risk kids in our community.

Books:

The Medici Effect, With a New Preface and Discussion Guide: What Elephants and Epidemics Can Teach Us About Innovation by Frans Johansson

Manpreet Kaur, City Councilwoman for Ward 7 in Bakersfield

Jordan Mattox — Tue, 09 May 2023 21:27:24 +0000

Today, we have Manpreet Kaur on the show. Manpreet is the city council representative for Ward 7 in Bakersfield. Growing up in Bakersfield, Manpreet is intimately familiar with the beauty and challenges of her hometown. After graduating with two master degrees from UW Madison, she decided to return home and run for local office.

Books:

The Death and Life of Great American Cities Jane Jacobs

The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America Richard Rothstein

Paulo Soares, CEO of Camarena Health

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 26 Apr 2023 16:23:24 +0000

Today we have Paola Soares on the show. Paola is the CEO of Camarena Health, the community health clinics that are an integral part of our community health ecosystem. We cover a lot in this conversation, including the history of Camarena Health, care deserts, preventative care approaches, ways to support various demographics, medical expenses, labor challenges, and more.

Books

Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know Adam Grant

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones James Clear

The Bosch Series Michael Connelly

Annalisa Perea, Council Vice President and District 1 Representative

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 19:59:26 +0000

Today, we have Vice President of City Council Annalisa Perea on the show. Perea represents District 1 on the Fresno City Council and is a former trustee on the State Center Community College District Board of Trustees. Annalisa was born and raised in Fresno and attended Fresno City College. She graduated with a B.S. in City and Regional Planning from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. She is an Accredited City Planner with the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP). We covered community college issues, city planning, congestion problems, police and fire, health outcomes in the valley, margaritas, red tape reduction, and more

Dr. David Jeffcoach, Medicine and Global Health

Jordan Mattox — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 17:58:43 +0000

Today we have Dr. David Jeffcoach. Dr Jeffcoach is a Trauma and Critical Care surgeon who grew up in the Central Valley. After completing medical school at UC Davis, surgical residency in Tennessee, and trauma fellowship at UCSF-Fresno, he moved with his family to Sodo, Ethiopia where he was the Chair of Surgery and general surgery residency program director for four years at Soddo Christian Hospital. His primary fields of interest are global surgery, surgical education, and trauma systems management. He returned to Fresno and is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor of Surgery at UCSF-Fresno. This is a wide-ranging podcast where we cover a lot of topics, but all around medicine and global health.

Books:

Amazing Grace: William Wilberforce and the Heroic Campaign to End Slavery Eric Metaxas

The Brothers Karamosov Fyodor Dostoevsky

Resurrection Leo Tolstoy