Podcast appearances and mentions of otis mcdonald

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Best podcasts about otis mcdonald

Latest podcast episodes about otis mcdonald

SGV Master Key Podcast
Keegan Fong - Scaling Woon From a 2014 Pop-Up to Pasadena

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2026 58:24


Send us Fan MailKeegan Fong is the founder and owner of Woon, a homestyle Chinese food restaurant and packaged goods line based in Los Angeles. Raised in the Pasadena area, he worked professionally in apparel marketing before transitioning full-time to the culinary industry. Woon initially launched as a pop-up noodle stand in 2014 to share the original recipes of his mother, Julie Chen, also known as Mama Fong. The family-backed venture grew to open its first brick-and-mortar restaurant in Historic Filipinotown in 2019, followed by a second location in Pasadena in 2025, while also expanding its distribution of sauces and pantry staples nationwide. This episode details the evolution of Woon from a temporary food cart into a multi-location restaurant brand and retail packaged goods company. The discussion explores Keegan's professional background in brand building and how those storytelling skills were applied to launch and scale a food business. Key topics include the logistics of scaling family recipes for high-volume commercial kitchens, transitioning from a single brick-and-mortar space to a multi-unit operation, and developing a nationwide consumer packaged goods line for retail distribution. For San Gabriel Valley viewers, this conversation highlights a local business owner who grew up in the region and recently expanded his operations back into Pasadena. The guest's audience will gain insight into the behind-the-scenes mechanics of keeping a family-oriented food brand authentic while managing rapid business growth. Additionally, individuals searching for real-world case studies on restaurant entrepreneurship, career pivots, and scaling retail pantry items will find practical insights into building a brand centered around cultural heritage. To stay updated on the stories of entrepreneurs, leaders, and creators across the region, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast. If you found value in this discussion about family business and operational scaling, please share this episode with a friend or a fellow food enthusiast._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Ryan Ching - From Architect to Founder of Ry's Poke Shack

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 66:37


Send us Fan MailRyan Ching is a Hawaii-based entrepreneur, chef, and social media storyteller who co-founded Ry's Poke Shack on the North Shore of Oahu in 2021 alongside his wife, Khannie. Originally trained as an architect with a doctorate in architecture from the University of Hawaii, he pivoted to the food industry during the pandemic. His restaurant utilizes a customized, made-to-order preparation method inspired by his grandfather's traditional techniques. This approach earned the establishment a spot on Yelp's Top 100 Local Businesses in the United States and a featured segment on Netflix's Street Food: USA series. The business has since expanded outside of Hawaii, opening Southern California locations in Huntington Beach and Pasadena.This episode covers Ryan's career transition from architectural design to restaurant ownership and the daily operational philosophy behind his fresh poke service. The conversation details the growth of Ry's Poke Shack from a single local setup into a multi-state brand, focusing heavily on its expansion into the San Gabriel Valley marketplace. Key topics include leveraging social media platforms to build brand equity, managing supply chains across different regions, and maintaining quality standards while scaling a family business model.For San Gabriel Valley viewers, this episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at a business that recently established a local footprint in Pasadena. Ryan's established audience will gain insight into the business logistics and personal motivation driving the brand's growth beyond the shores of Oahu. Additionally, individuals searching for information on restaurant expansion strategies, culinary entrepreneurship, or authentic Hawaiian food culture will find clear, practical examples of how a modern brand scales without losing its traditional foundations.Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast to stay updated on the stories, leaders, and businesses moving into the San Gabriel Valley. If you found this conversation insightful, please share the episode with a friend, neighbor, or fellow food enthusiast.You can watch this Yelp Top 100 News Feature to see the broadcast coverage of Ryan's restaurant earning its national business ranking._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Karen Cheung Lee - Continuing the Legacy of Sam Woo BBQ Restaurant

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2026 62:03


Send us Fan MailKaren Cheung Lee grew up in the San Gabriel Valley alongside her three sisters, raised in the community where her family built the local restaurant Sam Woo. In her early adulthood, she worked in the events and hospitality industry and helped launch the restaurant's San Gabriel location. She later transitioned into a corporate career for ten years to focus on raising her two daughters. Now, as her father prepares for retirement, Karen has returned to the family business to learn its daily operations and carry the establishment's legacy forward.This episode covers Karen's journey through the hospitality industry, her corporate career, and her eventual return to operations at Sam Woo. The conversation focuses on the realities of running a family-owned business, the personal sacrifices required to sustain a local brand, and the perspective shift that occurs after starting one's own family. Karen also shares her current efforts to learn every facet of the restaurant's management as she prepares to guide it into the future.For viewers in the San Gabriel Valley, this episode offers an inside look at a restaurant that has been a community staple for decades. Karen's audience will find value in her honest reflection on balancing corporate work, motherhood, and family expectations. Additionally, anyone searching for real-world insights on business transitions and legacy preservation will benefit from her practical breakdown of taking over a long-standing brand.To hear more stories from local leaders and business owners, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast. If you enjoyed this conversation, please take a moment to share the episode with a friend or a fellow food enthusiast._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Paramveer Bedi - Preserving the Legacy of Bhanu's Indian Cuisine

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2026 61:52


Send us Fan MailParamveer Bedi is an entrepreneur in the San Gabriel Valley and one of the owners of Bhanu Indian Cuisine & Market. Located in San Gabriel, the business was originally established by his father and aunt with the goal of providing authentic Indian food and culture to the local community. The establishment operates as both a sit-down restaurant and a specialized marketplace, offering a wide range of traditional Indian spices, lentils, and imported goods.This episode explores the history of Bhanu's and how Paramveer is continuing the business legacy alongside his cousin. The conversation covers the origins of the business as a catering service and its growth into a prominent physical storefront on Rosemead Boulevard. Key topics include the importance of family collaboration, the challenges of maintaining multi-generational standards, and the dual nature of managing a retail grocery store while running a full-service restaurant.For San Gabriel Valley residents, this episode offers an inside look at a long-standing family business that has become a regional staple. Viewers interested in entrepreneurship will find value in the discussion on legacy management and the evolution of a community-focused brand. People searching for information on authentic Indian cuisine and specialty grocery resources in Southern California will learn about the history and mission that define this local establishment.Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast to stay connected with the local stories and businesses shaping the San Gabriel Valley. If you enjoyed this conversation, please share the episode with others who appreciate the food and cultural diversity of our community._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Thee Sawadwid - Building Fillet Sushi in Old Town Monrovia

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 46:06


Send us Fan MailThee Sawadwid is the chef and owner of Fillet Sushi, located in Old Town Monrovia. Raised in Thailand, he transitioned into the culinary world through a deep respect for Japanese discipline and craftsmanship. His path into the profession was defined by hands-on practice and experience in high-level kitchens, including training at Matsuhisa Beverly Hills, rather than formal culinary schooling. Together with his wife and partner, Lin Sawadwid, he has established a dining experience centered on intentional hospitality and technical precision.This episode explores the journey of launching and operating Fillet Sushi in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley. Thee discusses his culinary philosophy, which prioritizes balance, consistency, and restraint over excess. The conversation covers the practicalities of maintaining long-term standards, the importance of a calm dining environment, and his approach to thoughtful evolution. This philosophy honors Japanese foundations while allowing flavor and harmony to lead the way. He also shares the challenges of navigating growth with humility alongside Lin, who oversees the restaurant's operations.For viewers in the San Gabriel Valley, this episode provides an inside look at the dedication required to run a successful independent business in Monrovia. The guest's audience and those interested in the culinary arts will find value in his perspective on self-taught mastery and the discipline of sushi. People searching for insights into restaurant management and Japanese food culture will benefit from Thee's breakdown of how he balances traditional roots with a modern, community-driven business model.To hear more stories from local leaders and innovators, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast. If you found this conversation insightful, please share this episode with a friend or fellow food enthusiast._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
George Dera - Authentic Lebanese Cuisine and Wahib's Mediterranean Express in San Gabriel

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 55:28


Send us Fan MailGeorge Dera is the owner of Wahib's Mediterranean Express, a restaurant located in San Gabriel, California. Born in Zahle, Lebanon, Dera moved to Glendora, California, at the age of 14 and has remained a resident of the city since his arrival. Today, he operates his business while residing in Glendora with his wife, Aileen, and their two children, focusing on traditional hospitality and fresh ingredients.This episode explores the history and values behind Wahib's Mediterranean Express, focusing on the transition from Lebanese traditions to the Southern California business landscape. Dera discusses the importance of authentic recipes, the role of family in his operations, and how his upbringing in Zahle influenced his approach to service. The conversation also highlights the specific Mediterranean dishes that define the restaurant's menu and its connection to the local community.For viewers in the San Gabriel Valley and those interested in the regional culinary scene, this episode provides an inside look at a local staple. It offers valuable insights for food enthusiasts searching for authentic Mediterranean dining and for individuals interested in the immigrant entrepreneurial experience in California. By bridging the gap between Lebanese heritage and local service, Dera's story resonates with anyone looking to understand the intersection of culture and commerce in the SGV.If you enjoyed learning about the flavors and history of Wahib's Mediterranean Express, please subscribe to the podcast and share this episode with others. Your support helps us continue to highlight the stories and businesses that shape our community._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Armando De La Torre Jr. - Guisados Founder on Boyle Heights Tacos and LA Restaurant Growth

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2026 61:32


Send us Fan MailArmando De La Torre Jr. is a Los Angeles–born restauranteur, entrepreneur, and artist known for creating and developing Guisados, Georges Burger Stand, and Playita Mariscos. A graduate of Loyola High School and Loyola Marymount University, where he studied Business Law and Marketing, he began his career path toward law before shifting into the restaurant industry. In 2011, he co-founded Guisados in Boyle Heights with his father, building a taqueria centered on homestyle braises and fresh handmade corn tortillas. He later expanded his work by acquiring and revitalizing Georges Burger Stand and opening Playita Mariscos in Silver Lake.In this episode, Armando shares the story behind launching Guisados in Boyle Heights and growing it into a multi-location restaurant group. He discusses the development of Georges Burger Stand and the concept behind Playita Mariscos, along with the operational realities of running multiple restaurant brands in Los Angeles. The conversation also explores his work as an artist, including designing menus, merchandise, and brand identities, as well as his creation of G's on Sunday, an automotive lifestyle brand that collaborates with major partners and hosts community events.This episode offers value for San Gabriel Valley viewers and greater Los Angeles audiences interested in restaurant ownership, food culture, and creative entrepreneurship. It highlights the evolution of well-known LA food concepts rooted in Boyle Heights and expands into how branding, art, and community engagement intersect within the hospitality industry. For listeners searching topics like starting a restaurant, scaling food businesses, or building a multi-brand presence in Los Angeles, Armando's experience provides a detailed, real-world perspective.If you enjoy conversations with Los Angeles founders and creators shaping the local food scene, subscribe for more episodes and share this with someone interested in restaurants, entrepreneurship, and creative work._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

PS I Love You XOXO: PlayStation Podcast by Kinda Funny

Thank you for the support! Donate to Sunset Youth Services: https://www.sunsetyouthservices.org/donateHelp save Bay Area Transit: https://luma.com/connectbayareaHeadline Consultation & Thumbnail from Peter Hunt SzpytekFollow Peter on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@peterspittechFollow Peter on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/peterspittech.bsky.socialIntro & Outro Music by Otis McDonald: https://www.otismacmusic.com/Time Stamps:00:00:00 - An Intro00:05:18 - Part One: Art00:10:20 - Part Two: Escapism00:26:06 - Part Three: Reality00:49:52 - An Epilogue Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kinda Funny Gamescast: Video Game Podcast
They Want You to Fight Back

Kinda Funny Gamescast: Video Game Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2026 55:18


Thank you for the support! Donate to Sunset Youth Services: https://www.sunsetyouthservices.org/donateHelp save Bay Area Transit: https://luma.com/connectbayareaHeadline Consultation & Thumbnail from Peter Hunt SzpytekFollow Peter on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@peterspittechFollow Peter on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/peterspittech.bsky.socialIntro & Outro Music by Otis McDonald: https://www.otismacmusic.com/Time Stamps:00:00:00 - An Intro00:05:18 - Part One: Art00:10:20 - Part Two: Escapism00:26:06 - Part Three: Reality00:49:52 - An Epilogue Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kinda Funny Xcast - An Xbox Podcast
They Want You to Fight Back

Kinda Funny Xcast - An Xbox Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2026 55:18


Thank you for the support! Donate to Sunset Youth Services: https://www.sunsetyouthservices.org/donateHelp save Bay Area Transit: https://luma.com/connectbayareaHeadline Consultation & Thumbnail from Peter Hunt SzpytekFollow Peter on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@peterspittechFollow Peter on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/peterspittech.bsky.socialIntro & Outro Music by Otis McDonald: https://www.otismacmusic.com/Time Stamps:00:00:00 - An Intro00:05:18 - Part One: Art00:10:20 - Part Two: Escapism00:26:06 - Part Three: Reality00:49:52 - An Epilogue Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kinda Funny Game Showdown - Video Game Trivia Show

Thank you for the support! Donate to Sunset Youth Services: https://www.sunsetyouthservices.org/donateHelp save Bay Area Transit: https://luma.com/connectbayareaHeadline Consultation & Thumbnail from Peter Hunt SzpytekFollow Peter on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@peterspittechFollow Peter on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/peterspittech.bsky.socialIntro & Outro Music by Otis McDonald: https://www.otismacmusic.com/Time Stamps:00:00:00 - An Intro00:05:18 - Part One: Art00:10:20 - Part Two: Escapism00:26:06 - Part Three: Reality00:49:52 - An Epilogue Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGV Master Key Podcast
Aaron (Phu) Luong - From SGV Upbringing to Aloha Food Factory Owner in Alhambra

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2026 53:03


Send us Fan MailAaron (Phu) Luong was born in Hong Kong under British rule and immigrated to the United States at a young age. He grew up in Rosemead and Monterey Park, later attending San Gabriel High School, where he balanced academics, extracurriculars, and Taekwondo, earning his black belt in his sophomore year. He went on to graduate with a double major in Business Management and Supply Chain Management. Today, he owns and operates Aloha Food Factory in Alhambra, a 30-year Hawaiian restaurant originally founded by Auntie Betty.In this episode, Aaron shares his experiences growing up in a traditional immigrant household, navigating bullying, and finding structure through training and discipline. He talks about setbacks during his school years, his time in Taekwondo, and the path that led him through college and into the workforce. The conversation also covers pivotal moments in adulthood, including legal challenges, personal struggles, and the shift toward personal growth. Aaron also discusses taking over Aloha Food Factory during the pandemic and the operational challenges he faced, from redevelopment threats to infrastructure issues.This episode offers insight into the realities of growing up in the San Gabriel Valley while navigating identity, responsibility, and resilience. For SGV viewers, it highlights the story behind a longstanding local restaurant and the effort required to sustain it. For listeners interested in personal development, discipline, and entrepreneurship, Aaron's experiences provide a grounded perspective shaped by real events and decisions.If you enjoy stories rooted in the San Gabriel Valley and conversations about growth and accountability, subscribe for more episodes and share this with someone who would connect with Aaron's journey._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Marcel Rene Michel - From Corporate Recruiting at Disney to Opening a Pasadena Restaurant

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 69:53


Send us Fan MailMarcel Rene Michel is a Southern California native born in Bellflower and raised in Hacienda Heights, with roots in Guadalajara and Colima, Mexico. A first-generation Mexican American, Marcel attended Don Bosco Tech Institute and later built a career in corporate recruiting, working with major companies including ARYZTA, Hasbro, Red Bull, and Disney. His professional journey spans sales, recruiting, and leadership, shaped by early experiences in programs like Profit Techniques and a strong foundation in personal development.In this episode, Marcel shares his journey from navigating identity growing up in the San Gabriel Valley to building a career in corporate America, and ultimately pivoting into entrepreneurship. He talks about the lessons he learned in sales and recruiting, the impact of being furloughed from Disney during the 2020 pandemic, and how that moment led him and his wife to start cooking for friends and family. What began as a small effort grew into catering opportunities, a spot at Smorgasburg, and eventually opening a brick-and-mortar food business in Pasadena.This conversation highlights the resilience and adaptability that define many SGV stories. For local viewers, Marcel's experience reflects the diverse cultural upbringing of the area and the realities of career pivots in uncertain times. For his audience and aspiring entrepreneurs, this episode offers a grounded look at building something from scratch, embracing failure, and staying committed to long-term growth.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, share it with your community, and follow along for more stories from the San Gabriel Valley and beyond._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Shelly Lin - From Medan, Indonesia to SGV Small Business Owner at Coconut & Co.

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2026 70:41


Send us Fan MailShelly Lin is the co-founder of Coconut & Co., a San Gabriel Valley business built around natural, high-quality drinks and desserts that are inclusive, health-conscious, and made for everyone. Born and raised in Medan, Indonesia, Shelly grew up surrounded by rich culinary traditions and a family that instilled in her a deep sense of discipline, independence, and compassion. She co-founded Coconut & Co. alongside her best friend Carmen, bringing those same values into everything they create and serve.In this episode, Shelly shares the story behind Coconut & Co., from its roots in Indonesian culture to the philosophy driving every ingredient choice they make. She talks about growing up with a father who taught her self-reliance and a mother who modeled quiet resilience, and how both shaped her approach to business and community. She and Carmen built Coconut & Co. on a simple but firm belief: that food and drinks should be real, honest, and accessible to all, with no shortcuts and no compromises.For SGV viewers, this is a story about a neighbor who turned a lifetime of values into a local business worth knowing. For anyone searching for inclusive, natural dessert and drink options in the area, Coconut & Co. is exactly the kind of place this episode will make you want to visit. And for anyone building something from scratch with a best friend, Shelly's story is both grounding and genuinely inspiring.If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share it with someone who loves discovering local SGV businesses rooted in culture and community._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

The Wake Up America Show with Austin Petersen
Justice Jackson's Stolen Wallet Speech Was a Gift to Trump

The Wake Up America Show with Austin Petersen

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2026 115:45 Transcription Available


Justice Jackson's Stolen Wallet Speech Was a Gift to Trump Trump made history walking into SCOTUS while Justice Jackson compared birthright citizenship to stealing a wallet in Japan. Mayra Flores just lost her own Republican primary in a majority-Hispanic district and then told CPAC the GOP cannot survive without Hispanic voters. And eight million people hit the streets under the No Kings banner funded by Soros and organized alongside groups calling openly for revolution. Austin Petersen breaks down the biggest constitutional case in a generation, the Hispanic voter data every Republican needs before November, and why the party that uses the 14th Amendment to protect your gun rights cannot treat that same amendment as negotiable on citizenship.

SGV Master Key Podcast
T.D. Tran - Yelp Community Director Connecting the San Gabriel Valley

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 62:07


Send us Fan MailT.D. Tran, also known as Thuy Dan Tran, is the Yelp Community Director for the San Gabriel Valley, where she helps connect people, spotlight local businesses, and celebrate the depth and diversity of SGV. She has become a recognizable force in the region through community building, local partnerships, and curated experiences that bring residents and business owners together in meaningful ways. Yelp's own community coverage credits TD with leading SGV focused events and local features, while outside profiles highlight her passion for helping people discover what makes a community feel alive. In this conversation, TD shares how her path into community work was shaped by her upbringing as a first generation Vietnamese American raised in Wisconsin. In an interview profile, she explains that community programs played a major role in her childhood and helped shape her understanding of support, belonging, and opportunity. She also points to her family's restaurant roots and her love for gathering people as key influences behind the work she does today. A major part of TD's impact in the San Gabriel Valley has been her leadership within Yelp's local ecosystem. Public coverage shows her tied to SGV food and culture features, local campaigns, and business centered events, while a 2023 event listing identified her as Yelp's Senior Community Manager for San Gabriel Valley. Those roles reflect the same core mission: creating visibility for small businesses, building trust with locals, and making it easier for people to engage with the region in a more personal way. This episode is for anyone interested in community building, local business support, event production, food culture, and the stories that shape the San Gabriel Valley. TD Tran brings a thoughtful perspective on what it means to build real connections, champion neighborhood identity, and create spaces where people feel seen, welcomed, and inspired to participate. _______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Sandra Gomez - Carrying On a 50-Year SGV Legacy at Moffett's Chicken Pie Shoppe

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2026 60:27


Send us Fan MailSandra Y. Gomez is the co-owner of Moffett's Chicken Pie Shoppe, a beloved San Gabriel Valley restaurant with over 50 years of history in the community. A Baldwin Park native and graduate of Baldwin Park High School, Sandra brings a background in Human Resources from her time at Alhambra Unified School District to her role running the family business. In 2024, she made the decision to step away from her HR career to focus on the restaurant full time alongside her husband and family.In this episode, Sandra shares the story behind Moffett's deep roots in the SGV, what it's been like to take on ownership without prior restaurant experience, and how her HR background shaped the way she leads her team and serves her guests. She opens up about the sacrifices her family made along the way, the role faith and culture have played in her life, and what it means to carry forward a legacy that spans generations.This conversation is for anyone in the San Gabriel Valley who has walked through the doors of Moffett's, and for anyone who has ever taken on something bigger than themselves out of love for family. Sandra's story reflects the kind of quiet, committed work that keeps community institutions alive — and it's a reminder of how much local businesses mean to the neighborhoods they've served for decades.If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast so you never miss a story from the community. Share this one with someone who loves the SGV or knows what it means to carry on a family tradition._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Yamato Miura - The Entrepreneur Behind Sushi Kisen and SGV's Rising Japanese Dining Scene

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 62:54


Send a textYamato Miura is a Tokyo born entrepreneur and restaurateur whose path to hospitality has been anything but ordinary. Before building one of the most respected Japanese restaurant groups in Southern California, he moved alone to the United States as a teenager, trained in performance and action work, and later competed in kickboxing. That background of discipline, risk, and precision now shows up in the way he builds restaurants, brands, and guest experiences. In this conversation, Yamato shares how his early life in Japan, his family's deep roots in the performing arts, and his years in combat sports shaped the way he thinks about excellence, presentation, and resilience. He also talks about his entrepreneurial journey, including launching Bun Geiz Corporation and growing from ramen and izakaya concepts into a hospitality group known for serious craftsmanship and a clear point of view. Bun Geiz now includes concepts such as DTLA Ramen, Izakaya Tonchinkan, Sushi Kisen, Miura Beverly Hills, Sushidokoro Miyama, and Sumibi Yakitori Kidori. A major part of Yamato's story is Sushi Kisen in Arcadia, which presents itself as Arcadia's first Edomae style sushi restaurant and has earned recognition from both the Michelin Guide and the Los Angeles Times. His Beverly Hills project, formerly known as Sushi Yamamoto and now operating as Miura, continues that pursuit of high level Japanese dining with an intimate omakase experience rooted in Edomae sushi, kaiseki, and seasonality. This episode is for anyone interested in Japanese food culture, restaurant ownership, entrepreneurship, branding, and the mindset required to build something lasting. Yamato Miura's story brings together Tokyo tradition, Los Angeles hospitality, martial discipline, and a relentless commitment to authenticity._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Anthony Ma - The Filmmaker Behind God & Buddha Are Friends

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 66:06


Send a textAnthony Ma is an award winning actor, filmmaker, and voiceover artist from Arcadia, California whose career spans television, film, animation, dubbing, and directing. On screen, he has appeared in series including Scandal, S.W.A.T., This Is Us, Mom, Dear White People, NCIS: LA, The Mentalist, Castle, Shameless, and more. Beyond acting, he has built an impressive voice career across animation, Korean and Japanese dubbing, video games, and audio dramas.In this conversation, Anthony shares the journey behind his work as a storyteller and creative whose mission goes beyond performance. His voice credits include Blue Eye Samurai, Her Blue Sky, Marry My Husband, Bloodhounds, Pachinko, and First Love, showing the range and adaptability that have made him a sought after talent across multiple mediums. As a filmmaker, he also wrote and produced Chinese Antique, created the feature Elevator, and was part of Staycation, which premiered at the final LA Film Festival and received the LA Muse Fiction Award.A major focus of this episode is Anthony's directorial debut short, God & Buddha Are Friends, a film inspired by childhood experience that explores faith, family, culture, and identity through a distinctly San Gabriel Valley lens. The short won Best Narrative Short and Best Short Screenplay at the Studio City International Film Festival and also screened at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival, CAAM Fest, and HAAPIFEST.Anthony also talks about community, representation, and his work co founding and leading the Taiwanese American Film Festival from 2017 to 2019. At the heart of everything he does is a desire to tell bold, human stories about the many layers of Asian American life, with honesty, depth, and humor. This episode is for anyone interested in acting, filmmaking, voiceover, Asian American storytelling, and what it takes to build a creative life with purpose._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Dylan James Ho - Cantonese and Laotian Roots Through the Lens of SGV Food Culture

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 73:20


Send a textOn this episode of the MySGV Podcast, I sit down with a Temple City raised creative who turned a lifelong love of food and travel into a full time career behind the camera and on the page. We talk about how growing up in the San Gabriel Valley shaped his palate, his point of view, and the way he tells stories that feel both personal and cinematic.He shares the pivot from advertising art direction and digital design into commercial and editorial work centered on food, travel, cocktails, portraiture, interiors, and lifestyle. We get into what it actually looks like to bet on your taste, build a portfolio, and keep showing up until your work starts landing in the rooms you once only studied from the outside.This conversation also goes deeper than gigs and gear. We talk about Cantonese Chinese and Laotian heritage, identity, and how culture shows up in the dishes we crave and the memories we chase. His work has earned recognition from the James Beard Foundation in both photography and writing, and his images and stories have appeared in major publications across food and travel media.If you love the SGV, care about craft, or you are considering your own leap into a creative career, this episode will hit. Watch the full interview, then check out his work and writing, and follow along on Instagram at @dylanjho_______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Deja Fabro - Infertility, Mental Health, and Finding Her Voice Through Stand Up Comedy

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 71:38


Send a textDeja Fabro brings big energy, sharp observations, and fearless vulnerability to this episode of the MySGV Podcast. She is a stand up comedian and expressive storyteller who uses self deprecating humor to talk about mental health, infertility, everyday struggles, and the weird little moments of modern life that somehow hit all of us at once. If you love comedy that makes you laugh and think, this conversation delivers.In our long form interview, we get into Deja's journey back to the spotlight and why stand up finally became the path in January 2024. She shares how five years of infertility and a major surgery reshaped her life, and how writing and humor helped her survive a season that felt heavy and isolating. Her gift is the way she can make space for the hard stuff while still keeping it human, relatable, and genuinely funny.Deja performs across Southern California from Los Angeles to San Diego, and she is a regular at the legendary Ice House in Pasadena, one of America's longest running comedy clubs and a true San Gabriel Valley staple. We also talk about what it takes to build confidence on stage, how she crafts material from real life, and how comedy can be both a release and a form of hope.Watch this full episode if you want an honest conversation about chasing the dream, finding your voice, and turning pain into purpose without losing your sense of humor. Follow Deja on Instagram at @deja.giggles and stay connected with the MySGV Podcast for more long form stories from the San Gabriel Valley._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

The Riding Obsession
The Valve Check

The Riding Obsession

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 52:48 Transcription Available


Radio TRO is brought to you in part by:Twisted Road - Motorcycle Rental in the USAVisit Twisted.TRO.bike to get a FREE riding day!Robin demands you read a massive article about GSX-8R valve checks beforehand, even if it hasn't been published yet. Apparently we should all spend our weekends measuring microscopic engine gaps instead of actually going somewhere. It's the ultimate bedtime story for nerds who think getting grease under their fingernails counts as a personality trait.Brian wandered into a dealership to ogle the new Triumph models and complain about people touching the merchandise. He drooled over the Thruxton 400 and its fancy half fairing while worrying about ancient immobilizer tech. Finally he watched a Fort Nine video that was more about feelings than motorcycles but liked it anyway.Joanne has decided she might actually ride her motorcycle alone for once, aiming for a week-long solo trip that avoids a rescue mission. She's also tackling the expensive elephant in the room by explaining how to replace your riding gear without spending ten grand. Apparently budget-friendly safety is possible even if it doesn't come with a fancy brand label.Speaker Entry:Robin Dean - 00:03:46Brian Wringer - 00:04:17Joanne Donn - 00:45:03Episode Page: https://tro.bike/podcast/2026e05/Music by Rabid Neon and Otis McDonald

SGV Master Key Podcast
David Marquez - SGV Roots, LA Eats, and the Creator Journey to @bestoffoodla

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 78:27


Send a textIn this episode, I sit down with David Marquez, a San Gabriel Valley native who grew up in San Gabriel and built a career around the thing he has always loved most, food. We talk about how the SGV shaped his palate, why Los Angeles is one of the best food cities in the world, and how travel and culture keep pushing his curiosity.David shares his path from more than 15 years in digital marketing to betting on himself after losing his long time job in 2015. That career shakeup led to GoldeLineLA, his Instagram blog that started by spotlighting restaurants and bars along the Gold Line route and eventually opened doors to deeper work with small businesses in the LA food scene.We also get into the pivot that changed everything. In 2023 he finally stepped in front of the camera to create food videos, his audience took off, and in 2024 he made the leap to become a full time food content creator. David talks about building momentum, creating consistent content, and what it is like collaborating with major brands while still staying true to his voice.On top of all that, David is a husband and a proud dad of twin boys, and he shares how fatherhood, fitness, and real life priorities shape how he works and why he creates._______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Thomas Liu - From Chaos to Clarity: Building BYOB, Loose Leaf, And Broth and Gold Banh

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2026 69:25


Send a textIn this episode, I sit down with Thomas Liu, an entrepreneur whose story includes the messy parts people usually skip. He talks openly about growing up bouncing between schools, dealing with bullying and identity struggles, and how he made wrong turns that eventually forced him to look in the mirror and decide who he wanted to become.Thomas walks me through the shift from chaos to clarity and what it looked like to scrape through graduation, put himself through college, and start building something real. Alongside his wife Jasmine, he launched his first boba business, BYOB A Boba Co., while still in school, and he shares the pressure and purpose behind betting on yourself before you feel ready.We also get into the businesses that followed, including Loose Leaf, And Broth, and Gold Banh, and why storytelling, culture, and real ingredients matter to him. Thomas breaks down how his brands evolved and how he thinks about building a team, building a product, and building a reputation in a crowded space.Now as a husband and father of two, Thomas reflects on accountability and what it means to show up differently, not just for business, but for family and self respect. This conversation is about growth, ownership, and staying real about the journey.________________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

The Riding Obsession
OPM/M

The Riding Obsession

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2026 48:34 Transcription Available


Radio TRO is brought to you in part by:Twisted Road - Motorcycle Rental in the USAVisit Twisted.TRO.bike to get a FREE riding day!Angelmarie is bringin' more of those positive beginner vibes. She and the crew tackle MSF basics, the infamous offset weave, target fixation and looking ahead (not "confronting" cones). From rev-match jitters to clutch-free shifting, the chat stays practical, approachable and most importantly, human.Brian grins through OPM, Other People's Motorcycles and Other People's Money, turning it into a learning playground. He helped a friend score a Triumph Tiger Sport 800, then nerded out on luggage, gadgets and the perfect setup. From tire advice to buy-day mentoring, he treats riding as a group project that's half strategy and half storytelling.Robin keeps the banter sharp, weaving weather/route talk into long-arc planning like a tailor. He riffs on tires, track days and the lure of a new bike yet drops practical notes like an anchor. His love of community and open-ended chat meanders into shared stories rather than a sales pitch.Joanne opens with Colorado weather and the icy-hill blues of short winter days. She plans to rebuild routine with small local spins, then longer trips, mindful of ADHD and a shift from city long-distance to a new home base. Her memo is simple: start small, guard the joy and build momentum till spring brings more miles and smiles.Speaker Entry:Brian Wringer - 00:03:46Robin Dean - 00:03:56Angelmarie Kendall - 00:22:01Joanne Donn - 00:42:58Episode Page: https://tro.bike/podcast/2026e04/Music by Rabid Neon and Otis McDonald

SGV Master Key Podcast
Michael Hamner, FAIA - East LA Roots, USC Architecture, and a Life of Service

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 70:25


Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with D. Michael Hamner, FAIA, an architect, educator, and longtime community leader whose story starts in East Los Angeles and runs straight through Montebello and the University of Southern California. We talk about what it means to build a career that blends design, teaching, and service, while staying rooted in the communities that shaped you.Michael shares his journey as a professor at East Los Angeles College, where he has helped generations of students transfer into accredited architecture programs and build real careers in the field. We get into what makes architectural education work for students who do not follow a traditional path, plus why mentorship and standards matter in creative industries.We also talk about his professional work as a licensed architect and principal of a family run practice with his architect wife, along with his years of civic service in Monterey Park on the Design Review Board and Planning Commission. Michael breaks down how design decisions impact real neighborhoods, and what he has learned from decades of reviewing projects that shape a city's identity.And because this is MySGV, we get into basketball too. Michael has coached for decades across multiple levels, including years at Schurr High School, and he shares what coaching taught him about leadership, consistency, and building people, not just teams.________________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

The Riding Obsession
The Relaxation Response

The Riding Obsession

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 67:22 Transcription Available


Radio TRO is brought to you in part by:Twisted Road - Motorcycle Rental in the USAVisit Twisted.TRO.bike to get a FREE riding day!Robin and Brian detour into the literary world of The Relaxation Response, framing it as integral to decompressing from modern life stress. Brian highlights how simple, secular powers of any mantra can lower the heart rate, while Robin acknowledges a profound mental shift that occurs when we quiet our internal dialogue. Together, they pitch the practice as Zen's tune-up, proving even tech-obsessed riders need to downshift their nervous system now and then.But first, Anders Carlson drops in (!) with solid-state battery hype tethered. Yes, the tech is real but scale and delivery are the boss fights amid Verge's marketing fog. He cites a few news resources, mentions engine makers, flags big potential but doubts mass rollout.Joanne turns street vs. off road gear chat into a no-nonsense buyer's guide. Using Brian's KLR650 as baseline, she maps 70-30 and 50-50 splits with weight and mixed-terrain trade-offs. She nails vent placement, abrasion needs and off-road wear, giving a clear framework to shop with.Angelmarie launches 404 Clutch Not Found with a real curve-entry question and a call for guidance. The one and only Armené Piper answers with slow in, look press lean tactics along with drills and feedback. Together, they tackle target fixation, body posture, stall recovery and a learning-forward mindset that feels doable.By the way ... welcome back, Piper! She's a veteran instructor dealing curve wisdom like track-day espresso. Her rules to tattoo on your brain: slow in, out with a grin, scan for debris and downshift when needed. Ride with skilled folks, find mentors and training from MSF to Total Control to Street Masters.Speaker Entry:Brian Wringer - 00:03:46Robin Dean - 00:03:53Anders Carlson - 00:09:47Joanne Donn - 00:42:19Angelmarie Kendall - 00:53:20Armené Piper - 00:53:39Episode Page: https://tro.bike/podcast/2026e03/Music by Rabid Neon and Otis McDonald

SGV Master Key Podcast
Emanuel Griffin - Identity, Healing, and the Work of Real Transformation

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 58:41


Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Emanuel Griffin, the founder of Heart2Soul Legacy, an organization built to help people navigate life's toughest transitions through coaching, facilitation, and leadership developmentEmanuel shares how his background in theology and his real world work inside the prison system, treatment centers, and with at risk youth shaped the way he communicates. He has a gift for making complicated ideas simple, practical, and usable right away.We talk about identity, belief systems, and what it looks like to create space for healing, especially for people carrying pressure, pain, or responsibility. Emanuel also breaks down the leadership work he does with couples, groups, and communities that want to rebuild trust, restore direction, and move forward with clarity.If you are in a season of change, recovery, or reinvention, this conversation will hit home. Emanuel brings authenticity, structure, and vision, and he keeps it grounded in what works when life gets real.______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Dr. Alex Cheah - Natural Results and the Truth About Modern Plastic Surgery

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 72:23


Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alex Cheah, a plastic surgeon who grew up in the San Gabriel Valley and took a long road through elite training before bringing his work back to Southern California. We talk about his early years in the SGV, how sports shaped his discipline, and why he always felt pulled toward a career that combined precision, results, and service.Alex walks me through the evolution of his medical path, from thinking he would pursue other surgical specialties to discovering plastic surgery and realizing it matched both his technical standards and his creative eye. He breaks down what people misunderstand about plastic surgery, how reconstruction and aesthetics overlap, and why the best outcomes should look natural and intentional.We also get into the patient side of the work, including trust, communication, and what it means to carry the responsibility of someone choosing you for a life changing procedure. Alex shares how he approaches facial aesthetics, rhinoplasty, breast surgery, body contouring, liposuction, fat transfer, and non surgical options like injectables in a way that prioritizes balance over trends.If you are curious about modern plastic surgery, the natural results movement, or what it looks like to build a medical career and still come home to the SGV, this conversation is thoughtful, detailed, and grounded in the real story behind the work.________________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

The Upful LIFE Podcast
095: OTIS McDONALD, DERRICK 'Smoker' FREEMAN [SOUL Brass Band, Shadow People Pod], PIET DALMOLEN

The Upful LIFE Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 195:01


Your boy is back from paternity hiatus with another banger! Preposterously prolific San Francisco composer, producer, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist OTIS McDONALD is finally here. Hallelujah! Gov't name Joe Bagale, Otis has turned Hyde Street's Studio D — a hallowed sacred ground in the annals of funk/rock/hip-hop history — into a potent personal laboratory where he generates/facilitates a steady flow of ridiculously dope records. The in-demand music man slides through episode 095 for a lengthy, illuminating upful discussion; BG also checks back in with Derrick 'Smoker' Freeman [SOUL Brass Band, Shadow People Podcast]; and later introduces rising NorCal guitarist/solo artist Piet Dalmolen. 0:00 - ep.095 preview 3:00 - SOUL Brass Band - NorCal run late January 4:00 - BISS List - Bay Area fan hub/newsletter 5:45 - The UPFUL Update 12:00 - introducing OTIS McDONALD 15:15 - INTERVIEW - Otis [117m] 2:12:15 - DERRICK 'Smoker' FREEMAN 2:28:00 - Introducing/Interview: PIET DALMOLEN [30m] 2:58:15 - Afterglow x ViBE Junkie Jam Otis McDonald released an original track every Friday for three years during the pandemic, though he since pumped the brakes to every third week. In addition, the gifted producer/engineer and sideman has delivered assorted crucial collabs with the likes of Eric Krasno, Nicholas Payton, Aloe Blacc, Wil Blades, Charlie Hunter, among others. Across two-plus decades in the Bay Area, he's worked extensively with scene stalwarts Jazz Mafia, Atta Kid, and their various spinoffs/side trips; Bagale even logged a couple years fronting an iteration of Mickey Hart Band on keys, guitar, and lead vocals.  Long before he moved into Hyde Street Studio D (the site of famed Wally Heider Studio in SF, where so many classic records were brought to life), Otis McDonald had become a ubiquitous presence online. He was repeatedly commissioned by YouTube and Facebook for free audio libraries offering copyright-free music to help video creators enhance their work. The dude has recorded hundreds of tunes that have been soundtracked in tens of millions of videos streamed into the billions! A Bay Area underground hero, multi-instrumentalist & all-world producer, keeper of the legendary Hyde Street Studio in SF, a streaming-era pioneer, & erstwhile music culture/industry philosopher: episode 095 welcomes OTIS McDONALD!    Episode 095 checks back with Derrick "Smoker" Freeman of SOUL Brass Band [Episode 008 circa 2018!] to discuss their imminent NorCal run at the end of January. We also reflect on the success of The Shadow People Podcast, his entertaining/education program co-hosted with (friend of the pod) Nigel Hall.   The NorCal vibes continue: a short, sweet chat with singer/songwriter & guitar troubadour PIET DALMOLEN way up in Humboldt County. His debut solo LP 'Time Stands Still' was profiled among Upful LIFE's annual favorite records in 2025's feature.   ViBE Junkie Jam  Otis McDonald "I Can't Stand [we can't stop]"   OTIS McDONALD  website, YouTube, IG, Bandcamp SOUL Brass Band - IG The Shadow People Podcast PIET DALMOLEN - Bandcamp, IG Upful LIFE 2025: Favorite Records & More!  9th annual comprehensive compendium w/ reviews, playlists, purchase links Spotify book - Mood Music by Liz Pelly     CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS BISS LIST   AARON SCHWARTZ ART LAZYMOON DESIGN for promo/poster art needs Send B.G. a coupla' dollas 4 makin U holla! Upful LIFE Patreon EMAIL the SHOW PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts Listen/Comment on Spotify Theme Song: "Mazel Tov"- CALVIN VALENTINE  

SGV Master Key Podcast
Manuel “Mano” Agulian - From Beirut to Pasadena: Faith, Family, and Purpose

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 66:12


Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Manuel “Mano” Agulian, known to many as Pastor Mano, a Pasadena based pastor who leads the Armenian Christian Outreach at PazNaz and serves in Armenian Ministries. We talk about his story of leaving Beirut, Lebanon and coming to the United States during the civil war, and how that journey shaped his faith, his family, and the way he thinks about purpose. We also get into what long term ministry looks like when you are trying to reach and build up the next generation. Pastor Mano shares how ACOP focuses on Armenian youth and families and the different ways they build community, including sports, music, and even motorsports ministry. We also explore his other world as a mechanical engineer and longtime car builder, and how craftsmanship, discipline, and persistence show up in both the garage and ministry. ______________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Edward "Coach Buck" Maldonado - Training Mindset and Player Development in South El Monte

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 79:27


Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Edward Maldonado, better known as Coach Buck, the owner of Marathon Batting Cages in South El Monte. We talk about his coaching journey and what it means to build athletes the right way, with patience, consistency, and real belief in the kid standing in front of you.Coach Buck shares what he looks for when a player walks into the cage for the first time, how he simplifies the game for young athletes, and why confidence often shows up before the stats do. We get into the difference between quick tips and long term development, plus how coaches and parents can stay aligned when a player hits a rough stretch.We get into some of the difficulties that he's experienced growing up and building the business he has today. We also talk about training culture, what productive reps actually look like, and how to create an environment where baseball and softball players want to keep showing up and putting in work. If you care about youth sports, mentorship, and community based coaching, this conversation delivers practical takeaways without the fluff.If you are in the San Gabriel Valley and you have a player who wants to improve their swing, sharpen their approach, and train with purpose, Coach Buck breaks down the mindset that helps athletes level up and stay in love with the game.____________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Lupita & Dennis Ramirez - Marketing That Grows Small Businesses

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 68:04


Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Lupita Ramirez and Dennis Ramirez, the husband and wife team behind Think, Create & Connect, Inc., a family owned creative marketing agency that helps businesses strengthen their online presence through brand strategy, social media management, and creative campaigns.We talk about what it takes to elevate a brand when you are busy running the day to day of your business. Dennis shares how he thinks about brand identity, marketing strategy, and consistent messaging so businesses can show up clearly and build trust over time.Lupita breaks down the connection side of marketing and why community relationships still matter, especially for local entrepreneurs. We also get into the community work she's involved in, including supporting local business networks and hosting events that help organizations build awareness.If you run a small business and you want practical insight on marketing, branding, and relationship building that leads to real growth, this conversation will give you a clear next step and a better way to think about your business online.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Shaunt Der Ohannesian - Loss, Recovery, and Carrying a Family Legacy in Pasadena

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 66:14


Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Shaunt Der Ohannesian, the son of Shahan Der Ohannesian and part of the family behind Lee's Hoagie House in Pasadena. Lee's has become a true neighborhood staple, and Shaunt now helps run day to day operations while carrying forward what makes the place feel like home. Shaunt opens up about his journey through addiction, and how the loss of his best friend became the turning point that helped save his life. He gets vulnerable about the darkest stretch of that season and what it took to climb out, rebuild trust, and start showing up for his future with real intention.We also talk about family, legacy, and what it means to return to the business with a new mindset. If you've ever eaten at Lee's, you know the magic: the way the team remembers people, the warmth in the room, and the feeling that you're not just another order. Shaunt shares what it's like to keep that standard alive while growing into his own role alongside his dad. This is one of those conversations that sticks with you. You've got to tune into this episode.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Jordan "JMKM" Maldonado - From Studio Sessions to Street Food: The Unreal Poke Story

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 70:13


Send us a textHere's the story of a producer, creative, father, and entrepreneur who blends music, storytelling, and authentic Hawaiian food. Born and raised in Pepe‘ekeo, Hawai‘i and rooted in values of aloha and community, he moved to the San Gabriel Valley in 2008 to pursue audio engineering. An internship with Doggystyle Records opened doors to collaborations with Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, and Jay Rock. By 2015 he began releasing instrumental music, earning over 2 million streams and a loyal following in the lofi and chillhop space.In 2022 he joined the Lone Lobos Podcast as producer and on-air contributor alongside Cobra Kai's Xolo Maridueña and Jacob Bertrand. The show has since amassed millions of streams and partnered with brands like Netflix, Sony, and San Diego Comic-Con. We dig into the craft behind consistent content: building audience, managing partnerships, and keeping creative energy high across music and podcasting.His love for food traces back to Hawai‘i and a family heritage that's Hawaiian, Puerto Rican, and Japanese. Inspired by his grandmother's pasteles and his parents' home cooking, he worked with East Los Musubi in El Sereno starting in 2015 and launched Unreal Poke in December 2023—a Native Hawaiian-owned pop-up rooted in food activism and cultural authenticity. In its first year, Unreal Poke served at 80+ events including Smorgasburg LA, 626 Night Market, and 88Rising's Head in the Clouds Festival.Fatherhood sits at the center of it all. Since 2011 he's focused on raising his son with traditions passed down through food and story. This episode covers the journey from studio sessions to street food, how to build a values-driven pop-up, and what cultural integrity looks like in both music and cuisine. Keywords: Hawaiian food, Native Hawaiian-owned, poke pop-up, lofi, chillhop, Doggystyle Records, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock, Lone Lobos Podcast, Smorgasburg LA, 626 Night Market, Head in the Clouds, East Los Musubi, San Gabriel Valley.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Dorothy Xiao - Writing, Casting, Producing: Turning Lived Experience into Cinema

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2025 76:43


Send us a textHere's the story of a first-generation Chinese American filmmaker whose roots in Alhambra and the San Gabriel Valley shape every frame she makes. With a psychology degree from UCLA and a name honoring her parents' immigration lawyer, she crafts grounded family dramas with a hint of fantasy—stories of resilience, friendship, and hope drawn from the immigrant communities she grew up around.She's directed 13 short films and contributed to more than 30 film and video projects with companies like CBS, HBO, and Disney. Along the way she earned recognition in industry pipelines and competitions, including the CBS Leadership Pipeline Challenge and the 2023 CAPE Julia S. Gouw Short Film Challenge (presented by the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment and Janet Yang Productions).In this episode, we dig into process and pathway: moving from idea to script to screen, casting authentically, building a crew, and translating lived experience into universal cinema. We talk festivals and funding, pitching and partnerships, and how a filmmaker balances creative voice with the practical realities of producing in Los Angeles and the SGV.If you care about Asian American stories, indie filmmaking, or turning personal history into powerful narrative, this conversation is for you. Keywords: Chinese American filmmaker, San Gabriel Valley, Alhambra, UCLA, independent film, short films, women in film, Asian American stories, CAPE, CBS Leadership Pipeline, representation, immigrant family drama, Los Angeles filmmaking.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Brian Cooper - Restaurant Funding Playbook: Pre-Purchased Meals for Cash Flow

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2025 56:27


Send us a textHere's a conversation with a restaurant growth operator who's spent 20+ years at the intersection of dining, loyalty, and partnerships. From helping launch LivingSocial's first outside sales footprint to expanding Square's Caviar gourmet delivery in Downtown LA, he's now at Rewards Network, where he runs dining programs for major brands across airlines, hotels, and wireless. The focus: predictable traffic, measurable spend, and cash flow that helps restaurants grow.We break down how these dining programs actually work—enrollment, card-linked offers, and the data that proves incremental visits—plus the funding model where Rewards Network pre-purchases members' meals up front to inject capital into restaurants. Expect practical tactics on filling seats, lifting average check, and turning occasional diners into regulars through A/B-tested offers and localized campaigns.His path runs from Phoenix to Pasadena to North Hollywood, with stints in Carlsbad, Del Mar, and Leucadia along the way. A Northern Arizona University grad with post-grad business coursework at Pasadena City College, he moved to Pasadena in 2002 to work at Charter Media and spent eight years there. He's a Burbank Chamber member, a longtime restaurant partner to owners across LA, and a dad to a Pasadena-born son—plus an outdoors guy who camps on his own three acres near Flagstaff.If you're a restaurant owner or marketer, this episode is a playbook: how to evaluate dining rewards, negotiate terms, track true lift vs. cannibalization, and stack channels (delivery, loyalty, email, social) for sustainable growth. Keywords: restaurant marketing, dining rewards, card-linked offers, customer acquisition, loyalty ROI, restaurant funding, Caviar, LivingSocial, Rewards Network, Pasadena, San Gabriel Valley.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Robert Moreno - From Tragedy to Triumph: Building Youth Programs in the SGV

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2025 64:54


Send us a textHere's the story of a San Gabriel Valley nonprofit turning loss into action. Based in Covina, the Man-e Moreno Foundation was created after the death of Manuel Joseph Moreno, transforming a family tragedy into a mission to serve youth and support families affected by violence. The focus is whole-person impact—meeting physical, mental, and academic needs while strengthening community ties.At the center of its work is the 212 Training Center, a program designed to develop student-athletes through fitness, mentorship, and academic support. From speed and agility to study habits and character, the model pairs training with guidance so kids can win on the field, in the classroom, and at home.The foundation also speaks to healing and prevention. Its programs extend support to families of victims of violent crime, while leadership engages local youth and partners across the SGV. It's community work rooted in real experience—and a belief that consistent mentorship, structure, and purpose can change lives.In this episode, we dig into how a neighborhood foundation builds programs that last: fundraising, partnerships, facilities, and the day-to-day playbook that keeps kids showing up. Keywords: Man-e Moreno Foundation, 212 Training Center, Covina, San Gabriel Valley, youth mentorship, student-athlete training, victims of violent crime support, nonprofit leadership, community programs.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Chris Loos - Community Media That Works: Civic Shows, Local Impact

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2025 67:09


Send us a textHere's a conversation with a broadcast veteran who's spent nearly 30 years in large-market media—hosting radio, interviewing icons like Eminem, Mike Tyson, Jim Brown, and Kendrick Lamar, and now operating on the executive side with a global music brand. He helped pioneer the shift from traditional radio to YouTube, building on-air personalities into on-screen creators and translating audience habits into sustainable digital growth.We dig into the strategy behind platform transitions: how to repurpose radio segments for video, design thumbnails and titles that convert, and build a content pipeline that keeps creators consistent without burning out. Expect real talk on partnerships, rights, monetization, and measuring what matters across broadcast, YouTube, and socials.His community work runs just as deep. Through Monrovia's public access network KGEM-TV, he developed civic programming—City Council and School Board recaps, How to Run for Office, Digital Dialogues—and produced events like House Party at the Park to bring neighbors together. He's launching commUNITY reIMAGINED and hopes to expand DREAM CHASERS career day in the SGV, connecting students with creative-industry pros.Recognition followed: a national honor from the Alliance for Community Media (Jewell Ryan White award for cultural diversity) and a role as city delegate in bringing the All-America City award home to Monrovia. If you care about radio-to-digital evolution, music business strategy, community media, and youth mentorship, this episode is a playbook. Keywords: radio to YouTube, music industry, content strategy, community media, KGEM-TV, civic engagement, creator economy, live events, career day, San Gabriel Valley.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Michelle Shimohara - How Community Leadership Shapes a Real Estate Career

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 68:10


Send us a textHere's the story of a San Gabriel Valley daughter who turned community roots into a career of service. Raised in Monterey Park and Montebello, she grew up at Robert Hill Lane, Macy Intermediate, and Schurr High—so the SGV isn't just a place, it's her identity. After a brief move to Chino Hills, she came home so her three kids could grow up in the same tight-knit neighborhoods, splitting time between Brightwood Elementary, Schurr, and Mark Keppel.Community leadership shows up everywhere in her life. Her family was immersed in the Japanese American basketball scene, and she served as president of the Jetts/Jets program through Plymouth Church in Montebello—helping it grow from eight teams to more than twenty in just two years. That same “show up and build” mentality comes from her parents' entrepreneurial hustle: a well-known local carpet-cleaning business on one side and a scrappy jewelry side hustle on the other.Professionally, she helped launch a dental lab in Monterey Park and then pivoted to real estate in 2014. Her specialty is guiding families through emotionally complex transactions—selling inherited homes and buying first homes—with a step-by-step approach that keeps clients informed, protected, and confident. Think neighborhood expertise, clear communication, and fierce advocacy from offer to close.This episode traces how SGV roots, youth sports leadership, and small-business grit shaped a real estate career centered on trust and community. We talk first-time buyer roadmaps, inherited-property checklists, negotiation style, and what makes SGV neighborhoods special. Keywords: San Gabriel Valley, Monterey Park, Montebello, Mark Keppel, Schurr High, Japanese American basketball, youth sports, first-time homebuyer, inherited property, real estate agent, SGV real estate, East LA, community leadership.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Melissa Spolar - Inside the Pasadena Coffee Passport: Inspiring Community Connection

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2025 64:04


Send us a textHere's the story of an SGV native building community through coffee. Raised in Covina and West Covina and now rooted in Pasadena, Melissa Spolar blends events, marketing, nonprofit work, and café culture to connect neighbors and small businesses. She created the Pasadena Coffee Passport to spotlight the city's specialty shops and invite locals and visitors to explore together.Her community-building chops were sharpened inside social enterprise coffee, where she helped operationalize youth workforce programs and day-to-day café impact in Pasadena. That experience informs how she curates shops, designs activations, and measures what actually moves the needle for small businesses.Looking ahead, she's developing the Highland Park Coffee Passport and laying the groundwork for Nightcap Collective, a neighborhood social club meant to spark face-to-face connection after hours. The goal is simple: create intentional spaces—day and night—where people can meet, talk, and support local spots.In this episode, we dig into how a simple idea—stamp your way through local cafés—became a platform for small-business discovery, creator collaborations, and neighborhood pride. We cover partner selection, passport mechanics, shop economics, and how coffee culture can anchor inclusive community spaces across the San Gabriel Valley and Northeast LA. Keywords: Pasadena Coffee Passport, Highland Park Coffee Passport, Pasadena coffee shops, SGV cafés, coffee crawl, coffee community, social enterprise, Nightcap Collective.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

The Upful LIFE Podcast
094: D'ANGELO in Memoriam ft. ERIC KRASNO, JAY SMOOTH, URSULA RUCKER, DAN CHARNAS, NIKKI GLASPIE, VIVECA HAWKINS, OTIS MCDONALD, DJ WILLIAMS, DERRICK FREEMAN, JONNY G, SARI JORDAN & MORE!

The Upful LIFE Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 245:02


In the tailwind of D'Angelo's October 14 passing after a private battle with pancreatic cancer, your humble narrator was shell-shocked in a melancholic malaise. After about a week of confounding parasocial grief, I redirected that energy and embarked on creating a couple of legacy projects in tribute to the dearly departed.  This very lengthy, meticulously-crafted, deeply-intentional memorial episode welcomes a diverse smattering of vibrant voices across geography and generation. Musicians/artists, journalists, poets, archivists, superfans - all of us navigating the seismic loss, mourning this monumental spirit in our own loving words and ways. with very special guests: 16:30 - jay smooth 53:30 - dan charnas 1:01:25 - ursula rucker  1:29:55 - nikki glaspie 1:47:50 - eric krasno 2:28:00 - funk it blog shoutout  2:31:35 - d.j. williams  2:37:05 - otis mcdonald  2:52:40 - viveca hawkins

SGV Master Key Podcast
Jamie Nguyen - From SGV Roots to National Newsroom: A Journalist's Journey

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 60:52


Send us a textHere's the story behind a multi-Emmy-winning journalist whose roots run deep in the San Gabriel Valley. Raised by a family that fled Vietnam, she grew up in local neighborhoods, went to San Gabriel High, and learned early how community shapes character. Those SGV years—family hustle, public schools, and a love for Dodgers and Lakers seasons—set the tone for a life built on curiosity, resilience, and service.Her career started the old-school way: entry-level newsroom roles, odd hours, and saying yes to every assignment. From California to a pit stop in Texas and eventually New York, she worked in some of the country's top markets—writing, producing, and learning the daily news grind while chasing long-form investigations. Along the way, she developed a reporter's instinct for people stories and a producer's discipline for facts, timelines, and accountability.That path led to national leadership, guiding a consumer/business/technology team that turns complex topics into clear, useful coverage. The through-line is personal: growing up SGV taught her to translate big systems into everyday impact—how inflation hits families, how scams target the vulnerable, how tech and privacy shape real life. Service journalism isn't a buzzword here; it's a mission.This episode traces the journey from SGV kid to national newsroom leader—the early jobs that opened doors, the mentors who mattered, the pivots that stuck, and the values that never changed. Watch to learn how local roots can power a national career, and drop a comment with a San Gabriel Valley memory or the consumer/tech question you want answered next. Keywords: San Gabriel Valley, SGV, immigrant family, AAPI, journalism career path, newsroom producer, consumer news, tech news, CBS News, service journalism, UC San Diego, Los Angeles.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Steve Lustro - From Urban Planner to City Council: How Local Government Really Works

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 53:07


Send us a textHere's a conversation with a lifelong civic servant whose roots run from Monterey Park to Pomona and the San Gabriel Valley. With decades in urban planning and community development, he brings a ground-level view of how cities actually work—housing, zoning, economic development, schools, and the partnerships that make neighborhoods thrive. He currently serves on the Pomona City Council and has spent years volunteering on youth, planning, and education boards that shape real outcomes for families.We trace his path from Cal Poly Pomona's urban and regional planning program to roles in Claremont and Montclair, including Director of Community Development. Along the way, he bridged policy and practice: general plans, code enforcement, downtown revitalization, and the day-to-day tradeoffs between growth, character, and affordability. His private-sector experience adds a practical lens on budgets, operations, and service that complements public service.Community impact sits at the heart of his story. From the Pomona Planning Commission and the Pomona Unified School District Board to Habitat for Humanity's design and construction work, he has focused on long-term value—safer streets, stronger schools, and projects that pencil out for residents and businesses. We talk about aligning city hall, neighborhoods, and nonprofits so progress sticks beyond any single term.If you care about how local government shapes quality of life—housing supply, small business corridors, parks, transportation, and civic engagement—this episode is a field guide. Keywords: Pomona City Council, Monterey Park, San Gabriel Valley, Cal Poly Pomona, urban planning, community development, affordable housing, code enforcement, economic development, downtown revitalization, Habitat for Humanity, local government leadership.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
626 Authentic - Healed and Called: The Journey Behind LIVING IN TRUTH

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 106:06


Send us a textHere's the story of a radical preacher and Christian hip-hop artist from Rosemead in the SGV whose life was changed by a powerful encounter with Jesus. He shares how he was healed from an “incurable” mental illness, received a new purpose, and set out to reach the streets, homes, and the hearts of the broken with the gospel. From local roots to West Coast impact, his mission is simple: make Jesus known.We talk about the season he stepped away from music for deeper consecration—prayer, fasting, and intimacy with God—and how that refinement shaped his voice. When he preaches, the room shifts; when he raps, the message lands. Street evangelism, testimonies, and viral gospel reels all serve one aim: call people to repentance, freedom, and a real relationship with Christ.His movement, LIVING IN TRUTH, raises a standard for this generation—holiness, boldness, and biblical truth. We get practical about building faith communities around scripture, prayer, and accountability, plus how to partner with churches, creatives, and youth leaders to spark local revival that lasts beyond a single event.If you're hungry for testimonies of healing and deliverance, curious about gospel rap and street ministry, or looking for a blueprint to share your faith online, this episode is for you. Keywords: Christian hip hop, gospel rap, street evangelism, testimony, deliverance, revival, Holy Spirit, Rosemead, San Gabriel Valley, LIVING IN TRUTH, faith content, youth ministry, West Coast revival.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Stefanie Wong - Designing at Scale: From UI/UX to Organizational Change

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 62:58


Send us a textHere's a conversation with a seasoned UI/UX designer and design strategist with 20+ years of experience building products used by millions. Her portfolio spans Google, PayPal, CBS Interactive, Fox Broadcasting Company, and Warner Music Group. She leads with empathy and business clarity—using research-driven decisions to ship smart, simple solutions that serve users and goals.We unpack how to turn complexity into clarity: reorganizing information, optimizing workflows, and inventing custom solutions. From information architecture and service blueprints to prototyping and design systems, she shows how to shake out all the moving pieces, surface insights, and connect them into experiences that actually make sense.Beyond pixels, we dive into organizational design. She structures decision-making, alignment, and evolution at scale—bridging product, design, and engineering so thinking, execution, and alignment happen simultaneously. Expect practical frameworks for cross-functional workshops, prioritization, and roadmapping that keep teams moving.If you work in product design, product management, or engineering leadership, this episode is a field guide to enterprise UX, service design, and design ops. We cover discovery to delivery, stakeholder buy-in, metrics that matter, and the habits that ship impactful products repeatedly. Keywords: UI/UX, product design, design systems, service design, information architecture, design strategy, organizational transformation, stakeholder alignment, enterprise UX, design ops.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

SGV Master Key Podcast
Brian Nguyen - From Kitchen Trays to Thousands of Meals: Scaling Healthy Fast-Casual

SGV Master Key Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 62:12


Send us a textHere's the story behind B Nutritious, a Southern California meal-prep brand built on a real transformation. After years in a desk-bound insurance role, Brian Nguyen gained weight, discovered Muay Thai, and went deep on nutrition to rebuild his health—dropping 80 pounds in the process. Friends and family started asking for his Asian-inspired, macro-friendly meal plans, and a personal habit turned into a business focused on clean, flavorful food that fits real life.Today, B Nutritious serves dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, and weekly meal prep—bringing bowls, noodles, salads, and protein-packed plates to busy professionals, gym goers, and families. The brand grew from a few trays a week to thousands across Southern California, with community hubs in El Monte and Fountain Valley and an active social presence that spotlights customers' progress and behind-the-scenes prep.In this episode, we dig into the systems behind scaling a healthy fast-casual and meal-prep model: how to design menus that balance flavor with macros, build a packaging and cold-chain workflow that travels well, and use content and community to keep customers consistent. We talk sourcing, pricing, and portioning; what metrics matter (retention, prep cadence, average order value); and how partnerships—gyms, events, and local creators—drive sustainable growth.If you're curious about meal prep, weight-loss nutrition, small-business ops, or the SGV food scene, this conversation is for you. Watch to learn how a simple “cook for friends” routine became a movement, and drop a comment with your favorite macro-friendly dish or go-to post-workout order. Keywords: meal prep, healthy Asian fusion, macro friendly, weight loss meals, El Monte, Fountain Valley, meal delivery, fitness nutrition, small business, Southern California food.__________Music CreditsIntroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OGStingerScarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio LibraryOutroEuphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG__________________My SGV Podcast:Website: www.mysgv.netNewsletter: Beyond the MicPatreon: MySGV Podcastinfo@sgvmasterkey.com

PS I Love You XOXO: PlayStation Podcast by Kinda Funny
I Replayed Every Naughty Dog Game

PS I Love You XOXO: PlayStation Podcast by Kinda Funny

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 141:01


Barrett replayed every Naughty Dog game. Here are his thoughts. Intro & Outro Music by Otis McDonald: https://www.otismacmusic.com/ All background music owned by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Crash Bandicoot 1 gameplay by RickyC from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/d3_RQU2OJEM?si=NBsLTEbyB4sJVNJL Crash Bandicoot 2 gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/Va9D9ahF3DI?si=XuoZ00J-V3czuzFE Crash Bandicoot Warped gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/f-UJw3DzQnE?si=RVO60e6BsjKEuM_g Crash Team Racing gameplay by Mad-Matt from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/OTLREpMM9tE?si=WQxl1a-nIcfbodxe Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/ZO1Uw2kPkK8?si=TFBMEUIqBYUnemAx Jak II gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/VH-igmeFD0U?si=TlZ8YpGPnyrm9030 Jak 3 gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/hrdxOq6nmic?si=rI7SRs4w1CvTFDSm Jak X: Combat Racing gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/vlqWhPVjix0?si=RgkFRCij0syYX0Pb Uncharted: Drake's Fortune gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/nV6jGMl7JQk?si=4SNo_3yqyFYTUr9Y Uncharted 2: Among Thieves gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/70ut5XjXh9Y?si=Yrra2omAvIAYhyio Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception gameplay by Ravenlord from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/s0cFUqPrg7o?si=g4uIoN2auSJm7gfB The Last of Us gameplay by boneofhead from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/RI4kTd9kxUQ?si=eraunh4rPrwn6ztd Uncharted 4: A Thief's End gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/iW4jVMb-4ko?si=7RyC2h58dIsrCDWU Uncharted: The Lost Legacy gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/ricgtVb0Z1s?si=dq6cQERbSSrKEzMS The Last of Us Part II gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/McH5TlbwlTw?si=AX-bvjtnlH799PM7 Time Stamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:28 - Crash Bandicoot 00:08:02 - Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back 00:10:54 - Crash Bandicoot: Warped 00:15:34 - Crash Team Racing 00:19:50 - Jak & Daxter: The Precursor Legacy 00:24:21 - Jak II 00:33:18 - Jak 3 00:41:41 - Jak X: Combat Racing 00:47:50 - Uncharted: Drake's Fortune 00:56:03 - Uncharted 2: Among Thieves 01:06:46 - Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception 01:17:12 - The Last of Us 01:31:15 - Uncharted 4: A Thief's End 01:43:44 - Uncharted: The Lost Legacy 01:53:12 - The Last of Us Part II 02:16:31 - Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kinda Funny Gamescast: Video Game Podcast
I Replayed Every Naughty Dog Game

Kinda Funny Gamescast: Video Game Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 141:01


Barrett replayed every Naughty Dog game. Here are his thoughts. Intro & Outro Music by Otis McDonald: https://www.otismacmusic.com/ All background music owned by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Crash Bandicoot 1 gameplay by RickyC from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/d3_RQU2OJEM?si=NBsLTEbyB4sJVNJL Crash Bandicoot 2 gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/Va9D9ahF3DI?si=XuoZ00J-V3czuzFE Crash Bandicoot Warped gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/f-UJw3DzQnE?si=RVO60e6BsjKEuM_g Crash Team Racing gameplay by Mad-Matt from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/OTLREpMM9tE?si=WQxl1a-nIcfbodxe Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/ZO1Uw2kPkK8?si=TFBMEUIqBYUnemAx Jak II gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/VH-igmeFD0U?si=TlZ8YpGPnyrm9030 Jak 3 gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/hrdxOq6nmic?si=rI7SRs4w1CvTFDSm Jak X: Combat Racing gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/vlqWhPVjix0?si=RgkFRCij0syYX0Pb Uncharted: Drake's Fortune gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/nV6jGMl7JQk?si=4SNo_3yqyFYTUr9Y Uncharted 2: Among Thieves gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/70ut5XjXh9Y?si=Yrra2omAvIAYhyio Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception gameplay by Ravenlord from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/s0cFUqPrg7o?si=g4uIoN2auSJm7gfB The Last of Us gameplay by boneofhead from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/RI4kTd9kxUQ?si=eraunh4rPrwn6ztd Uncharted 4: A Thief's End gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/iW4jVMb-4ko?si=7RyC2h58dIsrCDWU Uncharted: The Lost Legacy gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/ricgtVb0Z1s?si=dq6cQERbSSrKEzMS The Last of Us Part II gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/McH5TlbwlTw?si=AX-bvjtnlH799PM7 Time Stamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:28 - Crash Bandicoot 00:08:02 - Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back 00:10:54 - Crash Bandicoot: Warped 00:15:34 - Crash Team Racing 00:19:50 - Jak & Daxter: The Precursor Legacy 00:24:21 - Jak II 00:33:18 - Jak 3 00:41:41 - Jak X: Combat Racing 00:47:50 - Uncharted: Drake's Fortune 00:56:03 - Uncharted 2: Among Thieves 01:06:46 - Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception 01:17:12 - The Last of Us 01:31:15 - Uncharted 4: A Thief's End 01:43:44 - Uncharted: The Lost Legacy 01:53:12 - The Last of Us Part II 02:16:31 - Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kinda Funny Xcast - An Xbox Podcast
I Replayed Every Naughty Dog Game

Kinda Funny Xcast - An Xbox Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2025 141:01


Barrett replayed every Naughty Dog game. Here are his thoughts. Intro & Outro Music by Otis McDonald: https://www.otismacmusic.com/ All background music owned by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Crash Bandicoot 1 gameplay by RickyC from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/d3_RQU2OJEM?si=NBsLTEbyB4sJVNJL Crash Bandicoot 2 gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/Va9D9ahF3DI?si=XuoZ00J-V3czuzFE Crash Bandicoot Warped gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/f-UJw3DzQnE?si=RVO60e6BsjKEuM_g Crash Team Racing gameplay by Mad-Matt from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/OTLREpMM9tE?si=WQxl1a-nIcfbodxe Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/ZO1Uw2kPkK8?si=TFBMEUIqBYUnemAx Jak II gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/VH-igmeFD0U?si=TlZ8YpGPnyrm9030 Jak 3 gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/hrdxOq6nmic?si=rI7SRs4w1CvTFDSm Jak X: Combat Racing gameplay by martanius from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/vlqWhPVjix0?si=RgkFRCij0syYX0Pb Uncharted: Drake's Fortune gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/nV6jGMl7JQk?si=4SNo_3yqyFYTUr9Y Uncharted 2: Among Thieves gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/70ut5XjXh9Y?si=Yrra2omAvIAYhyio Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception gameplay by Ravenlord from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/s0cFUqPrg7o?si=g4uIoN2auSJm7gfB The Last of Us gameplay by boneofhead from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/RI4kTd9kxUQ?si=eraunh4rPrwn6ztd Uncharted 4: A Thief's End gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/iW4jVMb-4ko?si=7RyC2h58dIsrCDWU Uncharted: The Lost Legacy gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/ricgtVb0Z1s?si=dq6cQERbSSrKEzMS The Last of Us Part II gameplay by Spazbo4 from World of Longplays: https://youtu.be/McH5TlbwlTw?si=AX-bvjtnlH799PM7 Time Stamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:03:28 - Crash Bandicoot 00:08:02 - Crash Bandicoot 2: Cortex Strikes Back 00:10:54 - Crash Bandicoot: Warped 00:15:34 - Crash Team Racing 00:19:50 - Jak & Daxter: The Precursor Legacy 00:24:21 - Jak II 00:33:18 - Jak 3 00:41:41 - Jak X: Combat Racing 00:47:50 - Uncharted: Drake's Fortune 00:56:03 - Uncharted 2: Among Thieves 01:06:46 - Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception 01:17:12 - The Last of Us 01:31:15 - Uncharted 4: A Thief's End 01:43:44 - Uncharted: The Lost Legacy 01:53:12 - The Last of Us Part II 02:16:31 - Outro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices