Podcasts about Cuesta College

Can hybrid grapes revolutionize the wine world? Adam Huss — Host of the Beyond Organic podcast and Co-owner of Centralas Cellars breaks down what a hybrid truly is, explaining how traditional breeding — and nature itself — has long crossed grape species. With over 70 grape species worldwide, today's modern hybrids are the result of generations of crossing, backcrossing, and innovation. We explore the impact of WWII on agriculture, France's ban on hybrids in appellation wines, and why developing new hybrids is critical for disease resistance, flavor discovery, and more sustainable farming. Plus, Adam shares insights into trialing the “married vine” system — a potential game-changer for soil health, pest management, and flavor expression. Resources:         135: Cold Hardiness of Grapevines 217: Combating Climate Chaos with Adaptive Winegrape Varieties 227: Andy Walkers' Pierces Disease-Resistant Grapes are a Success at Ojai Vineyard Adam Huss – LinkedIn Centralas Organic Wine Podcast South Central Los Angeles Couple Opens New Winery Dedicated to Organic Values, Transparency, Inclusion Wine's F- Word Vineyard Team Programs: Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship - Donate SIP Certified – Show your care for the people and planet   Sustainable Ag Expo – The premiere winegrowing event of the year Vineyard Team – Become a Member Get More Subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode on the latest science and research with the Sustainable Winegrowing Podcast. Since 1994, Vineyard Team has been your resource for workshops and field demonstrations, research, and events dedicated to the stewardship of our natural resources. Learn more at www.vineyardteam.org.   Transcript [00:00:03] Beth Vukmanic: Welcome to Sustainable Wine Growing with Vineyard Team, where we bring you the latest in science and research for the wine industry. I'm Beth Vukmanic, Executive Director [00:00:13] In today's podcast, Craig Macmillan, critical resource manager at Niner Wine Estates with longtime SIP Certified Vineyard in the first ever. SIP Certified Winery speaks with Adam Huss, host of the Beyond Organic Podcast and co-owner of Centralis Cellars. [00:00:32] Adam breaks down what a hybrid truly is, explaining how traditional breeding and nature itself has long crossed grape species with over 70 grape species worldwide. Today's modern hybrids are the result of generations of crossing, backcrossing, and innovation. [00:00:50] We explore the impact of World War II on agriculture, France's ban on hybrids and Appalachian wines, and why developing new hybrids is critical for disease resistance, flavor discovery, and more sustainable farming. [00:01:03] Plus, Adam shares insights into trialing the married vine system, a potential game changer for soil health, pest management, and flavor expression. [00:01:12] When Lizbeth didn't get into nursing school on her first try, she could have given up. Instead, she partnered with her mentor Alex, to make a new plan, attend classes part-time, build up her resume and get hands-on hospital work experience. Now Lizbeth has been accepted into Cuesta College's nursing program and her dream of becoming a nurse is back on track. [00:01:36] Lizbeth is a Vineyard Team, Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholar. You can help more students like her who are the children of Vineyard and winery workers reach their dreams of earning a degree by donating to the Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship. Just go to vineyardteam.org/donate. [00:01:53] Now let's listen in. [00:01:58] Craig Macmillan: Our guest today is Adam Huss. He is the host of the Beyond Organic Podcast and also co-owner of Centralis Winery in Los Angeles, California. And today we're gonna talk about hybrid grape varieties. Welcome to the podcast, Adam. [00:02:11] Adam Huss: Thanks, Craig. I really appreciate it. Thanks for having me. [00:02:17] Craig Macmillan: So let's just start with the basics. What are hybrid grape varieties? [00:02:22] Adam Huss: I should also say I'm a fan of your podcast as well, so it's really fun to be here. [00:02:26] Craig Macmillan: Thank you. Thank you. [00:02:28] Adam Huss: Been listening for a while. So hybrids, I mean, it's really simple. It's funny, I see stuff on Instagram sometimes where people just are so misinformed and they think that, you know, hybrid means like GMO or something like that. [00:02:41] A hybrid simply is just, you take pollen from grape X, you put it on flowers from grape y, and if those two grapes are from different species, you have a hybrid. If they're from the same species, you just have a cross, and this is something that has been part of traditional breeding since forever. It's also what happens naturally in the wild. [00:03:00] Or I hate, I actually just use two words I try not to use at all, which is like natural and wild, but in forests and streams forests and backyards without human intervention, these pollen get exchanged by wind and everything else and have led to, you know, some of the more. Old popular varieties of grapes that are, considered hybrids that we know of now, like Norton and Isabella and Kaaba. [00:03:23] Nobody actually crossed them. They just happened. So yeah, that's, that's a hybrid. It's very simple. [00:03:29] Craig Macmillan: That's what they are, what aren't they and what are some of the myths surrounding them? [00:03:33] Adam Huss: yeah, great question. You can't generalize about hybrids. Generally speaking. So that's really important thing for people to wrap their heads around, which is because. You know, we'll get into this, but so much, so many hybrids are, and just hybrids in general, are wrapped up in prejudice because we live in this sort of viniferous centric wine world. [00:03:56] You know, , those of us who are in wine, but there, you just can't generalize. The qualities of hybrids are just like humans. Like it depends on what your parents are. You know, you, you get different things every time you mix 'em up and you're not like your brother or sister. If you have a sibling, you know you're gonna be different from them even though you have the same parents. [00:04:13] So that's the same thing happens with grapes. There's genetic diversity and mutation happens and. For hybrids, , the possibilities, the potentials are literally infinite. It's pretty incredible to know that possibility exists. There are over 70 species of grapes on earth besides vitus vara, and if you cross any of those two varieties, yeah, you'll get a genetic cross that's 50 50 of, of two different species. [00:04:40] But that. Within that you could do that cross again and get a different variety of grape, even with the same cross. So it's just amazing. [00:04:51] The modern hybrids that are now out there are. Often multi-species crosses and have been crossed. Generationally again and again and back crossed and recrossed. And so, you know, I was just looking at a hybrid grape that had five species of grapes in its family tree. I mean, there are family trees that would make the royals blush, honestly, in some of these hybrids. [00:05:11] So it's not, it's not something that is just, can be just said. You can say one thing about it or that. And, and the idea of hybridizing doesn't imply anything at all, really, like it is just this process that happens that we've been doing for a long time. This might be a good thing to dispel some of the prejudices. [00:05:34] You know, something like the word foxy often gets thrown around when we start talking about hybrids. I did a whole podcast about this what's really interesting, I just brought this word up to a, a young couple here in LA who are growing grapes and they, they had no idea what I was talking about. [00:05:49] So that's kind of encouraging. Like in, in the younger generations, these prejudices and some of these words that we inherited from the last century , are dying out truly. Which is great, but it still persists and you still hear it a lot and. If anybody goes online and researches some of these grapes, so much of the information available online is actually still misinformation and prejudiced because it comes from this vinifirous centric culture. [00:06:15] And so it's really important for people to understand that like foxy is not what it sounds like. It sounds like it would be this animalistic, musky, maybe scent gland tinged aroma, flavor thing, but. If you taste the grapes that are known as foxy and you go, you know, start researching this by tasting, you'll find that it's actually kind of delicious. [00:06:37] It's usually fruity and you know, candy like strawberry raspberry flavors. And for those of us in the US. It's often something we associate with Grapiness because of Welchs. And the flavors of Welchs, which come from the Concord grape, which is a Foxy grape, are these grapey flavors that we grew up with. [00:06:57] This sense of like grape candy and stuff like that. And that's a lot of times what you find in these, but again, it depends a lot on. The level of the compounds that are in that specific hybrid. Again, you can't, you can't generalize. And just like with anything, if you mix different compounds together, you'll get these nuances and you might have some of that flavor or aroma, but it'll be blended with other things. [00:07:17] And so it takes on new characteristics. So it's way more complex than just thinking like a. All grapes that are hybridized are foxy. That's absolutely not true. Or that foxy is this monolithic thing or that foxy is bad. None of those are true. And then really the other thing to realize is in. Grapes in the native North American varieties of species of grapes. [00:07:41] There's really only one that has been used traditionally in grape breeding and hybridization that has these flavors. And that's Vitus labrusca. It just happened to be used quite a bit because it's endemic to the East coast where a lot of the Europeans who started all this breeding were living and, and it was, you know, very readily apparent in the forest of the East coast. [00:07:59] So that. Got used a lot and it's also got a lot of great qualities of fungal resistance and stuff like that. Muscadine is the other grape that has it, but it's got a different genetic structure so it doesn't get crossed a lot or hybridized a lot. [00:08:11] Craig Macmillan: So like, what are the advantages of hybrids where you take vinifira and you cross it with a Native American indigenous grape? What are the benefits? [00:08:21] Adam Huss: Yeah. Another great question. Just , the historical perspective on this is really important. I think. So, you know, Europeans came here a couple hundred years ago, and eventually they brought some of their favorite plants over, one of which were their grapes. And what they noticed right away is that their grapes, I. [00:08:38] Suffered and died without exception, just across the board. Anything they brought over grape wise just kept dying, kept dying. You know, many people tried for a century at least, you know, including people like Thomas Jefferson, people with enormous amounts of resources, and they just failed. They failed to grow these grapes. [00:08:56] Meanwhile, you know, these things like. Norton, this, these hybridized grapes started developing and people noticed like, oh, this grape, it's crossing with some of , the local varieties and it's doing really well. So they began to realize, like they didn't know then that part of, one of the benefits that you get is phylloxera resistance, for example. [00:09:16] But that was a big one and came to save, you know, Europe's wine industry at the end of the 19th century. But also you have these grapes that . Evolved with the fungal pathogens of this, of these climates of North America and other places around the planet. So they've developed resistance and tolerance for all these things. [00:09:38] And so when you cross them with vinifira, you get some of the desirable characteristics that you might like from Vera, and hopefully you'll get some of that, you know, hardiness and fungal resistance and some of the other, just. General benefits of having hybridized interesting new flavors and characteristics [00:09:56] Craig Macmillan: have you seen some examples of this in your, in your travels? [00:10:01] Adam Huss: the fungal resistance and things like [00:10:03] Craig Macmillan: resistance or Pierces disease resistance or anything like that. [00:10:07] Adam Huss: Oh yeah. I mean, I. Whew, so many. I mean, the fact that people can grow grapes organically in Vermont for example, relies almost entirely on hybrids. You know, first of all, they have extremely cold winters there. They have extremely wet, hot, humid summers there. And if you try to grow vinifera there the only way to do it is with chemicals and, and a lot of heartache and, and high risk agriculture. [00:10:35] But here we have somebody like Matt Niess, who's working entirely with hybrids, with his winery, north American Press, and basically he's not using any sprays in any of his vineyards in here in California because these. These grapes have genetics that developed for resistance to the fungal pathogens of the East Coast. [00:10:55] And so you bring them to this nice dry, you know, Mediterranean climate, they're just like, they're crazy. They're like you know, they're, you can basically spray free now. I mean, some people have a problem with zero sprays because they don't want things to develop, but he has a 70-year-old baco noir vineyard, for example, that's in like a wet region in Sonoma that. [00:11:18] He has never sprayed and it's pumping out grapes and looking beautiful every year. And the really interesting thing about it's, there are some inter plantations of vinfiera in that like somebody. Planted something. Maybe it was Pinot Noir in with the Baco. It's like one every, you know, like there's only a few, a handful of these scattered throughout the acre of the Baco noir, and you can tell which ones those are every year because they're just decimated by mildew by the end of the year, whereas the Baco is just spotless and beautiful. [00:11:46] So that's a really like obvious, [00:11:49] Craig Macmillan: What are the wines like? The bako noir? I've never had a bako noir. [00:11:53] Adam Huss: Oh, his wines. Well, so Baco is nice. It's, I mean, it's higher acid. It's almost like a high acid. Gosh, I don't know what, it's hard. I, I, I hate to go down the rabbit hole of like trying to compare it to a vinifira, but it is unique. But it's a deep red almost interior, like with deep purple, higher acid flavors, but pretty balanced, really luscious. Dark fruited flavors maybe a little. Like Syrah, like meatiness, there may be a touch. You might find that it depends on the year. He's had a couple different vintages, so it's been really interesting to see. I'm, I'm kinda like loving following that year by year, seeing the vintage variation and what. [00:12:35] Different things come out because nobody's really doing this. Nobody's, nobody's experimenting with these. So we don't really know how they'll do in, in California other than what he's doing. And just a couple other growers. But he also this year introduced awba for the first time back into California. [00:12:50] The last catawba Vines were ripped out of California in like the sixties, and he, planted some and finally was able to harvest a crop this year and released what was once. California, I mean, the America's most popular wine from the Ohio River Valley is sparkling catawba, and it's like pink and just delicious, beautiful, beautiful stuff. [00:13:10] If I can step back, I think a lot of the discussion of hybrids, again, comes from this perspective of vinifira culture and how do we. Help vinifera become better. How do we use these hybrids as a tool to help, you know, this sort of vinifira centric culture? But I, I would, I'd like to reframe it. [00:13:31] I think a better way to look at this is hybridization is kind of just what we always do with agriculture. It's how you evolve and adapt your agriculture. Ecologically in the absence of modern chemistry that we have. So like before World War ii, and part of, and this is part of the history, France's history too, is like, you know, we had RA decimating their, their vineyards as well as. , we didn't just bring phylloxera back from North America, we brought BlackRock, Downey mildew, powdery mildew. So , their vines were just like dying. Like they were just dying. And so there was this urgent need and a lot of the hybridization, a lot of, some of our, you know, hybrids like Save El Blanc and things like that. [00:14:15] Came from French breeders who were just trying to save the French wine industry. Like they just wanted to have wine, let alone vinifira. You know, it was that. It was pretty bad at the end of that set, you know? And so they developed these new things and then we, you know, things like Isabella and catawba and things like that were coming over from North America, some of our hybrids that came from here, and pretty soon they had these really productive, really hardy vines with new, interesting flavors that. [00:14:41] People kinda liked 'cause they are like fruity and delicious and interesting and new and, and if you're a farmer and you have less inputs and you get a more productive, like higher yields on your vine, like, it's just kind of a no-brainer. And so people were just planting these things. They really were taking off. [00:14:59] And in 1934, the French were like, whoa, whoa, whoa. Like our, our, first of all, our. Ancient vinifera cultures are going to be completely diluted, but second of all, we're gonna devalue the market 'cause we're gonna have all this like, it's too abundant, you know? So they made, in 1934, they made hybrids illegal in the French Appalachians. [00:15:17] And so that legacy is something that still sticks with us. Of course then World War II happened and we. Didn't really pay much attention to wine at all 'cause we were just trying to survive. But once World War II was over and the the war machine transferred into the pesticide and industrial agricultural machine, the French realized they could keep Vera alive on root stocks of American hybrids or American native varieties by spraying them with these new novel chemistry chemicals. [00:15:49] And so then they started enforcing the ban on hybrids because they could, and they knew they could have the, this alternative. And so that's when you saw like they had their own sort of version of reefer madness where you, you saw a lot of misinformation and hyperbole and outright propaganda and lies about these, these grapes because they were trying to get them out of French vineyards. [00:16:10] It's important to realize that Ban the EU just lifted the ban on hybrids in Appalachian wine in 2021. So it's kind of not surprising that some of these prejudices and misinformation still persist today. We're not too far away from that. I. [00:16:26] Craig Macmillan: And, and why was the band lifted? Do you know? [00:16:30] Adam Huss: That's a great question. It's, it was lifted for ecological reasons because they're realizing these are really important to dealing with climate change. This is like, if you want a sustainable industry, you need to be able to adapt. When you're inside this, this world of vinifira, what I call the vinifira culture, which is, you know, very centered on Vera. [00:16:50] You don't realize how strange it is. You know, it's kind of like growing up with a, a weird family, you know? It's all you know, so you don't know how strange they are until you start seeing the rest of the world. But to think that, you know, 50 years ago we just decided that maybe like. 10 grapes were the pinnacle of viticultural achievement for all time, and we've basically invested all of our energies into, you know, propagating those around the planet and preserving them at all costs is kind of strange when you think about the whole history of agriculture. [00:17:20] And it's really only possible because of cheep fossil fuels and the novel chemistry that we. Have put into our systems. And so if you take those out, if you start thinking ecologically about how do you develop a wine system, I mean the question is like, does it make sense when farming in a world where the only constant is change and we just live in a dynamic world, does it make sense to try to do everything you can to prevent change? [00:17:45] Like is prevention of change like a good strategy? And so I think, you know, diversity and adaptation are. What have always worked, you know, historically through agriculture, and that's kind of the future. I mean, in a real sense, vinifera culture is the past and hybrids are the future. If we want to have a future, there's my enthusiastic, [00:18:09] Craig Macmillan: Well, I'd like you to expand a little bit more on that. 'cause we we have a group of hybrids that are well known or are commonly used. I've, I've been hearing about Marquette a lot more, um, As having a lot of potential WW. What does that future potentially look like and what are some things that would have to happen for that potential to be realized? [00:18:31] Adam Huss: So we have invested, you know, millions of dollars in time and energy and even policy into developing, , the chemicals that we now use to support our, viticulture. And to make it possible in places like Virginia, where, you know, they're developing a whole wine industry there around vinifira in a climate that is, you know, like I said, that was the climate that like Thomas Jefferson failed for and everyone else for hundreds of years failed to grow it there. [00:18:59] If we invested that same amount of time and energy and money into breeding programs and into. Research for the kinds of things that we're now discovering, like DNA markers so that we can have DNA marker assisted breeding. So you're, you're speeding up the breeding process by sometimes two, three years. [00:19:19] Which is, which is significant in a process that can take, you know, 10 to 20 years that any, any little bit helps. So that kinda stuff and just more of it, more private breeders, making it more valuable for private breeders. I always think it's really interesting that like billionaires would rather just do another sort of like cult. [00:19:39] Ego, Napa cab investment, you know, rather than like breed their own personal variety of grape that nobody else could have. I mean, I'm not recommending that, but like, to me that seems really interesting as an idea. You could just have your own proprietary grape variety if you wanted to, you know, but nobody's thinking that way. [00:19:58] But I would say breeding, putting our, our time and energy into breeding not new varieties is, . Really important and, and working with the ones that are already there, I mean. The only reason California's so such strangers to them is because it's so easy to grow here. You know, we're relatively speaking and I get that. [00:20:15] I mean, you know, people like what they like and, and change is hard and market conditions are what they are. But I think we're at a point where. Marking conditions are changed. Like I said, you know, this young couple I was just talking to don't, don't have never even heard the word foxy. And so I think there's a lot more openness to just what's in the glass. Now. [00:20:35] Craig Macmillan: So some. Of it's messaging. If we can have wines that people can taste and do it in a context that's new to them. So there may be an opportunity here with newer wine drinkers or younger wine drinkers potentially, is what it sounds like to me. [00:20:48] Adam Huss: Yeah, and I. I mean, some of this is also realizing all the different ways that hybrids are already being used and could be used. Like, you know, we know you mentioned Pierce's disease. Pierce's disease is this disease that's endemic to California and is heading north. I mean, it's really on the threshold of all of the major wine regions of, of California. [00:21:11] And the only ways . To stop it without hybrids, without resistant hybrids are, are pretty intense. You know, it's like eliminating habitat through, , basically creating a sterile medium of your vineyard and then spraying with insecticides, you know some, sometimes pretty intense insecticides. [00:21:29] The alternative though is there are now multiple varieties of grapes that are. Resistant to them that are tolerant to it so they, they can carry the bacteria, but it won't affect the health of the vine. Those were bred, some of them here, right here in California at uc Davis. And yet if you go to the University of California Agricultural Network Resources page that, you know, kind of handles all the IPM for California, sort of like the resource. [00:21:56] And if you read about Pierce's disease, it makes zero mention of using tolerant. Varieties as a management strategy. And it makes no mention that there are even are tolerant varieties to Pierce's disease as a management strategy. So just that kind of stuff is the shift that has to happen. 'cause it just shows how vinifera centric our entire industry is, like from the top down, even when there are these great strategies that you can use and start implementing to combat these things, ecologically versus chemically. [00:22:25] They're not there, you know, they're not being mentioned. So just little things like that would go a long way. Also, you know, I mean, one of my fun little facts is like. There are already hybrids being used significantly, like probably everybody on who's listening to this has, if you've bought a bottle of wine at a grocery store that was under 20 bucks, you've probably drunk hybrids because 10,000 acres of ruby red is grown in California to make mega purple and mega purples. Pretty much in every, like, you know, mass produced under $20 bottle of wine and it's got esra, Vitus, esra in it. So you've probably been drinking hybrids and not even known about it. [00:23:04] In terms of these Andy Walker hybrids, I do have a little that which were bred for Pierce's disease resistance. I also have kind of a fun story in that I, as you know, like we've, we've both talked to Adam Tolmach, who replanted a whole block that he lost to Pierce's disease with these hybrid varieties, and these are designed specifically to retain a lot of vinifira characteristics. They're like 97% back crossed to be. vinifira and 3% with Vitus, Arizona to have that Pierce's disease resistant specifically. So they don't have a lot of the other benefits that like a higher percentage of North American native varieties would have. Like they, they're still susceptible to powdery mildew and other mildew pretty, pretty intensely, [00:23:44] but just in terms of flavor for anybody who's out there. So I've, I've barrel tasted with Adam. Tasted each of those varieties individually out a barrel. And then we went to his tasting room and tried all of his wines and, and got to, and then he, instead of keeping, he has two red hybrid varieties, two white hybrid varieties, and he blends them and makes a, you know, a, a red blend and a white blend that he calls a state red and state white. [00:24:09] And we went to his tasting room and he makes beautiful wine. All of his wines are great, but no joke. Everybody in my party. Preferred the hybrids to like all of his pinots or raw chardonnay, I mean, I have no idea why. I mean, but, and that's just anecdotal, obviously nothing scientific, but the very least I can say the, the flavors are exciting and delicious. [00:24:29] Right. [00:24:30] Craig Macmillan: If you can get them in front of the consumer, [00:24:33] Adam Huss: Yeah. [00:24:33] Craig Macmillan: the key. That's really the key. [00:24:35] Adam Huss: Right, right, [00:24:36] Craig Macmillan: And for, your own wine making. Are you making wine from hybrids for yourself? [00:24:40] Adam Huss: Not yet just 'cause there are, there just aren't any in California very much, you know, I mean, it's like little patches here and little patches there. And the people that have them are using them for themself, you know, for their own growing. They've grown them specifically you know, Camus has planted some of these Andy Walker hybrids along their riparian corridors to prevent Pierce's disease. [00:24:58] Those varieties specifically are being used. I don't know if they're blending those in. With like their cab or whatever. I honestly think they could, but I don't know if they are. They're probably, I dunno what they're doing with them, but I do grow them here in Los Angeles and I'm, but they're, you know, it's like I'm trying out a bunch of different things, partly just to see how they do, because, you know, they haven't been grown here. [00:25:21] They were developed for colder, wetter climates and so, you know what, how will they grow here in Los Angeles? There's a lot of unanswered questions for some of these. [00:25:30] Craig Macmillan: You and I were chatting before the interview and you have a, a new project that you're very. Excited about tell us a little bit about that, because I thought that was pretty cool. [00:25:39] Adam Huss: Yeah. Thanks. So this past summer, my wife and I finalized the acquisition of this farm in upstate New York that I'm going to develop into a. Married Vine Vida Forestry Demonstration and Research Project. And, and married vines, essentially vines growing with living trees. [00:26:02] But the best way to think about it is if you know the three Sisters of Agriculture, the corn, beans and squash idea, where you plant these. This guild of, of a Polyculture guild, and they have these symbiotic stacking benefits and productivity. This is what a married vine polyculture is for perennial agriculture. And so I don't just see it as vine and tree, but also vine and tree, and then a ground cover and or small shrubs or things like that that are also perennials planted in a guild together to create these stacking benefits and productivity. [00:26:35] Multiple productivity layers as well as making it a grable system because the vines will be up in trees and and we're gonna call it the Beyond Organic Wine Forest Farm. [00:26:47] Craig Macmillan: So gimme some more detail on this. So like, what are the other plants that are in the forest and how are the vines, what's the spacing like? How, how many trees per vine or vine per tree? [00:27:01] How is the vine trellis? Um, I just, I'm really curious about this idea because this goes back to very, very ancient times. [00:27:09] Adam Huss: Yes. Yeah, yeah, [00:27:09] Craig Macmillan: Uh, that I've read about. I've never seen evidence of it, but I have been told that going back to like Roman times, they would plant grapevines, interplant with things like olives, [00:27:18] Adam Huss: yeah, yeah. Yeah. And [00:27:20] Craig Macmillan: use the olive as a trails. [00:27:22] I mean, is this the, is this the same kind of concept? [00:27:24] Adam Huss: You can see some of this still in Italy. So even pre roam the Etruscan times is what the oldest versions of this that are still visible in Campania, just north of Napoli, I think is the largest married vine system that is still in production. And I think it's about, it might be about 34 hectares of this variety where they have elm trees. That are really tall, full sized elm trees. [00:27:51] And then between them they sort of have wires or ropes between the trees and the vines grow up like up 15 meters. Like it's crazy. Like the guys that harvest this, they have like specially designed ladders that are built for their stance so that they can like lock into these 18 meter ladders and be up there like with a little pulley and a bucket, and they're lowering grapes down from way up in the end. [00:28:14] And you get. So many cool things about that, you know, the, the ripeness and the PHS of the grapes change, the higher you go up in that system. , the thinking is they might have even been used to like. Just inhibit invading armies because , it's like a wall of vines and trees that create like almost a perimeter thing. [00:28:33] That that's also how they're being used in Portugal, they are sort of like if you have a little parcel of land, you use trees and vines to create like a living fence keep your domestic animals inside. And animals that might eat them outside and protect, you know, from theft and things like that. [00:28:51] Keep all your crops in a little clo, like a little controlled area. There are old systems where. They're more like feto systems where they were using maple trees and just pollarding them at, at about head height. And every year, every year or two, they would come in and clip off all the new growth and feed it to the livestock. [00:29:10] And meanwhile, the vines were festooned between the, the maple trees is like, you know, just like a garland of, of grapevine. So there's a lot of different things. And what I wanna do is trial several of them. One of the most. Interesting ones that I just saw in whales uses living willows, where you literally just stick a willow slip in the ground, bend it over to the next one that's about a meter and a half away and attach it. [00:29:35] And so you have these arched willow branches that grow once you stick 'em in the ground. They start growing roots and they create like a head high trellis, like a elevated trellis system, and you plant vines in them. And, and it literally looks just like. Like a row of grapevines that you would find here, except the, the trellis is alive and there's no wires and, and you prune the tree when you prune the vine in the winter, you know? [00:29:58] And Willow, I, I don't know if you know, but the, the other interesting thing about that is like willow has been used historically that the salicylic acid is known. Obviously that's aspirin and stuff like that. That's where we get, you know, one of our oldest like pain relievers and things like that. [00:30:12] But. It's used in biodynamic preps as well as an antifungal. And so there's some thought that like this system could be really beneficial to the vines growing with those. Specifically for that, like for antifungal properties or just creating a, you know, showering the vines with this, this salicylic acid thing that will help them grow and have health throughout the season without, with, again, reduced need for sprays of anything. [00:30:37] Craig Macmillan: Yeah, and that was why I brought it up is because there's the idea of working with the natural ecology of what's in the germ plasm of native plants. I. Mixing with an import plant. [00:30:51] And then there's the other way of looking at it and saying, well, what, what about recreating the conditions under which this plant that has evolved in the first place? And I, I just think that there's really fascinating concept. It's really intriguing to me. [00:31:05] yeah. And there's so many different ways you could do it, and that's why it's interested in what you're planning on doing, because there's obviously a lot of ways you could do it. [00:31:11] Adam Huss: Yeah, I wanna experiment with several. Like you said, the, the soil benefits are incredible potentials. And then when you're also thinking about what do I do besides just vines and trees, and I mean, the other thing is like. How does it make the wine taste? Like if you plant a vine with an apple tree or a, a black locust tree, or a honey locust tree, or a, or a mulberry tree, like, does, is the vine happier with one of those trees? [00:31:35] You know what I mean? Does it, does it, you know, and if it is, does that make the wine taste better at the end of the day? All these are really fun questions for me. That's why I'm really excited to do it. But also like what are the benefits in terms of, you know, the health of the vine, the health of the tree? [00:31:50] Do they are, is there symbiotic elements? It seems like they would, I, I think a lot about what kind of mycorrhizal connections and associations the trees have, because we vines have our Arbuscular connections. And so if you plant them with a tree that has similar connections, they might actually have a symbiotic benefit. [00:32:07] They might increase that soil network even further. And then if you're planting shrubs like blueberries or flowers, you know, perennial flowers or Forbes and things like that, that could either be grazed or could be gathered or could be another crop even for you, or it could be a protective thing. [00:32:22] There are things like indigo that you might plant because. Deer don't like it. So you might want that growing around the base of your vine tree thing while it's young, because it will prevent the deer from grazing down your baby vines and trees, you know? And so there's just a, a myriad ways of thinking about these guilds that you can do. [00:32:39] Obviously these are, I. Yeah, they're, they're different. If I was doing it in California, if I was in California, I would be thinking more about olives and pomegranates and figs and things like that, you know, like there's a lot less water for growing trees here, so depending on where you are, unless you're on the coast. [00:32:55] Craig Macmillan: Are you planning on using hybrids in your project? [00:32:59] Adam Huss: Yeah. I don't know how I would do it any other way. Yeah, it's, definitely a climate that. If you try to grow ra, like you're just asking for trouble. And, and just, you know, because of my approach is so ecological, like I will attempt to be as minimal inputs as possible is the other way I look at it. [00:33:20] You know, try to just imitate what's happening around to, to see what that landscape wants to do and then how it. Maintains its health and resilience and maybe, and, and I mean, my, my ideal is to spray not at all. But you know, with not a dogma about that. If I see an issue or if I think like I'm building up these pathogen loads in the vineyard, maybe I'll spray once a year, even if they seem like they're doing okay. [00:33:47] You know, I'm not like dogmatic about nose spray, but I, it's a, it's a fun ideal to reach for. And I, you know, I think potentially with. Some of the symbiotic benefits of these systems that could be achievable with with the right hybrids. You know, I mean, again, I don't wanna generalize about hybrids because you have the Andy Walker hybrids on the one end, which you have to treat just like vinifira in terms of the spray program. [00:34:10] And then on the other hand, you have something like Petite Pearl or Norton, which is like in many cases is almost like a bulletproof. Grape, you know, and in California specifically, it would be like insanely. And then you have things right down the middle. Things like tranet that you know, is basically like, I could blind taste you on Tranet and you wouldn't be able to tell the difference between it and gewurztraminer . [00:34:31] But it's more cold, hearty, it has a little more disease resistance. Gives you a just a little bit, a little bit more of a benefit while still getting flavors that are familiar to you. If you like those flavors. [00:34:43] Craig Macmillan: Is there one thing that you would tell growers on this topic? One takeaway. [00:34:48] Adam Huss: Great question. I think give hybrids the same allowance that you give Vinifera. I. We all know there's a huge diversity of Vin Nira from Petite Ough to Riesling. And not everyone is right for every wine drinker and not all of them per perform the same in the vineyard. And, and you know, and we tolerate a lot of. [00:35:12] Frailty and a lot of feebleness in our veneer vines. We, we do a lot of care. We do a lot of like, you know, handholding for our veneer vines when necessary. If we extended the same courtesy to hybrids in terms of understanding and willingness to work with them. I think like that would just go a really long way too. [00:35:33] And I think we'd be surprised to find , they're a lot less handholding than, than Venire generally speaking. I. But also just try some. I think a lot of the prejudice comes from just not being exposed to them right now. You know, if you, if you think, if you're thinking negative thoughts about hybrids, get out there and drink some, you probably just haven't had enough yet. [00:35:51] And if you don't like the first one, you know, how many bad Cabernets have you had? I mean, if, if I had stopped drinking vinifira, I [00:35:59] Craig Macmillan: Yeah, that's, that's a really good point. If I judged every wine by the first wine that I tasted, that's probably not a very, [00:36:06] Adam Huss: right. [00:36:07] Craig Macmillan: good education there, [00:36:08] Adam Huss: Prevented me from exploring further, I would've missed out on some of the more profound taste experiences of my life if I'd let that, you know, guide my, you know, my thinking about it. So yeah, I think it's like anything with prejudice, once you get beyond it, it kind of, you see how silly it is, man. [00:36:25] It's, it's like so freeing and, and there's a whole world to explore out there. And like I said, I really think they're the future. Like if we wanna have a future, . We can only cling to the past for so long until it just becomes untenable. [00:36:38] Craig Macmillan: Right. Where can people find out more about you? [00:36:42] Adam Huss: So beyondorganicwine.com is the, the website for me. The email associate with that is connect@organicwinepodcast.com. [00:36:53] Craig Macmillan: Our guest today has been Adam Huss. He is the host of the Beyond Organic Podcast and is the co-owner of Centralas Wines in Los Angeles. [00:37:01] Thank you so much. This has been a really fascinating conversation and I'd love to connect with you at some point, talk more about. Out this, thanks for being on the podcast [00:37:08] Adam Huss: Thank you so much, Craig. Appreciate it. [00:37:13] Beth Vukmanic: Thank you for listening. Today's podcast was brought to you by VineQuest. A Viticultural consulting firm based in Paso Robles, California, offering expert services in sustainable farming, vineyard development, and pest management. With over 30 years of experience, they provide tailored solutions to enhance vineyard productivity and sustainability for wineries and agribusinesses across California. [00:37:38] Make sure you check out the show notes for links to Adam. His wine, brand, Centralis plus sustainable wine growing podcast episodes on this topic, 135 Cold hardiness of grapes 217. Combating climate chaos with adaptive wine, grape varieties, and 227. Andy Walker's Pierce's Disease resistant grapes are a success at Ojai Vineyard. [00:38:04] If you liked the show, do us a big favor by sharing it with a friend, subscribing and leaving us a review. You can find all of the podcasts at vineyardteam.org/podcast and you can reach us at podcast@vineyardteam.org. [00:38:19] Until next time, this is Sustainable Wine Growing with Vineyard Team.   Nearly perfect transcription by Descript

Congressman Salud Carbajal speaks with KCBX's News Director Monica Lopez and KCBX reporter Gabriela Fernandez about the current administration's policies and actions and what resonated with him at the Town Hall meeting that he co-hosted with Senator Adam Schiff at Cuesta College on April 22nd. For Playing with Food, KCBX's Fr. Ian Delinger travels to Guadalupe to ask, "What's in a sausage?" He talks to Ernesto Valle, the owner of Lobo Butcher, to find out just how pure, local, and fresh sausages can be. Then, Rosie Bultman, from UC Santa Barbara's student-run radio station KCSB, interviews Alex, an activist who went to the West Bank as part of their work with the International Solidarity Movement. They did not disclose their last name for security reasons. They were bearing witness to Israeli settler violence when they were arrested and then deported from Israel. They have been banned from returning for 99 years. They talk about their experience living there and why the everyday act of existence is an act of resistance.

Tania Israel, author and Professor of Counseling Psychology at the University of California at Santa Barbara, speaks with KCBX's Brian Reynolds about her new book Facing the Fracture: How to Navigate the Challenges of Living in a Divided Nation. Registration is open at this year's Morro Bay Bird Festival that starts on January 16th until the 20th. Bob Revel and Susie Reddy, from the Festival's planning committee, talk to KCBX's Carol Tangeman about the exciting lineup. Mario Espinoza-Kulick, health equity expert and faculty at the Ethnic Studies department at Cuesta College, talks with KCBX's Meher Ali about the concerns of undocumented immigrants, as the new administration takes office.

For the past 20-something years that I've covered the world of college wrestling, one system has always been extremely unique and interesting to me, the California Community College Athletic Association. Now branded as the 3C2A, the organization has sponsored a men's wrestling collegiate championship since 1959. In 1982, the strangest thing about the league came into being - it became a fall sport. So for over 40 years, the first wrestling to kick off each season isn't the NWCA All-Star Classic or an open somewhere in Michigan, it's in September in California. So what and who is actually competing out there? I went to find out, seeing some familiar faces along the way to tell some stories about what the athletes and coaches get out of competing in wrestling's fall season. On this episode, you'll hear from: 7:40 - John Sachs from Tech-Fall.com10:50 - Mt. San Antonio head coach David Rivera13:00 - Fresno City College head coach Paul Keysaw16:00 - Palomar College head coach Timmy Box20:45 - Lassen College head coach Lonnie Nalls25:30 - Mt. San Antonio assistant coach Chris Mecate32:20 - Cal Poly Humboldt (D2) assistant coach Jim Zalesky35:30 - Cuesta College head coach Joe Dansby41:20 - Sacramento City College head coach Marques Gales Want an ad-free version of the show AND the best in wrestling news from around the world? Sign up for the Daily Wrestling Newsletter presented by Resilite on Substack at https://www.mattalkonline.com/news Links to FollowJoin the Discord: https://www.mattalkonline.com/discordDaily Wrestling Newsletter: https://www.mattalkonline.com/newsContribute: https://www.mattalkonline.com/contributePatreon: https://www.patreon.com/mattalkonline The Short Time Time Wrestling Podcast is proudly supported by Compound Sportswear: https://www.mattalkonline.com/compound Quick Subscribe: https://www.Podfollow.com/shorttime Short Time Wrestling Podcast: Episode 782 –Recorded December 13-14, 2024

Hometown Radio 10/03/24 4p: A new play comes to Cuesta College

The SLO Chamber of Commerce's Jim Dantona visits with the Superintendent and President of Cuesta College, Dr. Jill Stearns. Award-winning Oakland-based author, Alec Scott, shares insights about his book 'Oldest San Francisco'. Student reporter Ashley Segat speaks with Dr Anna Krasno from UCSBs Koegel Autism Center.

An annual art-exhibit that highlights the talent of Cuesta College's students is teaching them how to market and exhibit their art. A short film that follows a local musician who turned the sounds of a wine harvest into music is here at the SLO International Film Festival. Author Kathy Mastako talks with KCBX's Brian Reynolds about her book on the Point San Luis Lighthouse. Tom Wilmer speaks with Shizue Seigle about a new local history exhibit. The Playing With Food team looks into the world of honey production.

In this episode of Start With a Win, Adam Contos, invites listeners into the fascinating world of real estate franchising alongside his guest, James Dwiggins, CEO of NextHome. Through a blend of industry expertise and personal narratives, they explore the intricate evolution of real estate franchising, offering profound insights into its transformative impact on the industry. James shares captivating anecdotes from his family's multi-generational journey in real estate, offering listeners a glimpse into the dynamic intersection of tradition and innovation.As the conversation unfolds, Adam and James delve deep into the essence of effective leadership, emphasizing the significance of self-awareness, humility, and adaptability. They navigate through the nuances of franchising, highlighting its capacity to provide structure, support, and a sense of community for aspiring entrepreneurs. With candid reflections on the pitfalls of ego-driven leadership and the liberating potential of embracing change, this episode serves as a beacon of inspiration for business leaders and entrepreneurs striving for success in today's dynamic landscape. Tune in and embark on a transformative journey to leadership excellence.James Dwiggins, CEO of NextHome, Inc., is a seasoned leader in the real estate industry, with a dynamic vision shaped by three generations of family involvement in the field. Beginning his journey in real estate franchise business in 2006, James played a pivotal role at Realty World Northern California & Nevada, rising to Vice President after initially joining as the Director of Technology and Strategy. In 2014, he co-founded NextHome with Tei Baishiki, successfully overseeing its growth as an independent national real estate franchise by January 2015. Prior to this, James, along with Tei, co-founded VREO, Inc., a groundbreaking enterprise-level internet applications developer, earning industry recognition, including the Inman Innovator Award. With a wealth of experience and a proven track record, James is not only the host of the Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered Podcast but has also received accolades such as being featured on the Swanepoel Power 200 list and recognized by Franchise Business Review for leading the top real estate franchise in owner satisfaction for three consecutive years. Originally from San Luis Obispo, James' passion for soccer and his academic background in business and criminal law at Cuesta College contribute to his well-rounded leadership style.00:00 Intro02:20 Yes, a multi-generational expert real estate professional05:01 Why franchise - because you get this benefit!08:51 What are you good at, the most successful leaders can do this.10:21 Biggest thing I found…13:50 How is real estate industry dealing with the change from the lawsuits?16:16 This mindset or that mindset!18:36 There is this learning lesson…23:58 In this new world, these mechanisms need to be in place.29:04 Do this to become the leader…33:25 The value of an association…    43:16 Best way to start with a win…⚡️FREE RESOURCE:

Kendi Root (REC '83), Hospitality & Dual Enrollment Lead at Cuesta College and Director of Sales & Marketing at Hilton Garden Inn (Pismo Beach), talks with Dr. Brian Greenwood (Cal Poly Experience Industry Management) about her life and career to date.

The Nonprofit Story's Dr. Consuelo Meux says goodbye to Downtown SLO's Bettina Swigger, who is moving on to a new job in Colorado. KCBX's Marisa Waddell speaks to Paula Poundstone, ahead of her Clark Center appearance. Dr. Warren Balfour speaks with KCBX's Rick Mathews about the history of the jazz music programs at Cuesta College.

Hometown Radio 06/13/23 3:30p: Learn about the next Gilbert & Sullivan show coming to Cuesta College

Hometown Radio 03/13/23 6p: Cuesta College president Dr Jill Stearns and Trustee Patrick Mullen

Hometown Radio 03/02/23 5p: Cuesta College president, Dr. Jill Stearns and Trustee Patrick Mullen

Hometown Radio 12/01/22 3p: Spotlight on the Cuesta College Theater Department

The NEW ALBUM by Jazz Vocalist Carol Welsman is: “14” Justin Time Records Release: 9 September 2022 Joining Carol on 14 is Pierre Côté on guitars, Rémi-Jean LeBlanc bass and Jim Doxas on drums. In her lifelong jazz journey as a luscious vocalist and appealing pianist, Carol Welsman simply sums it all up by saying, “I'm a firm believer that you have to send your message through the lyrics.” Upcoming Tour Dates: September 13th - Launch gig Sunset Jazz at BISTANGO, Irvine, CA, November 3rd, 4th & 5th Cuesta College, Cultural and Performing Arts Centre - San Luis Obispo, CA ALSO AVAILABLE: Dance With Me Journey Carol Welsman On Apple Music, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify Twitter and YouTube - @carolwelsmanjazz

Except for four years of college, Larry Lee has called San Luis Obispo home — and what a home! At his “homes”, first at Cuesta College and now at Cal Poly, Coach Lee has amassed [...]

A new study was just released by a home improvement site naming the San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Five Cities Market as the 4th most expensive small metro market to be a renter in the United States. A large Cal Poly and Cuesta College student population, and desirability in quality of life are the biggest driving factors. With Interest Rates on the rise and numbers trending towards a reduction in prices in other parts of the country, people have questions about what they should do. On this episode of the SLO county Real Estate with Hal Sweasey Podcast we highlight some of the answers to those questions. Be leery of those national reports you hear about an upcoming collapse... Show Notes :44 to 2:27 - The real estate talking points you have heard recently surrounding the news narrative on a national level don't jive with what is going on here, and you must pay attention to the driving factors that make SLO County unique to other parts of the country. 2:28 to 4:43 - For SLO County the discrepancies lie within the inventory and the influx of population to the county. Whether it be investors or dwellers inventory goes fast on the Central Coast. 4:44 to 8:02 - Look to the Millionaire next door if you have your doubts in the “Time in the Market” theory. 8:03 to 10:49 - Does an increase in interest rates mean a rise in rental rates? Is SLO County the Gold Standard? 10:50 to 18:54 - Since the 30 year Fixed Rate isn't going to see the level of where it was at a year ago… what are options for Home Buyers who want the security of know what their housing cost is going to be each month? 18:54 to 20:15 - If you are worried about Mortgage insurance in SLO county you could be losing out on money and equity in the long run. 20:15 to 22:45 - The 3 things you need to do if you want to buy a house. If you are looking to for experience and a team you can trust for your next Real Estate Transaction please visit halsweasey.com CA DRE #01111911 860 Walnut Street Suite A, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401 (805) 329-3247 hal@teamsweasey.com

 I've known Mark for a little over 10 years now. He came to me looking for pain relief at my first studio in Old Town Salinas. He believed in my craft so much that he offered to help create Live Well's internet presence and take it out of the stone age. It wasn't easy but we did it.  I hardly see the guy now that he is living on Colorado but man when I do, it is always a great time.Mark grew up in agriculture, with both of his parents working in the agricultural Industry in and around Salinas CA, and is knowledgeable in horticulture and growing. He attended college at Cuesta College, then Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida with a wrestling scholarship, was in the ROTC, and eventually joined Air Force Pararescue. He is 3rd generation military in his family. Flying planes, jumping out of planes (over 50 military jumps, aside from over 150 civilian jumps,) pararescue in Alaska and along the South border of the United States. Mark shared his journey of determination and commitment to acquire the coveted beret of the Air Force PJ. His life experiences, and familial roots heavily influence the moves he makes in life. An entrepreneur, business owner, father, youtuber, cannabis expert, flat earth theorist and so much more, there is no subject too taboo, and no stone left unturned in this podcast. If you are interested in some of Mark's businesses, check out the following links below:https://perfectgardens.com/https://www.youtube.com/c/PerfectGardensInstagram: perfect_gardensThis podcast was recorded February 22, 2022

Hometown Radio 05/04/22 3p: Jennifer Martin and John Astaire from Cuesta College

Hometown Radio 04/12/22 6p: Cuesta College students analyze the Ukraine situation

On today's show, we opened up the phone lines and asked our listeners their favorite memory thanks to Daddy Yankee's music, and Becca dares Shoboy to get the Daddy Yankee haircut! Moreover, we send John's girlfriend on a "Jealousy Trip" because she thinks he smashed a girl named “Juana La Cubana”—during his spring break trip in Miami! In "Notas Locas," a Los Angeles man had a stunt FAIL when he tried to make a Tesla fly! Meanwhile, the crew breaks down their weekend recap of their road trip to the “Educate Si Se Puede” conference at Cuesta College—and Becca reveals a promise her boyfriend broke! Listen Live 6-10AM PST Shoboy: @edgarisoteloBecca: @BeccaMGuzmanEddie The Virgin: @EddieSotelo 

On today's show, we opened up the phone lines and asked our listeners their favorite memory thanks to Daddy Yankee's music, and Becca dares Shoboy to get the Daddy Yankee haircut! Moreover, we send John's girlfriend on a "Jealousy Trip" because she thinks he smashed a girl named “Juana La Cubana”—during his spring break trip in Miami! In "Notas Locas," a Los Angeles man had a stunt FAIL when he tried to make a Tesla fly! Meanwhile, the crew breaks down their weekend recap of their road trip to the “Educate Si Se Puede” conference at Cuesta College—and Becca reveals a promise her boyfriend broke!  Listen Live 6-10AM PST  Shoboy: @edgarisotelo Becca: @BeccaMGuzman Eddie The Virgin: @EddieSotelo  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com

As California governor Gavin Newsom loosens COVID-19 restrictions, such as the recently-lifted mask mandate, many businesses and communities are able to return to what they once were pre-pandemic. Dominique Floyd is the associate director of Front Porch, a non-profit coffee shop and community hub for students of Cal Poly and Cuesta College. Front Porch serves free coffee everyday and hosts free dinner on Wednesday nights for students.

On this episode of Issues & Ideas you'll learn about Bread Bike Bakery, and what keeps the bakers passionate about what they do. Also, Dr. Jill Stearns, President of Cuesta College, gives us an update. Also, hear about the challenges facing the Central Coasts' health care system as Baby Boomers age.

Hometown Radio 10/11/21 4p: Guest host Dan Shadwell will be talking with Lucia Micarelli. She's a fabulous violinist and singer who's been exciting audiences in the classical world and also touring with Josh Groban, Chris Botti, and Barbara Streisand. Lucia even tears it up with Led Zeppelin classics. She'll be performing October 22nd at the Harold J. Miossi Cultural and Performing Arts Center at Cuesta College as part of Festival Mozaic's burgeoning, eclectic offerings. Then Violet Sage Walker of the Northern Chumash Tribe will talk about her father's legacy. Fred Collins chaired the Northern Chumash Council. He passed away last week after years fighting for Native American causes and environmental protections--including the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary — a proposed ocean conservation area off the Central Coast. Violet worked hand in hand with him on those projects and she'll update us on those ongoing efforts.

I'm excited to introduce this week's guest, Doris Lance—a wildflower photographer who engages in nature bathing for the five senses. We had a fantastic chat about different ways to connect with nature, including slowing down and really paying attention to all the little details.   About Doris International hiker and wildflower photographer, Doris Lance's love and respect for the natural environment has resulted in logging thousands of miles, trekking below sea level in Death Valley, to over 11,000 feet in Patagonia, Chile to capture flowering treasures. The numerous discoveries of flowering plants in the varied ecosystems appear in her recently released book, Botanical Reflections. Readers have the opportunity to venture with her and record their day in words and pictures reading an inspiring quote, answering a pensive question, and completing a botanical illustration. She is currently an Emeritus instructor for Cuesta College and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Western Carolina University and has specialized studies from Vanderbilt University and University of California San Diego.   Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn   Listen To This Episode        What You'll Learn What is nature bathing for the five senses What we can learn from nature bathing Why you don't need to have huge adventures How to get started with nature bathing How to get started with nature photography   Things We Discussed Botanical Reflections: Capture Your Days in Words and Pictures Green Lake in the Eastern Sierras  Havasupai Canyon  “Inch by inch, life's a cinch. Yard by yard, life's hard.” — John Bytheway Flowers in the Wild Journal (coming soon) Torres del Paine National Park  Mammoth, California  Lake Tahoe  Death Valley  Tours by Locals Desert Five Spot  Coastal Jay   Related Episodes 413 Holly Worton ~ The Benefits of Getting Outdoors + How to Get More from Your Adventures 410 Holly Worton ~ Adding a New Layer to Your Outdoor Adventures (now with downloadable transcript!) 408 Holly Worton ~ Start Where You Are (now with downloadable transcript!) 407 Keith Foskett ~ Through Hiking Long-Distance Trails in the USA and Spain (now with downloadable transcript!) 406 Yvette Webster ~ How Outdoor Adventures Can Help with Mental Health (now with downloadable transcript!)   Connect With Holly Website Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest Google+ LinkedIn   How to Subscribe Click here to subscribe via iTunes Click here to subscribe via RSS Click here to subscribe via Stitcher   Help Spread the Word If you enjoyed this episode, please head on over to iTunes and kindly leave us a rating and a review! You can also subscribe, so you'll never miss an episode.

The educational concept known as “Critical Race Theory” has sparked debate across the country. How does it relate to new standards of social justice and a curriculum of ethnic studies that were recently passed in California? Join host Fred Munroe as he speaks with guests Dr. Mario Espinoza-Kulick, Inaugural Ethnic Studies Faculty at Cuesta College, Dr. Lata Murti, Associate Professor of Sociology at Brandman University, and Sharon Elmer, a recent graduate, Paso Robles High School. They will be discussing the current debate around Critical Race Theory and the controversy that has sprung from proposals to teach the Ethnic Studies curriculum in high school and elsewhere.

Cesar Mejia is an L.A. based engineer and producer born and raised in Boyle Heights in East Los Angeles. Besides engineering and producing he is a faculty member at Cal State Dominguez Hills where he teaches audio recording courses for the Digital Media Arts program. Cesar has a unique approach of putting his clients at ease, allowing the artist to perform at their optimal. Cesar's methods and skills have allowed him to maintain an ever-growing list of clients like: Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Brian Eno, Bill Withers, Will I. Am, Beatmo, Chicago, Zach de la Rocha, Mezklah, Wayne Shorter, Hurley Clothing, Hanoi Counsel for the Arts Vietnam, Sting, Joni Mitchell, Al Geroe, George Duke, George Benson, Motorhead, Monte Carlo 76, Natashia Williams, Brujeria, Nathan East, Los Lobos, Marcus Miller, Aztlan Underground, Chicano Son, Amazon Gold Foundation, Andy Garcia, Most Eligible Basturds, Marisa Ronstadt, Susan Egan, & Kenny Moreno. Constantly working on projects of multiple magnitudes, he fully dedicates himself and applies the same enthusiasm to all his clients. Noel “Dio” Torres is originally from the town San Simeon off of California's Central Coast. His involvement with audio started when he was in high school. He played would play keys, bass, rhythm guitar and percussion in various bands and was in a rap group. After he graduate high school he wanted to continue be involved with music and sound. He enrolled in to Cuesta Community College where he focused on audio recording and transferring out to Cal State Dominguez Hills. In 2011, Noel received his certificate of completion in audio recording at Cuesta College. While finishing up his transfer credits, Noel recorded numerous local rappers in San Luis Obispo and ventured into making beats in 2012 when he bought his first Maschine. He Transferred into Dominguez hills in 2016 and in 2018 he graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Digital Media Arts with an emphasis in Audio Engineering. At The Shelter Studios Noel Torres has recorded singer song writers and rappers as well as crafted his own beats in the studio. He has assisted Cesar Mejia in various projects including; Tropa Magica, Life the Hunter, and Kill The Bullfighter, to name a few. Noel Torres also works in the Post Production world as an Audio Engineer, Dialogue Editor, and Foley Recordist. In Post Production he has worked on the following shows and movies, “Mixed-ish” “Grown-ish” “Black- ish” Jane the Virgin, Insecure, Avatar 2, Spider-man: Far from Home, and Henry Danger. He is also mixed and edited various episodes of the Podcast The Voice of Esports with ReDeYe and recorded and mixed voice overs for the Pitch app. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/throughrebeleyes/support

Doris Lance is an avid hiker and wildflower photographer who happens to be over the age of 70. She's also the author of the book Botanical Reflections––a book to “Explore feelings, reduce anxiety, and reconcile emotional conflicts” all through time spent journaling with wildflowers. Doris presents a unique message on health, fitness, and aging. I think you'll appreciate her message to slow down and take things in, not because of age, but because of the wisdom that comes from experience.Currently Doris is an Emeritus instructor at Cuesta College, in California, she acquired a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Carolina University, in Cullowhee, N.C., as well as specialized graduate studies.During the show, Doris shares:– How she developed her approach to health, fitness, and aging that revolves around nature and hiking.– Why she decided to become a hiker in 1999 and what she learned from that first major hike to Mount Fuji.– What is the transformative power of nature and how it soothes the mind and the soul.– What are the major health and fitness benefits that she received from hiking and nature.– The biggest misconceptions people have about hiking.– How walking in nature is different than walking on a treadmill.– How to prepare for making a major hike.– How to get hiking health and fitness benefits without going to Mount Fuji.– The best advice she gives people over 50 to help them live longer, healthier, and happier lives?To contact Doris, or purchase your book, Botanical Reflections, go toBook –https://www.wildflowerinspirations.com/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDorisLance/?__xts__[fusion_builder_column]=Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/wildflowerexplorer/Never Too Late for Fitness Radio with Phil Farishttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/never-too-late-for-fitness-radio-with-phil-faris/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/doris-lance-author-hiker-and-fitness-advocate-age-well-with-movement-and-nature

Doris Lance is an avid hiker and wildflower photographer who happens to be over the age of 70. She's also the author of the book Botanical Reflections––a book to “Explore feelings, reduce anxiety, and reconcile emotional conflicts” all through time spent journaling with wildflowers. Doris presents a unique message on health, fitness, and aging. I think you'll appreciate her message to slow down and take things in, not because of age, but because of the wisdom that comes from experience.Currently Doris is an Emeritus instructor at Cuesta College, in California, she acquired a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Carolina University, in Cullowhee, N.C., as well as specialized graduate studies.During the show, Doris shares:– How she developed her approach to health, fitness, and aging that revolves around nature and hiking.– Why she decided to become a hiker in 1999 and what she learned from that first major hike to Mount Fuji.– What is the transformative power of nature and how it soothes the mind and the soul.– What are the major health and fitness benefits that she received from hiking and nature.– The biggest misconceptions people have about hiking.– How walking in nature is different than walking on a treadmill.– How to prepare for making a major hike.– How to get hiking health and fitness benefits without going to Mount Fuji.– The best advice she gives people over 50 to help them live longer, healthier, and happier lives?To contact Doris, or purchase your book, Botanical Reflections, go toBook –https://www.wildflowerinspirations.com/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDorisLance/?__xts__[fusion_builder_column]=Instagram –https://www.instagram.com/wildflowerexplorer/Never Too Late for Fitness Radio with Phil Farishttps://businessinnovatorsradio.com/never-too-late-for-fitness-radio-with-phil-faris/Source: https://businessinnovatorsradio.com/doris-lance-author-hiker-and-fitness-advocate-age-well-with-movement-and-nature

Mi Gente, Nuestra Salud translated from Spanish means, “My community, Our health.” Research shows that expanding opportunities for healthcare benefits everyone. As the pandemic has shown, our health is only as good as that of our most vulnerable community members. Mi Gente, Nuestra Salud , which is a "people's movement for health ownership," aims to do this by empowering people from minoritized groups to govern the resources, education, advocacy, and access points that shape good health. Join Fred Munroe as he speaks with guests involved with Mi Gente, Nuestra Salud , or the Santa Maria People's Movement for Health, Dr. Mario Espinoza-Kulick, MA, PhD, Co-Principal Investigator for Mi Gente, Nuestra Salud and inaugural Ethnic Studies Faculty at Cuesta College, Cristina Macedo, MSW, Coordinator for the Mobile Health Unit at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), and Irma Torres, a student at Cal Poly involved in the project. They will discuss how they are

This week, we’re in conversation with https://www.cuesta.edu/student/campuslife/performingarts/faculty_bios/index.html (John Knutson), director of choral music at https://www.cuesta.edu/index.html (Cuesta College) in San Luis Obispo, CA (one of Zane’s alma maters!), about his 20 year tenure at Cuesta and the role of community college programs in furthering choral excellence. http://www.inunisonpodcast.com/episodes/s03e05#transcript (Episode transcript) Music excerpts “Adam Lay YBounden” by Hubert Bird, performed by Cuesta College Chamber Singers “https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9wSdQRhEF4 (The Kicker)” by Joe Henderson, performed by Vocalogy  “I’ve Been in the Storm So Long” traditional, arranged by Jeffrey L. Ames, performed by Cuesta College Chamber Singers, soloist Autumn Cone “Hide and Seek” by Imogen Heap, performed by Vocé “Grass Grows Greener” by Anders Edenroth, performed by Vocé “A Boy and a Girl” by Eric Whitacre, performed by Cuesta College Chamber Singers Episode references http://www.cuesta.edu (Cuesta College) https://www.cuesta.edu/student/campuslife/performingarts/music_department/performance_groups/choirs.html#:~:text=Cuesta%20has%20two%20evening%20community,County%20Chorus%20(Paso%20Robles).&text=The%20Cuesta%20Chamber%20Singers%2C%20Cuesta,works%20to%20excellent%20critical%20acclaim. (Cuesta College Choral Program) Theme Song: https://music.apple.com/us/album/mr-puffy/1457011536?i=1457011549 (Mr. Puffy) by Avi Bortnik, arr. by Paul Kim. Performed by http://www.dynamicjazz.dk/ (Dynamic)

On this week's show, learn how sheep work to help prevent fires on the Central Coast. Also, after a wildfire in Santa Cruz County destroyed close to 1,500 structures, a local group experiments with fungi, which they say has the ability to remove and even heal toxic burn scars. You'll hear about the traveling nurses who administer vaccines at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. Latinos make up the majority of the population in Fresno County, but they only account for about 36% of people who have received at least one dose of the vaccine; we'll explore some of the reasons why Latino residents are hesitant. There's a new monthly series of Zoom events put on by NAACP SLO County, called "Know Your Rights", and we'll take a closer look. Finally, Cal Poly grad and author of the award-winning novel, “Prospects of a Woman”, Wendy Voorsanger shares insights about her work chronicling exceptional women throughout California's history.

Hometown Radio 04/27/21 4p: Susan Hoffman from Cuesta College reminds us that April is "National Poetry Month"

Hometown Radio 04/27/21 4p: Susan Hoffman from Cuesta College reminds us that April is "National Poetry Month"

John Knutson, Chair of the Performing Arts Division and Director of Local Ensembles at Cuesta College, joins us on the podcast today.

Award winning journalist Cyrus Saatsaz and TV producer Jerry Perez host The SLOCal Podcast and in episode seven they're joined by journalists Lauren Grasmick and Jonathan Apelado of The Cuestonian to discuss the SLO music scene, if people should mask it when they're in the drive thru of a restaurant and what some people who would normally be working on the Cuesta College campus are doing.

Hometown Radio 11/16/20 5p: Rosemary Wrenn and Cheryl Vines react to the Cuesta College Board of Trustees controversy

BGBS 047: Jamba Dunn | Rowdy Mermaid | Welcome to the KombuchaverseJamba Dunn is the proud founder and CEO of Rowdy Mermaid, the first kombucha company to reimagine the 2000-year-old beverage as a plant-based medicine that is safer and fitted to anyone's palate. Yes, even a toddler. You'll soon see that the awesomeness of this company stemmed from Jamba's roots in the punk rock scene, his passion for Egyptology, and most importantly, his love for his daughter. Jamba's path to being rowdy actually looked much more musical than it does today. Jamba traveled across the US with The Pandoras and made some money DJing, hoping to someday fall into his own band playing guitar. Little did he know that someday a sour fizzy drink would fall into his lap instead and change his life forever. You'll have to listen to the details because you don't want to miss it! We commend Jamba's foundation in countering conventional culture, which helps us question, how can we all own our alienation rather than stand within the crowd? In this episode, you'll learn…Jamba was actually born James. He got the nickname from a friend in the 80s! When Jamba was first introduced to the punk rock scene, he actually wasn't interested in it. His friend showed him the safety pin he had through the back of his hand and Jamba thought that wasn't cool at all. Jamba had a very musical life for a while, which included meeting The Ramones and DJing until he dropped out of the music scene and started his life over Jamba's father and grandfather were both great entrepreneurs and inventors, and although he rebelled against this life early on, Jamba could help but return to his roots Once Jamba's toddler asked to try some of the beer he was brewing in his garage, he realized that he wanted to make something she could have as well, thus inspiring his interest in kombucha According to a market research survey in 2012, only 5% of Americans actually knew what kombucha was. Jamba had a lot of work on his hands to find a recipe that was just right. In the early days of Rowdy Mermaid, much of the brewing, deliveries, etc. were done in Jamba's garage with the help of some volunteers Today, Rowdy Mermaid is present across 48 states with a vibrant team of 30 people The name Rowdy Mermaid was discovered at a hot spring in Colorado, although it wasn't until much later that Jamba chose this as the name The design of Rowdy Mermaid's logo is inspired by Jamba's love of Nordic minimalism and Egyptology The anti-establishment agenda that punk rock stood for influenced the flat organization structure of Rowdy Mermaid ResourcesRowdy Mermaid Website Jamba Dunn LinkedIn Quotes[21:44] Punk rock absolutely spoke to me. It was all about taking your alienation and owning that and turning that into something that you could wear physically to show other people, “I'm not like you, and I'm proud to be different from you.” [24:35] Being lower middle class and not having the ability to get a leg up, it seemed like everything was turned against me or us. I think part of that might be true, and a lot of that was illusion. [37:56] It was a huge divide in my life, education. But it was something I was passionate about and something that I decided was more important than a lot of the relationships I had at the time. So I pursued education. [43:20] I sat there like, “Wow, that was really interesting. That wasn't just a beverage that was kind of an experience.” And I went back into the market, and I bought another bottle and went back out to my car and thought, “Well this one I'm just going to kind of sip,” and I downed it completely again. And I thought, “What is this?” Podcast TranscriptJamba Dunn 0:02I felt alienated. I didn't know how to enter into conventional culture. And I, in many ways over romanticized, what it would be like to be in conventional culture and to, to be popular to have the nice clothes to know more about the world around me and to feel confident in that world. And I just didn't have that and, and you're right, punk rock absolutely spoke to me. It was all about taking your alienation. And in owning that and turning that into something that you could wear physically, and show other people. I'm not like you and I'm proud to be different from you. Marc Gutman 1:00Podcasting from Boulder, Colorado, this is the Baby Got Backstory Podcast, where we dive into the story behind the story of today's most inspiring storytellers, creators and entrepreneurs. I like big backstories and I cannot lie. I am your host, Marc Gutman, Marc Gutman, and on today's episode of Baby got backstory, how his son of Scottish immigrants combined his passion for punk rock music, a thirst for learning, and the love for his daughter into a kombucha juggernaut. And before we get into the episode, I need to do my usual reminder. If you like and enjoy the show, please take a minute or two to rate and review us over iTunes or Spotify, iTunes and Spotify use these ratings as part of the algorithm that determines ratings on their charts. And we like good ratings, who doesn't? You'd be surprised how happy I get when you click on all those stars. It's almost like you gave me money. Almost remember, ratings help us to build an audience, which then helps us to continue to produce this show. So please go ahead and give us a rating if you think we deserve it. What do Scottish immigrants, Southern California, punk rock music, Egyptology, and a 2000 year old beverage have in common? Well, it turns out a lot. Today we are talking with Jamba Dunn, founder and CEO of rowdy mermaid. What is rowdy mermaid? Is it a woman surf brand? Is it a punk rock band? Is it an odd character from SpongeBob SquarePants. Not even close. Rowdy mermaid is kombucha and not just any kombucha. conceived as the first plant based kombucha. Rowdy mermaid thinks of itself more of a functional plant medicine company than a kombucha company. One that's on a mission to bring as many functional plants to as many functional people as they possibly can, using only the fruits, fruits, mushrooms and botanicals that nature created. And 20 years ago, if you walked into any grocery store, or even a whole foods, kombucha was not something that was readily available. We take for granted all the choices of kombucha we see on the shelves today. And generally speaking, kombucha is a fizzy sweet and sour drink made with tea. And for centuries, many people have believed it to be an elixir that relieves or prevents a variety of health problems. kombucha has been around for nearly 2000 years. It was first brewed in China and then spread to Japan and Russia. And it became popular in Europe in the early 20th century. kombucha is now experiencing revival and you can see it almost on every shelf at every grocery store in almost every neighborhood in America. The basic ingredients in kombucha are yeast, sugar, and black tea. And kombucha has been around for nearly 2000 years. It was first brewed in China and then spread to Japan and Russia. It became popular in Europe in the early 20th century. And now we're seeing it pop up on shelves all over America. Rowdy Mermaid, such a cool name and a great brand. And of course, you rarely find a cool brand without an intriguing founder. Jamba Dunn is certainly intriguing. I could have spoken to him for hours if we had time. We covered so much of his story and only touched on his passion for Egyptology, which is probably a whole nother episode that we could go into for probably another couple of hours. And not to get too sidetracked or weird. But speaking of Egyptology, a year or so ago, I was at the National History Museum in New York City and they had an Egyptian accent. exhibit and it struck me as odd. Why we don't carry on some of their traditions? Well, I've made it known to my family, but now it's here on public podcast record. I'd like to be buried in a cool Egyptian sarcophagus, probably Fox style, and then put into some sort of pyramid. You heard it here first. Okay, enough with my eccentricities. We're here to talk about Jamba Dunn, and rowdy Mermaid, and in 2012, while experimenting with kombucha in his garage with equipment that was originally intended to home brew beer, Jamba fell into brewing kombucha. Actually, his daughter wanted to be a part of the hobby. And being a good dad, john felt his three year old daughter should probably not be brewing and drinking beer. I think that's being a good dad. Anyway, as a way to include her in his hobby. He brewed kombucha and the rest. Well, this is his story. I am here with Jamba Dunn, the CEO and founder of rowdy Mermaid, rowdy Mermaid, what is that? You know, you might be thinking it could be maybe some crazy surf brand. It could be the cool new bar down the street, but it' s kombucha. So before we get going Jamba, can you tell us a little bit about rowdy mermaid and then we'll jump into a bunch of your story? Jamba Dunn 6:35Absolutely. Rowdy mermaid is a functional beverages company that I founded in 2013. And it was founded on the idea of bringing a safer plant based kombucha to market and now we're expanding into different product categories, or at least, we're experimenting with different product categories right now. Marc Gutman 6:59There's so much I love about the name and the branding, and we'll get into that, but I want to save that for a little later. But you know, I want to think back to a little bit of the beginning of your story. And when you were a young boy, I mean, did you even know what kombucha was? We're gonna kombucha say like, eight years old, like what are we doing around that time? Jamba Dunn 7:23Well, I don't think anybody knew what Kombucha was when I was eight years old. GTS is the largest kombucha company and they're about I think, 21 or 22 years old right now, before that, no other kombucha have been brought to market. So let's see cut back though, eight years old. That's an interesting time for me. I was living in Southern California, and just recovering from a major accident where I fell out of an automobile. And I think just really, at that time starting to recognize the the world around me in Southern California in the 1970s. With surfers and music and all the other things happening in California at that time. Marc Gutman 8:14That was like the the golden age, I think of California, or at least one of them. They've had a few but you know, the 70s and in Southern California, and I think, you know, like you mentioned, you know that that was the the blossoming of that 70 surf culture. There's a lot of different things going on there. What were you doing? Like, what, what were your interests? Where did you grow up? What was your family like? Jamba Dunn 8:36Sure. So you're right. It was one of those many Golden Ages that California had in the mid 70s, mid to late 70s. And I wouldn't fully drop into my experience of California and all it had to offer until a little bit later. But around that time in the mid 70s. My family was we're in Huntington Beach and my family is second generation Scottish American. And we were extremely blue collar, my family, my father and my mother. And we were surrounded by a very changing atmosphere. A lot of people were white color. A lot of culture seemed to be in transition around that time. I had an uncle who had started plastic fantastic surfboards, which has kind of a now sort of cult surfboard brand from Huntington Beach. And I had a cousin who was already surfing and would go on to become a very good surfer. And for me at that time, it was just more about the beach and school and trying to understand the world around me a little bit. I definitely played the role early on as this sort of translate Later between my family and the outside culture, I guess you could call it because my family was very different from even our immediate neighbors. And my mother and father were extremely reserved and cut off from other people and didn't really want to have much to do with them. And so, I would play, like I said, the translator between our neighbors and the waitresses and the the people who would come to our house for services. And so it was interesting time for sure. But, you know, cut forward a few years. About five years when I started high school, that was definitely the height of punk rock in Orange County. And that was a culture that definitely brought me out of the home and more into what Orange County and California had to offer at that time. Marc Gutman 10:55Yeah, and you know, I'm intrigued by this, this idea. And so if I heard you, right, your parents were first-generation immigrants. And are you in your second generation at that time? Is that correct? Jamba Dunn 11:05Yeah, that's right. Yeah. Marc Gutman 11:06And so you, were you born Jamba? Jamba Dunn 11:08No, I was born James. And it wasn't until the mid 80s. That friend of mine started calling me Jamba. And it just it stuck. And it's, it's stuck ever since then I could not get rid of it. So now it's my name. Marc Gutman 11:27It's a great name. I was wondering where it came from. And I wanted to get in a better story than I thought. And so and just before we move on, like, you know, you mentioned your your folks were blue collar, like what were they doing in this Southern California environment for a living like, what were you seeing and modeling after at that time? Jamba Dunn 11:46So it's kind of an interesting and convoluted story in itself. And I actually once tried writing a book about it, but it's hard to summarize. So I'll just tell one story. My grandfather on my father's side had come to the US after being a foreman in Europe and the series of factories. And he wanted to make a better life in the United States, but couldn't find work. He ended up becoming a milkman in Milwaukee, and saved up his money to try to, I guess, afford a better life, a better house, etc. And my grandmother, his wife, convinced him that she had a scheme that she knew about that was going to work in California. And that was to raise chinchillas, which at the time was all the rage, people would raise chinchillas, then they would sell them to a farrier. And they would come and take them all away and turn them into coats. And they would make lots of money off of that. And so he decided to take the bet and put all of his money, all of their money, all of the family's money into chinchillas. They then packed up the car and drove across the United States with my father and his brother and landed in Long Beach, and they rented a house. And a couple of days later, the chinchillas arrived, and they put them all into the garage and close the door. And the next morning, every one of them was dead, because they had no understanding of what they were doing, or what they were getting into, or how to take care of this animal that they had only just heard about. And my father had a meltdown and nervous breakdown. And he ended up dying shortly after. And my father found himself in California having to figure out how to make a living. And being somebody who is really not only industrious but but quick on his feet and smart with his hands. He started figuring out how to fix things. And he fixed different types of machinery, and ended up fixing, adding machines at the time. And then he went into the military and started fixing uniacke, and UNIVAC, the first computer systems that were installed on submarines. He got out and continued to to fix adding machines and later on copy machines, ditto machines and those types of things and started his own business. So that's how we we kind of landed in California and my mother had been a housewife her entire life. And so the two of them patch together a life like this. And that was what I came into Marc Gutman 14:47The way it works, you know? And that's the way it works. And so what did you think about that? You know, what did you think about your father? I mean, were you like, Wow, that's really cool that he's fixing all of these things, or were you like Like, you know, I can see there also potentially being conflict, you're looking around Southern California at the super cool culture and being like, this isn't cool. Like, like, Where did you land on? Like, what do you think about all that? Jamba Dunn 15:11So it's a really interesting question. And it's something that I've been trying to understand my whole life in some ways, I actually wrote a book about my dad that I need to go back and edit and try to do something with at some point called the baloney generation. And it was really about his lifestyle, growing up in the United States in extreme blue collar situations coming out of it, figuring out how to really fix anything that he can get his hands on, and in turning that into his living. And you're right, I mean, here I am. And I'm growing up in Huntington Beach, which at that time was a really up and coming cool place with surfers, I had an uncle who was in surfing. And as I mentioned, my cousin, cool culture was all around us. And we were just not a part of it. We were extremely low, middle class, and we ate very poorly. And my parents didn't know anything about nutrition. They didn't know anything about culture, or at least the culture that was around us. Both my mom and father had grown up in Catholic school. And so they knew a lot about Catholicism. But now they had given that up, and they wouldn't allow anyone to practice Catholicism in the house. And we were very removed from everything. So you're absolutely right. It wasn't easy to bring a friend to our house. Because my friends at school where we're from completely, I just I thought of them from being as from a different culture than I was in a lot of ways. And so it wasn't until later that I started to hang around with my father more. I started working with him at one point, when I was a teenager and into my early 20s, I actually started going out and fixing machines for him because he didn't have anyone to help him. And on our drives, he would let in on these stories that I just they seem completely different from the Father I had known. And so I became sort of addicted to hanging out with him and, and trying to get these stories out of him that he wasn't really willing to share in stories that he also thought were just kind of like beside the point that weren't really important enough to tell. One of them was growing up in Milwaukee, he was very interested in inventing new ways of listening to music and cars. And he was the first person that he had ever known that had installed a record player that can play singles on a spring inside of cars. And you could listen to it and drive and it wouldn't skip. And he was installing them into other cars and became kind of well known for a while when he was younger in in Milwaukee. Another one was this crazy story that still just seems odd to me. But he was working in Oakland at a company that fixed adding machines. And one day he was visited by these three men is three African American men. A one of them was very nicely dressed. And the other two were wearing leather jackets. And he said they they were very big guys. And the nicely dressed man came in to ask for his adding machine back. And my father told him it wasn't ready. And that wasn't a good enough answer. And they told them they wanted it now. And they ended up actually closing off the door and knocking over some machines and some cabinetry and things in there and telling him like, Listen, don't you know who we are, we're the Black Panthers. And my dad because he was so naive about culture thought that they were a Car Club, which I guess was a big thing when he was growing up. And so he tells me he looked out the window at their automobile. And he saw this, you know, lowered primered gray car with, with blue walls on it. And his perspective was he could never be pushed around by somebody who had blue walls on their car. And it just was like so crazy to me that to hear these stories to have grown up knowing who the Black Panthers were in my father still not knowing who they were but relaying these types of stories that I just realized that there was there was so much more there than I had ever done. Growing up, and it was very interesting. Marc Gutman 20:03I can imagine and to me, it sounds like you're straddling two worlds, you know, you're struggling a little bit this immigrant world with your, your parents and then trying to adapt and assimilate in Southern California. And you mentioned that as you got older, you started to find the punk rock scene. And that really kind of spoke to these people that felt like they didn't belong, that they didn't have a place like, you know, were popular music was they weren't, you know, it was a different kind of music for a different kind of person who didn't have a community and the type of music that spoke to them. Is that what was going on for you at that time? Were you really finally finding your people, the people that spoke to you and that punk rock scene? Jamba Dunn 20:52Absolutely. I would say that the one thing that's often missed about people reminiscing about the punk rock scene isn't necessarily the music. It's, it's really what it stood for. And it stood for all of those people who felt alienated by conventional culture. And I was 100% in that category. I felt alienated I didn't know how to enter into conventional culture. And I, in many ways over-romanticized, what it would be like to be in conventional culture and to, to be popular to have the nice clothes to know more about the world around me and to feel confident in that world. And I just didn't have that and, and you're right, punk rock absolutely spoke to me. It was all about taking your alienation. And owning that and turning that into something that you could wear physically, and show other people. I'm not like you, and I'm proud to be different from you. Marc Gutman 22:05And so who were you into at that time? And do you remember your first punk rock? I'll call it experience because it might not have been like a show. But like, yeah, who were you into at the time? And what was your first memory of like your standout punk rock or like your first, you know, punk rock experience? Yeah, my Jamba Dunn 22:21My first punk rock experience wasn't a very good one. It was a it was a very good friend of mine from school, who pulled me into an alcove at school to show me that he had put a safety pin through the back of his hand because he was really into punk rock now. And I literally had no idea what he was talking about. I was horrified. It didn't seem very cool at all. And then I remember him, like shortly after showing me pictures of Johnny Rotten, and how Johnny Rotten had, you know, safety pins in his ears. And I was like, That still doesn't really resonate with me at all. And it was like, shortly after that, that I started hearing local bands. Oh, yeah, the local bands were great. I mean, we we had TSL in the crowd. And in Orange County, I believe in Orange County, or LA, we had adolescence. The adolescence were a huge band for me, there were, of course, black flag was around in Santa Monica at that time, and there were so many bands around us, and a lot of them in Huntington Beach. It was kind of it was a little bit like being in London in the 1960s for the birth of rock and roll or the growth of rock and roll there. It was just everywhere, and you'd hear new songs and giving, you'd have to find out who it was. And there were record stores popping up in neighborhoods that would only sell punk rock albums. And we were drawn to those types of places. And eventually, that became my entire friend group. And, you know, they they weren't into, you know, self mutilation, or anything, the way their early punks seemed to be, but it was all about rebellion. And that was 100% something I could get on board with. Marc Gutman 24:20Yeah. What were you rebelling against? Jamba Dunn 24:23My parents, my upbringing, the feeling of being so removed. The feeling of being a translator and not having my own voice. Being lower middle class and not having the ability to get a leg up. It seemed like everything was turned against me or us. And, you know, I think part of that might be true, and a lot of that was illusion. And a lot of that was just how to lessons but I certainly at the time, I couldn't distinguish those. Marc Gutman 24:57Yeah, and so if we're still kind of in that high school, period, you're falling in with the punk rock scene. It's, it's you're finding this this group of people to rebel with I mean, what's your plan? What do you think you're going to do at this point? Do you have a plan? Are you just like, I'm just just trying to like get through high school like I'm gonna do I'm gonna work for my dad, like, What are you thinking? Jamba Dunn 25:16Yeah, plan. That's very funny. Yeah, there was no plan, there was no, there was no weird to go there was there was no, there was no strategy. There was no anything. It was 100% day by day. And I had no real guidance through all of that my family had no one in my family had ever gone beyond high school. And my parents had just barely gone beyond high school. And so they I couldn't turn to them for academics. My sister, who is four years older than me, really didn't want to have much to do with me. She was in a whole different music category. My sister was going to kiss shows and Queen shows and David Bowie and a lot of the bigger groups around the time and she was sharing some of her experiences with me, but we, I felt like I was in a different world from even what she was in. And so I was definitely drifting there was there was no plan. But I like your enthusiasm. Marc Gutman 26:34All right, well, so you're drifting and you're going through and I imagine at some point, you drift and matriculate, like that were matriculate through high school, and the real world is on the other side, and you can fill in any gaps where I might have missed that. But assuming that that to be true, that's true. And you kind of hit hit the real world and you're staring at the rest of your life, like, what does that look like? And what do you do Jamba Dunn 26:59So I didn't realize it at the time. But in my, in my last year, my senior year at high school, there was definitely some partying and there were definitely friends that I would stay out all night with. And there were concerts that would happen all night, and sometimes on weeknights. I didn't realize at the time that school was just falling by the wayside completely. It wasn't serving me public school was not helping me whatsoever. My teachers were not engaged with the students. It all sort of felt like something of a dream. And it wouldn't be until several years later that I ended up actually getting therapy and finding out that I had gone through post-traumatic stress during high school. And I had basically been just blocking a lot of my life out at that time. And that was from my my fall that I had mentioned earlier, the accident that happened when I was six. And so I started putting things together a couple of years after high school, and I started understanding that I had to, as you say, come up with a plan. And I had to get a little bit more serious about my life. And by that point, I was heavily involved in the garage music scene in Los Angeles. And my girlfriend at the time was the keyboard player in a band called The Pandoras. And she eventually went on to play with white flag and the leaving trains and other punk bands. And I decided that something had to change. And so when the the Pandoras went on tour, I went with them to the east coast and traveled around for a while and lived in New York and hung out with some of the bands out there. Got to meet Joey Ramone and hang out with the Ramones and lived with the fuzz tones for a minute. And he had a very, very musical life at the time. But I still didn't fully understand what I was going to do. I was making a little bit of money by DJing and clubs here and there. But the world around me was changing drastically and rapidly. I thought that something in the music industry would eventually work out for me. And so I moved back to California and started to write a fanzine for 60s Garage music, and I thought that was going to be the direction but I just I didn't have the dedication. I really just didn't know what I was doing. And so that kind of fell apart. And so I found myself kind of hanging out with people like Rodney being and heimer from Rodney on the rock and Greg sharp who founded bomp records that produced you know, everything from the Ramones to modern garage music, and I thought that Something would occur there and I'd find my way or I would fall into a band playing guitar. And in just everywhere I went, it was just not meant to happen. And it wasn't until about the late 80s, about 89, that I decided to simply drop out of all of it. And I got in my car, and I drove up to Central Coast, California. And I found a group of people up there that seemed friendly enough, and I decided to just stay and start my life all over. And when I started my life all over, I decided I would just leave behind any presuppositions I had about people in the world and how I should be in the world and how things should be and music and all of that. And it was like a personal rebirth in a way. And I spent a lot of time in Big Sur, and I spent a lot of time in San Luis Obispo and that area, Cambria. And I really started to to get into different areas, literature and food and understand people's stories. And I felt like at that point, there was a major transition that occurred in me and I realized that the one thing I had to do was go back to school, and to really learn this time. And so I eventually did that I went back to school. And I did very well in school. And I took a course that is now you know, kind of a very well known course, at Cuesta College, a several year course in the history of civilization, I became friends with the professors, I would hang out with them, I was just a sponge for everything around me. And I felt like that really, really propelled me forward and saved me in a lot of ways. And education to me seemed like the right direction. And it's interesting because I did go on to study at Berkeley, I got my MFA, I got my PhD later on. And I'm still friends with my, with my, my group of, you know, girlfriends and pals and everyone from the punk scene and the garage scene. And it is fascinating to see how different we all became. Most of them are still into music and publishing and recording. And I've definitely built a much different life for myself after all of that not to say it's better, just, I'm not sure where I would have ended up if I hadn't had taken that move out of California, or out of Southern California. Marc Gutman 32:58This episode brought to you by Wildstory. Wait, isn't that your company? It is. And without the generous support of Wildstory, this show would not be possible. A brand isn't a logo or a tagline. or even your product or a brand is a person's gut feeling about a product service or company. It's what people say about you when you're not in the room. Wildstory helps progressive founders and savvy marketers build purpose driven brands that connect their business goals with the customers they want to serve. So that both the business and the customer needs are met. This results in crazy, happy, loyal customers that purchase again and again. And this is great for business. If that sounds like something you and your team might want to learn more about, reach out @ www.wildstory.com. And we'd be happy to tell you more. Now back to our show. And thank you for going into that and extrapolating that that journey, I mean, that was going to be my question and looking at your bio and looking at your history as you were talking and telling me that you weren't a good student. And you kind of went on this journey in to New York City to get into, you know, the music scene and I'm looking at your bio, and I'm like, at what point did you get this like thirst for learning? And it really is like the tale of two Jambas you know, and it's, it's interesting, and you very eloquently referred to it as a rebirth and a new awakening. I mean, can you get into a little bit more specifics as to like what flipped the switch for you? Jamba Dunn 34:39I think it was, wasn't about subject matter which schools before me had always been about. It was about people and structures. And I started meeting people who are professors who really took the time With me, whereas nobody had when I was younger and, and they took me under their wing a little bit, and they told me or I was going wrong. And they pointed out areas where I should maybe think about focusing. And they asked me what I was interested in, and what I liked about their courses, or what I liked about studying. And in a lot of ways, I realized I didn't understand my own desires. You know, growing up, it was easy to have a sense of rage and a sense of feeling on the outside and feeling like the whole rest of the world was entitled. And, you know, here I was, though, being asked, What do you want? And I didn't know. And so, school gave me the opportunity to start learning about the world in a way that I think, you know, hopefully my children get that now in really connecting to pieces here and pieces over there, and going back to these professors and asking them, hey, do you have more of this, or this is what I like, can you direct me and getting that direction, and really just feeling like I was on a kind of a journey. And interestingly, even though for the first time I was having this revelation of about education, and about all the different things that were going on in the world around me, and all the different avenues that I could take. My parents still didn't fully understand what I was doing, or why I was doing it. Because if, you know, in their eyes, you weren't studying to become a mechanic or to fix a machine or to become a doctor or to do something that was a position in the world that they knew about, then it just seemed irrelevant to them. And I remember even when I graduated from UC Berkeley, and I had been studying Egyptology and several other areas for years and years and talking about it, every time I saw them, they thought that I had gotten a degree in sociology. And when I told them, I didn't they, they just couldn't understand it. And they would be like, yeah, yeah, well, we'll just like pretend that you've got a degree in sociology, because I have no idea what you're talking about. And this huge divide opened up between myself and my parents. And if it wasn't there already, in the early days, it was definitely there then. And it opened up between not only myself and my parents, but myself and the rest of my family as well. My cousin who is my age who decided to surf instead of going to school. I remembered him saying things like, you know, you come around here with your big words, and nobody can understand you. And it was a huge divide in my life education. But it was something I was passionate about. And something that I decided was more important than a lot of the relationships I had at the time. So I pursued education. Marc Gutman 38:11Yeah, and I feel like we could spend hours talking about this topic. So I'll just shift gears a little bit and I want to move into kombucha and I want to know, When was the first time that you even heard of kombucha or even realized kombucha was a thing? Jamba Dunn 38:32Yeah. Interesting. So because there are a lot of lives that lead up to kombucha You know, a lot of my past, basically, that leads me to Boulder, and I'm at Boulder. I'm in Boulder and I had been teaching at a university here. And I remember going to a Whole Foods Market in 2009. And there's good old Steve o from high country kombucha standing by the kombucha set, handing out free bottles of kombucha. And, you know, I took one and he he told me a little bit about what kombucha was. And I could tell that he really, you know, he had kind of a stick and he wanted to like, tell talk with somebody. And so I hung out with him for a little bit. And he told me how I can take a bottle of his kombucha, pour it into a jar, put a lid over it, you know, or cloth over it and set it on the counter and grow scoby and eventually, I could make my own kombucha. And it sounded very abstract to me at the time, I did not comprehend how it was possible to take something off of the shelf of the grocery store and grow it and turn it into basically an engine for making more of that product. And so I brought it home and instead of making it I decided just to kind of drink it and you know that maybe someday in the future. I would do something else with that knowledge. But it wasn't until a few years later in 2011, that I was brewing a lot of beer in my garage at the time, my wife had given me a beer brewing kit. And it was something that had always interested me. And my daughter came walking into the garage. And so what I was doing, and I told her, I was brewing beer. And she asked, Well, is there you know, can you make me so Can I have some? And I said, Well, no, it's alcohol. And she didn't know what that was. And I told her, it wasn't for kids. And she got really sad and asked if, you know, there was something that I could make for her. And at that time, I kind of looked around the room, and I realized, I could spending a lot of my time in the garage, making beer and other things and getting really into this. And here's my sweet little three year old, you know, and I'm not spending time with her doing anything for her. And so I remembered back to Steve O. And I thought, well, this is going to be easy. I'll just take a, you know, bottle of kombucha and I'll put a thing over the top. And I'll make some for my daughter. And so I did that. And I did it with several different brands. And I realized that only one out of three of those brands actually started to grow. And I think that was the point at which I started wondering Hmm, like, what is this actually? And why didn't those other ones grow? And so I started to reach out for information. And I found that there was not much information about kombucha at that time. And I think that seeing that there was a lack of information and knowing that kombucha was a growing category, it just immediately fed my curiosity, and I had to get into it. Marc Gutman 41:48And so up to this point, between that and your first interaction with Steve, I get that right, Steve? Oh, is Yeah, keep thinking Steve. From the jackass movies. That's what keeps coming into my, into my head. But um, so I was like, I was like, I can't be here. So you have this experience with Steve Oh, and and all the way to when your daughter puts you on the spot and says, Hey, what about me? Like, what's your relationship with kombucha? Between there? I mean, you have a relationship? Are you consuming it regularly? Is it just this thing that's like, kind of out in the consciousness and you know about it, but you're not really into it? Like, what's your relationship with kombucha at that point? Jamba Dunn 42:26So yeah, it's, it's interesting. I remember that that day, when I went to the market, and I got my first kombucha and, and I remember going up to the car and drinking it and feeling like man, like, I don't really know what this is. It's kind of like a soda. It's kind of sour. I'm not sure if I actually like this. And then it was a couple of weeks later that I, I remember, I've been doing some kind of like hard work, and I was really exhausted and overheated. And I went to Whole Foods again. And I was walking around trying to find something that would quench my thirst. And I thought, whoa, the kombucha maybe I'll try that again. And so I went out to my car, and I closed the door, and I drank it. And I started drinking. And I mean, I took a couple of sips. And then all of a sudden, it just was like this, this like drive where I just downed the rest of the bottle. And I sat there like, wow, that was really interesting. That wasn't just a beverage that was kind of an experience. And I went back into the market, and I bought another bottle and went back out to my car and thought, well, this one, I'm just going to kind of sip and I downed it completely again. And I thought What is this, there's got to be something here that you know, is just very, very different than anything I've ever had. And that kind of sat at the back of my mind. And when I started brewing kombucha from my daughter, I was kind of taking a passive role. Like, I don't know what this is, you know, don't really care what it is. I've had it, it tasted good. But something about my daughter in the way that she was reacting to kombucha. She was getting really, really hyper and running around the house. The next morning, She'd wake up early, and she'd have her little cup and she'd be standing by the area where I was brewing kombucha, wanting more. And I was thinking, well, this is unusual. Like, she kind of has that same reaction that I remembered having, you know, years before in the car. And so, you know, I I didn't fully grasp what fermentation was what the beverage was. And so it was at that time in 2011, that I started really asking questions and I went around I look for all the literature, I read everything I could find. I went to the University, I read everything that they had on file. I started reaching out to kombucha companies and talking with CEOs and founders of other kombucha companies. Then, in 2012, I started paying people and offering $100 if someone would sit down and talk to me for 30 minutes, and what I quickly realized was that here are people that had thriving businesses that were actually doing quite well at the time. But not all of them understood what it was that they were doing or what kombucha was. A lot of people still thought it was kind of like a mystical thing that happens, you just kind of, you know, you put it into this jar, and you mix this in here, and you close the door, and then voila, there you go kombucha, you know, and, but nobody could tell me exactly what it was or exactly what the processes were, or why it was that it was making my daughter extremely hyperactive. And so that's where I really took a huge interest in kombucha and decided to go out and hire a microbiologist and a brewer and we work together to fully understand what was going on and what they helped me understand what was going on in the process. And I started looking for ways to hack that process. So you know, having gone through, you know, years of university and having gotten my doctorate in, in research, basically in philosophy, I had the ability to to understand when when I saw Bs, and what I was reading on a lot of websites at the time about the history of kombucha just smacked of total BS, there were no historical records there were, there was nothing that I could find at that time, that basically corroborated the idea that this is 2000 years old, except for the fact that I had studied ancient history. And I did know that there were lots of vinegar, I guess, drinks and attributes from the ancient world. And maybe this was kind of like those, but to relate what kombucha was today with those ancient elixirs just seemed not right to me, and something seemed odd about it. And so I did get heavily involved with this microbiologist in understanding that kombucha is basically a semiotic relationship between yeast and bacteria, the yeast consume sugar, that's you make a sweet tea with sugar in it. And you put in a starter culture and the yeast break down the sugars or oxidize the sugars and create alcohol, and the bacterial strains translate that alcohol into different types of acids. And so you end up hopefully with a low alcohol, low sugar beverage at the end. But that turns out not to be the case, oh, and low caffeine as well. And so what I did was I looked at all of the misunderstandings that occurred with kombucha around that time. And granted in 2012, we did a market research survey, and it showed that only 5% of Americans actually knew what kombucha was at the time. So a very small subset of people. And there were a lot of misunderstandings about it. People thought that by the end of the process, that it had no alcohol, that it had almost no sugar, and that it had no caffeine. And so I decided, I knew a little bit about research, and I could talk with people at research institutions and laboratories. And we could do some tests. And we could sort of prove that out. And so I started taking in my homebrews. And they showed that they were wildly, wildly out of spec, they were high on alcohol, they were high on sugar they had, you know, all these things that I didn't want. And so trying to figure out how the market leaders were doing it became a sort of obsession for me. Marc Gutman 49:20And at what point did you take obsession in in sort of this garage mythology and mad scientist tinkering in your garage for the joy of your daughter and following your own obsession? And at what point were you like, Oh, this is a business. I'm gonna like make a run at this. Jamba Dunn 49:38Well, let's see. The first inkling about potentially turning this into something else was definitely in 2012 when a market survey came out, saying that over the next five years that they they thought that kombucha was going to turn into a $500 million a year business with seemed just crazy to me at the time, because there were only a few kombucha companies. So there weren't that many companies and certainly, you know, only a couple of market leaders. And so it seemed like there was a lot of open space for other brands to get in. But I didn't have anything to offer at the time. So I couldn't make anything that was in spec. I certainly didn't make anything that was different from what the market leaders were doing at the time. And it wasn't until I think, mid 2012, that I got in touch with a brewer who had been the brewer for another major kombucha company. And she and I decided that I would lease a warehouse and she would come and help me with recipes, even though she wasn't very interested in doing that. And we rented a warehouse space and in 2013, started, really just doing iterations on different flavors, and herbs and herbs and plants was a place that I'd always been very interested. And pursuing. I've been growing a lot of herbs, I've been making a lot of teas. And so I decided to start taking some of those flavors from the TEAS I was making and her knowledge of herbs from India and other places. And we started building these recipes. And, you know, we would do iterations that would be you know, like 30 different batches of the same type of thing with, you know, one gram of ingredient less in every bucket, and really doing kind of this like pseudo scientific research and seeing if we couldn't land on something. Granted, I was doing all of this and throwing out hundreds of gallons of kombucha at a time because I had nobody to take it. And I still at that point wasn't thinking that I would turn this into a business. And it wasn't until we really hit on a series of recipes, and a series of methods for making kombucha that were really different from anything I'd ever tasted in the market. It was less acidic, it had low sugar, it did have low alcohol, although tended to waver sometimes depending on barometric pressure, temperature, other types of things. But it was relatively stable. And it tasted great. And suddenly I had people all around me asking if I would sell it to them? or could they come by and fill up their milk carton full of it. And it was at that point that I realized, we've got something like I've got something here. And wouldn't it be interesting to make the first plant based kombucha and really, instead of relying on the probiotics as the reason for believing in the beverage, put together these recipes that were based on age old herbal wisdom, and create herbal recipes, functional recipes, the based off of the herbs themselves, and use the kombucha as a sort of background for highlighting the ingredients that we were putting in. And if I could make a three year old or however old she was at that time, love it, then I knew that I would have a certain audience in America that would like this. And so I decided to drop everything that I was doing, and really just put 110% into building this business. And so that was in 2013. And it took me until April of 2014 to actually get the tasting room up and running. I and rowdy mermaid was born. Marc Gutman 53:57And where did the name come from? Jamba Dunn 53:59So when I decided to break into my family that I was going to leave my my stable job at Rosetta Stone and start a kombucha company. I took my family down to these hot springs in Colorado. And I'll never forget my daughter was really out of control at the the hot springs playing mermaid. Although it sounded much more like a dolphin to me. And she was making these dolphin noises and jumping over people's heads etc. And she was just really high on life and having the best time ever. And I was in an another pool and I told my wife Hey, listen, I got some news. I'm going to start my own business. And the first question out of her mouth was what do you call it? And I hadn't put any thought into that whatsoever. And right at that moment, I remember my daughter was jumping over someone's head into one of the hot springs. And I had to turn to her and say, Hey, sweetie, stop what you're doing. You're being very rowdy. mermaid. And that phrase rowdy Mermaid, just it went into a little room in my head and just stayed in there. And I didn't believe that that was going to be the name. So I actually went out and hired agencies to come up with names, and I did crowdsourcing for names, etc, etc. And it wasn't until a while longer later that I think I was speaking with the CEO of another kombucha company. And he told me, you know, like, you have to use a name that is authentic. Otherwise, you know, what are you doing in this industry? Right, because everything we do is based on authenticity. And I realized he was absolutely right. So I would use rowdy Mermaid, because it was for my daughter, after all, but I had to figure out some way to keep it from being rowdy and keep it from having mermaids because I didn't want it to turn into craft beer. And so I found myself in artists, and we went out and worked on the the logo and the branding. And we came up with something based off of Nordic minimalism, and I felt like we got it to a very good place. And here we are today. Marc Gutman 56:14Yeah, and I love it. And I think that, you know, it has this real kind of Explorer, you know, take me to other worlds take me to someplace new experience. And you mentioned, you know, all the different ingredients that you've been using, both at the beginning and probably today in your kombucha, like, you know, herbs from India and different plants and all these different things. So it has this real kind of like, take me to lands far away feel and I was going to ask you about the unique Oh, and some of the unique characters in your branding and in your, you know, typography and stuff like that, but that Oh, so from what I'm gathering is Nordic and and what do you call that? Jamba Dunn 56:56Um, so that, that no, you're talking about the newest font that we use from the it's, it's a Montreal font, that that's part of the brand new branding from here studio in California. But the real brand came from that original, what we call the logo lockup, which is the the tail and water. And that's kind of interesting story, maybe a long one, but I'll see if I can cut, cut it quick. I wanted something that represented both my interest in Nordic minimalism, and also the brand, the rowdy Mermaid, and also my interest in Egyptology. That's what I had been studying at Berkeley. So we decided to go with the tail with the water under it on three straight lines like that would represent water. Three wavy lines also in Egyptology represent water, but a straight line represents somebody's name. And so we decided to do the tail with a straight line under it not only to represent a mermaid tail coming out of water, but also to really define mermaid in that instance, just the way you do it with cartouche. And because I didn't want anything to be too rowdy, we decided to put the lockup around it. And that's how that was born. But there's also if you turn it on its side, a hidden k in there for kombucha. And we went back and forth for a long time about whether or not we should turn it on its side to show the K. Or just keep that as a secret. And we decided to keep that as a secret. Marc Gutman 58:40Well, thanks for sharing the secret. I see it now. And I can't unsee it. And I love it. And thank you for going into it. That's great. I love it. And I think that that's just such a great lesson and a great logos that has meaning beyond just it being assemble. And you really were thoughtful and it really whether or not we ever knew that it has roots in your Egyptology studies and passions like it's there. And I think that's just you know, what a great a great Mark does, and I love it. I love your brand and your branding. And so you started in the garage, you didn't set out to be you know, you're kind of like an accidental kombucha guy. And what does the company look like today? I mean, it started with you in the garage just kind of Ruin and now you actually have a like a company like what does that look like? Jamba Dunn 59:28Yeah, well, it's it's not uncommon for entrepreneurs as I've been finding over the years, but to find yourself in this situation where you feel, you know, a little bit like an imposter because you're right. You know, we started in my garage and we started with a concept and we started with a lot of research and not much else, not much money. It was a hard struggle for many years with me doing everything at the business from you know, bookkeeping and answering During the emails to making the kombucha and making the deliveries myself, the only people who worked for the company for the first couple of years were just volunteers. And so that was pretty much the way it was. I had, I think two full time employees in 2017, 16 started in 2016. And in November 2016, I fell, had a horrible fall and broke my arm. And I had complications from that. And I could no longer do all the jobs. And so I had to bring people in. And the first person I brought in was my wife, who was a wonderful sales woman. And she helped build a sales team and and I stepped away from doing manufacturing and production and started really focusing on the business itself. And what do we want? And where do we want to go and put together a plan that we're still following today. And today, we're in 48 states, we've got a vibrant team of about 30 people. I've got incredible team members, both people from the brewing industry here in Boulder, who are very experimental brewers. My first taproom salesperson is now our Director of Sales operations. And she's fantastic. We have a VP of Sales and Marketing who came from background and Coke and Pepsi. And we've got a food service person who just came over from Clif Bar, and we've got a really vibrant, interesting culture happening now. And I just I absolutely love it. And I get to finally step back again from a lot of the day to day and, and really help guide the business towards what I feel like we should be focusing on. And I just, I feel like that's my happy place. And it's a wonderful, wonderful life now, very different from our starting years. Marc Gutman 1:02:06It's taken a lot of sweat and a lot of a lot of risk and sometimes some desperation so I can I can relate. So john, as we come to a close here, I want to thank you so much for for sharing your story. And as you think back I have one last question for you if that young, eight year old jumbo who is in Huntington Beach and kind of feeling awkward and straddling two worlds I ran into you today. What do you think he'd say? Jamba Dunn 1:02:37Stay away from cars, I would tell him that he should not lose hope and should not be angry about the way things are. Because if it's one thing I've learned over the course of my life, it's that everything changes, and you've really, really got to learn how to enjoy the ride. Otherwise, it's never going to be very much fun. Marc Gutman 1:03:06And that is Jamba Dunn, of rowdy mermaid. The day after we recorded this episode, I received an email from Jamba. And with His permission, I am going to read it on edited Marc, Thanks again for the conversation today. It was fun. Although I woke up last night filled with a sense that I missed so many opportunities, and perhaps didn't paint the right picture. I wanted to get it off my chest. My father and grandfather are entrepreneurs and inventors. And although I wanted to do anything but follow in their footsteps is they lived externally difficult lives. And we often had our power shut off, or we had to hide from collection agencies when times were tough. Entrepreneur ism was for good or for ill in my bloodstream. You asked about me at eight years old, and I later recalled my father working all night repairing typewriters and photocopy equipment in the garage. He was also a master mechanic. And he had a side hustle of buying, repairing and upgrading old cars that he'd sell. And weekends when I was eight, I'd visit my grandfather who 20 years before had invented a device for squeezing all the toothpaste from the tube and who ran the manufacturing company. And so the idea was stolen out from under him. And he was always working on new devices, when I recall was for controlling the television from his chair using strings and another for generating custom address signs which he later sold door to door. So while I was unsure of who I was or what I wanted at that age, and later I would rebel by getting into the punk and Garage Band scenes. I was also subtly ingesting a sort of anti establishment agenda that will become crucial to my mental blueprint when dreaming up the structure for my own company. Where we are a flat organization, and everyone has a say in how we progress. Although my parents were somewhat shut off from the outside, they also valued Straight Talk. My father, for instance, always loved the waitress who would tell him he looked like crap. And who would ask if he slept under a bridge the night before? Because some days he did look rough, and he loved that honesty. Looking back, he had a level of personal transparency that has become a hallmark of rowdy mermaid. So while at first, it all seems superficial and not very pleasant living with my parents when I was eight, growing up in a vibrant and changing Orange County. It also taught me the lessons I needed to be successful in 2020. Best, Jamba. Thanks for adding that Jamba. We do appreciate it. And the thing that keeps sticking with me after our conversation is the focus on your daughter, brewing kombucha, to get her involved her rambunctious nature being not only the namesake of the company, but the essence of the brand as well. And that's the thing about truly authentic brands. They're part of the people that build them. They're living, breathing feeling entities, and even when you don't know like the little tidbit about the rowdy mermaid logo Mark being a nod to Egyptian hieroglyphics or the hidden k in the white space that symbolizes kombucha. You know, you can feel it, sense it, believe it. Believe in the promise that the brand is making, just in the way that I believe in rowdy mermaid. I will link to all things rowdy mermaid in the show notes so you can find and drink some of this delicious kombucha goodness for yourself. And a big big thank you to john but done and the team at rowdy mermaid. Keep brewing kombucha that means something kombucha that is changing the world. And if you know the guests who should appear on our show, please drop me a line at podcast@wildstory.com our best guess like Jamba come from referrals from past guests and our listeners. Well that's the show. Until next time, make sure to visit our website www.wildstorm.com where you can subscribe to the show in iTunes, Stitcher or via RSS see you'll never miss an episode a lot big stories and I cannot lie you other storytellers can't deny.

Hometown Radio 11/03/20 5p: Cuesta College Trustee Peter Sysak is in trouble over his social media posts

Award winning journalist Cyrus Saatsaz and TV producer Jerry Perez hosts the SLOCal podcast and in episode five they're joined by journalists Michael Costa, Peyton Gadbury, Hannah Halferty, Ellie Amesse and Jo Acquafresca of The Cuestonian to discuss L.A.'s recent sports dominance, the election and the beauty of drive-in movie theaters.

Hometown Radio 09/28/20 4p: Gil Stork remembers Dr. Frank Martinez, former Cuesta College president, who passed away on Sunday

Anita speaks with Jim Dritsas of Dritsas and Company and Dr Jill Stearns, President of Cuesta College.

Award winning journalist Cyrus Saatsaz hosts the SLOCal podcast and in this introductory episode he's joined by his longtime friend, news producer and San Luis Obispo local Jerry Perez to break down what the podcast is about and what listeners can expect with future shows.

Dr. Jill Stearns, the President of Cuesta College, is Anita's guest.

In this episode, are excited to be joined on today’s podcast by Colorado Rockies Data and Game Planning Coordinator and former Big League infielder, Doug Bernier. A California native, Bernier’s baseball career included success at every single level. After college baseball stops at Cuesta College and Oral Roberts University, Bernier started an incredible 16-year professional baseball career, which included 4 seasons in the Majors and over 1500 professional games. Bernier and his wife, Sarah, generously give back to the game through Pro Baseball Insider (probaseballinsider.com), an organization providing free instruction for aspiring ballplayers given directly from professional players. In addition to talking with Doug about how he maintained consistency and focus during the ups and downs of the better part of 2 decades in professional baseball, we pick his brain about his days as a professional scout and now a coach with the Rockies Big League squad. You won't want to miss this one! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/keep-playing-baseball/support

Welcome to another edition of the Aquarium Drunkard Transmissions podcast, our weekly interview show featuring artists reflecting on their creative process, history, and work. This week, counter culture icon David Crosby. Anyone familiar with his Twitter feed knows Croz is a fount of opinions and insight, capable of immense warmth and good humor, but never one to pull punches. On July 31st, he’s reissuing the catalog of CPR, his cheekily named late ’90s and early 2000s supergroup with guitarist Jeff Pevar and Crosby’s son, keyboardist James Raymond. Alongside the trio’s two studio albums, 1998’s CPR and 2001’s Just Like Gravity, two live albums, Live at Cuesta College and Live at the Wiltern (featuring guest musicians Graham Nash, Marc Cohn, and Phil Collins) round out the overview of the group that set Crosby off on a late career renaissance that continues with recent albums like 2018’s Here If You Listen. A quick note. Crosby spoke with Transmissions co-host Jason P. Woodbury as the mass Black Lives Matter that began in late May were beginning. The conversation does not reflect the remarkable events of the last few weeks. The latest issues of our Sidecar newsletter is dedicated specifically to the inspirational struggle for justice happening in the streets of America right now.

https://mufon.com Jeff Krause has been interested in the subject of U.F.O.s ever since a couple of experiences in his younger years. He has studied computer science, physics, and electronic engineering at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo, CA, and has been a professional musician since 1976. Winner of multiple awards for photography, his interests returned to the U.F.O. field after hearing an episode of Coast To Coast A.M. with Art Bell back in 2000 when he interviewed John Lear. Earl Grey Anderson is MUFON’s California Assistant State Director, Chief Investigator, and a member of Kathleen Marden’s Experiencer Research Team. Earl has personally closed over 400 UFO cases, some of which have been featured in The MUFON Journal, as well as in various editions of the ‘MUFON’ Best Cases’ annual publication. GET YOUR STUCCI'S CIGARS!!! USE CODE "MEATBALL' FOR 20% OFF AND FREE SHIPPING 5 Pack: $47.25 10 Pack: $89.95 Call Jen to order at (727) 290-8492 DONATE: https://paypal.me/RocciStucci STEM CELLS (CODE: Rocci or Rocky for discount): https://www.stemlightcenter.com/ https://www.southernstem.com/ KickAss Beef Jerky (Code: meatball for 10% off) https://kickassbeefjerky.com Verve Forever (CBD): http://bit.ly/2QIDBJN Larson's Quality Jigs: https://www.larsonsqualityjigs.com/ My Patriot Supply - http://bit.ly/2U9eTDL StemFood https://inspire.stemcellholistics.com Rocci's Private FB: https://www.facebook.com/RocciStucciSr Rocci Stucci Media FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/RocciStucciMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roccistucci/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Rocci_Stucci

You can help support this podcast by making a donation via PayPal.If you’re a coach, join our slack channel! The conversations are great and we have some webinars as well! Buy Fredric Durand’s book Water Polo Legends: 50 Amazing StoriesThank you to everyone that has taken the time to leave a review, send me an email or send me a tweet. It has truly meant the world to me!Remember you can reach me on twitter @stevecarrera and on instagram @stevecarrera and you can email me stevegcarrera@gmail.com************************************************************************************************************************Ethan Damato on TwitterFor SETWPC.comEthan Damato began his water polo career at Laguna Beach High School where he was a two time All CIF Player in 1999 & 2000. After graduating Damato played 2 years at Cuesta College where he was a 2 time All Conference Player. Damato became the Head Coach of Laguna Beach High School's Boys & Girls Water Polo Teams in 2008. Since taking over the Breakers have made 6 consecutive CIF Semi Final Appearances, winning CIF Championships in 2008 with the girls and in 2010 & 2011 with the boys team. Damato was named the CIF Coach of the Year in 2008, 2009, 2010 & 2011. He was named OC Register Coach of the Year in 2009 & 2010. Damato joined the SET coaching Staff in 2010, he is currently the head Coach of the 16 U Girls and the Club's Technical Director. Along with coaching at LBHS & SET, Damato is also the 12th Grade U girls ODP Head Coach for the Sopac Zone and the Head coach for the Women’s Youth National Team.

Hometown Radio 05/20/20 3:30p: Wes Martin from Cuesta College Community Programs

What's happening at Cuesta College? President Dr. Jill Stearns calls in to talk about Registration, Graduation, and more!

Abductions, The Battle of LA, SloUFO and much more with Jeff Krause and Earl Grey from MUFON. https://mufon.com Jeff Krause has been interested in the subject of U.F.O.s ever since a couple of experiences in his younger years. He has studied computer science, physics, and electronic engineering at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo, CA, and has been a professional musician since 1976. Winner of multiple awards for photography, his interests returned to the U.F.O. field after hearing an episode of Coast To Coast A.M. with Art Bell back in 2000 when he interviewed John Lear. As one of the first researchers to get to the Chualar crop circle, Jeff was able to obtain photographs, HD Video, magnetometer readings, and plant samples, and heard firsthand what spectators and people who worked in the area had to say about the mysterious pattern. That story was covered by Linda Moulton Howe, in three parts, on her website: www.earthfiles.com Since then Jeff has become not only a Field Investigator for MUFON, but is also the State Director MUFON So CA, and a member of the MUFON STAR Team. He kicked off MUFON Tri-County on November 2nd,2014 with a very special guest speaker from “Ancient Aliens”, Mike Bara. Jeff has also investigated many fascinating cases, the most notable “The SLO UFO”, and the “Encounter At Edwards”, articles about which can be found on the UFO Digest website: www.ufodigest.com Author of the blog, “The Field Investigator’s Tool Box”, Jeff is currently working on two books, “The Field Investigator’s Tool Box: Vol. 1”, and “The SLO UFO”. Earl Grey Anderson is MUFON’s California Assistant State Director, Chief Investigator, and a member of Kathleen Marden’s Experiencer Research Team. Earl has personally closed over 400 UFO cases, some of which have been featured in The MUFON Journal, as well as in various editions of the ‘MUFON’ Best Cases’ annual publication. Earl has guested on multiple radio shows and podcasts, has been featured on The Travel Channel special, ‘Storming Area 51’, and does various speaking engagements on the UFO phenomenon. Earl is also a professional musician; a recording artist/singer/songwriter/lead-guitarist, and plays gigs throughout the southland.   A native of Los Angeles, Earl Grey lives in the West San Fernando Valley with his wife, Lisa Johnson, and his two cats, Gigi and Thor. StemFood https://inspire.stemcellholistics.com DONATE: https://paypal.me/RocciStucci Rocci Stucci: http://StreamingTalkRadio.com STEM CELLS (CODE: Rocci or Rocky for discount): https://www.stemlightcenter.com/ https://www.southernstem.com/ KickAss Beef Jerky (Code: meatball for 10% off) https://kickassbeefjerky.com Verve Forever (CBD): http://bit.ly/2QIDBJN Larson's Quality Jigs: https://www.larsonsqualityjigs.com/ My Patriot Supply - http://bit.ly/2U9eTDL

Hometown Radio 12/19/19 4:35p: Wes Martin from Cuesta College Community Programs

Hometown Radio 11/12/19 3:30p: Warren Balfour previews upcoming Cuesta College concert

Hometown Radio 10/29/19 3:30p: Cuesta college students preview their upcoming play

Sophia & Melissa came by to talk about "The Mystery of the Loose Moose"... now playing at Cuesta. Sounds like a Fun Play!

Today on the show we have Troy Silva. Troy played baseball at Cuesta College and Lewis-Clark State college before being drafted by the Cleveland indians. He played professional baseball for six years before being forced to retire after two arm surgeries. He then started teaching at Rijo Athletics where he teaches baseball and softball players hitting and fielding. He also teaches coaches and parents about how to teach and motivate their players and children. Troy also runs the baseball family podcast where Troy and his wife share their experiences as a baseball family. We talk more about the podcast today on the show along with how coaches can make baseball fun for their players, how to build confidence, how to avoid unrealistic expectations, and much more.

Jeff Alexander from Cuesta College came by to talk about Cuesta Welcome Days... kicking off this weekend.

Hometown Radio 05/02/19 3p: Cuesta College launches a production of "Behind the Ides"

"CHRISTMAS IS YOU," a Loose Bruce Kerr a 5-part jazz cappella original, scored by Zach Yaholkovsky, as sung here by the Jazz Vocal Ensemble of San Ramon Valley High School (California) under the direction of Ken Abrams. Dec. 13, 2018. Credits roll at end. Several college & high school a cappella groups have sung this romantic holiday song over the last 4 years (e.g., Cuesta College, San Jose State, Mt. Eden High School, Waukesha South High School in Wisconsin), and now this performance. Direct inquiries to BKerrLaw@aol.com. My thanks to Ken Abrams & the kids at San Ramon Valley High School who sang it this past season. Great job! Bruce Kerr is currently a lawyer at Oracle in Rocklin, CA, having resumed his day job after a 20 year career performing and writing music. Back in the day, he opened for "Weird Al" Yankovic. More videos & mp3's at loosebrucekerr.com Newest originals available on iTunes and store.cdbaby.com. Bruce is originally from Waukesha, Wisconsin, home to Les Paul. email: BKerrLaw@aol.com

This is the first installment of a two-part interview. Today we had the pleasure of interviewing Alex Fagalde. Alex has had a very interesting baseball journey. From being cut from his high school baseball team to walking on at Cuesta College, to earning a scholarship at UC Riverside, to being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals, Alex Fagalde's journey should be a benchmark for the amount grit and work it takes to make one's dream a reality. We sat down to talk about that journey with the hope that it can inspire you, the listener.

How to communicate your big idea in 90 seconds Sarah Keas and Haley Pavone, winners of the CIE Elevator Pitch Competition sat with Mark and Patrick to talk about the road leading to the competition. About the Elevator Pitch Competition: Hosted each fall, the Cal Poly Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship's Elevator Pitch Competition allows undergraduate and graduate students to share product ideas, innovative services or a startup plan at any stage of development. This year the 7th Annual Elevator Pitch Competition took place on Nov. 9 at the Performing Arts Center Pavilion. New this year was the addition of Cuesta College, which submitted their top four student companies. Students across all majors were encouraged to apply. Entries from 50 Cal Poly students were whittled down to the top six, who presented their ideas in a high-pressure, fast-paced, 90-second pitch to the judges, all startup founders. Cal Poly student, Haley Pavone, the founder, and CEO of PashionFootwear, is developing a convertible high-heel shoe now undergoing research and development in the CIE's Hatchery program. She was the top pick of a panel of four judges for the $1,000 prize. In addition, she received the $500 Audience Choice award. Cuesta College student, Sarah Keas, received the $1,000 top prize. Her Breathe Bans proposal offers a new take on a device that provides emergency shots for allergic reactions that are more convenient to carry and use because of its small size and versatile design.

"CHRISTMAS IS YOU" (AUDIO) is a Loose Bruce Kerr original song as arranged by college student (U. of North TX) Zach Yaholkovsky in 5-part jazz a cappella harmony. [the video for this song also appears here on loosebrucekerr.com] In this recent video performance from Dec. 3, 2016, a cappella group "VOCE" of Cuesta College in central California, under Director John Knutson, sings Bruce's song in their holiday season concert. Earbuds or headphones encouraged for max. stereo effect. Loose Bruce Kerr took 20 years off his legal career to write, record, and perform music across the country and the Caribbean. He's resumed his day career and works at Oracle in Silicon Valley. Before Oracle, Bruce was Assistant General Counsel at Sun Microsystems. Bruce records his original songs and parodies, multi-tracking 1 vocal and 1 instrument at a time in his garage in Morgan Hill, CA. He is originally from Waukesha, Wisconsin, home of Les Paul who invented multi-track recording. High res videos and audio mp3's of Bruce's are available to download for free from his podcast page: loosebrucekerr.com Email Bruce at: BKerrLaw@aol.com

"CHRISTMAS IS YOU" (video + song) by Loose Bruce Kerr 5-part jazz a cappella arrangement: Zach Yaholkovsky Sung by Cuesta College's "VOCE" 3Dec2016   "CHRISTMAS IS YOU" is a Loose Bruce Kerr original song as arranged by college student (U. of North TX) Zach Yaholkovsky in 5-part jazz a cappella harmony. In this recent video performance from Dec. 3, 2016, a cappella group "VOCE" of Cuesta College in central California, under Director John Knutson, sings Bruce's song in their holiday season concert. Earbuds or headphones encouraged for max. stereo effect. Email Bruce at: BKerrLaw@aol.com    

What do you know about DNA?  Have you had your DNA tested and still have questions about your results? Join producer and host Bernice Bennett and co-host Victoria Massie for an engaging discussion with ethicist, author, and lecturer David R. Dowell on his book NextGen Genealogy: The DNA Connection. David R. Dowell was an academic librarian for 35 years. He has 2 degrees in history and 2 in library science. He has researched family histories since the 1960s. He is an ethicist, lecturer and author whose two most recent books are Crash Course in Genealogy (2011) and NextGen Genealogy: The DNA Connection (2014). He formerly taught “Genealogy Research” and “Ethics in the Information Age” at Cuesta College and chaired the Genealogy Committee and the Committee on Professional Ethics of the American Library Association. He blogs on genealogical topics as “Dr. D Digs Up Ancestors” at http://blog.ddowell.com. He coordinates two surname and one haplogroup DNA research projects. Dr. Dowell has taught library science courses face-to-face and online for 15 years and made presentations to local, regional and national library groups. He has taught genealogy research classes in both California and Tennessee and made presentations on genetic genealogy to community groups and local genealogy societies in California, Illinois and Tennessee. He is currently lecturing on genealogy research for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Vanderbilt University.