Podcasts about Jeff Hunt

Mike Irish is his actual name. Welcome to my episode with the current (it no longer works to say “new”) owner of one of my favorite places in San Francisco—Emmy's Spaghetti Shack. I'm not sure where to begin, but I suppose a sprinkle of backstory can't hurt. Back in 2022, I recorded an episode with Emmy Kaplan, then the owner and forever the founder of Emmy's. It was a fun interview, and through that chat with Emmy, we discovered that we had been across-the-street neighbors in the Mission back in the early 2000s. Fast-forward to summer 2024 when I applied to be on KQED's Check Please! Bay Area and rated Emmy's as my No. 1 pick among the three spots I proposed. Then a funny thing happened—before we shot the Check Please episode, Emmy sold her restaurant to one of the bartenders at the place—Mike Irish. That brings us to this episode. From the first time Erin and I met Mike at the bar at Emmy's, I knew I liked the dude. Now let's get to know Mike together as he approaches the one-year mark of owning his first restaurant, an SF institution. Mike was born in Houston, but he didn't stay there long. His dad ran catering trucks for restaurants, and soon moved around bit before settling in Arizona, in the Phoenix area, where Mike mostly grew up. He came of age in the late-Nineties/early 2000s. Being in Arizona, Mike tells us some of the things about life there that he just considered normal, things like wearing oven mitts to get into your car in the summer. It was hot, but swimming pools were easy to find. Sports was pretty central to young Mike's life. He played basketball, baseball, soccer, and other sports. His dad coached some of the teams he was on. He was a good kid. Basketball took over, eventually. He looked up to local players, especially Charles Barkley, whose number Mike shaved into his head. But after a couple years playing in high school, basketball started to fade and was replaced by theater and drama. Looking back, he calls it a “hard turn,” but we both recognize the plasticity of that age—the teen years. In his drama classes, Mike gravitated toward writing. He played guitar and wrote songs. He wrote a play for his school. All that young talent and creativity led to Mike and his friends making movies. He was also in bands playing mostly folk music. With all this going on, he met his first girlfriend. They dated briefly, didn't talk for 20 years years, and today are married. But we'll get to that later. Mike graduated from high school and went to New York City for college pretty much right away. He had visited NYC once before and liked it. He got into film school there, beginning a journey that lasted until three years ago or so. And so, for nearly 20 years, Mike Irish existed as a filmmaker in New York City. The school and his place were both in Manhattan. When he first arrived, he knew one guy from a band they'd both been in, and Mike was grateful for that. But of course they didn't become close in their new hometown, as they attended different schools and made new friends. Mike made student films, and kept going after he graduated. To survive and pay rent, he started bartending, something that, later in life, would prove crucial to where he is today. I ask him to name-drop some of the bars in New York where he worked. He rattles off several, then summarizes by saying he worked at possibly 50 different sports in NYC. We talk about the films he made over that almost two-decade span. Some won awards, both domestically and internationally. The most highly acclaimed of his movies was The Life of Significant Soil, which Mike says he's seen being played on airplanes. Another movie, Permanent Collection, premiered in San Francisco at the Roxie. Mike came out here for that and stayed for a week. That was February 2020, weeks before COVID shut The City and the world down. Going back to his first girlfriend, whom Mike had met in high school, she already lived in San Francisco. They had lost touch over the years. But she noticed his name on a movie showing at The Roxie and came out to the premiere. A reconnection was made, but Mike returned home to New York after that week. Still, the two kept in touch. Once it was possible, one would fly out to be with the other, either in New York or here in San Francisco. That eventually gave way to Mike's decision to move to The City. Check back next week for Part 2 and the conclusion of our episode about Mike Irish. We recorded this podcast at Emmy's Spaghetti Shack in the Mission in April 2025. Photography by Jeff Hunt

In this final episode before pausing production of the Human Capital Podcast, host Jeff Hunt reflects on five incredible years and nearly 100 conversations with some of the most inspiring thought leaders in business. More than a recap, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of the most powerful and recurring themes that emerged—ten core leadership concepts that define what it means to lead with humanity, clarity, and purpose. From authenticity and active listening to feedback, culture, and resilience, Jeff synthesizes lessons that have not only shaped his coaching and consulting practice but transformed his understanding of leadership itself. Drawing on memorable insights from guests like Patrick Lencioni, Xavier Naville, Daniel Harkavy, and Katie Burke, Jeff offers listeners a distilled guide to becoming a better leader—and a better human. If you're a longtime listener or joining for the first time, this episode is packed with timeless wisdom and actionable reflections. Whether you're navigating change, building culture, or simply trying to show up more intentionally each day, this final message is for you. Thank you for being part of this journey. Until next time—lead with clarity, curiosity, and compassion.

Send us a textGet ready, because we're capping off our SXSW 2025 coverage with a bang!Brother Versus Brother is a one-shot musical film in which twin brothers wander the streets of San Francisco in search of their missing father, guided by music and historic Beat Generation landmarks. Brothers/stars of the film/director and composer (respectively) Ari Gold and Ethan Gold join us to sing songs, recite poetry, explain the fine art of frame fucking, and wax poetic about San Francisco. This one is special. Enjoy!Follow Brother Versus Brother on IGFollow director Ari Gold on IGFollow musician Ethan Gold on IGListen to Ethan Gold's music on SpotifyOrder the poetry book Father Versus Sons hereThis episode is co-hosted by John Wildman of Films Gone WildAudio produced by Jeff Hunt of Storied: SFSupport the showThanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 , 2023 , and 2024 without you! -- Fight fascism. Shop small. Use cash. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

In this episode of D and D Outdoors, hosts Dell Oliver and Dustin welcome their first in-person guest, Jeff Hunt, owner of Lowcountry Hunting Lodge in South Carolina. The conversation covers Jeff's background in the outdoor business, the techniques and strategies for hog hunting, particularly at night, and the challenges posed by hunting regulations and predator populations on turkey hunting. The importance of family and creating memories through hunting experiences is emphasized throughout the discussion. In this conversation, Dell Oliver and Dustin delve into the intricacies of hog hunting, discussing the importance of enjoying the hunt beyond just the trophy. They explore the realities of hog hunting, including common misconceptions, ethical practices, and the behavior of hogs in the wild. The conversation also touches on the economics of hunting, the art of cleaning and processing hogs, and effective shooting techniques. Throughout, they emphasize the need for education and understanding in the hunting community.Want to hunt with Jeff visit -https://www.lowcountryhunting.com/

Send us a textWe're bringing you two SXSW 2025 short films that we absolutely loved!The Singers takes place in a lonely dive bar where an impromptu sing-off will determine the best singer in town. Director Sam A. Davis shares what inspired him to adapt this short story into film, casting first time actors via viral videos on social media, and our shared connection through art and vulnerability.I'm the Most Racist Person I Know tells the story of Lali who ends up on a date with another woman of color for the first time, and it forces her to face hidden prejudices. We were joined by director/writer Leela Varghese, producer Suriyna Sivashanker, and actors Shabana Azeez (return guest from the film Birdeater) and Kavitha Anandasivam to talk representation, internalized racism, and why they fought to keep the title. It sounds like we had a serious conversation, but this one truly goes off the rails with laughter and chaos and sister wives. Enjoy! Follow director Sam A. Davis on IGFollow director Leela Varghese on IGFollow producer Suriyna Sivashanker on IGFollow actor Shabana Azeez on IGFollow actor Kavitha Anandasivam on IGThis episode is co-hosted by John Wildman of Films Gone WildAudio produced by Jeff Hunt of Storied: SFSupport the showThanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 , 2023 , and 2024 without you! -- Fight fascism. Shop small. Use cash. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

Send us a textWe are celebrating SXSW 2025 with two short documentary films about big topics.Red Sands shares the story of an off-road culture that thrives along the notorious border of El Paso, Texas, and Cd. Juárez, Mexico. Director Romina Cenisio and cinematographer/producer (and returning guest!) Sean Mattison join us to discuss showing a different side of border towns that include levity and joy, Romina bringing a woman's perspective to the story, and the difference between real dangers and perceived dangers within this community.Exodus shares a portrait of two women as they struggle to make sense of their lives post-release, in order to figure out what life after prison looks like. Director Nimco Sheikhaden and producer Sara Chishti share their decision (and its profound impact) to shoot in black and white, how Nimco's partner being incarcerated drove her to tell this story, the noticeable lack of support for black and brown women in prison, and their hope that this film prompts further  conversations and empathy.Follow director Romina Cenisio on IGFollow cinematographer/producer Sean Mattison on IGFollow short film Exodus on IGFollow director Nimco Sheikhaden on IGFollow producer Sara Chishti on IGThis episode is co-hosted by John Wildman of Films Gone WildAudio produced by Jeff Hunt of Storied: SFSupport the showThanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 , 2023 , and 2024 without you! -- Fight fascism. Shop small. Use cash. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

In Part 2, we pick up where we left off in Part 1, with Woody's brief time at UC Berkeley across The Bay. During that one year of college, he lived at his grandmother's house in the Outer Richmond. His parents had recently split up, and both his parents moved, separately, to Marin.   In fact, Woody says, his parents' moves north forced him to think about and start to consider that San Francisco was and would perhaps always be his home. Time has proven that to be true, of course. But to his young-adult mind, it just felt right for that moment. He'd spent a little time in Marin, and it wasn't a fit for young Woody.   A decade or so later, now married and with a kid, Woody and his wife moved to Durham, North Carolina, for nine months. It was yet another not-San Francisco town that provided a contrast with his hometown and reminded him how much he wanted to be here.   After that brief stint in college, Woody decided he wanted to entertain, and so he enrolled in a clown school run by Ringling Brothers in Florida. He got work with the PIckle Family Circus back in The City. He did a lot of vaudeville with them and even went to Japan and on other tours.   It was during his time in the circus that Woody met his wife. Nancy had a boyfriend at the time and was headed to Spain to teach English. Two years later, she returned to The Bay and Woody was single. Their first date was at Rock and Bowl, the spot on Haight Street where Amoeba is today. They walked down Haight after that to Mad Dog in the Fog. When they left Mad Dog, Woody knew it was love when Nancy asked him, "Where can we go play video games?"   In 1997, they had a baby, their daughter Miranda. That effectively ended the Performer chapter of Woody's life. Nancy is a midwife, and he needed to be flexible enough that he could watch his daughter while his wife was working.   After that stint in North Carolina, Woody came back with a renewed purpose—he decided to devote his life to letting people know how great San Francisco is. It would start with The City's past, and how that history informs the present and helps chart a path to our future. This led to the establishment of the Western Neighborhoods Project.   David Gallagher was married to a woman who Woody had performed with. David and Woody formed a board with a couple friends also interested in SF history. They settled on being a nonprofit and built a website, something that was pretty novel at the time. They interviewed folks and shared stories of the west side of town. They also had (and still have) a podcast.   Woody was with WNP for 20 years, until just recently. He talks about how the main objective of WNP was to gather as much forgotten history of the west side of San Francisco as possible, and then to make that available to as many folks as possible so that they might understand what came before and what could be possible in the here and now.   We take a sidebar to talk about the so-called Doom Loop, especially as it relates to hearing from friends and family who aren't in San Francisco, but will ask us things like, "What the hell is going on out there?" Not to diminish the real problems facing our and other cities, bu that media trope is tired and was always nonsense.   We talk briefly about the Outsidelands Podcast, which started way back in early 2013. Woody is no longer directly involved, but it's in good hands with WNP Executive Director Nicole Meldahl. Subscribe wherever you get podcasts.   From WNP, Woody joined SF Heritage, where he works today. SF Heritage's mission is "to preserve and enhance San Francisco's unique architectural and cultural identity." Nowadays, Woody is the CEO and president of the nonprofit, and he says that in that role, he "doesn't get to do a lot of the fun stuff," being more on the business side as he is. Still, he of course believes wholeheartedly in the organization's mission—it was what drew him to SF Heritage, in fact.   We end the podcast with Woody's take on our theme this season—Keep It Local. We recorded this episode in Mountain Lake Park in March 2025. Photography by Jeff Hunt

Join William Wolfe for today's special LIVE episode for the Center for Baptist Leadership with special guests Chase Davis and Jeff Hunt to discuss the radical pro-abortion and anti-family agenda of Colorado Democrats.   Jeff Hunt is Co-Hose of The Jeff and Bill Show on 710KNUS in Denver Colorado. He previously led the Western Conservative Summit, one of the largest gatherings of conservatives in the West as executive director of The Centennial Institute.  Don't miss out – be a part of the dialogue every weekday on The Jeff and Bill Show, only on 710KNUS, your home for conservative talk in Denver.   Learn more about Jeff Hunt: https://x.com/jeffhunt https://jeffhunt.com/   J. Chase Davis (M.Div, Th.M, Denver Seminary) is Lead Pastor of Ministry of The Well Church in Boulder, Colorado. Chase is married to Kim and they have two sons. He is the author of Trinitarian Formation: A Theology of Discipleship in Light of the Father, Son, and Spirit (2021). He also hosts the podcast Full Proof Theology. You can find more of Chase's writing at jchasedavis.com.   Learn more about J. Chase Davis: https://www.jchasedavis.com/   ––––––   Follow Center for Baptist Leadership across Social Media: X / Twitter – https://twitter.com/BaptistLeaders Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-For-Baptist-Leadership/61556762144277/ Rumble – https://rumble.com/c/c-6157089 YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@CenterforBaptistLeadership Website – https://centerforbaptistleadership.org/   To book William for media appearances or speaking engagements, please contact him at media@centerfor­baptistleadership.org.   Follow Us on Twitter: William Wolfe - https://twitter.com/William_E_Wolfe Richard Henry - https://twitter.com/RThenry83   Renew the SBC from within and defend the SBC from those who seek its destruction, donate today: https://centerforbaptistleadership.org/donate/   The Center for Baptist Leadership Podcast is powered by American Reformer, recorded remotely in the United States by William Wolfe, and edited by Jared Cummings.   Subscribe to the Center for Baptist Leadership Podcast: Distribute our RSS Feed – https://centerforbaptistleadership.podbean.com/ Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/center-for-baptist-leadership/id1743074575 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/0npXohTYKWYmWLsHkalF9t Amazon Music // Audible – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9ababbdd-6c6b-4ab9-b21a-eed951e1e67b BoomPlay – https://www.boomplaymusic.com/podcasts/96624 TuneIn – Coming Soon iHeartRadio – https://iheart.com/podcast/170321203 Listen Notes – https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/center-for-baptist-leadership-center-for-3liUZaE_Tnq/ Pandora – Coming Soon PlayerFM – https://player.fm/series/3570081 Podchaser – https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-center-for-baptist-leaders-5696654 YouTube Podcasts – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFMvfuzJKMICA7wi3CXvQxdNtA_lqDFV

E&I Host: Dennis Hyde, E&I Category Marketing ManagerGuest: Jeff Hunt, Partner at Legend LabsIn this episode of Cooperatively Speaking, E&I's Dennis Hyde is joined by Jeff Hunt, founder of Legend Labs and author of Brand Under Fire: A New Playbook for Crisis Management in the Digital Age. Legend Labs specializes in branding and campus crisis assessments and management. Jeff discusses how, in today's digital era, local incidents can rapidly escalate into global news. He outlines essential principles for institutions to authentically and transparently manage crises with speed and agility.  Additionally, Jeff explains how Legend Labs assists schools in conducting vulnerability assessments to identify and address potential crisis points. This podcast discusses campus crisis issues and strategies for addressing  the challenges that keep college presidents up at night.Relevant Links:E&I Legend Labs ContractLegend Labs WebsiteCooperatively Speaking is hosted by E&I Cooperative Services, the only member-owned, non-profit procurement cooperative exclusively focused on serving the needs of education. Visit our website at www.eandi.org/podcast.Contact UsHave questions, comments, or ideas for a future episode? We'd love to hear from you! Contact Cooperatively Speaking at podcast@eandi.org. This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed in this podcast may not be those of the host(s) or E&I Cooperative Services.

Ava Roy grew up in rural Western Massachusetts, in an area rich in literature and theater. Ava met Ann Podlozny back east before Ava came to California to attend Stanford, which is where she created a theater production group. Today, Ava is the founding artistic director of We Players, a 25-year-old theater company based in San Francisco. Ann, who'll play Lady Macbeth in an upcoming, all-woman production of Macbeth, is based in London and came back to be in the play and to support her friend Ava in whatever way she can. While at Stanford, Ava let her art play, in the sense of public displays such as throwing banners off the clock tower and tying bodies to sculptures around campus. She discovered that art would be her life's work, not just a hobby. One idea she had while in Palo Alto was to do a production of Shakepeare's Romeo and Juliet held all around the Stanford campus. It was a success, as the audience grew and grew as it moved around, picking up more and more people along the way. Ava was able to turn this type of theater into an independently designed major. After graduating, she moved to the East Bay and started doing theater productions there and in The City. She started partnering with the National Park Service (NPS) in 2008 and then with SF Recreation and Parks in 2018. Ava's first production at Fort Point, the Civil War-era fort under the southern base of the Golden Gate Bridge, was in 2008. From 2009 to 2011, she had a three-year residency on Alcatraz, further deepening her relationship with the NPS. In 2013, she kicked off Macbeth at Fort Point. But a funny thing happened—a government shutdown that year effectively ended that run under the bridge. Fast-forward nearly a decade, and the NPS reached out to see whether Ava and We Players were interested in trying again to produce Macbeth at Fort Point. That brings us to the present day. Ava's friend Ann had left theater and had been working in movies. She'd also been taking epic walks—as in hundreds of miles at a time, all over the world. She was on one of these walks when she and Ava connected over Zoom and Ann offered to play the part of Lady Macbeth to Ava's Macbeth in We Players' upcoming production. Ann would not only play one of the two major roles in the play, but she would also be there for Ava to help with various aspects of putting it all together, including casting. It was somewhere in this time that the decision was made for this to be an all female-identifying and non-binary cast. We Players is run and was founded by women, but they hadn't done a production with a cast like this before. It was 2024, before the election. It just felt right. Ann and Ava talk about the themes of Macbeth and how they relate to the current times we're in, no matter who we are. Ava touches on how important it is for her to foster a caring, kind, nurturing environment among her cast members, and how poignant that is for such a violent play like Macbeth. Then we pivot to talk about how times have changed, 10 years removed from the last time they did this at Fort Point, and how they have not. Ava also describes what it's like inside of Fort Point, something we in San Francisco might not all know about. One point they want to emphasize for anyone who comes to see their show—it's cold as hell, even by SF standards. We Players' production of Macbeth at Fort Point opens on April 11 and runs through May 18. All shows start at 6 p.m., Thursday through Sunday (with a few exceptions), rain or wind (duh) or shine. Tiered tickets (for equitable access) are available at the We Players website. We recorded this episode in the Gramercy Towers in March 2025. Photography by Jeff Hunt

Send us a textWe are celebrating SXSW 2025 with a feature length film and a narrative short that both deal with topics of death in a very different (and often hilarious) way.Dead Lover is a horror comedy that tells the story of a lonely gravedigger who stinks of dead people so badly, that she is willing to do anything in her power to have (and keep) a lover. We were joined by director/co-writer/actor Grace Glowicki and co-writer Ben Petrie, who describe their "downhill skiing" collaborative writing process, the story behind Grace's unique cockney accent, and as a married couple, where they keep the infamous shovel from the film. Out For Delivery is a short film about Joanna, who is suffering from a terminal illness and opts for assisted death, but her pursuit of a peaceful end-of-life experience is disrupted by unexpected complications. We were joined by director/writer (and return guest!) Chelsea Christer, and star of the film, Deanna Rooney, who explain the unifying connection of comedy, the downside of convenience culture, and their beautiful dynamic as working friends. Follow Dead Lover on IGFollow writer Ben Petrie on IGFollow Out For Delivery on IGFollow director Chelsea Christer on IGFollow actor Deanna Rooney on IGThis episode is co-hosted by John Wildman of Films Gone WildAudio produced by Jeff Hunt of Storied: SFSupport the showThanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have reached 11 years, recorded 800+ episodes, and won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 , 2023 , and 2024 without your help! -- Fight fascism. Shop small. Use cash. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

Jeff Hunt joins the podcast and discuss my top 8 draft QBs.

On his mom's side, Woody LaBounty's San Francisco roots go back to 1850. In Part 1, get to know Woody, who, today, is the president and CEO of SF Heritage. But he's so, so much more than that. He begins by tracing his lineage back to the early days of the Gold Rush. His maternal great-great-great-grandfather arrived here mid-Nineteenth Century. Woody even knows what ship he was on and the exact day that it arrived in the recently christened city of San Francisco. On Woody's dad's side, the roots are about 100 years younger than that. His father grew up in Fort Worth, Texas (like I did). His dad's mom was single and fell on hard times in Texas. She came to San Francisco, where she had a step-brother. Woody's parents met at the Donut Bowl at 10th Avenue and Geary Boulevard (where Boudin Bakery is today). Donut Bowl was a combination donut shop/hot dog joint. At the time the two met, his dad worked as a cook there and his mom was in high school. His mom and her friends went to nearby Washington High and would hang out at the donut shop after school. The next year or so, his parents had their first kid—Woody. They came from different sides of the track, as it were. Woody's mom's family wasn't crazy about her dating his working-class dad, who didn't finish high school. But once his mom became pregnant with Woody, everything changed. The couple had two more sons after Woody. One of his brothers played for the 49ers in the Nineties and lives in Oregon today. His other brother works with underserved high school kids in New Jersey, helping them get into college. Woody shares some impressions of his first 10 years or so of life by describing The City in the mid-Seventies. Yes, kids played in the streets and rode Muni to Candlestick Park and The Tenderloin to go bowling. It was also the era of Patty Hearst and the SLA, Jonestown, and the Moscone/Milk murders. But for 10-year-old Woody, it was home. It felt safe, like a village. Because I'm a dork, I ask Woody to share his memories of when Star Wars came out. Obliging me, he goes on a sidebar about how the cinematic phenomenon came into his world in San Francisco. He did, in fact, see Star Wars in its first run at the Coronet. He attended Sacred Heart on Cathedral Hill when it was an all-boys high school. He grew up Catholic, although you didn't have to be to go to one of SF's three Catholic boys' high schools. Woody describes, in broad terms, the types of families that sent their boys to the three schools. Sacred Heart was generally for kids of working-class folks. After school, if they didn't take Muni back home to the Richmond District, Woody and his friends might head over to Fisherman's Wharf to play early era video games. Or, most likely, they'd head over to any number of high schools to talk to girls. Because parental supervision was lacking, let's say, Woody and his buddies also frequently went to several 18+ and 21+ spots. The I-Beam in the Haight, The Triangle in the Marina, The Pierce Street Annex, Enrico's in North Beach, Mabuhay Gardens. There, he saw bands like The Tubes and The Dead Kennedy's, although punk wasn't really his thing. Woody was more into jazz, RnB, and late-disco. We chat a little about café culture in San Francisco, something that didn't really exist until the Eighties. To this day, Woody still spends his Friday mornings at Simple Pleasures Cafe. And we end Part 1 with Woody's brief time at UC Berkeley (one year) and the real reason he even bothered to try college. Check back next week for Part 2 with Woody LaBounty. And this Thursday, look for a bonus episode all about We Players and their upcoming production of Macbeth at Fort Point. We recorded this episode in Mountain Lake Park in March 2025. Photography by Jeff Hunt

In this episode of Human Capital, Jeff Hunt sits down with Jackie Dube, Chief People Officer at The Predictive Index, to explore the power of talent optimization. Jackie shares her journey into HR and how behavioral science revolutionized her approach to hiring, team building, and leadership. She explains how organizations can use behavioral data to align people strategy with business goals, fostering more engaged and high-performing teams. Jeff and Jackie discuss how leaders often underestimate the impact of their work styles on team dynamics and how self-awareness is the first step toward improvement. They also cover the dangers of hiring for skills over character, why engagement surveys must lead to action, and how AI can complement—not replace—human roles in the workforce. Jackie shares real-world insights on building resilient, adaptable teams and offers practical steps for organizations to enhance their talent strategy. Whether you're an HR leader or a CEO, this conversation provides valuable takeaways on using data-driven strategies to optimize talent and create thriving workplaces.

Send us a textWelcome back to SXSW 2025! Today's episode celebrates two beautifully shot short films with different messages about family and community.Grandma's Four Color Cards follows a 101 year-old woman in Saigon as she runs nightly card games with her friends, and is supported by the people in her community. Director Sally Tran joined us to discuss how everyone in the film was cast to play themselves (including her own grandmother!), the excitement and confusion that came with working with people from a small village who have probably never watched a film, and the hilarious thing her grandmother did when she felt a crew member's beard for the first time.Ben's Sister shows what happens when Ben, a high school Senior fuckboy, finds out that his sister, a Freshman, becomes a pawn in his friend's scheme to win a Senior Scavenger Hunt. Director/writer Emma Weinswig and her brother/star of the film Ben Weinswig join us to share how the story was based on their real life experience going to high school in Mill Valley, CA, the connection between rich kids and cultural appropriation, and their working relationship as brother and sister.Follow director Sally Tran on IGFollow director Emma Weinswig on IGFollow actor Ben Weinswig on IGThis episode is co-hosted by John Wildman of Films Gone WildAudio produced by Jeff Hunt of Storied: SFSupport the showThanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have reached 11 years, recorded 800+ episodes, and won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 , 2023 , and 2024 without your help! -- Fight fascism. Shop small. Use cash. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

Jeff Hunt joins the show and we recap seasons 1-8 and Dexter New Blood.

In this episode of Human Capital, Jeff Hunt sits down with Dr. Kristin Neff, a leading researcher and author on self-compassion, to discuss how this practice can combat workplace burnout. Burnout is a widespread issue affecting employees and leaders alike, with severe consequences for productivity, well-being, and organizational health. Dr. Neff explains the three core elements of self-compassion—mindfulness, common humanity, and kindness—and how they serve as a foundation for resilience, performance, and stress management. She dispels common myths about self-compassion, such as the belief that it weakens motivation, and instead highlights how it fosters greater accountability, problem-solving, and emotional strength. Drawing from research and personal experiences, she shares insights on how leaders can create healthier work environments and support employees in recognizing and recovering from burnout. She also introduces practical self-compassion exercises that listeners can use to shift from self-criticism to self-support, ultimately improving their professional and personal lives. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies to foster self-compassion, enhance workplace culture, and sustain long-term success without sacrificing well-being. Guest Info: Dr. Kristin Neff Kristin's Book: Mindful Self-Compassion for Burnout: Tools to Help You Heal and Recharge When You're Wrung Out by Stress Kristin's Upcoming Workshop: Self-Compassion for Work Stress and Burnout

What makes the difference between leaders who inspire and those who simply manage? In today's fast-paced, high-pressure world, leaders are expected to drive results, manage change, and keep their teams engaged—all while navigating constant uncertainty. But what if the key to effective leadership isn't about pushing harder but about becoming more present, mindful, and self-aware? In this episode of The Human Capital Podcast, Jeff Hunt sits down with Dr. Keren Tsuk, founder and CEO of Wisdom To Lead and author of Mindfully Wise Leadership: The Secret of Today's Leaders. With over 20 years of experience working with global organizations like Siemens and Check Point, Dr. Tsuk shares how mindfulness can transform leadership, improving decision-making, communication, and workplace culture. We explore the misconceptions of mindful leadership, practical ways to integrate mindfulness into daily routines, and why embracing presence and vulnerability leads to stronger teams and better business outcomes. Whether you're a CEO, manager, or aspiring leader, this conversation offers valuable insights on how to cultivate conscious leadership and navigate the complexities of today's workplace with confidence and clarity. Tune in to learn how mindfulness can be a game-changer for your leadership journey.

Jeff Hunt joins the podcast. We rank our top 10 favorite Super Bowls

It's been a damn year, y'all. In this bonus episode, we catch up with friend of the show Vandor Hill, owner and creator of Whack Donuts. His brick-and-mortar shop in EMB 4 just marked its one-year anniversary (and last year was a Leap Year!), and I dropped by to chat with Vandor about the time since he opened, where things stand now, and the road ahead. This Saturday, to celebrate Whack Donuts' birthday, Vandor is hosting a breakdancing jam event: 5x5 crew breaking battle $1,000 donuts line dancing free giveaways Follow Whack Donuts on Instagram for more info. And if you're able to, please donate to help offset some of the costs of putting on this event. We'll see you there! ​We recorded this podcast at Whack Donuts in January 2025. Photography by Jeff Hunt

Tune in as Jeff Hunt joins the show to preview the National Championship matchup between Ohio State and Notre Dame. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit upnflamezpod.substack.com

Peter Boyles previews the Trump Inauguration on Monday! It's About Time! Jeff Hunt calls in Live from DC, along with Bill Thorpe here in Denver - they will have all the coverage on Monday 6-10am here on 710KNUS (All Weekdays, too!) Mike Boyle of The Restaurant Show calls in to preview his Inauguration Day Event Live at the Viewhouse Centennial (10 AM - 130PM). Paige Valley of Douglas County High School has a slew of Restaurant Specials lined up for you, and is doing great work with Make-A-Wish. 710KNUS has you covered on all things election! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tune in as Jeff Hunt joins the show to discuss the matchups of -Penn St v Boise St-Texas v Arizona St-Ohio State v Oregon-Notre Dame v Georgia This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit upnflamezpod.substack.com

Jeff Hunt joins the show to discuss the 12 team playoff bracket This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit upnflamezpod.substack.com

Jay, Jeff and I take a look at and preview this weekends IU vs Ohio State game.

In Part 2, we pick up where we left off in Part 1.   Jackie considers it an honor to have worked for Lateefah Simon, who's running for Congress in the East Bay for the seat currently held by Barbara Lee. Jackie was tasked with writing memos, and she took that job and ran with it, digging deeply into the weeds of policy. What she found in the existing systems of that time piqued her curiosity around what it might mean if she herself were to enter the fray. Her life up to that point formed her world views, as these things tend to do. But the policies, she says, ticked her off.   She had been studying to take the LSAT, with the idea that she would go to law school ... all while volunteering for the campaign to get Lateefah Simon elected to the BART Board. But that November, in 2016, the 45th president was elected, and everything changed ... for a lot of us, but especially for Jackie.   It all threw Jackie for a loop. Standing Rock and protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAP) were also happening, which further disillusioned her. She traveled east to join the resistance. She met folks and had deep conversations with her Native American brothers and sisters. She spent time in Minnesota doing more work with indigenous folks.  It all created a sense of hope despite the doom seemingly all around. She also noticed the protests in Seattle demanding Wall Street disinvestment.   In February 2017, Jackie was back home, full of "let's do it" energy, ready to tackle issues in The Bay. She had moved to The City and started digging further into the weeds of policy in San Francisco. In 2018, she decided that she wanted to make a difference here at home. She helped found the San Francisco Public Bank Coalition. She was tapped to lead the campaign against the Police Officers Association's use of force measure. For that, she worked with Democratic Socialists of America San Francisco and the ACLU of Northern California. She also worked on the No on H campaign, which succeeded.   Alicia Garza, cofounder of Black Lives Matter, asked Jackie to teach her class at SF State, and Jackie seized that opportunity. At State, she taught Race, Women, and Class, where she talked with students about DAP and indigenous rights, among other topics. While teaching, she also worked restaurant jobs, mostly on the Peninsula.   When 2019 came around, Jackie wasn't sure what to do. Looking back, she was experiencing undiagnosed ADHD. She had a nagging feeling that year, though, that she should run for office. Someone pointed out to her that State Sen. Scott Wiener was running for election unopposed. She thought of the successful ballot measure campaigns she'd been part of. She had spent time living in her van. She'd bounced around between apartments. She decided to go for it.   The Jackie Fielder for State Senate campaign was off to a good start. Then lockdown happened in March 2020. Everything about the campaign turned virutal—Zoom speeches and meetings, phone banking on another level, social media like never before. She centered issues like affordable housing, climate change, renters' rights, homelessness, education. She got the backing of teachers, iron workers, electricians, tenants' rights groups, affordable housing groups, and various progressive cultural affinity groups in SF.   Jackie didn't win that race, though.   She took a step back and got into therapy, where she learned about self-care and self-compassion. She got to a point where she could take better care of herself so that she could then take care of others.   Jackie also started a PAC in the time between the 2020 election and now. The Daybreak PAC's main purpose is to support candidates and ballot measures that reject corporate money. Also, Stop the Money Pipeline hired her to be its communications manager in 2021. Through that work, she was able to reconnect with many folks she met years earlier in her Dakota stays. By early 2023, Jackie was co-director of the organization. This summer, in 2024, she took an official leave to come home and campaign for supervisor.   Then the conversation shifts to District 9. Of all the places Jackie has lived in San Francisco, she's spent the most time in the district. She's queer and loves the embrace of her community in D9. She also notes that the American Indian Cultural District and Latino Cultural District, two groups that are a big part of her identity, are located in D9.   After our mutual love fest of the Mission, we shift to issues that Jackie hopes to address as the next D9 supervisor—public safety, how best to engage law enforcement, drug use, houselessness, housing, jobs, and more.   Please visit Jackie's website for more info, especially if you live in D9 (if you're not sure, look up your supervisorial district here).   We recorded this episode at Evil Eye in the Mission in September 2024.   Photography by Jeff Hunt

Jackie Fielder is quick to credit her ancestors with her life and where she is now that she's 30. In this episode, meet Jackie, who's running to be the next District 9 supervisor. District 9 includes the Mission, Bernal Heights, and the Portola. She begins by sharing the life story of her maternal grandparents, who are from Monterey in Mexico. Her grandfather worked in orange groves in Southern California, while her grandmother was a home care worker. She also did stints at See's Candies seasonally. Sadly, both grandparents passed away when Jackie was young. But she learned more about them as she grew up. On her dad's side, Jackie is Native American. Her paternal grandparents grew up on reservations in North and South Dakota. Her dad was born in Los Angeles and raised in Phoenix and went to Arizona State. He got a job as an engineer in SoCal, where he met Jackie's mom. The two met at a club in the Eighties. Her mom's first job was at Jack in the Box, where she got minimum wage. She dreamed of becoming an EMT, but that was before she met Jackie's dad. She ended up working as a secretary for a school district. Jackie is her parents' only child. She was born in 1984. Her dad joined the US Navy. When she was six, the Navy deployed him to Seattle for six months, and the strain on his marriage during that time away never really subsided. It was hard on Jackie, too, of course. When he returned home, her parents separated. Her mom took her to live across the freeway from where they'd been, in a low-income apartment community. Jackie's life changed, dramatically, she says. She was in the same schools, but stopped hanging out with her friends after school or on weekends. Her mom didn't want her playing outside much, in fact. She felt that the new area she moved her kid to was too dangerous. In her new living situation, Jackie and her mom found community. Neighbors helped one another out in myriad ways. Jackie looks back on that time as formative to who she's become as an adult. She also spent time with her mom's extended family in South Central LA. Many family members were in the LA low rider culture. Jackie was immersed in that Latino community from a young age. This also informed her world view today. ​At this point, we pivot to talk about music—how it came into her life and what it means to Jackie. She grew up around disco and Motown, Spice Girls and the Men in Black soundtrack, CCR, TLC, Backstreet Boys. In middle school, Jackie found alt rock. She saw Foo Fighters with her mom. Jackie attended public schools the entire time. She was a good student, got good grades, liked her teachers and they liked her. In hindsight, she wishes she had engaged with sports besides soccer, which she played from age 4 or 5. She says that in Southern California, sports were as important as academics. There were something like 4,000 students at her high school, 900-something in her graduating class. But despite this, Jackie didn't simply receive her education passively. She was on an AP track and did community service work with other students. ​In high school, Jackie worked to establish gardens in elementary schools in her area. She paints the picture of having been such a quote-unquote "good kid" that I ask if she ever had a bad streak or a time when she got anything out of her system. She says not really, but then I half-jokingly suggest that maybe her life in electoral politics is just that. College was expected, though she wasn't sure where she'd end up going to school. She didn't think Stanford was a possibility. Berkeley was her goal, but she didn't get in. Friends and community, though, convinced her to apply to Stanford. She did, and she got it. Thus was Jackie Fielder's move north. ​Originally, she planned to do pre-med in her undergrad years. The motivation behind that plan was wanting to help people. But being interested in education thanks to her mom's work, she attended a talk on public policy and college admissions that opened her eyes, both to the larger societal issue and to her own experience getting admitted to Stanford. She really started thinking about how race and class factor into policy, both public and private. This led to an imposter syndrome-type feeling in her place at college. Still, despite that, she made friends at Stanford, some she's close with today. I note that it's my belief that Jackie is really, really smart (I've listened to and read many things she's said and written, and seriously ...), and suggest that she's driven to knowing things by virtue of a deep curiosity about how systems work. Jackie agrees about that motivating factor, and points to 9/11 and watching a lot of Travel Channel. Both experiences teleported her to different parts of the world, and left her with a deep desire to learn and know about how people organize themselves into societies. Her father was redeployed after 9/11, and that, too, had an effect on young Jackie. But back to her move upstate to Palo Alto. She spent four years there before earning her bachelor's degree. She was in a sorority for a spell, but got disillusioned by that. She describes rubbing shoulders with the kids of billionaires. That initial idea of doing pre-med gave way to working toward a degree in public policy, something she dove into head-first. She says that meant mostly studying economics. And economics at Stanford means the Hoover Institute. And the Hoover Institute means conservative theories. She got through it despite disagreeing with the theory. She told herself it was worthwhile to understand how the proverbial other side thinks to better understand it and be better equipped to debate folks who think that way. She also set her sights on getting a master's degree, and decided to major in sociology for that. During this time, she spent a semester in Istanbul, Turkey, an experience she relishes. She learned a lot about Middle Eastern history in her stay. Much of what she discovered about the struggles of the oppressed halfway around the world rang true for Jackie with the experiences of her father's people in the US. It took Jackie four years to concurrently earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree. I mean, I told you that she's smart. We end Part 1 with Jackie's story of deciding that San Francisco is where she needed to be. It's a story that involves working for Lateefah Simon. We recorded this episode at Evil Eye in the Mission in September 2024. Photography by Jeff Hunt  

Jeff Hunt joins the podcast and we recap the last 4 episodes of HBO's The Penguin. We talk about episodes 1-3,recap episode 4,and preview where we think this series will go and how it will tie into The Batman Part 2.

In Part 2, we pick up where we left off in Part 1. Aaron talks about volunteering at a nonprofit in The City called the Trust for Public Land, where he learned about land acquisition for parks and open spaces. Through that gig, he got a paid internship and eventually, a job. In fact, he met Nancy, the woman he would later marry, there. He eventually moved into Nancy's apartment in North Beach, his first apartment in SF. The move came shortly after the couple visited Nepal to climb in the Himalayas. It was October 1989, when the Loma Prieta earthquake happened.   We fast-forward to 2000, the year I moved to San Francisco. I set the stage for my first brush with Aaron at this point in the recording. My first apartment was on California Street near Larkin. The cable car runs on that block. One day, still very new in The City, I spotted a politician on a cable car campaigning. Back then, I had no idea what the Board of Supervisors was. But lo and behold, it was Aaron Peskin, campaigning for his first term on the Board.   Aaron then tells the story from his point of view, backing up just a few years.   In his time at the Trust for Public Land, he worked with elected officials often. He learned his way around Sacramento and DC. But more pertinent to this story, Aaron also worked with a North Beach tree-planting organization—Friends of the Urban Forest, in fact—and the Telegraph Hill Dwellers to be specific. The work involved getting volunteers together, convincing folks who'd lived in the neighborhood for decades to plant trees on the sidewalks in front of their houses.   It was the late-Nineties. The first dotcom boom was still happening. Willie Brown was at the height of his mayoral power. Chain stores were trying their hardest to move into North Beach. Aaron remembered that he knew the mayor from his work with the trust, and got a meeting with Brown. He brought several disparate groups together with the mayor. Brown told Peskin, "If you don't like the way I run this town, why don't you run for office?"   From that dismissive comment, Aaron got involved in the upstart mayor campaign, in 1999, of Supervisor Tom Ammiano. Through this, he met many folks from many grassroots and neighborhood organizations. Ammiano, a write-in candidate, forced a December runoff, which he lost to Willie Brown. But the experience transformed Aaron Peskin.   Ammiano urged Aaron to run for the DCCC shortly after the election. Looking over what he'd already accomplished, he ran and got a seat on the committee. It was March 2000. That fall would see the resumption of supervisor district elections, vs. at-large contests where the top-11 vote-getters won seats on the Board that had been in place since 1980. Again, Ammiano nudged Aaron to run for the newly created District 3 supervisor seat. He thought, Why not try once?   He won the seat. Aaron credits campaign volunteers with earning that victory. He ended up serving two four-year terms as the D3 supervisor.   We fast-forward a bit through those eight years. Highlights include Matt Gonzalez's run for mayor in 2003, Aaron's dive into areas of public policy he had been uneducated on prior to his time in office, and bringing people together to get stuff done.   I ask Aaron if it's all ever overwhelming. He says yes, and rattles off the various ways—hiking, canoeing, yoga— he deals with that. We talk about his addiction to alcohol as well, something he's kicked for the last three years.   Aaron was termed out in 2008, and says he saw it as the end of a chapter of his life. He ran for the DCCC again, where he won a seat and was the chair of that group from 2008–2012. He helped get out the vote for Barack Obama in 2008, working to send volunteers to Nevada. After 2012, he figured he was totally finished with politics. He went back to the Trust for Public Land. But then a funny thing happened.   Aaron's chosen successor for D3 supervisor, David Chiu, won the seat and took over after Aaron was termed out in 2008. Then, in 2014, Chiu ran for an California Assembly seat and won. Then-Mayor Ed Lee appointed Julie Christensen. A special election in late-2015 saw Peskin run against Christensen, mostly at the urging of Rose Pak. He won that election, as well as the "normal" district election the following year. By the end of this year, he'll be termed out again.   Highlights of Aaron's second stint on the Board of Supervisors, for him, include: He's become the senior member of the Board, having served with 42 different other members. He's also come to relish the role of mentor for new supervisors. He goes over a litany of other legislation he's either written or helped to get passed   Moving forward to the issues of today and Aaron's run for mayor, he starts by praising the Board and the Mayor's Office for coming together to deal with COVID. Then he talks about ways that he and Mayor London Breed have worked together in their times in office.   And then we get into Aaron's decision, which he announced this April, to run for mayor. It was a love for The City and the people who live here. It was a lack of what he deems "real choices" in the race. But it was also what Aaron and many others, including myself, see as a billionaire-funded, ultra-conservative attempt to take over politics in San Francisco. It all added up to something he felt he had to do.   Aaron says that, unlike his first run for supervisor, when it comes to his candidacy for mayor, he's "in it to win it."   We recorded this podcast at Aaron Peskin for Mayor HQ in July 2024.   Photography by Jeff Hunt

Tune in as Jeff Hunt joins the show to talk about the crazy week 6 in CFB This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit upnflamezpod.substack.com

Jeff Hunt and I take a look at the QB play through week 4 of the NFL season.

Tune in as Mo & Jeff recap one of the biggest weekends in college football so far this season. From upsets to instant classics and everything in between This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit upnflamezpod.substack.com

Jeff Hunt guest host The Peter Boyles Show! In this Hour we go over the Jeff Hunt Colorado Statewide Ballot Guide! What are the amendments and does Jeff Support or Oppose it, Find out Here: https://jeffhunt.com/ballot-guide And then - Open Lines to round out the Show. Peter returns next week with Author Chris Shelton! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeff Hunt guest hosts The Peter Boyles Show, in this Hour: Jeff asks "Do You Think Democrats actually are trying to keep Trump safe?", thoughts on the Kamala/Oprah Interview, and Jeff speaks with Christian Toto on the "Am I Racist" Film Out Now. Film critics have not reviewed the film, all but one - and that man is Christian Toto of HollywoodinToto.com.  Why the media silence?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeff Hunt guest hosts The Peter Boyles Show. In this Hour, Political Violence on the Left: A History, 50% of American Liberals feel that the USA would be better if Trump was Assassinated, thoughts on Mike Coffman and Aurora, and much more! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeff Hunt guest hosts The Peter Boyles Show. In this Hour, Jeff discusses a Denver Post Opinion Column on "Aurora should be the Ellis Island of the Plains", Media response to Venezuelan Gangs, and Listener Calls. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textWe were excited to have director Azazel Jacobs back on the show to talk about his powerful new film, His Three Daughters. The film follows three estranged sisters as they care for their dying father while trying to find a way to reconnect. Azazel shares how caregiving for his parents inspired him to write this story, his deep respect for hospice workers, the impact of his decision to shoot on film, and the incredible score by composer Rodrigo Amarante.Watch His Three Daughters on Netflix now!Follow filmmaker Azazel Jacobs on IGListen to the His Three Daughters score on Spotifyon-site audio engineering by Jeff Hunt of Storied: San Franciscorecorded in the Fillmore neighborhood in San Francisco at The Social Study------------------Listen to our first interview with Azazel for his film The Lovers here!Listen to our second interview with Azazel for his film French Exit here!Support the showThanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have reached 11 years, recorded 800+ episodes, and won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 , 2023 , and 2024 without your help! -- Be well, stay safe, Black Lives Matter, AAPI Lives Matter, and abortion is normal. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

Part 2 picks up where we left off in Part 1. Spike shares details of his West Coast road trip, the one where he shopped for a city to move to and possibly lay down roots.   It was 1993 and, of all those West Coast cities, San Francisco won. "The energy, the feeling that you belonged, the creative draw," they all contributed to Spike's decision to move to The City. "This is where I wanted to be," he says.   He had $600 to his name, which was possible back then. He rented a basement room and got a job at SF Golf Club as a caddie. Spike saw an ad for a creative assistant at an advertising agency in the newspaper, and he got the interview. The other candidates came prepared with portfolios. They were all design-school grads. Not Spike. He brought in painted golf balls and comics.   John McDaniels (famous for the well-known "Pardon me, do you have any Grey Poupon?" ads) ran the agency and hired Spike. They bonded over comics, of all things. They became friends in the two years Spike worked for John, and enjoyed (I mean, really enjoyed) lunch together every Friday.   Then, in 1995, a New York agency bought the firm and hoped to force John into retirement. They took Spike to lunch and offered him more money and a promotion. But Spike saw how they thought of his mentor, and decided to bail. He took a buyout and went to Paris for a year, where he drew comics and took language classes. He tried to get his comic, Man vs. Woman, syndicated in newspapers. That didn't work out, but it was a learning experience.   And so Spike came back to his 4,000-square-foot loft in South of Market, kept the comics going, and got a job bartending at many places all over SF. One of the places he sent his single-panel comics to was The New Yorker. He'd included a bottle of wine in one of his shipments, and that helped him stand out. Spike got an invitation to the magazine's office the next time he was in NYC. Folks at the table that day told him to go experience life, but keep doing comics.   One of the things they told him to do was paint. And so, upon his return to The City, Spike picked up a paint brush. Eventually, he started to earn a master's degree in painting from the San Francisco Art Institute (RIP), but never graduated. He made important connections at the school, though, and picked up skills along the way.   He kept bartending while going to SFAI. When he stopped going to grad school, he realized that his life had two streams—bars on the one hand, and art on the other. In 1997, his buddy Alex had the idea to take over what was called Jack's, a bar/venue at the corner of Fillmore and Geary. Alex asked Spike to help open the new spot—newly dubbed The Boom Boom Room—and Spike agreed.   They started with the gutted shell of a space. They aimed to create a classic Fillmore-style juke joint, a throwback to the incredible legacy of the neighborhood. Folks from the hood brought in photos of old spots, and Alex and Spike did their best to simulate that look and feel. Through his time with Alex opening The Boom Boom Room, Spike started to get to know so many musicians, some of whom play at Madrone to this day.   After Boom Boom opened, though, Spike went on to bartend at other spots around town, places like Tunnel Top, Tony Nik's, and Paragon. A new baby, his first kid, was on the way, and he tried to figure out a way to make more money. Managing a place could mean more money, but he also didn't want to manage for anyone else. He wanted to be his own boss.   For the next five years, Spike developed a vision of what it could mean to have his own place. Along the way, he'd sometimes stop in at The Owl Tree and chat with the owner. He thought, "I could do a place like this." He mentioned buying the place from Bobby, who owned it. But Bobby wasn't ready. Then Bobby told Spike, "OK, when I'm ready, I'll sell it to you. But I'm not done!" Bobby died a month after that, and so it never happened.   Then the spot that would become Madrone became available.   Starting in 2004, the Madrone Lounge opened. Spike would come to the hood a lot and liked the place. He knew the original owner, Layla, from their time at SFAI. Spike and I sidetrack just a bit to talk about the history of the building and the space.   Built in 1886, it was formerly a pharmacy. That shut down after the 1989 earthquake, and Burger King, who wanted a 30-year lease, wanted to take over. But folks in the immediate area opposed that plan. It was then that Layla got a liquor license and opened Madrone Lounge.   Layla ran the place for the first four years, until the day-in, day-out took its toll. And so she began to think about selling the place, but not to just anybody. She wanted the new owner to share a similar vision of what the place could be. Needless to say, that person was none other than Spike Krouse. But it didn't happen overnight.   Spike wasn't able to get the money together, but they had talked about the place enough that Layla came to realize how right it would be for him to take over. Shortly after Spike's dad passed away, he got the call on his first cellphone. Layla told him that she was about to list the place, but would sell to him if he was interested. He didn't have enough for a name change or a closure, so Spike just took the reins and went with it.   He started reaching out for mentors and investors, one of whom ended up being the then-owner of Tunnel Tops, who came through in a big way. Spike wasn't going to change the place itself, but he wanted to run things a little differently, and he knew there would be folks who wouldn't stick around.   To get things going, Spike put himself in the role of every employee, and he also got an idea of what it was like to visit the place. He would make the changes he felt needed to be made, and he'd do so in the time it took. It was 2008, and when Obama was elected in November, the street party was off the hook. At this point, Spike knew he was in the right place for him.   Some employees from back then are still with Madrone today. Some kids of those employees are around, even. That says so much.   At this point in the recording, I go off to Spike, gushing about how much I love Madrone and how I'm sorry that I only really discovered it about five or six years ago.   About the New Orleans vibe of Madrone, Spike said he had never been there when he started putting that aesthetic together. That's amazing, but you'll have to just see for yourself.   Speaking of seeing for yourself, I hereby invite you all to the Storied: SF Season 6 Wrap Party Happy Hour, happening tomorrow night (Wednesday, Aug. 21) from 6 to 9 p.m. There'll be free Brenda's Meat and Three (while supplies last), free music, drinks, and just good vibes all around. I really hope you can make it!   We end this podcast and Season 6 with Spike's take on our theme this season—we're all in it.   See you tomorrow or in October, when we come back with the first episode of Season 7!   We recorded this podcast at Madrone Art Bar in May 2024. Photography by Jeff Hunt

Send us a Text Message.We're talking about one of our favorite movies of the year with director/writer Sean Wang and actor Joan Chen! DÌDI (弟弟) follows a 13-year-old Taiwanese American boy during the last month of summer before high school begins, as he learns to skate, flirt, and love his mom. We get behind the scenes details of the first (and most intense) scene with Joan and lead actor Izaac Wang, learn why playing this role was both cathartic and redemptive for Joan, and how Sean believes the best part of filmmaking makes him a better person. Then we cap it off by celebrating both the diversity of Fremont, California (where the film is set), and the magic (and longevity) of Golfland.VOTE for Bitch Talk Podcast in the 48 Hills Best of the Bay 2024 Readers Poll HERESee  Dìdi (弟弟) in a theater near youFollow  Dìdi (弟弟) on IGFollow director/writer Sean Wang on IGFollow actor Joan Chen on IGOn site audio engineering by Jeff Hunt of Storied: San FranciscoSupport the Show.Thanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have reached 11 years, recorded 800+ episodes, and won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 and 2023 without your help! -- Be well, stay safe, Black Lives Matter, AAPI Lives Matter, and abortion is normal. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

Send us a Text Message.This is one of our favorite movies of the year, and the interview was equally as satisfying! We sat down with director Greg Kwedar, and actors Clarence "Divine Eye" Maclin and Sean San Jose to discuss their beautiful film, Sing Sing. The film is based on the real life RTA (Rehabilitation Through the Arts) program at Sing Sing Maximum Security Prison, centered around a group of inmates involved in the theater program. They share how they created a special brotherhood behind the camera, why comedy was an important aspect to the story, their emotional in person screening at Sing Sing, and Divine Eye's surprising dream role for the future. VOTE for Bitch Talk Podcast in the 48 Hills Best of the Bay 2024 Readers Poll HERESing Sing is in theaters now! Click here for ticketsFollow director Greg Kwedar on IGFollow actor Clarence "Divine Eye" Maclin on IGFollow actor Sean San Jose on IGOn site audio engineering by Jeff Hunt of Storied: San FranciscoSupport the Show.Thanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have reached 11 years, recorded 800+ episodes, and won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 and 2023 without your help! -- Be well, stay safe, Black Lives Matter, AAPI Lives Matter, and abortion is normal. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

Z had started a family whom he had to leave when he toured for rollerblading. It didn't take long for him to feel that he should be home—both to be there for his newborn son and to assist his partner in raising him.   Being back in San Francisco, Z started searching for the new him, the next phase. Adding to his new role as father, he enrolled in culinary classes at San Francisco Cooking School. Compared with other things he'd gotten into, this was much more intense. Z was learning from others, rather than making it up "on the fly." But he took to the kitchen right away.   He ended up doing mostly knife-for-hire work around The City and the Bay Area. Z shies away from dropping names in the restaurant industry, pointing to the fact that he feels like the people who get credit take all the shine, while those who do most of the work are in the shadows, so to speak. He says that even back then, he decided that if he branched out on his own, he'd do things differently.   Following his stint as a knife-for-hire, Z became a private chef. Then the pandemic hit. In addition to making sure his kids were doing their at-home schoolwork, he'd joined a chef's thread online. It was a space for those in his community to share how they were coping with shutdown and the loss of doing what they love. Like approximately half of us who aren't chefs, many of the people in these forums were making bread.   At first, Z was apprehensive about making bread. But his friends in the industry kept nudging him. Reluctantly, he gave in ... and at first, the results weren't good. He went at it over and over and just wasn't getting it right. Slowly, over time, he started having some success. And then cops murdered George Floyd.   Z talks at length about the effect that Floyd's murder had on him. He stayed out of protests in public for fear that he wouldn't be able to contain all the anger and frustration he felt at that moment. Instead, he turned inward.   And in that solitude, he worked and worked on his bread. It was the only thing, he says, that gave him solace. The bread got better and better and Z got to a point where he wanted to share his creation, first with his community, then with the world. A friend out in Brooklyn asked Z to ship a sourdough. The day after he did that, orders exploded.   It didn't take long for Z to scale his operation up. A bigger mixer, a second rack ... it all allowed him to keep up with demand. Then he began adding flavors to the bread, at first just for himself. One of the first of these was called The Ninth Ward, a loaf with Louisiana hot sausage inside it (yum ...). Next, he added blackberries to a loaf, which are tricky because of how wet they are and how much they stain.   People started to notice ... people like food writers. One such writer from the Chronicle asked if she could buy a loaf and hang out and talk with Z. He didn't know she was a writer, and they sat down and chatted.   By this time, Z already had the name Rize Up. He had taken his kids to see Hamilton, which has a song about rising up. It was the summer of 2020, and people were actually out in the streets protesting racial injustice. And of course, bread rises as it bakes. The name was perfect.   Once vaccines came around and it got safer to leave the house, Z moved into a bigger kitchen facility, one that allowed him to hire and be able to deliver bread to stores and other customers. Rainbow was the first grocery store to carry Rize Up. Z developed the ube loaf for Excelsior Coffee.   Z talks about those ingredients and flavors he puts into many of his loaves. In the bread world, they're called "inclusions." "Our inclusions are inclusive," he says. They are intentional and reflect his love and appreciation for his community and his neighbors.   We end the episode with Z's take on this season's podcast theme: "We're All In It."   Photography by Jeff Hunt

In this episode, Jeff Hunt welcomes resilience expert Luis Velasquez, the author of Ordinary Resilience. They dive deep into the concept of resilience, exploring how overcoming obstacles can shape individuals into more effective leaders and employees. Luis shares his personal journey of resilience, growing up in Guatemala during a time of political unrest and economic hardship, as well as significant health challenges in the U.S. Despite these challenges, he managed to build a successful career, thanks to the support of the U.S. "Scholarships for Peace" program. Luis offers insights from his book, providing practical strategies for building resilience, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, relationships, and seeing challenges as opportunities for growth. Jeff and Luis talk about how resilience involves not just bouncing back but also growing from adversity and how recognizing the difference between pain and discomfort can help individuals push through difficult situations. Ordinary Resilience Luis Velasquez LinkedIn

Father Frank Pavone (6:20, 14:24) - The abortion platform from the RNC in 2016 was very clear of their goals. In 2024 it seems they're just a little to the right of the Biden administration on this issue. How does this affect the faith based voters? Abby Johnson (23:27) - The Republican party rolled out its 2024 platform and those against abortion have issues with its somewhat relaxed approach. Is the right compromising on this issue to win the election? Jeff Hunt (28:36, 38:22) - There is a concern that the Republican Party is headed toward populism instead of traditional conservatism, especially with the direction of the pro-life platform. Plus, many are still in shock from the events of this past weekend. The Trump assassination attempt has left many wondering where America is as a united nation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Round-Up - Robin Brio, Jeff Hunt and John Cardillo make up today's power panel. Last we heard from Joe Biden he sent out a letter of resignation via twitter, but last night he addressed the nation from the Oval Office. He reaffirmed he would be supporting Kamala Harris as the new nominee, something it seems like the Simpsons once again predicted. Since Biden stepped down the Harris for President ads are out, with a message of “Freedom”. What is her version of freedom? Finally the Trump assassination hearings continued with new information from FBI Director Christopher Wray. Adam Andrzejewski - Kamala Harris had 92 percent staff turnover in her first three years as vice president. Something she tried to hide, claiming her office is not subject to the Freedom of Information Act. Founder of Open The Books Adam Andrzejewski joins us to discuss.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a Text Message.We're joined by Jeff Hunt of Storied: San Francisco to interview Sameer Gupta and Kundan Baidwan, two artists and the creative forces behind the Color Your Mind Festival happening on Saturday, July 27th, from 12-5pm at the Yerba Buena Gardens in downtown SF. This free festival is a celebration of South Asian traditional and modern arts, including music, dance, art, books, crafts, and more. We hope to see you there!In the meantime, Kundan and Sameer share how they grew up together and bonded as creative kids in school, why they started Rootstock Arts, and how art is a major part of South Asian culture. Then we dive into what you can expect at the festival, and why it's so important for them to create platforms for other artists.For more information on the Color Your Mind Festival on Saturday, July 27th, click here!Follow Rootstock Arts on IGFollow Sameer Gupta on IGFollow Kundan Baidwan on IGVOTE for Bitch Talk Podcast in the 48 Hills Best of the Bay 2024 Readers Poll HERESupport the Show.Thanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have reached 11 years, recorded 800+ episodes, and won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 and 2023 without your help! -- Be well, stay safe, Black Lives Matter, AAPI Lives Matter, and abortion is normal. -- Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook Listen every Tuesday at 9 - 10 am on BFF.FM

From a young age, Azikiwee Anderson left his heart in San Francisco.   In this episode, Azikiwee (everyone calls him "Z"), the founder of Rize Up Sourdough, shares the story of how he got here. His dad was a famous drummer who got hooked on heroin while touring. When he returned home from the tour, the problems at home began. He started physically assaulting Z's mom.   And so she packed up her three kids, all five and younger, and her things and split. The battered wives' shelter helped get them out of New Orleans and to San Francisco. Z has some memories of New Orleans, but they're coupled with trauma.   When they landed here, they didn't really have people. His mom and her kids stayed at the bus station for weeks, and Z remembers a man giving them his lunch more than once. There's a poignant story of the brown paper bags that those meals came in and how Z has used similar bags for Rize Up breads as an homage.   The family ended up at a shelter and his mom started to imagine what her new life could be. Z's mom got jobs and took classes. They lived in The City for six years and then moved to Chico.   Z spent the rest of junior high and high school in that northern Valley town. The day after he graduated, he left for Santa Rosa to go to junior college. It was close enough to San Francisco that he could come here easily and often, which he did. In addition to school, he taught gymnastics, something he'd begun in high school. But because of his height (he's 6' 3") and relative inexperience, he decided that teaching was a better route for him than competing.   He also rollerbladed. Like, a lot. He says kids would come into his gymnastics classes asking Z to teach them how to do flips on rollerblades. Never mind that he didn't know how to do that ... yet. One of these kids brought in a video of what he had in mind, and it was the first time Z saw people doing all these incredible things on rollerblades. Eventually, this led to Z getting sponsored to skate.   It took him on a journey he never could've imagined. He started traveling, around the US, around the world. It became his life. He built skate parks, for roller blades, bikes, skateboards, whatever.   Looking back on his time as a pro rollerblader, Z says that he owes the hardship of his young years to the fact that it doesn't take a lot to make him happy. When he started seeing the world, he didn't take it for granted. He was grateful for the opportunities it afforded him.   Time spent traveling gave way to more time running businesses. And with a little more income came the opportunity to cash in on a life's dream—Z moved to San Francisco. He found a place on Bush between Van Ness and Polk. And he brought a small distribution company for rollerblading products with him. But when the 2008 recession hit, the business started to feel some serious pains.   Check back next week for Part 2 with Azikiwee Anderson.   We recorded this podcast at Rize Up Bakery in the South of Market in June 2024.   Photography by Jeff Hunt

Part 2 picks up right where we left off in Part 1, with Reem describing finding the anti-imperialist women's soccer team. Through that, she met her partner, who's now her co-parent.   Reem worked in the nonprofit sector until around 2010, when she burned out. She'd moved to Oakland upon her return to the Bay Area, though she was still connected to The City through her work with AROC. She found herself wanting to take care of her community in other ways than what nonprofits were offering.   She and her father had been estranged, but after leaving work, she joined him on a trip to the Middle East. The two were joined by Reem's youngest sister on a visit she calls "transformative." Besides gaining insight into who her dad was as a person, she truly discovered and fell in love with the food of her people. She knew right away that she wanted to create that feeling for others. Her Syrian family took note of her interest, and took her to bakeries in that country to get a glimpse of the kitchens after-hours.   She returned to the Bay Area wanting to do two things: To combat tropes and negative stereotypes about Arab culture and people, and to do that by creating a sense of hospitality. Those two ideas would eventually form the foundation of what Reem's California does today.   But she had to begin somewhere, and so she enrolled in a baking class at Laney College. Out of that class, she got a job with Arizmendi in Emeryville, where she got experience in a co-op and a kitchen. She started forming the idea of what her place would be, and while that came together, she settled on basing it around man'oushe, the street food of her people.   Over a number of years and various kitchen and bartending jobs, Reem took as many entrepreneur classes as she could. The last of these was with La Cocina. The program helped steer her toward more practical, lower-cost methods of doing business. And that's where the saj comes into play. It's what Reem uses to make her man'oushe. "It's like an inverted tandoor," she says.   An uncle in Lebanon was able to have two custom-made sajes for Reem. They arrived and that's what set it all in motion. They were approved for the 22nd and Bartlett market and the farmer's market at the Ferry Building around the same time. At both locations, they served Arabic tea and played Arabic music, creating that vibe Reem had been seeking. Within 16 months, they had grown from one market to five.   Then La Cocina told Reem that it was time to take the operation brick-and-mortar. The first location was in Fruitvale in Oakland in 2017 and lasted a couple of years. Then, after a brief foray into fine-dining, the women owners of Mission Pie asked Reem if she wanted to take over their spot at Mission and 25th. She said yes and started doing the work to get open.   And then the pandemic hit.   Once the Mission location was able to open, Reem's California did better than a lot of nearby restaurants, partly because the food lends itself to take-out so easily. But for Reem, not being able to share space and that hospitality that was at least as important as the food itself was hard. Still, they found ways to connect with the community.   In 2023, they opened a second location in the Ferry Building. They started appearing at Outside Lands a few years ago (and will be there again this year). Reem decided to start transitioning the business to a worker-owned model.   Visit Reem's Mission location, 2901 Mission Street, Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and again for dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Ferry Building location is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Follow them on social media at @ReemsCalifornia and follow Reem herself @reem.assil. Her cookbook, Arabiyya, is available on her website.   We end the podcast with Reem's interpretation of this year's theme on Storied: San Francisco—We're all in it.   Photography by Jeff Hunt

Auron MacIntyre - Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has agreed to plead guilty in a deal with the justice department. According to CNN he was part of one of the largest US government breaches of classified material. Debate Panel - Today we have all the debate coverage as we are just a day away. Our Panel includes Jeff Hunt, Rob Salvador, Kathy Barnette. They discuss the strategy of each presidential candidate and the Trump Vice Presidential choice that he will reveal Thursday night. Jenna Ellis - The Surgeon General has declared gun violence a public health crisis. Many medical organizations publicly support the declaration such as the American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Public Health Association, American College of Surgeons, and the YWCA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim Nelles - Now that California has a $20 minimum wage, fast food restaurants have cut 10,00 jobs. The economy under Joe Biden has been a disaster, and this is just one of the many issues we face as a nation. David Reaboi - Rachel Morin was raped and murdered my an El Salvadorian illegal immigrant. Hartford County police chief said “We are 1800 miles of the souther border” “And American citizens are not safe because of failed immigration policies.” Luke Niforatus - A story from The Denver Gazette reports that other states are going to us Colorado as an example of what not to do when it comes to their marijuana policies. Studies showed that brining a pot shop into your neighborhood increases crime rates. George Brauchler - Police are looking for a motive after a random shooting at a Michigan recreation center wounds 9. A lot of these stories go to the way side since there are so many unexplained shooting in America. What goes through the mind of someone willing to harm others for, what seems like, no reason. Jeff Hunt - Guest hosting today's program, Jeff Hunt speaks on this weekend's hottest topics, including President Biden's “moment” on stage, as Barak Obama has to guide him off. Plus, a major democrat donor is pulling their funding because she is “fed up” with the current administration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Mary Talley Bowden (2:27) - Who should be held accountable for the covid-19 propaganda and vaccine hysteria after the hearing where Dr. Fauci admitted he and others lied to the public? Walker Wildmon (14:20) - One of Joe Biden's judicial nominees refused to answer when asked if chromosomes determine someone's biological sex. She said she had never studied biology and was unqualified to answer. Robin Biro (22:39) - With much of the focus on the presidential elections, it's important to look at the down ballot races as well. Today we look at the democratic side of things. What do they hope to achieve in the house, senate and state races? Jeff Hunt (28:16, 37:21) - 4 in 5 Biden democrats do not see having children as a priority while almost 60 percent of trump supporters do. Is this something to be concerned with? What is the reason for such a low interest in starting a family among the left?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.