Holland Nielson: Zero Waste
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we talk trash with local mom, community organizer, and zero-waste advocate – Holland Nielson. Check it out!
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Category: Podcast
Lisa Castetter: Framewerk Imaging
On this episode of the podcast, we welcome Founder + CEO of the Teen Leadership Foundation, Lisa Castetter, to the studio! Castetter is paving the path to adulthood for teens aging out of Orange County foster care. Not content to just help these young adults become functional, she’s setting her sights on shaping them to become the next generation’s leaders. As part of her vision – and buoyed by her background in the apparel industry – Castetter recently launched Framewerk Imaging here in Costa Mesa. It’s a local print shop that’s employing former foster youth…
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Podcast Season 4: That’s A Wrap!
Can you believe it? Another season of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show podcast in the books! In this wrap-up episode, co-hosts Brandy Young and Erin Huffstutter talk about their personal takeaways from each episode in Season 4. Thank you for listening, Costa Mesa!
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From TMZ to Ag3ngy: Kristin + Trevor Antunez
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast: We first connected with Kristin Carter Antunez – and her husband / business partner, Trevor Antunez – when we dropped a stack of I Heart Costa Mesa stickers at their office. When we discovered the cool things they were doing across all their businesses: digital marketing at AG3NCY, broadcasting via twitch.tv, gaming representation thru BITxBIT, and custom in-ear musician monitors made at One Custom Audio – our curiosity took hold! If you’re into video games, digital media, online communities – or just love listening to how the minds of entrepreneurial people work – check out this creative, Costa Mesa couple!
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Grant Broggi: The Strength Co.
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast: U.S. Marine, and former White House Intern, Grant Broggi, wants to whip all Costa Mesans into shape! Broggi is the founder and owner of The Strength Co. – a strength-training gym here, off Newport Blvd., based on the Starting Strength philosophy. We talk about Broggi’s time in the military, the importance of fitness, why strength-training is for everyone, why you definitely need a standing desk – and, of course, our mutual love of Costa Mesa. You’ll feel stronger just *listening* to this episode… check it out!
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Marc Perkins: Costa Mesa Alliance for Better Streets
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast: Marc Perkins, co-founder of the Costa Mesa Alliance for Better Streets, wants to make Costa Mesa’s streets more walkable, bikeable and, basically, as hospitable as possible for car-free use. We talk about the current state of Costa Mesa’s streets, things that are improving – or could be improved – from his cyclist-eye view, and ways that interested Costa Mesans can get involved. If your favorite way to heart Costa Mesa is on foot, via skateboard, or by bike, you won’t want to miss this latest episode. Check it out!
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Ed Lee + Wing Lam: Wahoo’s Westside Story
Costa Mesa isn’t just a great place to live, work and play – our city has served as an incubator for some of the country’s most recognizable brands. On today’s episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we interview brothers Wing Lam and Ed Lee about co-founding Wahoo’s Fish Taco here in Westside Costa Mesa. We talk about what it was like growing up on the Westside… plus surfing, work ethic, tacos, and so much more!
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Megan + Gregory: Creative Mornings OC
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast: Meet Megan Anguiano and Gregory Skinner, co-founders of Creative Mornings OC. Creative Mornings is a free, monthly, breakfast-lecture series, available to creative (all!) people throughout Orange County. In this interview, we talk about how Creative Mornings OC got started, what it’s all about, and how you can get involved in the next one and harness the power of your own creativity. Check it out!
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Thomas Curran: Moving On West
When Chef Thomas Curran’s much-hyped, Costa Mesa restaurant didn’t pan out, he found himself at a fork in life’s road. Fifty, spent, and yearning to rediscover meaning – after years “head down” in the restaurant industry – he was ripe for a change. So, he shuttered Taco Brat, boxed up his stuff, and flew to the East Coast to embark on a journey few would have the courage or fortitude to take: walk across the country…
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Dean Tompkins: Costa Mesa, Coffee and Cannabis
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we catch up with our friend, Dean Tompkins, of Thunderking Coffee. Tompkins is always funny and engaging… and we’re pretty convinced he’s the guy who personally knows every single person in Costa Mesa! In this conversation, we discuss the latest happenings at his local coffee company, his love for his city and, *gulp*, the tricky issue of the newly-legalized cannabis industry. It’s a conversation unlike any we’ve had on the podcast to date…
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Local Magician… Brettso The Great!
On this week’s episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we’ve got Brett Bolich – who performs all over Southern California as local magician, Brettso The Great! In this interview, we talk about the life of a magician, our local magic scene and, of course, Costa Mesa…
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Kristin Hoang: Newport Mesa Moms
On this week’s episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we talk about parenthood and local, family fun with blogger Kristin Hoang of NewportMesaMoms.com. Newport Mesa Moms is a local blog, covering the Costa Mesa and Newport Beach areas, featuring stories, recommendations, activities, an event calendar, and more! We cover everything – and the Brussels-sprouts pizza – in this interview. Check it out!
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Gina Oddo: Center Club Orange County
On this week’s episode of the podcast, we interview Gina Oddo, Club Manager for Center Club Orange County. Center Club – based here in Costa Mesa – is a posh, private club started in 1985 by Henry T. Segerstrom. It began as a place where executive leaders could share interests, unwind, enjoy a drink, and network. These days, it’s grown to become so much more!
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Chef John Park: TOAST Kitchen + Bakery
On this week’s episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we’ve got the 2019 Golden Foodie Awards ‘Chef of the Year’ – Chef John Park of TOAST Kitchen + Bakery – in studio to share his Costa Mesa story. Chef Park’s journey of giving and growth will leave you feeling inspired, engaged… and *totally hungry* for his delicious menu…
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Anais Tangie: Cultivating Connections
On this week’s podcast episode, we’ve got Anais Tangie – owner of AT Connections – who is currently working with Triangle Square to bring more vibrancy, community, and culture to “downtown Costa Mesa.” Tangie dreams big, so come along for the ride as we imagine what the future of the city might hold in store…
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Matthew Parsons: Shaka Sauce
On this episode of The I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we spice things up with Matthew Parsons – and his tight-lipped, bottle-wielding sidekick, Leo – to learn all about their local line of hot sauces. You can find Shaka Sauce in restaurants and independent markets all over Costa Mesa. Check out the episode, then give Shaka Sauce a try!
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Jason Holland: Segerstrom Center for the Arts
On this first episode of a brand-new season of the podcast, we dive into the world of performing arts – here in the City of the Arts – with Jason Holland, VP of Community Engagement at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Learn all about the upcoming theater season and more FREE, local events you can enjoy on the Argyros Plaza, here in Costa Mesa…
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Bye To The Big Three
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, co-hosts Erin and Brandy wrap-up with a rundown of all the Season 3 guests. What lessons will the I Heart Costa Mesa team take away from this season’s guests? Find out on this season finale episode!
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Jeffrey Smith: Wickid Candle
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we’ve got local chandler (that’s ‘candle-maker’ to some) Jeffrey Smith, founder of Wickid Candle. Wickid Candle is a Costa Mesa-based purveyor of organic handmade candles in masculine scents, like tobacco, musk, ozone, teakwood, tonka and more. Listen in to learn more about candle-making than you ever thought possible, then go check out Smith’s full line of organic candles…
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Pots and Pans with Jack and Annie
On this week’s podcast, we’ve got dynamic radio duo – Chef Annie Morgan and Horticulturalist Jack Carlisle – of the ‘Pots and Pans with Jack and Annie’ show, which airs Sundays from 9:30-10:30am on local station KOCI 101.5 FM. Jack and Annie are an integral part of our local community… and no topic is off the table. We laugh! We cry. We discuss the value of partnership and debate the benefits of chatting up random strangers at the mall. It’s a fun episode you won’t want to miss. Check it out, Costa Mesa!
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Orleda Azevedo: Girls Inc.
On this week’s episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show podcast, we’re chatting with Orleda Azevedo, Director of Volunteers at Girls Inc. of Orange County – now celebrating its 65th year! Few organizations have such a storied history, locally. Listen in to learn more about the amazing work they are doing for local girls and young women…
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Ally Garvin: Neat Coffee
This week on the podcast, we’ve got founder and owner of Neat Coffee, Ally Garvin, who...
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Rebekah Robeck: Let’s Be Kind
Costa Mesa High School 9th grader, Rebekah Robeck, is cultivating kindness here in our community. Check out our interview with this inspiring, local teen – a girl on a personal mission to bring more kindness and connection into the lives of Costa Mesa kids – then be sure to follow her on Instagram @letsbekindday to keep up with all she’s doing!
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Ian Stevenson: Love Costa Mesa Day
This week, on the podcast, we’ve got Ian Stevenson, Executive Director of Trellis and part of the team spearheading “Love Costa Mesa Day 2019.” Love Costa Mesa Day is an annual day of volunteering and service, happening on Saturday, May 18th, 2019. We get all the details on where to sign up, how to participate, what it means and why it’s happening – plus lots more about our beloved Costa Mesa. Check it out!
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Jim Washburn: Lost In OC
Journalist, author and music aficionado, Jim Washburn, has a lot to say about Costa Mesa – and he’s been saying it for years, writing for the OC Weekly, OC Register and LA Times (to name a few.) It’s always fun talking to longtime Costa Mesans – they have the very best stories! Washburn does not disappoint. Check out our podcast interview, then follow him on Facebook to get more “Washburnisms” flowing through your feed…
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Leah Stewart: The LiveLife Movement
Leah Stewart wants you to move…. your body, that is! This Westside Costa Mesan is going all-in on wellness, movement, and getting people (especially women, especially moms,) into alignment at every level of their lives. In this episode, we go deep on the topic of Pilates. We also talk about juggling business with motherhood, her backyard chickens, and why “nobody wants to pee in their pants.” Stewart is the kind of bright, knowledgeable neighbor that makes the very best podcast guest…
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Erik Hale: Launching Locale Magazine
Erik Hale is an interesting guy. Founder and Publisher of Locale Magazine – started right here, in Costa Mesa – he’s taken his premiere lifestyle publication from xeroxes in a binder to multi-city trendsetter! He’s got a great story – including his own “Jerry Maguire moment” – and so many local connections. It’s been a wild ride full of courage, bootstrapping, and community support. Check out the podcast, then check out the latest Orange County issue of his beautiful Locale Magazine… still based here in Costa Mesa!
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Mikhail Alfon: True Blue
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show: We talk to fellow podcaster, and Costa Mesa-loving digital marketer, Mikhail Alfon. He – and business partner Nelson Dale – co-founded Blue Light Media, a Costa Mesa-based digital marketing company, specializing in natural products, consumer packaged goods, and startup brands. Check it out!
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Gabrielle Carey: Art From The Heart
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we catch up with local artist and studio owner, Gabrielle Carey, of Heartfelt Play Studio. Carey is a talented muralist, painter, and maker – and now she’s branching off into offering more classes, camps, team-building events and FREE Community Nights at her beautiful, Costa Mesa art studio…
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Mesa Water: In The Drink
Hey Costa Mesa: Do you know where your water comes from? How it gets there? Where it goes? We didn’t… until we invited Shawn Dewane from Mesa Water on the podcast! Now we know *so much more* about local water than we ever thought possible. Dive on in to Episode 3 with us…
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Joey Lopez: Shreducate Academy
Episode 2, of Season 3, is here! We’ve got Joey Lopez, founder and owner of Shreducate Academy, on the podcast today. Lopez is at the forefront of school skateboarding leagues, kids’ sk8 lessons, and the movement to turn skating into a legit, internationally-recognized sport. We cover so much with Lopez, it’s hard to enumerate! He’s got big plans to make his mark on the skate world…
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2019: Going “All In” On Costa Mesa
We’re back for Season 3 of the I Heart Costa Mesa show! On this kick-off episode to our latest season, Erin and Brandy talk about the decision to start #costamesa365, a new challenge where Erin is trying to only shop in Costa Mesa for an entire year.
Plus, will we ever get Bob Hurley or Wing Lam on the podcast? This, and so much more on this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa show…
So Long, Season Two!
That’s a wrap on Season 2 of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast. We’ll be taking a short...
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Jesse Fortune: Epic Art Quest
On this episode of the podcast, we’ve got local artist and gallery owner – Jesse Fortune – of Location 1980 in Westside Costa Mesa. We talk about the artist life, how Location 1980 has changed since its inception, Fortune’s “epic art quest” travels and the annual “$100 Or Less Holiday Art Sale” happening December 8th, 2018 from noon until midnight here in Costa Mesa…
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Gordon Bowley: Giving Sports A Sporting Chance
Costa Mesa United started as a dream; a dream to build a real football stadium at Estancia High School and a modern aquatics complex at Costa Mesa High School. On this episode of the podcast, we talk to Gordon Bowley – President of Costa Mesa United – about the work, advocacy and dedication that not only went into the achievement of those early dreams, but all the ways this local, non-profit group continues to further and unite youth athletics right here in our city…
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Jamie Reidling: Let Them Skate
Jamie Reidling is “OG Westside” – a musician, surfer, skater, dad, community organizer and hardcore Costa Mesa local – and he’s on a mission to bring a skatepark to Westside Costa Mesa! On this episode of the podcast we talk about what it was like coming up in Westside Costa Mesa “back in the day,” what he’s up to now, and why he thinks it’s totally ridiculous that Westside youth don’t have a skatepark of their own…
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Michael Towey: California Workshop
This week, we interview mechanical engineer, furniture designer, kite surfer and modernism practitioner – Michael Towey – owner of The California Workshop! Towey and his team design and build lighting and furniture out of his studio in Westside Costa Mesa. He’s one deep and interesting guy with a very philosophical “form follows function” take on the world…
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Debora Wondercheck: The Work of Art
Debora Wondercheck is out to change the world – adding “the arts” back into the lives (and schools) of local kids. Her non-profit organization, The Arts & Learning Conservatory, is busily restoring confidence by honing creativity and character. With the work-ethic of a classically-trained cellist – and the CEO skills of a smart, strategic leader – Wondercheck’s bringing professional-level theater and music here to Costa Mesa…
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Turning The Tables
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, contributing writer, Samantha Chagollan, turns the tables on co-hosts Erin Huffstutter and Brandy Young – asking them the questions she wonders about the project, the purpose (and the people behind it.) So if you’re curious to learn more about the I Heart Costa Mesa team, check it out…
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Amanda Malson: Common Standard
If you’ve noticed the fresh, beautiful modernization of local establishments like Eastside Mini Mart, Jan’s Health Bar or Memphis Cafe – or marveled at Pacific City’s Lot 579 food court, or the swanky, remodeled Lido Marina Village – you’ve unwittingly been touched by the design prowess of local Architectural and Interior Designer, Amanda Malson, of Common Standard Design…
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Marta and Pepe Tena: Making Space
At 777 West 16th Street – here in Costa Mesa – Marta Tena and Pepe Tena are carrying forward their father’s vision: to turn a repurposed and restored, mid-century warehouse into a welcoming event space for all. Space 777 is brand new and a total “blank slate” – it’s just itching for the next art show or industry party. We talk with these creative and connected Costa Mesans about future plans for Space 777 and what they love best about our fabulous city…
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Fall in Love with the Westside
Fall in Love with the Westside 2018 is coming on Saturday, October 20th from 9am – 3pm at Estancia High School in Westside Costa Mesa. Part maker market, part community festival and part school fundraiser – this fun (and new) little tradition is just another example of what makes Costa Mesa such a great city…
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Muriel Ullman: Network for Homeless Solutions
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we tackle the tricky topic of local homelessness with Muriel Ullman of the Network for Homeless Solutions. What is the state of our homeless situation in Costa Mesa in 2018? What is being done? What’s working and what isn’t? Listen in to find out…
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Costa Mesa Parks and Rec
When we think “Parks and Rec” we think of Leslie Knope and her color-coded binders. But here in Costa Mesa, our local parks and recreation department is so much more than that! Our guests, Justin Martin and Ashley Thomas, are two from a team of hardworking people who make so much fun happen in our city. Things like: The Snoopy House, Mobile Recreation Van, Scarecrow Festival, The Bark Park, Concerts In The Park – and coming really soon, ARTventure – just to name a few!
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Phillip Marsh: Fish To Fry
Phil Marsh is the President of the Costa Mesa Newport Harbor Lions Club – the wonderful people behind this year’s 71st Annual Fish Fry at Fairview Park! From Friday, September 21st through Sunday, September 23rd, you can eat some famous fried fish, enjoy carnival rides, listen to live music and check out classic cars. Not many community gatherings last 71 years. Hear the history behind this local, can’t-miss tradition…
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Karen Barloon: Eleven Years Running
Karen Barloon never meant to spearhead a yearly 5K / 10K race – heck, she doesn’t even run. But she cares deeply enough about kids and local schools to bring it all together (beautifully, we might add) anyway! Get the story on the 11-year running tradition that is the Costa Mesa Community Run…
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Julie Leffler: Big Hype
Julie Leffler grew up in Costa Mesa and now she’s growing a business here, too! From Estancia High School to a Semester at Sea, from Hollywood to Hurley – and now with her own marking firm, Big Hype Marketing – it’s been one exciting ride for Leffler….
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Shaheen Sadeghi: Radical Retail
Episode 1 of Season 2 is finally here! We’re super starstruck to have Shaheen Sadeghi in studio. Sadeghi is celebrating the 25-year anniversary of his flagship project – The LAB (Little American Businesses) anti-mall right here in Costa Mesa. He’s also the creative visionary behind The Camp in Costa Mesa’s SoBeCA District, as well as the Anaheim’s Packing District, and others too.
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Listen: “Coach Q: Everything Fitness”
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we’ve got a guest host: our very own Mister Mesa! He interviews local fitness coach, Quentin “Coach Q” Pullen. Coach Q is a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and ex-bodybuilder who has been a fitness trainer in Costa Mesa for over two decades. In 2014, Coach Q was responsible for creating the PlayPen OC, a military-style obstacle course at the Newport-Mesa YMCA…
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Listen: “What We’ve Learned”
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, co-hosts Brandy Young and Erin Huffstutter share the things they’ve learned from locals interviewed on the podcast. We have enjoyed so much wisdom, humor, insight – and have gained such great information – from our Costa Mesa guests. If you want to share what you’ve learned from our previous podcasts, be sure to let us know in the comments!
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Listen: “Rip The Ripper”
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we’ve got Rip “The Ripper” Morgan in studio. Morgan’s a local musician, founder of Third Garden Studios, plus Sound Engineer and Radio Host (of the Local Motion show) over at KOCI 101.5 FM, Costa Mesa / Newport Beach. In this interview, he talks “radio life” and brings in some of his favorite local bands for us to hear…
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Listen: “Concerts In The Park”
On this week’s episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa podcast, we have Lea Lowe from the Costa Mesa Foundation. She’s got the band lineup – and behind-the-scenes details – for this year’s Costa Mesa Summer Concerts In The Park Series. We hope you’re getting geared up for these free concerts happening all throughout the month of July at Fairview Park, because this year’s series will be awesome!
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Listen: “Working Wonders”
On this week’s episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we talk about our first jobs, hiring and firing, local teens, the interview process, mentorship, employment in Costa Mesa, the power of a paycheck and giving back – with Executive Director of Youth Employment Service, Wendy Weeks. Youth Employment Service (YES) is a local non-profit that helps build up our city’s teens and young adults with the skills and training they need to land their first jobs…
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Listen: “Spilling Purple Ink”
In this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we have the warm and wonderful Samantha Chagollan in studio. Chagollan is a children’s book author, blogger, freelance writer, artist and newly-minted yoga instructor. We discuss the freelance lifestyle, branding, overcoming fear, our favorite books, and all the things she loves best about living in Costa Mesa…
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Listen: “Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies”
On this episode, we talk art and creativity with Chuck Jones’ grandson, Craig Kausen, President and Chairman of the Chuck Jones Center for Creativity. Chuck Jones is the artist behind The Roadrunner and Wile E. Coyote, Marvin The Martian, Michigan J. Frog and more of the characters you loved as a kid! The Center For Creativity is a nonprofit charity and gallery space – and the host of many types of creative workshops and classes – over at SOCO and The Mix. If you haven’t visited yet, go check them out here in Costa Mesa…
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Listen: “Ghosted By A Guest”
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we get ghosted by our guest! With no one left to interview – and studio time already booked – we pull Producer, Danny Thompson, behind the mic for an off-the-cuff convo around the topic of “fails and what we’ve learned from them.” Thompson is really knowledgeable in a lot of areas, he’s an all-around interesting dude…
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Listen: “Nate And The Roadtrip Nation”
In this episode, we “wade into the depths” with Nathan Gebhard, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Roadtrip Nation. Roadtrip Nation started with a few friends who didn’t know what to do with themselves after college. So, to figure it out, they piled into a lime-green RV and road-tripped across the country – stopping along the way to interview thought-leaders, creatives and experts for job advice and wisdom about the lives they lead. The road-trip became a documentary, which inspired a book, that awakened a movement, which became a TV show, which inspired more books, which grew to include a non-profit, that birthed a curriculum – and now there are thematic road-trips being filmed all over the country…
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Listen: “Travel Costa Mesa”
On this episode of the I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we talk to Paulette Lombardi-Fries and Jenny Wedge from Travel Costa Mesa, our city’s local travel and tourism organization. Come along with us as we flip our usual POV and take a tourist’s perspective of Costa Mesa. We talk food, attractions, theater, shopping… and did you know there were 33 hotels in Costa Mesa? We didn’t! Listen, learn – and maybe get inspired to take a staycation of your own.
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Listen: “Volcom Skatepark Mentor”
On this episode, we interview pro skateboarder, founder / owner of Intro 2 Skateboarding – and now, Costa Mesan – Jon “Deezle” Depoian. We discuss the art, the action and the culture of skateboarding, how skating has changed his life for the better, what he loves best about coaching the next gen of young skaters – and how he got that sweeeeeet hookup to teach kids’ classes at Volcom’s private skatepark in Westside Costa Mesa.
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Listen: “Costa Mesa Chocolatier”
Treat yo’ self! On this episode of The I Heart Costa Mesa Show, we’re indulging in an interview with local Master Chocolatier and Costa Mesa resident, Amy Jo Pedone, of Valenza Chocolatier. Pedone has harnessed her Sicilian family heritage, and knack for edible artistry, to create confections as beautiful as they are decadent.
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