Our Two Cents Podcast is a weekly show that provides wisdom and actionable advice about Finance, Investing, Real Estate, Income Taxes, Insurance, Marketing, Advertising, and the Law. OTC features local business and community leaders and is a great podcast with a great group of professionals in all sorts of different job fields who share their expertise along with great insightful guests from local business owners, musicians, philanthropists, and everything in between.
Amanda Jones welcomes Jackie Andrade and Elizabeth Maldonado, Vice Chairman and Chairman of KC SHRM’s 2024 Symposium. Jackie Andrarde, is an experienced and motivated human resources practitioner with sixteen years’ experience. Jackie Introduces the non-organization: The Kern County Chapter Society for Human Resource Management otherwise known as KC SHRM as an organization of human resource professionals whose primary goal is to foster an educational environment that is facilitated by the exchange of information and ideas. The organization provides an extensive amount of resources and tools for all members from all different business backgrounds from small business owners to corporate companies with or without their membership.
Elizabeth Maldonado is an alumnus of the CSUB’s School of Business. She joined AppleOne Employment Services in 2012 and specializes in Staffing and HR Consulting services. Elizabeth introduces KC SHRM’s Annual Symposium, their largest event being held on October 2nd 2024. The Symposium’s mission is to Inspire, energate, elevate and connect with like minded professionals to better educate each other. The event attracts about 400 HR and Business professionals from generalists level through the executive suite. They have a great line-up of speakers forming as well as 46+ vendors for the 2024 sessions to ensure we address the issues and challenges faced by today's HR professionals. Whether you’d like to be a sponsor, vendor or attend the event all information will be linked down below.
Learn more about KC SHRM and the annual Symposium with the links below:
KC SHRM Website
KC SHRM Instagram
KC SHRM Symposium details
KC SHRM Youtube
KC SHRM Linkedin
Amanda DiGacomo welcomes Norma Dunn, Program Director of the Kern Women’s Business Center. Norma's passion for education and business, combined with her engaging personality, has earned her a reputation as a high-impact networker. She is a sought-after community leader as is accomplished at planning and executing strategies that are both effective and efficient. Norma Introduces what the Women’s Business center provides and its dedication to enhancing opportunities for potential entrepreneurs and small business owners to become self-sustaining, successful contributors to their communities, with special assistance for women, low-income, minority, veterans, and non-profit businesses . The business center was established in 2019 and has had its physical location as of 2021. The business center provides a variety of resources for entrepreneurs to gain the knowledge they need to start and run a successful business. They offer business start up classes, monthly workshops, and free business consulting. The Kern County’s Women’s Business Center received the 2024 Women's Business Center of the Year Award out of 15 Counties, acknowledging their hard work and dedication towards the community.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WOMEN'S BUSINESS CENTER WITH THE LINKS BELOW:
Phone: 661-567-0410
Address: 10800 Stockdale Hwy Suite 201-224 Bakersfield CA, 93311
Women's Center Website: www.mcscorp.org/kern
Instagram: kernwbc
Facebook: Kern_Womens_Business_Center
Kyle Jones and Amanda DiGacomo welcome Jasmine Mazariegos, Senior Broker at Virtuity Financial Partners and the newest tenant in the Mill Rock Way office. Jasmine Introduces the company she works with, Virtuity Financial and discusses the aspects behind financial literacy. Jasmine tells us how she attended CSUB with a major in kinesiology but later realized through experience that a career working 9-5 for someone else wasn’t going to get her to her financial goals, she was mentored and trained in Financial literacy and now provides the same information if not more to her clients. She discusses the change in perspective from working an average 9-5 job to dedicating herself to being an entrepreneur and teaching others that they can do the same. Jasmine provides her clients with financial advice that ranges from educating them about life insurance and advising them to protect assets in Trusts and Wills to teaching them about a wide range of investment strategies. She also discusses growing up not having the resources and education about financial literacy and is now passionate about teaching clients the importance of financial literacy.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JASMINE AND REACH OUT WITH THE LINKS BELOW:
Website: https://virtuity.com/
Jasmine's IG: Jasmine_finance
Amanda DiGiacomo welcomes Jackie Koster, Founder and CEO of Key Staffing Inc and LLS Visionary of the year. Key Staffing is a company founded in 2019 by Mrs.Koster and it is now a leading recruitment firm serving all industries including, industrial, administrative, accounting, and medical. Jackie tells us the story of how Key Staffing came to be from simply her entrepreneuring spirit and determination to succeed. Amanda and Jackie also discuss the impact that generational cultures bring to the workforce and the difference on how to motivate for success. In starting a business there are always ups and downs, losses and wins, when Jackie started Key Staffing in 2019 the pandemic was an unforeseen obstacle but with great tenacity, Jackie and her team were able to provide the community with job opportunities for both candidates and clients. In 2023 Jackie discusses the loss in reduction of not only her company’s staff but the drastic reduction of revenue her company was receiving, but with consistent efforts and an amazing staff the company has been able to grow from what they lost. Key Staffing is a company committed to helping candidates find the right opportunity for their lifestyle.
Their mission is to create a long-term partnership with clients by connecting their workforce with companies and businesses. Key Staffing has collaborated with Leukemia Lymphoma Society (LLS) to host a casino night in which all proceeds from the event will go towards funding research and supporting patients battling blood cancer. For more information on Key Staffing and the LLS casino night check out the links below.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KEY STAFFING:
LLS Casino Night Tickets
LLS Donation Page
LinkedIn: Jackie_Koster
Instagram: Jackie_Koster
Website: www.hirekeystaff.com/
Kyle Jones welcomes Scott Garrison, Founder and CEO of Planned Exits, a new company that provides business owners with strategies on how to maximize their business’s value upon exit. Scott tells us the story of how Planned Exits came to be and his inspiration behind the company. The company is committed to helping business owners, and entrepreneurs plan for successful exits with the most favorable terms that help them achieve their personal and professional goals.
Exit planning is a critical process that holds immense significance for businesses, and It allows them to strategically navigate the complexities of transitioning out of their ventures. Whether they are selling the business, passing it on to family members, or exploring other exit options. Exit planning addresses legal and tax considerations, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition through meticulous analysis, financial planning, and the development of a tailored strategy. For more information on Planned Exits check out the links below.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PLANNED EXITS:
Website: www.plannedexits.com/
LinkedIn: Planned_Exits
Amanda DiGiacomo welcomes Cepi and Lu, the executive board of Power Hub Bakersfield, a new local non-profit that helps businesses and C suite employees grow. Cepi the president tells us the story of how Power Hub Bakersfield came to be. Their inspiration behind bringing PHB to the community was that they wanted to provide business owners and C Suite professionals with the proper tools to power up their growth through networking, goal setting, financing, and accountability. This nonprofit is different from others as they provide networking, programs lead by experts, and an accountability coach. The board would like to invite any of you to their latest program sponsored by Lino’s venue on February 8th 2024. More information for their upcoming programs is on their Instagram linked down below.
LEARN MORE ABOUT POWER HUB BAKERSFIELD:
Website: https://powerhubbakersfield.org/
Instagram: powerhub_bakersfield
Kyle Jones welcomes Sarah Kuhlmann and Tarin Meadows, Co-owners of F45 Training Seven Oaks and Fit-Pantry. Sarah and Tarin tell us the story of F45 training. Their inspiration behind bringing F45 training to the community was that they wanted to provide a fun place that produces high-intensity workouts to get the heart pumping. F45 Training’s mission is to help its members conquer everyday movements and unlock their inner athlete. At F45 Training, their workouts are created by certified personal trainers to bring together all muscle groups in the body, helping them achieve exceptional strength, energy, and flexibility that leave their members feeling their best. More information on F45 Training Seven Oaks is down below.
Sarah and Tarin established their own business known as Fit Pantry. Their mission behind their restaurant is to connect people to healthy real food with ease. They opened Fit Pantry in October of 2016 and have made it their mission ever since to serve others with well-balanced nutritious meals. You can find their locations and more information on their website below.
LEARN MORE ABOUT F45 TRAINING AND FIT PANTRY:
Websites: https://f45training.com/studio/sevenoaksca/
https://www.fitpantry.com/
Phone number: F45 Training: (661) 310-3305
Phone number: Fit Pantry: (661) 679-7684
Facebook: F45_Training_SevenOaks
Fit_Pantry
Instagram: f45_training_sevenoaks
fitpantrybakersfield
Amanda DiGiacomo welcomes Debbie Powers, executive director of Golden Empire Gleaners. Debbie tells us the story of how the local non-profit was founded and how much they have grown since then. Debbie goes over what the non-profit does for the community and how it has an impact on many lives. She discusses the process in which the non-profit receives its donations and how they create and distribute the baskets. Donations are a big part of the non-profits mission, volunteering is the other important part, Debbie discusses how the volunteers are what allows the program to run smoothly and how because of volunteers they are able to reach more people around the community. Club 85 is a monthly monetary subscription in which your donation is used to create a case of goods that is then donated to a family in need every month. We encourage you today to check out this local non-profit and be a part of the team, whether it be through volunteer work or food/monetary donation.
Golden Empire Gleaners mission is to help alleviate hunger and provide food for those in need in the Kern County community. They accomplish this by collecting and distributing food and agricultural products that might otherwise go to waste. Through the help of their referring agencies, they are able to distribute food to needy children, senior citizens, families in crisis, people who are ill, disabled, homeless or unemployed.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GOLDEN EMPIRE GLEANERS AND HOW YOU CAN HELP MAKE AN IMPACT:
Website: www.goldenempiregleaners.com/
Phone Number: 661-324-2767
Facebook: GoldenEmpireGleaners
Instagram: GoldenEmpireGleaners
We are welcomed today with a special recording from our Host Amanda DiGiacomo as she tells us the story on how she came about founding Atlas Financial Solutions. Amanda goes over a year-end business checklist for small business owners and how to close out their books. She goes over minimum wage increases and sick leave changes for 2024. Atlas Financial Solutions offers a variety of services that cater to small businesses, they are passionate about giving back to their community. Small business owners face many burdens, teaming up with AFS allows you to outsource those burdens.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ATLAS FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS:
Website: https://atlasfinancialsolutions.net/
Phone Number: 661-241-3719
Facebook: Atlas_Financial_Solutions
LinkedIn: AtlasFinancialSolutions
Instagram: atlasfinancialsolutionsca
Kyle Jones welcomes Richard Chapman, President and CEO of the Kern Economic Development Corporation. Richard educates us on what the Kern EDC corporation does and gives us an in-depth on the process of how they study and strategize the market overview of Kern County. He also gives us insight into what's going on in East Kern, he discusses how they started the East Kern Economic Alliance (EKEA) and goes over how they reach out to locals and corporations in the area to cultivate relationships and help sustainably grow their businesses.
Kern Economic Development Corporation’s mission is to cultivate and promote Kern County’s boundless opportunities for business. The Corporation (Kern EDC) is a public-private partnership that brings together private businesses, education, elected officials, and non-profit organizations for the purpose of a single goal: creating a strong and diverse economy for Kern County. Kern EDC promotes the region to businesses looking for areas to expand and works with existing local businesses to ensure they have what they need to thrive and grow here in Kern County.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KERN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION:
-Website: www.kernedc.com
-Phone Number: 661-862-5150
-Facebook: Kern_Economic_Development_Corporation
-LinkedIn: Kern_Economic_Development_Corporation
-Instagram: KernEconomic
Check out their market overview right here
Troy Burden Welcomes Eric Dhanens and Alex Vigil, partners of the strategic engineering firm known as Cornerstone. Eric Dhanens, the vice president of Cornerstone, gives us insight on the idea behind Cornerstone. He goes over the civil engineering process in our region and what kind of services they provide, from flexible and dynamic engineering to a diversifying environment that provides clean energy. He also educates us on the carbon capture process and its importance. Alex Vigil is the president of Well Done Consulting LLC and a partner of Cornerstone. Alex’s company, Well Done Consulting, works hand in hand with Cornerstone to provide clients with asset retirement, plug and abandonment, regulatory services, and so much more, all of which synergize smoothly with Cornerstone’s firm. Alex shares with us a local non-profit called Orlie’s Shoe Drive that Alex and his Wife, Nichole Vigil, co-founded in honor of Alex’s father, Orlie. Orlie’s family founded Orlie’s Shoe Drive, which focuses on providing school-age children with one of life’s basic necessities: shoes. They would like to give you the opportunity to positively impact our community by donating to their shoe drive fundraiser. More information on how you can contact and donate will be linked down below!
LEARN MORE ABOUT CORNERSTONE ENGINEERING INC.:
Website: https://cornerstoneeng.com/
Phone: 661-325-9474
LinkedIn: CornerstoneEngineeringInc
LEARN MORE ABOUT WELL DONE CONSULTING LLC.:
LinkedIn: WellDoneConsultingLLC
LEARN MORE ABOUT ORLIE'S SHOE DRIVE:
Website: www.orliesshoedrive.com/
LinkedIn: OrliesShoeDrive
Instagram: orliesshoedrive
YouTube: Orlie's_Shoe_Drive
Dave Plivelich (The Marcom Group) and John Duffield (Integra Accountancy Corporation) welcome Shannon and Kevin Lowther, managing partners of Central Pacific Valuation, as they discuss how a business is valued and the reasons why it is important to know a business’s value. Kevin and Shannon might value an interest in a business for clients who are interested in buying or selling a business as well as for gift, estate, and income tax matters. Shannon and Kevin give insight into what business valuations are by giving us a better look into all the aspects of a business valuation and breaking down the process of what a company’s truly worth.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CENTRAL PACIFIC VALUATION:
Website: https://centralpacval.com/
Phone: 661-527-9080
Instagram: centralpacvaluation
Facebook: Central_Pacific_Valuation
LinkedIn: Shannon_Lowther
Kevin_Lowther
Kyle Jones welcomes Lori Malkin, secretary and founder of the JJ’s Legacy Foundation as she invites us to the 8th annual Grillin and Brewin event on November 9th. All proceeds from the event go towards the foundation’s “Got the Dot?” program and club. Their program gives students an educational insight on organ, eye, and tissue donation and the importance of donating. The program allows the children the opportunity to earn scholarships funded through these events to further their education as advocates for organ, eye, and tissue donation.
JJ’s Legacy was founded in 2010 a year after founder Lori Malkin’s son Jeffrey John died in an automotive accident, when pronounced brain dead the doctors asked Lori if Jeffrey was an organ donor, and Lori and her husband decided to donate her son’s organs. In doing so Lori learned about how much of an impact her son’s donation had on other people's lives. The mission of JJ’s Legacy is to honor Jeffrey Johns by educating Kern County residents on the value and importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation, increasing the number of registered donors, and providing compassionate support to donor and recipient families.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JJ'S LEGACY:
Website: www.jjslegacy.org/
Phone: 661-489-4430
Instagram: jjslegacy
Facebook: JJs_Legacy
LinkedIn: Lori_Malkin
YouTube: JJ's_Legacy
Dave Plivelich and Dustin Pitcher welcome Wendy Porter, the Executive Director and Founder of the Wounded Heroes Fund, as she explains how the Wounded Heroes Fund was born 13 years ago at her kitchen table. Wendy is the daughter of a Vietnam Veteran, and after seeing the way her father was treated upon his arrival home, she wanted to give back to the Veteran community. Now, Wendy runs the Wounded Heroes Fund, which helps veterans adjust to civilian life by providing a sense of home through their community center. They offer a kitchen, shower, washer/dryer, as well as a food pantry that feeds 400 to 500 people a month. Wendy’s goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for Veterans and ensure that all the money that is donated stays in Kern County. If you would like to learn more about how you can help the Wounded Heroes Fund, tune into this episode.
The Wounded Heroes Fund was started in 2008 by Wendy Porter. She is the granddaughter of two WWII Veterans and the daughter of a US Army Vietnam Veteran. She grew up experiencing the effect that war had on her father and the ungrateful homecoming he received. She wanted to make sure that this did not happen to the young men and women who are currently fighting for our country. Wendy has a Master’s Degree in education and was a teacher for 9 years in Delano, California. She decided to stay home when her daughter, Chloe (14), was born. Wendy wanted to do something to give back to wounded veterans and their families, and being at home allowed that dream to come to fruition. With the help of family and friends, WHF was started.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WOUNDED HEROES FUND:
Website: https://thewoundedheroesfund.com/
Phone: 661-328-8600
Email: wendy@thewoundedheroesfund.org
Instagram: woundedheroesfund
Facebook: Wounded_Heroes_Foundation
Dave Plivelich welcomes Bryan Porter, the owner of St. John Sporting Dogs, as he discusses his passion for showing and breeding Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Bryan started showing Chessies 13 years ago, even though he had no previous experience, and quickly won 6 shows in a row! Bryan is now the President and Chairman of the Kern County Kennel Club, which will be hosting a four-day all-breed show at the Kern County Fairgrounds. The event is from March 28th to 31st, 2024, and spectators are welcome! If you have ever considered showing and breeding, tune into this episode.
Bryan Porter is part of the Kern County Young Republicans, Active 20-30 Club, MARE, Kern County Wounded Heroes Fund, Kern County Kennel Club, and the Tulare Basin Wetlands Association. Dogs have always been an important part of his life, and 13 years ago, he started to show and breed Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Bryan has had multiple top-rated dogs in the country over the past few years. However, his current dog, Mary, has been the #1 owner-handled Chesapeake for the last two years. He is an avid hunter and spends his free time working on wildlife conservation. Bryan is the Vice President and Fundraising Chair for the Tulare Basin Wetlands Association and was also appointed to the Wildlife Commission for Kern County, representing Ward 3.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRYAN PORTER:
Website: https://stjohndogs.com/
Email: gopporter@aol.com
Facebook: KC_Kennel_Club
Thank you for joining us for our final episode of our health and fitness mini-series! John Duffield and Troy Burden welcome back Anna Marie Frank and Dr. Beatty as they discuss the many different services they offer and how they focus on improving the overall health and wellness of their patients. Anna Marie Frank has initial meetings with her patients so they can give her a detailed list of their symptoms along with a list of their medications so she can create a personal wellness plan for them. Dr. Beatty has multiple different tests he can run depending on the patient’s visit that he can use to determine what the root of their problem is. They both focus on listening to their patients to create personalized plans that will increase their patients quality of life.
Anna Marie is a doctor of Traditional Naturopathy, with a PhD in Holistic Medicine. She is also a certified brain health professional, ICF certified coach, certified master herbalist, and lover of life! She is also an author, speaker, employee wellness consultant, and mindset/Quantum Body Energy Coding coach. Her mission is to end mental health stigmas and help all people upgrade their brains and biology through lifestyle choices while rewiring their neuro pathways using holistic modalities. Anna Marie healed her own brain after years of depression and challenges with dyslexia and ADD. She is the creator and owner of Happy Whole You. A brain health-focused wellness center located in Bakersfield, California, and Raleigh, North Carolina. Anna Marie is also the formulator of her own brain nutraceutical line which includes, “Happy You, Calm You, & Bright You.” And she is the author of the self-improvement book, “Stop Bullying Yourself!” a guide to greater health, wealth, happiness, and success. Additionally, Anna Marie has training from the Gerson Institute, Amen clinics, Integrative nutrition institute, Mindvalley, the National Wellness Institute, WELCOA Wellness Council of America, and more. She is a lifelong learner and continues to expand in the field of wellbeing.
Dr. Hugh Beatty, aka “The Wellness Doc”, is committed to providing quality medical care for your entire family. Dr. Beatty graduated from Occidental College in 1981 and obtained his BA in Chemistry from USCD School of Medicine in 1985. He has been practicing medicine in Bakersfield since 1998 where he offers comprehensive medical care and pain management procedures.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HUGH BEATTY, MD:
Website: www.hughbeatty.com/
Phone: 661-395-0315
Email: dr.beatty@yahoo.com
Facebook: The_Wellness_Doc
LinkedIn: Dr_Hugh_BeattyMD
LEARN MORE ABOUT HAPPY WHOLE YOU:
Website: https://happywholeyou.com/
Phone: 661-337-0216
Email: info@happywholeyou.com
Instagram: happywholeyou
Facebook: Happy_Whole_You_Bakersfield
LinkedIn: Anna_Marie
Welcome back to episode four of our Health and Fitness mini series! Troy Burden and Amanda DiGiacomo had the opportunity to sit down with Stacy Kuwahara the Director for Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services and Anna Marie Frank the Founder of Happy Whole You to discuss the importance of mental health. Anna outlined the services she offers at Happy Whole You and how she strives to help others with their mental health journey after struggling with it herself during her younger years. Stacy explains the common issues she comes across in her field of expertise and how they can be prevented with early intervention. If you have questions regarding mental health please listen to this week's episode and reach out to either Anna Marie Frank or Stacy Kuwahara.
Stacy Kuwahara is the Behavioral Health Director for Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services. She oversees the Kern County Mental Health Plan, responsible for providing a full array of mental health and substance use services for Medi-Cal Beneficiaries in Kern. She is a licensed Marriage Family Therapist and has over 20 years’ experience working in the mental health field. Prior to working in the county, she has worked throughout California for private organizations and spent time working for the National Health System in England. She holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute.
Anna Marie is a doctor of Traditional Naturopathy, with a PhD in Holistic Medicine. She is also a certified brain health professional, ICF certified coach, certified master herbalist, and lover of life! She is also an author, speaker, employee wellness consultant, and mindset/Quantum Body Energy Coding coach. Her mission is to end mental health stigmas and help all people upgrade their brains and biology through lifestyle choices while rewiring their neuro pathways using holistic modalities. Anna Marie healed her own brain after years of depression and challenges with dyslexia and ADD. She is the creator and owner of Happy Whole You. A brain health-focused wellness center located in Bakersfield, California, and Raleigh, North Carolina. Anna Marie is also the formulator of her own brain nutraceutical line which includes, “Happy You, Calm You, & Bright You.” And she is the author of the self-improvement book, “Stop Bullying Yourself!” a guide to greater health, wealth, happiness, and success. Additionally, Anna Marie has training from the Gerson Institute, Amen clinics, Integrative nutrition institute, Mindvalley, the National Wellness Institute, WELCOA Wellness Council of America, and more. She is a lifelong learner and continues to expand in the field of wellbeing.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KERN COUNTY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND RECOVERY SERVICES:
Website: www.kernbhrs.org/
Email: kburton@kleinlaw.com
Phone Numbers:
The access & Assessment Center: 661-686-8080
24 Hour Crisis Hotline Toll Free: 1-800-991-5272
24 Hour Substance Use: 1-866-266-4898
Assisted Outpatient Treatment: 844-360-8251
Family Advocacy Services: 844-360-8250
Instagram: kernbhrs
Facebook: Kern_Behavioral_Health_and_Recovery_Services
LinkedIn: KernBehabioralHealthandRecoveryServices
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KernBHRS
LEARN MORE ABOUT HAPPY WHOLE YOU:
Website: https://happywholeyou.com/
Email: info@happywholeyou.com
Phone Number: 661-337-0216
Instagram: happywholeyou
Facebook: Happy_Whole_You
LinkedIn: Anna_Marie_Frank
Amanda DiGiacomo sits down with Melissa Rossiter the Senior Marketing Specialist for Blue Zones Project – Bakersfield and Chelsey Hall the President and Co-owner of Modern Grub as they discuss why nutrition is so important for your overall health. Melissa explains where the 5 Blue Zones are located and the 9 things (The Power 9) they all have in common such as nutrition. This led to Blue Zone Project - Bakersfield to partner with Modern Grub to give our community healthier food alternatives. Modern Grub is a great resource to use on your health and fitness journey since they have pre-made meal prep meals. If you have been struggling with eating healthy please tune into this week’s episode.
Melissa Rossiter is the senior marketing specialist for Blue Zones Project – Bakersfield. She is excited to use her skills in storytelling and public relations to share how this inspiring project will help transform the health and wellness of the community where she grew up. With a career spanning 20+ years, Melissa has worked as a newspaper reporter/editor, TV news producer and in various marketing roles in Kern County. Melissa has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with an emphasis in Journalism from California State University, Bakersfield. She has a unique blend of skills and experience, including media relations, graphic design, marketing/branding and event planning. Prior to joining Blue Zones Project, Melissa worked at Kern County Behavioral Health & Recovery Services on its public information team, where she managed and supported the department’s marketing, engagement, and branding efforts. She also discovered a passion for advocating for mental health by overseeing the messaging and design efforts for awareness campaigns during Mental Health Awareness Month in May and National Recovery Month and Suicide Prevention Month in September.
Chelsey Hall is the President and Co-owner of Modern Grub, Inc here in Bakersfield, California- Bakersfield’s CLEAN Meal Prep Company and At-Home Delivery Service. She has been in the grocery retail business since 2000 and has had a passion for nutrition, health and wellness for as long as she can remember. After studying Nutrition and Business Administration at Cal State University of Bakersfield she made the jump from the Grocery Industry into the Restaurant and Food Packaging Industry. She started Modern Grub in 2014 after recognizing the gaps in the Health and Wellness Industry in Bakersfield, noticing that the area was lacking in healthy eating options compared to other California cities similar in size. After ten years in business Modern Grub has successfully partnered with some amazing organizations like Kern Health Systems, the Bakersfield Police Department, the Kern County Sheriff’s Department, Motor City Buick GMC, A3 Sports Performance, Local Nursing Facilities, Sully’s Neighbourhood Markets, and now Blue Zones Project of Bakersfield where Chelsey now fills the role of Co-Chair for the Grocery and Restaurant Sector. Modern Grub is open seven days a week. Walk-ins are welcomed every day. They also deliver to homes and offices and help coordinate Wellness Programs in corporate offices.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BLUE ZONE PROJECT:
Website: https://bakersfield.bluezonesproject.com/
Instagram: bzpbbakersfield
Facebook: Blue_Zones_Project_Bakersfield
LinkedIn: Blue_Zones_Project
LEARN MORE ABOUT MODERN GRUB:
Website: https://eatmoderngrub.com/
Phone: 661-695-9006
Address: 1100 Calloway Drive, Unit 100
Instagram: modern_grub
Facebook: Modern_Grub
Welcome back to the second episode of our Health and Fitness mini series!! Kyle Jones sits down with Ryan Beckwith and Jake Hannaman as they discuss the importance of exercising. They understand how daunting it can be to start your fitness journey so they focus on creating your routine to fit your needs and lifestyle. Kyle relates it to making an investment in yourself and how he feels after starting his own journey years ago. If you have been struggling to create your own routine tune into this week’s episode!
Ryan Beckwith is the owner/operator of A3 Sports & Wellness, Inc. and has helped thousands of athletes achieve their goals in sport (and life) over the last 20 years as a coach and educator. His specialties are biomechanics, speed and power, weightlifting for athletes, and developing the holistic athlete.
Jake Hannaman is the co-owner of Movement Studios which strives to promote health and wellness by bridging the gap between medicine and fitness.
LEARN MORE ABOUT A3 SPORTS:
Website: https://a3sportsperformance.com/
Email: ryan@a3sportsperformance.com
Phone: 661-885-8889
Instagram: A3SportsPerformance
Facebook: A3_Sports_Performace_&_Fitness
LEARN MORE ABOUT MOVEMENT STUDIO:
Address: 1400 Easton Dr. Suite 146, Bakersfield, CA 93309
Phone: 661-477-9101
Instagram: MovementStud
Welcome to the first episode of our Health and Fitness mini series! Kyle Jones sits down with Rashamm Sandhu, MD as he discusses how to improve your overall heart health. Dr. Sandhu strongly encourages lowering your risk factors by cutting down on processed foods, exercising, and not smoking. He outlines the benefits of being proactive with heart health and how it can significantly improve your quality of life.
Dr. Sandhu is an Interventional Cardiologist based in Bakersfield, California. He completed his internal medicine residency and cardiovascular fellowship at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York, where he was recognized for teaching excellence and was chosen as the Chief Cardiovascular Fellow in his final year. Driven by a passion for procedure-oriented care that yields immediate and gratifying life improvements, he relocated to Bakersfield over a decade ago. In December 2022, Dr. Sandhu took the bold step to open his own practice, the Cardiovascular Institute, where he is board-certified in Interventional Cardiology, Cardiovascular Disease, and Nuclear Medicine. His approach to patient care is holistic, focusing on total well-being that incorporates health, diet, and lifestyle changes. Outside of his medical practice, Dr. Sandhu enjoys a balanced life filled with hobbies such as yoga, hiking, and international travel, gaining inspiration from different climates and cultures. His contributions to the medical community extend beyond the clinic; he has published various research studies, textbook chapters, and has presented at national conferences. His balanced approach to medicine, along with his commitment to treating the whole patient, sets Dr. Sandhu apart as a leading expert in his field.
LEARN MORE ABOUT RASHAMM SANDHU, MD, FACC:
Website: https://cacvinst.com/
Email: info@cacvinst.com
Phone: 661-443-0088
Instagram: cacvinst
Facebook: California_Cardiovascular_Institute
Twitter: @cacvinst
Thank you for joining us for the final episode of our education mini series! Amanda DiGiacomo sat down with Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr. the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at CSU Bakersfield (CSUB). Dr. Harper gives us a detailed overview of the University’s structure such as who appoints the president and committee leaders, as well as who reports directly to the president. He explains the different types of programs and degrees they offer as well upcoming events. Dr. Harper and Amanda discuss the overall campus life and what one can expect when joining the CSUB family. If you have been considering CSUB or would like to learn more about our wonderful CSU, tune into this week's episode!
Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr. is the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at CSU Bakersfield (CSUB). Prior to joining CSU Bakersfield, Dr. Harper was AVP for Academic Administration at West Chester University of Pennsylvania (WCU) and before joining WCU, Dr. Harper was the Associate Provost at Wilkes University in Wilkes Barre, PA. Dr. Harper also led a cross-functional team of faculty and administrators to launch the Pocono Education Center in Tannersville, PA., which offered numerous academic programs including Engineering Management, Nursing, and the Master of Business Administration. Dr. Harper was a coordinator of the university’s strategic plan Vision 2015, where he played a central role in charting the university’s strategic growth plan. Before joining Wilkes University, Dr. Harper was an Associate for Academic Affairs at the State Council for Higher Education of Virginia (SCHEV), which is the system administrative body of the sixteen 4-year institutions and twenty-three 2-year institutions in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Dr. Harper drafted both correspondence and policy guidance under the signature of the Governor of Virginia. In addition, Dr. Harper played a lead role in the assessment and accreditation processes at the system level, as well as serving as a liaison between SCHEV and multiple state-wide constituencies including the NASA space consortium. Dr. Harper was on the faculties of Christopher Newport University in Virginia as an Associate Professor of Communication Studies and as an Assistant Professor at California State University, San Bernardino. Dr. Harper is the author of over 15 scholarly articles, which span the fields of psychometrics, electronic communication, assessment, and budget and planning.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CSU-BAKERSFIELD:
Website: www.csub.edu/
Phone: 661-654-2782
Instagram: csubakersfield
Facebook: CSU_Bakersfield
Twitter: @CSUBakersfield
YouTube: CSU_Bakersfield
Welcome back to episode three of our education mini series! This episode John Duffield and Scott Hanson welcome Matt Guinn, the President of Bakersfield Christian High School as he explains how they focus on creating strong relationships with the families that attend their school. This means the families are not only more involved in their children's education but more involved in decision making. He also explains how they track common metrics like GPAs and college acceptance but their overall focus is preparing their students for AP Exams, College and even the military. He ends the episode with advice for returning parents as well as parents that have been considering the private school route.
The 2023-24 school year will mark Matt Guinn's second year as President of Bakersfield Christian High School (BCHS) and his 25th overall in education. Prior to his arrival at BCHS, Matt spent 23 years with the Kern High School District as a teacher, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal of Instruction, Director of Business, and Principal. He attended Biola University and graduated with a BS in Business-Marketing from CSUB. He then obtained a single subject teaching credential through CSUB and a Masters in Educational Administrative Leadership from Point Loma. His wife of 26 years, Audra, is a graduate of Community Christian and former employee of BCHS, and their two children Morgan and Kyle are both graduates of BCHS.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BAKERSFIELD CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL:
Website: www.bakersfieldchristian.com/
Phone: 661-410-7000
Email: mguinn@bakersfieldchristian.com
Address: 12775 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93314
Instagram: bakersfieldchristian
Facebook: BakersfieldChristianHighSchool
Welcome back to episode two of our education mini series as Kyle Jones sits down with Jeremy Adams and Amanda Frank as they give us an in depth look into our local public schools. They discuss the pros and cons of schools starting at a later time as well as how to create change and where to start. Jeremy and Amanda express their concern for how connected students are to their phones and how distracting they can be. They both advise parents to be as involved as possible in their students' education as well as their personal lives. If you are having concerns about the new school year, tune into this week’s episode!
Jeremy S. Adams is one of the most decorated educators in the state of California. In 2018, he was the first classroom teacher inducted into the California State University, Bakersfield, Hall of Fame. A graduate of Washington & Lee University and CSU Bakersfield, he has written on politics and education for the Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, Huffington Post, The Daily Caller, The American Conservative, New Discourses, The Daily Caller,, and many other outlets. He lives with his family in Bakersfield, California.
Amanda Frank is the Kern Education Pledge Coordinator at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools. She has a passion for serving the community and believes that education is the great equalizer. In addition to her work with the Kern Education Pledge, Mrs. Frank serves as a trustee on the Norris School Board. She is actively involved in numerous leadership organizations and committees including The Plank Foundation, the Kern County School Boards Association, CSUB Executive Advisory Council for the School of Arts and Humanities, Blue Zones Steering Committee, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber’s Governmental Review Committee and is a past chair of the Leadership Bakersfield Advisory.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JEREMY ADAMS:
Website: https://bakersfield.kernhigh.org/
Email: jsa76@yahoo.com
Instagram: @jeremysadams1976
LEARN MORE ABOUT NORRIS SCHOOL DISTRICT:
Website: www.norris.k12.ca.us/
Phone: 661-387-7000
Address: 6940 Calloway Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93312
Steve Sanders currently serves as Chief of Staff for the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS). In his role he provides direct support to the elected Kern County Superintendent of Schools, and he oversees the Communications Division for KCSOS and its educational television station KETN, in addition to overseeing the California Living Museum (CALM) and the Kern County Network for Children. Steve has worked for KCSOS since 1998.
Welcome to the first episode of our education mini series! Amanda DiGiacomo and Kyle Jones welcome Steve Sanders Chief of Staff of the Kern County Superintendent as he gave us a detailed overview of our local school districts. There are 46 local school districts here in Kern County and they discussed where and who to reach out to for resources and programs like CALM and Camp Keep. Steve was also able to explain the structure of the board of trustees and superintendents as well as their roles. They also touched on SALPA programs which were created for children with special needs. Steve left us with 4 tips: look up your districts LCAP (budget) and district page, attend local back to school night, meet your teachers and Principal, and read over the districts back to school packet given to all parents.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KERN COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS:
Website: https://kern.org/
Phone: 661-636-4000 or 661-636-4130
Email: stsanders@kern.org
Instagram: kcsosofficial
Facebook: KCSOS
YouTube: @KETNTV
Twitter: @KCSOS
Family man Danny Hill is co-owner of Hill Broadcasting and is co-host of the Danny & Kait syndicated radio show. Danny & Kait have won Best of Bakersfield, Favorite in the Radio Personality category for 4 years in a row. Their show is currently on 11 radio stations in 6 states! Danny is married to Kait and they have five adorable children. Danny is also an accomplished wedding DJ, winner of the Kern County Bridal Association’s Wedding DJ of the year and was featured on “Whose Wedding Is It Anyway” on TLC.
Derek Jeffery is the Vice President & General Manager for KGET-TV, Telemundo, and CW Bakersfield stations. As a native to Bakersfield, he attended local schooling before receiving an athletic scholarship to Utah State University. That is where he received his degree in Broadcast Journalism. He returned home to start his professional career at KGET-TV in 2004 as a non-paid weekend intern and ascended through the ranks being promoted to Vice President/General Manager in 2014. Mr. Jeffery is a voice, advocate, and staunch supporter of his hometown currently serving on several local non-profit boards and is the current City Chairman for the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce.
David Perkins started his sales and marketing career at Advanced Beverage as a sales manager while earning his Bachelor's degree in marketing. He then moved to Urners Furniture Store as their marketing director where he spent the next 10 years. During that time he always dreamt of owning his own business and armed with his love for community and writing he became a publisher at the Rio Bravo Publication. After two years he acquired the Seven Oaks Magazine which is now Greets Seven Oaks, and is celebrating 9 years as the publisher and owner.
Daniele Alcala is a big believer in community and got her start in marketing by working with local non profits. She has helped multiple organizations such as: Tiger Fight, JJ’s Legacy, Teen Challenge, and many others with their fundraising by using her knowledge of social media and current trends. She is a current board member of ADAKC as well as the NOR Chamber. When she isn’t working with her clients you can find her helping out at the Fox Theater or ice skating at Mechanics Bank.
Thank you for joining us for the final episode of our mini series on sales and marketing!!! Amanda DiGiacomo hosts a roundtable discussion with Danny Hill the President & CEO of Hill BroadCasting, David Perkins a publisher for Greet Seven Oaks, Danielle Alcala the owner of Alcala Solutions and Derek Jefferies the VP and General Manager for KGET-TV/Channel 17 News. They discuss the different types of platforms that are available for advertising such as TV, radio, magazine, and social media. They explain their sales programs and the current trends among each of their platforms and how beneficial they can be to a company.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DANNY HILL:
Website: https://djdannyhill.com/
Phone: 1-559-213-0173
Email: dannyhill@rewind981.com
Instagram: djdannyhill
Facebook: Danny_Hill
Twitter: DJDannyHill
LEARN MORE ABOUT KGET:
Website: www.KGET.com
Phone: 661-283-1700
Email: 17news@kget.com
Instagram: kgetnews
Facebook: KGET-TV_17_News
YouTube: KGET_News
Twitter: KGETNews
LEARN MORE ABOUT GREET SEVEN OAKS:
Website: www.strollmag.com/locations/seven-oaks-ca/
Email: david.perkins@m2co.com
Phone: 661-432-1223
Instagram: GreetSevenOaks
Facebook: Greet_Seven_Oaks
LEARN MORE ABOUT DANIELLE ALCALA:
Phone: 661-563-6271
Email: danyellsk8@gmail.com
Instagram: danyellsk8
Facebook: Danielle_Alcala
Anthony Garcia is a highly regarded sales expert, bestselling author, and motivational speaker with over 20 years of experience. He is passionate about helping companies achieve remarkable growth and scale by enhancing the skill and efficiency of their sales process. Anthony's expertise in training and developing successful sales teams have earned him top accolades in various sales fields. His international best-selling book, "Catapulting Commissions," has been recognized by Selling Power Magazine as a must-read for sales professionals seeking to elevate their performance. His valuable insights have been featured in renowned publications like Forbes, Selling Power, New York Weekly, and Success Magazine. As the host of the popular Catapulting Commissions podcast, he shares interviews and strategies from top sales performers and entrepreneurs, inspiring his audience to reach their full potential. With his dynamic presence, Anthony is in high demand as a keynote speaker, where he motivates and empowers business owners and sales professionals to achieve exceptional growth and surpass their goals.
Welcome back to episode 3 of our sales and marketing mini series! John Duffield welcomes back Anthony Garcia, founder of Anthony Garcia Inc as they discuss how to access a company and develop a process to train their team in order to create monthly recurring revenue. Anthony explains how he believes there is not one sales methodology that fits every industry but rather the importance of creating a strong sales team so you receive the most out of your marketing efforts. Anthony touches on AI and how it has become a helpful tool that is now more commonly used.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ANTHONY GARCIA:
Email: anthony@anthonypgarcia.com
Instagram: @anthonygarciainc
Facebook: Anthony_Garcia
YouTube: AnthonyPaulGarcia
LinkedIn: Anthony_Garcia
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnthonyPGarcia
Welcome back to episode two of our sales and marketing mini-series! Dave Plivelich and John Duffield welcome back Dustin Pitcher, the co-owner of Dirty Bird Guns & Ammo, a local firearm and gunsmithing store. Dustin outlines the difficulties of advertising in his industry and how he had to think of creative solutions like collecting emails, creating reward programs, and having monthly giveaways. He started his business career in the car industry, where he then moved to sell yellow page digital products, which led him to work for The Marcom Group, where he learned the ins and outs of sales and marketing. He stresses the importance of using CRM (Customer Relationship Management) solutions and creating marketing strategies to increase your sales.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DIRTY BIRD:
Website: https://dirtybirdusa.com/
Address: 2420 Mohawk Street #700, Bakersfield, CA 93308
Email: info@dirtybirdusa.com
Phone: 661-387-5200
Welcome to the first episode of our mini series on Sales and Marketing! Our hosts John Duffiled, Troy Burden, and Dave Plivelich sit down to discuss what to expect out of this series and how sales and marketing isn’t a one size fits all. Dave emphasizes how every industry requires a different plan and what works for some doesn’t work for others. Meanwhile, John explains how important it is to track how much business you have received from your marketing efforts to determine if your plan is working. If you’re looking for more sales and marketing knowledge, tune into this week's episode!
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN DUFFIELD:
Website: www.bakersfieldaccountants.com/
Email: john@661cpa.com
Phone: 661-488-7000
Instagram: bakersfieldaccountants
Facebook: John_Duffield
LinkedIn: Offices_of_John_Duffield
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MARCOM GROUP:
Website: www.themarcomgroup.com/
Email: dplivelich@themarcomgroup.com
Phone: 661-489-4444
Instagram: MarcomGroup
Facebook: The_Marcom_Group
LinkedIn: marcom_group
YouTube: The_Marcom_Group
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LYNN COMPANY:
Website: www.lynncompany.com/
Email: troy@lynncompany.com
Phone: 661-873-2200
Facebook: The_Lynn_Company
LinkedIn: Lynn_Company
Kyle Jones is joined in studio with his daughter Ella Jones as they welcome back Krista and Bryce Horton. Since we spoke to them last they have created Drink Horton, a go-to cocktail of coconut rum mixed with diet. Krista has also partnered with Ulta and Sephora for limited edition products! Bryce is also working on a Golf apparel line and hopes to launch it this year. If you want to Keep up with The Hortons tune into this week's episode and see if their story can inspire your entrepreneurial endeavors.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HORTONS:
Websites: https://drinkhorton.com/
www.kristahorton.com/
Instagram: krista.horton
bryce_horton
Facebook: Krista_Horton
Mikin is an accomplished Executive Director/CEO with over 25 years of experience in the small business and association world. With a focus on the small business and commercial construction industry, she has represented and served 550 companies, fostering business development, education, and collaboration among industry professionals and community partners. Mikin excels at building and managing efficient and collaborative teams. Her success is rooted in her expertise in business development, relationship building, collaboration, exceptional team building, and strategic problem-solving. Alongside her professional achievements, Mikin is passionate about workforce development and empowering young professionals to find their path to success. She believes in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth and development. Mikin's commitment to mentoring and guiding emerging professionals further strengthens her impact in the industry. Notably, she led the successful rebuilding and rebranding of a business after a major embezzlement incident and reputation damage, demonstrating her resilience and ability to overcome challenges while maintaining a focus on fostering opportunities for the next generation of professionals.
Scott Hanson welcomes Mikin Plummer the Director and CEO of Kern County Builders Exchange. She has been with KCBEX for 10 years and was tasked with rebuilding their reputation after the company underwent a public scandal. Her goal is to help anyone who is in or related to the construction industry by providing quality services, industry education, safety training, political advocacy, networking opportunities, and construction resources.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KERN COUNTY BUILDERS EXCHANGE:
Website: www.kcbex.com/
Email: mikinp@kcbex.com
Phone: 661-324-4921
Instagram: kerncountybuilders
Facebook: KernCountyBuildersExchange
LinkedIn: KC_Builders_Exchange
John Duffield and Danielle Alcala sit down with Alberto Colmenares, a local alcohol infuser. He learned the basics of infusing in Hartford CT in 2013, and since then has developed it to a point where he believes its quality deserves a brand. He touches on the aspects of the business that he had found difficult as well as the aspects he loves the most. Alberto has developed four main flavors and discusses his plans for expanding by introducing his infusions to local stores and bars.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CASA COLMENARES:
Email: casacolmenaresinfusions@gmail.com
Phone: 530-305-9033
Instagram: @casacolmenaresinfusions
Yiuvany Aguilar was born in a typical Peruvian family as the eldest of four children. As a registered nurse by profession, Yiuvany has experienced true pain, frustration, and grief endured by patients and families. She decided to specialize as a holistic nurse, life coach, and Mindfulness and Self compassion teacher, to help her patients, and later, those resources were applied in her own grieving journey.
Dave Plivelich and Dustin Pitcher sit down with Yiuvany Aguilar Onofre, a local holistic nurse specializing in integrative therapies, like GEMT, Mindfulness and Self Compassion. Being a nurse causes Yiuvany to face love and loss everyday so she wrote a guidebook that focuses on navigating life’s many challenges. The book is Pearls of The Soul: Facing Adversity With Love, and you can purchase it from Amazon. If you have recently faced a tragedy and are struggling, please listen to this week’s episode to hear Yiuvany’s inspiring advice.
LEARN MORE ABOUT YIUVANY AGUILAR ONOFRE:
Website: www.amazon.com/PEARLS-SOUL-FACING-ADVERSITY-LOVE/dp/B0BR7CBWMP
Email: yiuva@yahoo.com
Instagram: yiuvany_aguilar
Facebook: YiuvanyAguilarOnofre
LinkedIn: Yiuvany_Aguilar_Onefre
Tracy is a marketing, political and public relations strategist with over 25 years of experience. She has engaged broad coalitions to support businesses at the local, state and federal levels. She is the founder and CEO of Providence Strategic Consulting, Inc. A firm that represents water, oil and gas, healthcare, defense technology, carbon capture and storage (CCS), government entities, agriculture, national business associations, mining, solar, telecommunications and other exceptional industries and projects. Tracy has represented political candidates at the city, county, state and federal levels as well as multiple successful statewide ballot initiatives. Currently, the firm lobbies government on behalf of business and is a frequent commentator on radio and TV for political analysis, business advocacy and public relations. The firm markets most of the top California political slate mailers. In December 2017, after a rigorous vetting process, Providence was accepted as a partner in Worldcom Public Relations Group®. Worldcom provides access to the international creative capability of over 2000 communications professionals in 115 cities, in 49 countries on six continents.
Troy Burden sits down with Tracy Leach the President and CEO of Providence Strategic Consulting, a local business that specializes in strategic communications for existing businesses as well as effective advocacy resulting in successful project entitlements and permitting. Tracy explains the importance of effective public affairs as well as building public and political support. She also helps guide projects through government permitting all the way to construction. Tune into this week's episode to learn more about public relations and how beneficial it is to our local community.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PROVIDENCE STRATEGIC CONSULTING INC.:
Website: https://provconsult.com/
Email: consult@provconsult.com
Phone: 661-327-1698
Instagram: @provconsult
Facebook: Providence_Strategic_Consulting
LinkedIn: ProvidenceStrategicConsulting
Twitter: @Prov_Consulting
The Beautiful Bakersfield Awards is the biggest night in Bakersfield’s civic life, recognizing individuals, businesses and organizations for accomplishments completed during the prior year to improve quality of life and help make Bakersfield better. Every year since 1990, the Chamber looks forward to highlighting the most positive and heartwarming stories from our fellow community members.
Amanda DiGiacomo sits down with Roberta Nilsson who is the chairman of this year's Beautiful Bakersfield Awards as they discuss what to expect at this great event. Look out for Our Two Cents Podcast since we will be conducting interviews at the after party! We hope to see you there!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BEAUTIFUL BAKERSFIELD AWARDS:
Website: https://beautiful.bakochamber.com/
Email: info@bakochamber.com
Phone: 661-327-4421
Instagram: @BakoChamber
Facebook: Beautiful_Bakersfield
Kevin Burton, has put over 30 years in community service, and always finds a way to give back to the community he was raised in. He has worked as an EMT, Paramedic, Bakersfield City Reserve Firefighter, and Harvey Hall's PR/Marketing Director. He helped Harvey Hall run his first campaign for mayor along with his twin brother Brent. He then went on to become a political consultant for Gene Tackett, and worked for Law Offices of Young Wooldridge.He was also the President for the San Joaquin Community Hospital Foundation and he is now the Administrator of Client Relations and Governmental/Public Affairs for Klein DeNatale Goldner. In addition to his extensive professional career he also helped raise several million for the now AIS Cancer Center at Adventist Health Bakersfield as well as helped raise millions for the Breast Center, and the then expansion of the Cardiac Services at Adventist Health Bakersfield.
Dave Plivelich and Jon Slikker Jr. are joined in studio with Kevin Burton as he walks us through his impressive career journey from working as an EMT to being the Administrator of Client Relations and Governmental/Public Affairs for Klein DeNatale Goldner. His love for the community is clear and he discusses the millions he has helped fundraise for local cancer and health centers here in Bakersfield. Kevin is also a part of multiple boards here in Kern County and advises anyone who is starting out to become a part of our giving community. If you are looking for a heartwarming and inspirational story tune into this week’s episode.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KLEIN-DENATALE-GOLDNER:
Website: www.kleinlaw.com/
Email: kburton@kleinlaw.com
Phone: 661-485-2100
Instagram: @kleindenatalegoldner
Facebook: Klein-Denatale-Goldner
LinkedIn: Klein_Denatale_Goldner
John Duffield sits down with Bryan Oberg, the owner of The Iron Lily Venue and Cask and Strength Bar and Kitchen. He was given the opportunity to purchase a wedding venue which in turn led to him taking over the restaurant formerly known as The Mark and is now known as The Cask Strength Bar and Kitchen. Through this purchase he obtained a liquor license which has led to the creation of both a Tequila and Whiskey Club! Bryan advises anyone who wants to follow in his footsteps to manage a healthy work life balance.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE IRON LILY:
Website: www.ironlilyvenue.com/
Phone: 661-752-5459
Email: bryan@ironlilyvenue.com
Instagram: ironlilyvenue
Facebook: Iron_Lily_Venue
LEARN MORE ABOUT CASK AND STRENGTH BAR AND KITCHEN:
Website: https://caskstrengthbar.com/
Phone: 661-322-7665
Instagram: CaskStrengthBar
Facebook: Cask_Strength_Bar_and_Kitchen
YouTube: Bryan_Oberg
The vision for the Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference originated during the International Year Of The Woman. Phyllis Hullett, then Director of Student Services at Bakersfield College, gathered a group of community-minded women from industry, government, education and service-oriented areas on March 28, 1989. The goal was to discuss the feasibility of producing a business conference geared toward the needs of women. Out of this meeting, twelve women and one lone man, Pat Shaffer, Dean of Development at Bakersfield College, agreed to serve on the executive board. Options Unlimited, The Bakersfield Women’s Business Conference was born.
Amanda DiGiacomo is joined in studio with NaTesha “T” Johnson the CEO of Upside Productions Management, a strategic partnership company here in Bakersfield. She specializes in cultivating relationships focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion outreach. NaTesha is often referred to as the “Community Connector” since she is passionate about empowering the new generation of leaders through personal and professional development. She is also the Chair of the Women’s Business Conference and this year's theme was Bringing Business Back.
Amanda also attended this year's Women’s Conference as one of the many vendors they had on site! She was able to attend the day before where she had the opportunity to interview: Janelle with ADAKC, Adriana with Ikondium Design, Todd Jeffries with Bakersfield Community Healthcare, Heidi with Sugar Daddy’s Boutique, Artisa Mae Moten with Awakened Consulting, Stephanie with SNA Creations and Vonda with Kern Golden Girls. Amanda also attended the day of where she was able to interview: Dress for Success, Charity with Kern County SHRM, Johnny with Great Heritage, Cassidy George with Cypress Avenue Media, Janice with the Department of Human Services, and Jasmine Gutierrez the Job Development Specialist with BC.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BAKERSFIELD WOMEN'S BUSINESS CONFERENCE:
Website: https://bakersfieldwomen.org/
Phone: 661-378-4707
Email: bakersfieldwomen@gmail.com
Instagram: @bakersfieldwomen
Facebook: Bakersfield_Women's_Business_Conference
YouTube: @bakersfieldwomensbusinessc3885
Jeffrey Johns slipped quietly into heaven in the early morning hours on Sunday, March 1, 2009. He was surrounded by family and friends who had come to say their final goodbyes to a vibrant young man who was deeply loved and who will be forever in our thoughts and prayers. After Jeffrey’s passing the family was presented with the opportunity to donate his organs and tissues. Though the family had never talked about donation in the past, it felt like the right thing to do; Jeffrey was a giving person and if he knew that he could save someone else’s life, he would have done it in a heartbeat. Jeffrey saved the lives of five people in need of organ transplants and healed 50 others through tissue donation. His young and strong heart will continue to beat in the chest of a fortunate person who will hopefully see sunrises and sunsets for many years to come.
Kyle Jones is joined in studio with Lori Malkin the founder of JJ’s Legacy as she explains how JJ’s Legacy educates the Kern County community on the value and importance of organ donation with the goal of increasing the number of registered donors. They also offer different programs ranging from financial medical assistance to help with transportation. The goal for this year's gala is to directly fund their different programs and spread the awareness of such an amazing cause.
Kyle Jones and John Duffield also attended this year's Gala where they had the opportunity to meet Charles, a local Kern County resident whose life was saved by a 19 year old donor. His liver was failing and he was told he only had one year left. However, he received his liver transplant on August 16th, 2014 and has been thankful everyday since. Listen to this week’s episode to hear his heartbreaking, yet wonderful story.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JJ's LEGACY:
Website: www.jjslegacy.org/
Phone: 661-489-4430
Email: lorim@jjslegacy.com
Instagram: jjs_legacy
Facebook: JJ's_Legacy
YouTube: JJ's_Legacy
Got The Dot Club
CASA of Kern County--modeled on a program started by Judge David W. Soukup (now retired) in Seattle--was developed locally by Hon. Robert Anspach. Judge Anspach relied on many of the "movers and shakers" in Bakersfield to make CASA happen. CASA of Kern County was incorporated on July 19, 1993. The first advocates graduated in July 1994 and started serving children. Since then, CASA has held multiple training sessions each year, graduating over 1400 volunteers, and serving over 3000 children. But our story is not over--the problems remain as critical as ever. Child abuse and neglect remain a significant problem in Kern County. While abused and neglected children are often the result of substance abuse, poverty, and homelessness, we know that it can occur in every neighborhood, within any income strata. We have more than 70 children on the waiting list, and we need CASAs now more than ever before.
Amanda DiGicomo sits down with Heaven Vasquez, the Public Relations & Development Manager and Karlee Cain the Communications and Development Coordinator for CASA of Kern County as they discuss how they were founded as well as the different services they offer. They serve as an unbiased 3rd party for foster youth and have helped serve over 3,500 children since they were founded! Heaven explains how their volunteers go through 42 hours of training and agree to an 18 month commitment since their goal is to provide stable and consistent adults in the lives of foster youth. If you are unable to volunteer you can always donate directly or through one of their events like their upcoming Derby on May 6th.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CASA of Kern County:
Website: https://kerncasa.org/
Phone: 661-631-2272
Instagram: kerncasa
Facebook: CASA_of_Kern_County
LinkedIn: CASAofKernCounty
YouTube: CASA_of_KernCounty
George Harmer has been the acting Director of Health and Safety at General Production Service for 15 years. He is a vital part in the development of people and processes ensuring a safe and healthful workplace. George also manages the safety of roughly 600 employees and has 16 safety professionals reporting directly to him. He has participated in multiple committees supporting the health and safety of employees in association with multiple oil producers here in Kern County for the past 15 years. As well as, actively involved in fighting legislation that negatively impacts our local industry. George is actively involved with the TUHS Oil Academy as well as the Californians for Energy and Science. He is also a mentor for the Holmes Family Scholarship Program.
Troy Burden sits down with George Harmer the Director of Health and Safety for General Production Service. George takes us through the history of the company from when they first opened in 1967 to our year where they now employ over 700 employees! GPS is a full service oil company that is dedicated to the future and is always pushing new and innovative ideas.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GENERAL PRODUCTION SERVICE:
Website: www.genprod.com/
Phone: 661-765-5330
Email: gps@genprod.com
Instagram: @general_production_service
Facebook: General_Production_Service
LinkedIn: GeneralProductionService
LEARN MORE ABOUT CALIUFORNIANS FOR ENERGY AND SCIENCE:
Website: https://energyandscience.com/
LinkedIn: Californians_for_Energy_and_Science
YouTube: Energy_Facts_Chats
Andy Amador grew up living, hunting and fishing in the Napa Valley. As an outdoorsman, Andy learned a profound appreciation for the beauty of every part of the valley. As the son of Napa Valley icon and meat cutter Gus Amador, Andy learned the value of great food and drink. As a youth, Andy spent an enormous amount of time in and around vineyards. At age 27, Andy purchased a 188 acre ranch in the eastern Napa Valley. Shortly thereafter, Andy planted 50 acres of vines at the ranch. He then expanded his vineyard holdings and planted a vineyard at the base of Mt. Veeder.
Scott Hanson sits down with Andrew Amador the Owner of MadoroM Vineyards & Winery as he takes us through the history of MadoroM and how his original plan was to use the land as hunting grounds. They discuss their newest wine release as their current stock and how to be featured on their labels. If you are a wine connoisseur or just starting out check out this week’s episode.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MadoroM VINEYARDS & WINERY:
Website: https://madorom.com/
Phone: 707-265-8232
Email: info@madorom.com
Instagram: @madoromvineyards
Facebook: MadoroM_Vineyards
LinkedIn: Andy_Amador
Michael M. George has been in the financial services industry for more than 28 years, having served in various Audit, Marketing, and Operations roles. In his current role as Executive Vice President of Marketing at Safe 1 Credit Union, Michael is responsible for market expansion, product and service development, as well as grassroots, traditional, and social media marketing.
Mary Higgins has worked at Safe 1 Credit Union for nearly 35 years, starting as a teller in 1988. She has worked in almost every area of the Credit Union and now serves as the VP of Operations and Compliance.
Scott Hanson sits down with Michael George and Mary Higgins as they discuss the events leading to the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. They outline the many different perks that credit unions offer their clients and how they differ from larger banks. Michael and Mary also discuss how more people are opening CD accounts now that rates are higher. If you had any questions following recent bank closures, tune into this week's episode!
LEARN MORE ABOUT SAFE 1 CREDIT UNION:
Website: www.safe1.org/home/home
Phone: 877-723-3128
Instagram: @safe1cu
Facebook: Safe_1_CU
Twitter: Safe1CU
Daniel Betts is a man of many hats, he is a father, husband, oil and gas worker, business owner, veteran, comedian, and executive director of The Kern County Warrior Gallery. He is a local comedian although he has performed all over from Flappers Comedy Club, to the World Famous Comedy Store in LA, to Afghanistan telling jokes to our forward deployed troops! He has performed with Shawn and Keenan Ivory Wayans and you have most recently seen Daniel at Temblor Brewing Company, performing with Steve Lemme and Kevin Heffernan of Super Troopers as well as Joey Diaz, Theo Von, Joel McHale and many more!
John Duffield and Kyle Jones sit down with Daniel Betts as he tells us how he became the owner of the The Well Comedy Club which also happens to be the only comedy club here in Bakersfield! He takes us through his career journey from going to college for business to how he became involved in comedy. Daniel is also the executive director of Portrait of a Warrior which is a memorial gallery that honors our fallen troops by recognizing the sacrifices they made for our great nation.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WELL COMEDY CLUB:
Website: www.thewellcomedyclub.com/
Email: info@thewellcomedyclub.com
Phone: 661-724-6609
Instagram: @thewellcomedyclub
Facebook: The_Well_Comedy_Club
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PORTRAIT OF A WARRIOR GALLERY:
Website: https://kern-warrior.org/
Address: 1925 Eye St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone: 661-479-5095
Instagram: @portrait.of.a.warrior.kern
Facebook: Portrait_of_a_Warrior_Gallery_KernCounty
Take an inspirational trip with OTC Podcast host Dave Plivelich and his co-host Jon Slikker Jr. as they discover more about 420 Kingdom, a local cannabis business. Jordan Thorn from 420 Kingdom shares insights on the differences between THC and CBD, available forms, and much more. Listen in as they help dispel some of the misconceptions about cannabis, the state of the industry, and the desire to educate the community.
LEARN MORE ABOUT 420 KINGDOM:
Website: https://420kingdom.com/
Phone: 661-777-5464
Instagram: @fourtwentykingdom
Facebook: 420_Kingdom
Facebook: FUTURE_FC_Bakersfield_Soccer
OTC’s host Dave Plivelich and his co-host Jon Slikker Jr. welcome back Jordan Thorn as he discusses the different changes that happen within the cannabis industry and how they affect him. He advises that anyone who wants to be a part of the community needs to be able to adapt and handle new policies. He also touches on how he handles the negative views that society still has surrounding cannabis and how he wants to break those viewpoints through educating the community. Jordan has also founded the local non-profit Future FC, that helps get young children involved in soccer.
LEARN MORE ABOUT 420 KINGDOM:
Website: https://420kingdom.com/
Phone: 661-777-5464
Instagram: @fourtwentykingdom
Facebook: 420_Kingdom
Facebook: FUTURE_FC_Bakersfield_Soccer
Join Dave Plivelich as he attends the 2023 Tigerfight Golf Tournament. Tigerfight aims to raise money to help financially assist local families who are going through pediatric blood cancer treatment. Dave had the opportunity to interview Clint Baird with Brown Armstrong, Garro Ellis with Moneywise and Ryan Tracy Freeborn with Landscape Development.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TIGERFIGHT FOUNDATION:
Website: https://tigerfight.org/about-us/family-stories/
Phone: 661-200-5655
Email: Tigerfight@tigerfight.org
Instagram: @tigerfight_foundation
Facebook: Tigerfight_Foundation
LEARN MORE ABOUT BROWN ARMSTRONG:
Website: https://www.ba.cpa/
Phone: 661-324-4971
Email: info@ba.cpa
Facebook: Brown_Armstrong_CPAs
LinkedIn: @BrownArmstrong
LEARN MORE ABOUT MONEYWISE WEALTH MANAGEMENT:
Website: www.moneywiseguys.com/
Email: info@moneywiseguys.com
Phone: 661-847-1000
Facebook: Moneywise_Wealth_Management
LinkedIn: MoneywiseWealthManagement
Spotify: TheMoneywiseGuysPodcast
Apple Podcast: TheMoneywiseGuysPodcast
Text: 661-396-1000
LEARN MORE ABOUT LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT:
Website: https://landscapedevelopment.com/
Phone: 661-241-5090
Email: info@landscapedevelopment.com
Instagram: Landscape_Development_Inc
Facebook: LandscapeDevelopmentInc
LinkedIn: LandscapeDevelopment
Twitter: @LDI_landscaping
Scott Hanson and Kyle Jones attend the annual NOR Business Expo. The NOR Chamber was founded in 1985 and has aimed towards bringing the community together. There are roughly 30 vendors who attended the event and our hosts had the opportunity to interview seven of them.
Kyle Jones interviewed Paula McCune with Damsel in Defense, as she explains how their goal is to prepare and prevent people from attacks. Kyle interviewed Alfred Valenzula, the current President of the NOR Chamber and owner of Executive Copier Solutions. His goal is to help small businesses and nonprofits grow by providing them with low cost printing options. Scott Hanson interviewed Miriam Alqaisi the owner of Radio Sandwich as she explains their late night events and how her business started from looking at a “For Lease” sign. Kyle interviewed Kailey Salinas the Public Relations Manager and Grant Writer for Teen challenge as she explains that Teen Challenge is for adults 18 or older who are suffering with life controlling addiction. It is a one year program that is completely free for anyone who would like to join. Scott interviewed Randy Chistiensen with Employer Training Resources, a local agency that helps find the perfect employees for local businesses.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE N.O.R. CHAMBER:
Website: www.norchamber.org/
Phone: 661-873-4709
Instagram: @norchamber
Facebook: North_of_the_River
LinkedIn: NOR_Chamber_of_Commerce
LEARN MORE ABOUT DANNY HILL:
Website: https://rewind981.com/
Email: dannyhill@rewind981.com
Phone: 559-213-0173
Instagram: @djDannyHill
Facebook: Danny_Hill
LinkedIn: DannyHill
LEARN MORE ABOUT DAMSEL IN DEFENSE:
Website: https://damselindefense.net/
Email: support@damselindefense.net
Phone: 208-288-2989
Instagram: @DamselInDefense
Facebook: Damsel_In_Defense
Twitter: @Damselindefense
YouTube: Damsel_In_Defense_Corporate
Pinterest: @DamselInDefense
LEARN MORE ABOUT: EXECUTIVE COPIER SOLUTIONS:
Website: https://execcopiers.com/
Email: info@execcopiers.com
Phone: 661-336-2442
Facebook: Executive_Copier_Solutions
Yelp: ExecutiveCopierSolutions
LEARN MORE ABOUT RADIO SANDWICH:
Website: www.radiosandwich.co/
Phone: 661-742-1559
Instagram: @radiosammich
Facebook: RADIO_Sandwich
LEARN MORE ABOUT TEEN CHALLENGE:
Website: www.teenchallenge.org/centers/kern-county/
Email: info@teenchallenger.org
Phone: 661-399-2273 / 661-746-4917
Instagram: @kcteenchallenge
Facebook: KernCountyTeenChallenge
LEARN MORE ABOUT KERN COUNTY EMPLOYERS' TRAINING RESOURCE:
Website: www.etronline.com/
Phone: 661-336-6893
Instagram: KernCountyETR
Facebook: Kern_County_ETR
Jenna Thorn was raised in the Bakersfield community-with a father practicing emergency medicine, and a mother that's held experience, in several departments, as a registered nurse, as well as siblings before her, she answered their family calling into healthcare. It was a natural decision to join their "medical fleet" by getting her degree, and working as an emergency room nurse in local hospitals. Becoming a registered nurse is one of Jenna's greatest accomplishments as she considers it an honor for communities to allow her to care for their loved ones in their hardest hours. She provides medical attention and holistic care, to stabilize a patient's condition, maintain their status, and use evidence based practice to treat a person. She is a mother to four children, and a wife to her best friend. Since she knew her husband for most of her life, she was able to adopt his family's work ethic, and trade. Combining her care for patient's and knowledge and experience from a business mogul, AbsorbIV was born.
Kyle Jones and Dave Plivelich sit down with Jenna Thorn, the owner of Absorb IV, as she explains how she originally went to college to become a CPA and eventually decided to follow in her family’s footsteps and become a nurse. She describes how working in the emergency room during the pandemic changed how she wanted to help people which led to the creation of Absorb IV. Jenna describes the different types of services she offers like hydration, energy boosts and even migraine treatment. If you are interested check out their website and book your appointment today!
LEARN MORE ABOUT ABSORB IV:
Website: www.absorbiv.com/
Email: info@absorbiv.com
Phone: 661-889-2964
Instagram: absorbIV
Amber Smithson is the Director of Business Development at Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare Hospital. She joined the hospital about six years ago and since then has had the great privilege of helping to educate and advocate for mental health and addiction in her community. She is passionate about bringing about awareness and doing her part to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
Troy Burden sits down with Amber Smithson, the Director of Business Development at Bakersfield Behavioral Healthcare, as she helps bring truth to the common myths that surround mental health issues. She explains the common issues that our youth face such as anxiety and depression that stems from school or social settings and how no matter the situation it should be taken seriously. She encourages anyone who is facing mental health issues to be open and honest with those around them and to seek help when it becomes too much for them to handle.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BAKERSFIELD BEHAVIORAL HEALTHCARE:
Website: www.bakersfieldbehavioral.com/
Phone: (661) 837-0755
Instagram: @bakersfieldbehavioral
Facebook: Bakersfield_Behavioral_Healthcare_Hospital
LinkedIn: BakersfieldBehavioralHealthcareHospital
YouTube: @bakersfieldbehavioralhealt762
Tune into OTC’s first mobile episode!! Scott Hanson attended the 2023 World Ag Expo in Tulare, CA and interviewed multiple vendors in attendance.
Scott Hanson interviews Russell Taylor, a Certified Crop Advisor with Live Earth. Live Earth Products, Inc. mines and manufactures humic acid and fulvic acid based products. The humic based ingredients manufactured by Live Earth are used in the following industries: agriculture, animal feeds, cosmetics, dietary supplements, balneotherapy, bioremediation, organic gardening, and lawn care.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIVE EARTH:
Website: www.livearth.com/
Phone: 435-286-2222
Instagram: @livearthproducts
Facebook: Live_Earth_Products
LinkedIn: LiveEarthProductsInc
Scott Hanson Interviews Joaquin Orellana an Agricultural Engineer with Afrikelp USA. Afrikelp USA, is based here in California, and offers a liquid seaweed treatment that is sustainably extracted from the unique South African giant kelp, Ecklonia maxima. Each batch goes through a rigorous internal quality laboratory test and Afrikelp USA is regularly quality checked by independent labs. Their products can be applied to a range of crops from fruit and nuts to grains, seeds and vegetables. Using this product will help farmers stay on the forefront of agricultural performance.
LEARN MORE ABOUT AFRIKELP USA:
Website: https://afrikelp-usa.com/
Phone: 559-515-6177 or 760-625-4871
Email: jorellana@afrikelp.com
Instagram: @afrikelpusa
LinkedIn: Afrikelp
Scott Hanson interviews Greg Willems the owner of CA Berry Genetics. California Berry Genetics offers new patented varieties to evolve their crop portfolios. To keep up with the significant increase in demand they provide farmers access to the most innovative, flavorful, efficient and emerging blueberry cultivars available.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CA BERRY GENETICS:
Website: http://californiaberrygenetics.com/
Phone: 559-859-9661 or 559-724-9169
Email: gregg@californiaberrygenetics.com
Facebook: @CaliforniaBerryGenetics
Scott Hanson interviews Gary Thompson with Guss Automation as he explains how they are the first and only autonomous herbicide orchard sprayer on the market. This high-tech herbicide sprayer removes the driver from the tractor to save labor and eliminate exposure to the chemicals being sprayed. Nine sensors on the sprayer detect, target and spot spray weeds on the orchard floor, which reduces material usage and drift during application. Reducing the amount of material being sprayed increases safety for the operator, environment, and food produced.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GUSS AUTOMATION:
Website: https://gussag.com/
Phone: 559-897-0245
Email: info@gussag.com
Scott Hanson interviews Danielle Efargan Hager the marketing and communications manager for Tevel. Tevel Aerobotics is an Israeli-based startup founded in 2017 with the mission to solve the global shortage in harvesting labor using Flying Autonomous Robots™ (FARs). Their fruit-picking robots are driven by state-of-the-art artificial intelligence and computer vision algorithms to gently pick fruit. Tevel’s technology is automating today's farms to reduce harvesting costs, improve fruit quality, increase yield, simplify operations and reduce the amount of wasted fruit left on the trees due to unavailable labor. After operating in Israel and Italy, they set up their U.S. operations in early 2022 and already harvested a variety of fruit in California and Washington.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TEVEL AEROBOTICS:
Website: www.tevel-tech.com/
Email: tevelusa@tevel-tech.com
YouTube: Tevel_Aerobotics
LinkedIn: Tevel
The Fox Theater opened on Christmas Day 1930, The Fox was one of the last of its kind built in the Gilded Age. The first film on The Fox’s big silver screen was “Just Imagine”, a sci-fi tale set 50 years in the future to 1980. In 1977 the big screen went dark as The Fox closed its doors after 47 years in show business. The Fox sat silent until June 28, 1994, when The Fox Theater Foundation, a non-profit organization, officially saved it from the wrecking ball. Funds were donated by over 380 “Save The Fox” donors for the down payment, with restoration beginning July 1st. The Fox Theater Foundation’s goal is to complete a five star restoration making the Fox Theater the heart of downtown’s cultural district.
John Duffield sits down with Matt Spindler the Executive Director of the Fox Theater as he explains all the work and planning it takes to run a successful show. He discusses upcoming events and encourages the community to check out cults and classics which take place every Monday. Matt is also asking the community to submit photos and records for The Memories on H project which aims to create a book filled with the history of the Fox Theater!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FOX THEATER:
Email: matt@thebakersfieldfox.com
Website: http://thebakersfieldfox.com/
Instagram: @historicbakersfieldfox
Facebook: @thefoxtheaterbakersfield
Twitter: @foxfndn
Jon Slikker Jr. is an accomplished aerial applicator that co-owns Vince Dusters in Buttonwillow, CA. In his journey he has proven himself in his craft by seeding, fertilizing, and spraying in agricultural regions throughout California’s Valley. From seeding rice in Sacramento Valley to protecting Almonds and pistachios in Kern County he is still perfecting his craft today. Jon hopes to inspire the new generation of Aerial Applicators of tomorrow.
Dave Plivelich sits down with Jon Slikker Jr. co-owners of Vince Dusters as he explains how as an aerial applicator he flies a fixed wing plane but is in the process of obtaining his helicopter license. He also outlines his spraying process and how he ensures maximum coverage for the crops. Jon also explains the common misconceptions that surround his field of expertise like the only thing he sprays are insecticides or how he is secretly a daredevil.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JON SLIKKER JR.:
Email: jon.slikker.jr@gmail.com
Instagram: @jonslikkerjr
Facebook: Vince_Dusters
Todd Schreiber is the owner of Scherb’s Ice Cream and is a food manufacturing professional with 30+ years experience. He worked for companies such as Carnation ice cream, Nestle Ice cream, Kraft Foods, JM Smucker company, Grimmway Farms, Talenti Gelato, Double Rainbow Ice Cream and Scherb’s ice cream.
Dave Plivelich sits down with Todd Screiber, owner of Scherb’s Ice Cream as he discusses what sets them apart from other local ice cream shops. For instance, they offer 50 different flavors and use all natural ingredients while also maintaining low prices. Todd also explains how he has partnered up with City Sandwiches, Covenant Coffee, and even The Pyrenees Cafe! If you are in the mood for rich and creamy ice cream visit Scherb’s Ice Cream!
LEARN MORE ABOUT SCHERBS ICE CREAM:
Website: www.scherbsicecream.com/
Email: scherbsicecream@gmail.com
Instagram: sherbsicecream
Facebook: Scherbs_Ice_Cream
LinkedIn: Todd_Schreiber
Tim Terrio is the Founder and President of TERRIO Physical Therapy-Fitness, Inc. Since its inception in 1998 TERRIO Therapy has grown from one location with one employee to fourteen locations and over 240 employees with plans for continued growth and diversification. As a Physical Therapist, Certified Athletic Trainer and Certified Strength Coach for over 25 years Tim has earned a reputation for solving complex problems with innovative solutions. An advocate of lifelong learning Terrio has earned four college degrees including, A Doctorate in Physical Therapy and Master’s Degree in Physical Education with an Athletic Training emphasis.
Troy Burden sits down with Tim Terrio, the President of TERRIO Physical Therapy-Fitness, Inc. and Terrio LiveWell, LLC as he discusses the different types of programs they offer. TERRIO Physical Therapy-Fitness started with one location and quickly expanded to hospitals, school districts and even cities outside of Bakersfield like Tehachapi, Delano, and Fresno. Tim has also founded two local non-profits: the League of Dreams, Inc. and Health Through Wholeness, Inc. where he continues his passion for helping others.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TIM TERRIO:
Website: www.myterrio.com/
Email: support@myterrio.com
careers@myterrio.com
Phone: 661-377-1700
Instagram: @TerrioTherapy
Facebook: Terrio_Therapy
LinkedIn: Terrio_Therapy
Everyday HR is a local podcast where HR professionals discuss common everyday HR issues, solutions, and trends. You will hear firsthand experiences from a consultant, legal, and benefits advisor. This will be your place to learn and hear relevant topics and strategies about everyday HR concerns that matter to you and your business. Everyday HR is hosted by Roshni Patel, the Founder/CEO of Thrive HR Consulting where she focuses on all aspects of HR including recruiting, benefit administration, payroll, leadership development, performance management, and compliance. Troy Burden is a licensed life, health, property, and casualty specialist and his experience spans over 20 dedicated years.
Amanda DiGiacomo sits down with Roshni Patel and Troy Burden, the hosts of local podcast Everyday HR as they discuss tax, HR, and insurance deadlines that businesses need to be mindful of with the New Year. They start the episode by discussing the increase in minimum wage and the different ways it will impact both small and large businesses. They also discuss how businesses are now offering unlimited PTO and are required to follow the new pay transparency law as well as extended leave times. Amanda discusses the 1099 issues, payroll deadlines and when your taxes will be due. Troy ends this episode with things to consider and tasks to do after open enrollment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT EVERYDAY HR:
Website: https://sites.libsyn.com/440832
Email: roshni@thrivehrc.com or troy@lynncompany.com
Phone: 661-498-8472 or 661-301-1247
Instagram: @EverydayHRPodcast
Facebook: Everyday_HR_Podcast
LinkedIn: EverydayHRPodcast
John Moore is the current President of the Kern County Farm Bureau, and real estate agent with a demonstrated history of working in the agricultural industry. His main focus is on maintaining economic viability and environmental sustainability of the agricultural industry. He obtained his bachelor's degree from Texas Christian University, and firmly believes in agricultural advocacy.
Lucas Espericueta is currently the Vice-President at Farm Credit West where he has worked for the past 10 years. He comes from a family of farmers and custom harvesters here in Kern County. He is an alumni of California Ag Leadership and the current Regional Director for recruiting and fundraising for CALF. He and his wife Candice are raising their three boys here in Kern County!
Todd Snider is the Owner and Principal Agent for Western Ag Crop Insurance Services, L.L.C. in Bakersfield, CA. Western Ag Crop Insurance is premier provider of Crop Insurance and consists of a highly skilled staff that possess a combined 30 years of Crop Insurance policy and program knowledge. Todd works to customize Crop Insurance policies to best match a grower’s risk tolerance, and to control the size and scope of any future losses.
Scott Hanson welcomes back John Moore, Lucas Espericueta, and Todd Snider for the 2023 Agriculture Round Table!! All three guests give us updates on both their personal lives and businesses. They discuss our local water issues and how the constant rise in prices are affecting everyone in the agricultural industry and not just farmers. They end the show with their predictions for the new year in each of their industries.
LEARN MORE ABOUT:
Western Ag Crop Insurance Services
Website: https://westernagcropinsurance.com/
Phone: 661-695-1700
Instagram: @WesternAgCropInsurance
Facebook: Western_Ag_Crop_Insurance
LinkedIn: WesternAgCropInsurance
Tech Ag Financial Group
Website: www.techagfinancial.com/
Phone: 661-695-6500
Instagram: @techagfinancial
Facebook: Tech_Ag_Financial
Farm Credit West
Website: www.farmcreditwest.com/
Phone: 661-399-7360
Christina Springstead has over 20 years experience in helping others develop and operate their business successfully. She is a Certified Public Bookkeeper equipped with an MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management, and a Profit First Certification, Mastery Level, which has set the foundation for Springstead Solutions. Her passion is to see businesses thrive and help clients build long-term success for themselves personally and professionally.
John Duffield and Amanda DiGiacomo host OTC’s first ever accounting roundtable with Christina Springstead, the Owner and CEO of Springstead Solutions! Amanda updates us on the changes that have been made to the 1099 K forms that will be sent out from 3rd party apps. Christina gives advice for what businesses need to be prepared for with the new year, such as combing through all their transactions and double checking all invoices. If you are a business owner and looking for guidance on what to do with the new year, tune into this week's episode!
LEARN MORE ABOUT SPRINGSTEAD SOLUTIONS:
Website: www.springsteadsolutions.com
Instagram: @springsteadsolutions
Facebook: Springstead_Solutions
LinkedIn: @Christina_Springstead
Holiday Replay
Local music sensation Jim ranger has been involved in music since he was 20 years old. He was on American Idol when he was 28 and the Voice when he was 38. He has also had the privilege of singing the national anthem for the Lakers over 20 times! He has recorded 3 solo albums and 2 eps and produced music for others. In addition to being involved in the music business, Jim has been a Pastor since he was 24.
Jim dives into his family background and how they inspired his love for music. He tells us the story of how he met his beautiful wife and the successes they have had over the years. Finally he gives us an inside look at his journey from auditioning at American Idol to The Voice.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JIM RANGER:
Email: jimrangermusic@gmail.com
Twitter: @JimRanger
Instagram: JimRangerMusic
Facebook: Jim_Ranger_Music
YouTube: @Jim_Ranger
Angel Cottrell has consulted with and coached entrepreneurs and taught entrepreneurship topics for more than 15 years. Most recently, she joined the Kern High School District as Program Manager of Entrepreneurship Resource Centers (ERC). The KHSD ROC & CTEC ERC are designed to support youth in developing entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial mindsets and thinking. As CEO of Apollo Consultancy Group Inc, Angel utilizes 25 years of successful business development, innovative change management initiatives, and strategic leadership experience to support entrepreneurs and leaders who aim to accomplish groundbreaking goals. Angel believes everyone should have the opportunity to experience the greatest version of their grandest vision in business and in life.
Amanda DiGiacomo sits down with Angel Cottrell, the Program Manager of ROC & CTEC Entrepreneurship Resource Center as she discusses the 38 different career opportunities they have to offer! Angel teaches 4 different entrepreneurship programs that help shape the mindsets of 7th to 12th graders to help them become successful entrepreneurs. If you are interested in signing your child up for classes, enrollment is now open!
LEARN MORE ABOUT CTEC:
Website: https://erc.kernhigh.org/
Email: angel_cottrell@kernhigh.org
Phone: 661-397-7301 Ext 66812
Instagram: @roc_ctec
Facebook: ROC_ctec
LinkedIn: Regional_Occupational_Center
Mr. Hathaway is the owner and founder of Hathaway LLC. In 2011, 2012 and 2013 Hathaway LLC was named the fastest growing privately owned company in Kern County by Inc. Magazine and was named the TEEMCO 2013 West Coast E&P Company of the Year. Chad is the co-founder/President of the Kern County Energy Foundation and the Eastside Water Management Area.
Prior to starting Hathaway LLC, Mr. Hathaway spent several years in various oil and gas fields, learning operations first hand. He also worked in the directional drilling business, before founding Payzone Direction Services. This wide array of experience has provided him the knowledge and ability to gain a competitive advantage in the industry. Chad attended Bakersfield College and California State University, Fresno majoring in Communications with an emphasis in Business.
Troy Burden welcomes Chad Hathaway, the owner of Hathaway, LLC. as he discusses the current state of our oil industry and how oil is used in almost every business. Chad outlines the different regulations that are put on oil and how it can lead to increased prices. He also explains that the best way to be an ally is to educate yourself on the issues that surround oil and vote to make a difference.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HATHAWAY LLC.:
Website: www.hathawayllc.com/
Email: info@hathawayllc.com
Phone: 661-393-2004
Instagram: @Chad.Hathaway
LinkedIn: Chad_Hathaway
Aaron Falk has served as the President and CEO of Kern Community Foundation since 2021.
Aaron grew up in Bakersfield, CA and graduated from Stockdale High School. He has a degree in political science from the University of California, Santa Barbara and is currently in the MBA program at California State University, Bakersfield. He also completed the U.S. Air Force Air Command and Staff College as a civilian.
Before joining the Foundation, Aaron worked for over a decade as a Congressional staffer. For 7 years in Washington, D.C. Aaron focused on policy supporting the U.S. military, national security, and veterans. He returned to Bakersfield in 2017 and worked for U.S. Representative Kevin McCarthy through 2021. As Kevin’s local representative, Aaron saw firsthand both Kern County’s potential and challenges. Through these experiences, Aaron has fully committed himself to improving life for everyone in Kern County.
Scott Hanson sits down with Aaron Falk the current President and CEO of the Kern Community Foundation as he explains the difference between them and nonprofits. The foundation works with anywhere between 250 and 300 fund holders that donate their money to causes that are close to their heart. For instance, the Kern Community Foundation is in charge of Give Big Kern which is an event on the first Tuesday of May where anyone can donate to local nonprofits. They are also offering college scholarships for high school seniors. If you would like to learn about getting involved check out their website below!
LEARN MORE ABOUT KERN COMMUNITY FOUNDATION:
Website: www.kernfoundation.org/
Email: info@kernfoundation.org
Phone: 661-325-5346
Instagram: @kernfoundation
Facebook: @KernFoundation
Twitter: @kernfoundation
YouTube: @Kern_Foundation_LIVE
Dr. Hugh Beatty, aka “The Wellness Doc”, is committed to providing quality medical care for your entire family. Dr. Beatty graduated from Occidental College in 1981 and obtained his BA in Chemistry from USCD School of Medicine in 1985. He has been practicing medicine in Bakersfield since 1998 where he offers comprehensive medical care and pain management procedures.
Kyle Jones welcomes back Dr. Hugh Beatty back as he explains how he is now implementing a concierge service to his existing and new patients. This means they are able to contact Dr. Beatty outside of business hours as well as schedule appointments quicker! He also discusses Ozone Therapy, which he is now offering, and explains why this is another service he uses to help his patients.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HUGH BEATTY, MD:
Website: www.hughbeatty.com/
Email: dr.beatty@yahoo.com
Phone: 661-395-0315
Instagram: @docnbak
Facebook: @The_Wellness_Doc
LinkedIn: @Hugh_Beatty_MD
Russell Johnson is a Bakersfield native and after obtaining his undergraduate at Bakersfield College, he transferred to the University of California Santa Barbara where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in history. He has extensive experience in government and has served as a District Representative for a local State Senator, Chief of Staff to a County Supervisor, Planning Commissioner, and Councilmember at the City of Bakersfield. In 2010, Russell started the government affairs firm, Common Sense Consulting, a full-service government relations and public affairs firm where he helps clients with issues such as land entitlement, property tax assessment appeals, permits, and association management. Currently, he serves as CEO of Victory Family Services, a foster family agency where resource families are supported through continuous training, education, and Development. Russell and his wife Susanne were married in 2006, and together they are raising their sons, Benjamin and Ryan.
John Duffield and Dave Plivelich sit down with Russell Johnson, owner of Common Sense Consulting, a business he created from his passion of helping others solve problems. He explains that the government speaks its own language and what we consider to be inefficiencies are actually processes that protect the general public. Russell also touches on his passion projects as well as the different nonprofits he is a part of. If you have big plans but find yourself overwhelmed by government policies give Russell a call!
LEARN MORE ABOUT RUSSELL JOHNSON:
Website: https://consulting-commonsense.com/
Email: Russell.johnson@consulting-commonsense.com
Phone: 661-203-1838
LinkedIn: Russell_Johnson
La Rosa has been a family business and a Bakersfield favorite since 1980 and is now in its second generation of owners. Norma Diaz took over the family business in 2004 and has watched it gain even more happy customers. Meanwhile, Norma has also made a strong commitment to the company’s community involvement, including La Rosa’s sponsorship of a blood drive at Houchin Blood Bank. The “Beat the Heat Blood Drive” gave a free La Rosa bar to anyone who donated blood. The effort was designed to increase the number of Hispanic donors, many of whom carry a rare antigen in their blood which could save another’s life.
OTC host Dave Plivelich from The Marcom Group welcomes Norma Diaz the owner of La Rosa Fruit Bars & Ice Cream as she shares the history behind La Rosa and how her parents started it all. Norma is proud to say that their fruit bars are still made from scratch and are always fresh. The business has remained in the family and the everyday operations have stayed the same since the beginning. While you can find La Rosa Fruit Bars in a lot of locations around town, she also lets us in on a secret…you can rent a cart full of your favorites for any event! If you want La Rosa to be a part of your special event, give Norma a call directly at 661-619-9359.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LA ROSA:
Website: https://larosafruitbars.com/welcome.html
Email: ndiaz@larosafruitbars.com
Phone: 661-323-6877 or 661-619-9359
Instagram: @LaRosaFruit
Facebook: @La_Rosa_Fruit
Carli O’Cana is a woman of passion who is here to educate and guide her community through natural options for healthy and comfortable living. Her journey began in 2012 when she learned about the benefits of CBD and pain. Carli searched and thought of noninvasive ways to bring a product to the market that even your grandma wouldn't fear. She is here to help break the stigma around cannabis and all of its beautiful benefits. With years of research and experience she has been able to help so many with quality CBD products and more recently, nootropics and adaptogens.
Amanda DiGiacomo sits down with Carli O’Cana the owner of Quartz Trading Co as she discusses the common misconceptions that surround CBD and how helpful it can be with treating pain and anxiety. She also explains what to look for when purchasing CBD products to ensure that it is safe. Carli also tells us the challenges she faced when starting her company and how difficult it was trying to be a part of the community when there are negative feelings towards CBD. If you are interested in trying CBD products listen in to hear how Quartz Trading Co. differs from other local shops.
LEARN MORE ABOUT QUARTZ TRADING CO.:
Website: https://quartztradingco.com/
Email: quartztradingco@gmail.com
Phone: 661-235-8CBD
Instagram: @quartztradingco
Facebook: @quartztradingco
Heather has been heavily involved in the advancement in our community in Bakersfield, Ca. She currently sits on the board for local nonprofits and is the chair on a couple committees. She’s particularly proud of being a founding chairwoman of The Innovation Lab which is in its fourth year. She has partnered with a national organization, Klemmer to host a three day self development workshop the first weekend in January, 2023. It will take place in Bakersfield for the first time! The seminar is designed to create big wins over a short period of time for participants.
Anna Marie is a doctor of Traditional Naturopathy, brain health professional, ICF certified coach, certified master herbalist, and lover of life! She is also an author, speaker, employee wellness consultant, and mindset wellbeing coach. Anna Marie is also the formulator of her own brain nutraceutical line which includes, "Happy You, Calm You, & Bright You." Her mission is to end mental health stigmas and help all people upgrade their brains, biology, & energy field through lifestyle choices while rewiring their neuro pathways using holistic modalities.
Kyle Jones and John Duffield welcome back Heather Laganelli and Anna Marie Frank as they discuss how mindset affects both your personal and professional life. They explain how opening your mind to new thought processes can lead to new and exciting possibilities as well as the ability to achieve your goals. Heather and Anna also update us on what has changed since the last time they were in, such as new locations, and new projects they are working on. If you have been struggling with finding the right mindset to achieve your goals, tune in to this episode!
LEARN MORE ABOUT HEATHER LAGANELLI:
Website: www.localefarmtotable.com/
Email: heather@localefarmtotable.com
Instagram: @HeatherLaganelli
@MuralAlleyBakersfield
@localefarmtotable
Facebook: Locale_Farm_to_Table
Heather_Laganelli
LEARN MORE ABOUT ANNA MARIE FRANK:
Website: www.happywholeyou.com/
Email: annamarie@happywholeyou.com
Instagram: @happywholeyou
Facebook: Happy_Whole_You
Heather has been heavily involved in the advancement in our community in Bakersfield, Ca. She currently sits on the board for local nonprofits and is the chair on a couple committees. She’s particularly proud of being a founding chairwoman of The Innovation Lab which is in its fourth year. She has partnered with a national organization, Klemmer to host a three day self development workshop the first weekend in January, 2023. It will take place in Bakersfield for the first time! The seminar is designed to create big wins over a short period of time for participants.
Anna Marie is a doctor of Traditional Naturopathy, brain health professional, ICF certified coach, certified master herbalist, and lover of life! She is also an author, speaker, employee wellness consultant, and mindset wellbeing coach. Anna Marie is also the formulator of her own brain nutraceutical line which includes, "Happy You, Calm You, & Bright You." Her mission is to end mental health stigmas and help all people upgrade their brains, biology, & energy field through lifestyle choices while rewiring their neuro pathways using holistic modalities.
Kyle Jones and John Duffield welcome back Heather Laganelli and Anna Marie Frank as they discuss how mindset affects both your personal and professional life. They explain how opening your mind to new thought processes can lead to new and exciting possibilities as well as the ability to achieve your goals. Heather and Anna also update us on what has changed since the last time they were in, such as new locations, and new projects they are working on. If you have been struggling with finding the right mindset to achieve your goals, tune in to this episode!
LEARN MORE ABOUT HEATHER LAGANELLI:
Website: www.localefarmtotable.com/
Email: heather@localefarmtotable.com
Instagram: @HeatherLaganelli
@MuralAlleyBakersfield
@localefarmtotable
Facebook: Locale_Farm_to_Table
Heather_Laganelli
LEARN MORE ABOUT ANNA MARIE FRANK:
Website: www.happywholeyou.com/
Email: annamarie@happywholeyou.com
Instagram: @happywholeyou
Facebook: Happy_Whole_You
Anthony Olivieri, principal of Olivieri Commercial Group, founded the company in 1997 after gaining 10 plus years of commercial real estate experience in Central California working primarily with CBRE. Throughout his career, Anthony has assisted countless clients with their diverse real estate needs and successfully grown his own real estate portfolio. After managing several successful projects with individual partners, Anthony formed BOMAR Partners in 2016 with the intent to deliver double digit returns by investing in commercial real estate projects. BOMAR Partners was created with a focus on the acquisition of value added opportunities and ground up development. With over 35 years of brokerage, and ownership interest in commercial real estate, Anthony has a proven track record and knows how to navigate the challenging landscape of commercial real estate investments.
John Duffield welcomes Anthony Olivieri the President of Olivieri Commercial Group as he takes us through his career and what sparked his passion for commercial real estate. Anthony explains the different types of properties they specialize in and gives advice for aspiring real estate agents. He also confirms that the commercial market is not linked to the residential market since both the industrial and retail market are still strong despite the 2020 pandemic.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OLIVIERE COMMERCIAL:
Website: www.oliviericommercial.com/
Email: anthony@oliviericommercial.com
Phone: 661-327-1200
Instagram: @Olivieri_Commercial
Facebook: Olivieri_Commercial_Group
LinkedIn: Olivieri_Commercial_Group
Lois Henry was raised in Fresno and attended Fresno State where she obtained a degree in journalism in 1989 and began work at The Bakersfield Californian in 1990. She worked as a reporter and editor at The Californian for many years and began writing an investigative column twice a week in 2007. She left the newspaper in 2017 and formed SJV Water, a nonprofit website dedicated to covering water issues in the San Joaquin Valley. SJV Water's work has been very well received, winning awards and catching the attention of public officials throughout the state including the Governor's office. Our work was also featured in the New York Times in May 2021.Henry's goal is to provide independent, unbiased coverage of this natural resource with an eye to how its use affects daily life and the valley's economy.
Scott Hanson welcomes Lois Henry the CEO of SJV Water as she gives us the detailed history of our local water and what is currently being done to conserve and distribute our water. She explains that the solutions are not as simple as we have been led to believe and outlines the different types of red tape that are surrounding our water distribution. Lois ends with the difficulties we are facing with banking our excess water and what we can expect in the next year. If you are interested in our local water issues check out Lois’s articles to get more information!
LEARN MORE ABOUT LOIS HENRY:
Website: https://sjvwater.org/
Email: lois.henry@sjvwater.org
Instagram: @sjvwater
Facebook: SJVWater
Twitter: @SJVWater
YouTube: The_SJV_Water_Channel
LinkedIn: SJV_Water
Vince Fong began his career with Congressman Bill Thomas, Chair of the Ways and Means Committee, working on international trade policy. For nearly a decade Vince served as the district director to House Leader and Congressman Kevin McCarthy until Vince was elected to the State Assembly in 2016. He is also a lifelong resident of Kern County and earned a bachelor’s degree from UCLA and masters from Princeton University. He serves on the boards of the Jim Burke Education Foundation and Honor Flight Kern County where he works to send WWII, Korean War and Vietnam Veterans to Washington, DC to see their memorials.
Troy Burden and Kyle Jones sit down with Vince Fong, Assemblymemeber of the 34th District, as he discusses the many different problems California is facing, such as supply chain issues, and our current electrical grid. He also explains what the current political climate is like with the upcoming election coupled with the frustrations local residents are feeling towards their elected officials. Tune in to hear about the topics that are affecting our community and what you can do to change them.
LEARN MORE ABOUT VINCE FONG:
Website: https://ad34.asmrc.org/
Phone: 661-395-2995 or 916-319-2034
Instagram: @VinceFong661
LinkedIn: Vincent_Fong
Facebook: AssemblymanVinceFong
Twitter: Vince_Fong
Alex Muralles started Get It Twisted as a side hustle when he was trying to make money to go to college. He has always been passionate about making food so when he had the opportunity to create his own business with his family, he took it. Alex decided that the college path no longer interested him and now he runs his business full time!
OTC Host Dave Plivelich with The Marcom Group sits down with Alex Muralles, the owner of Get It Twisted as he explains his plans for expanding his food truck to a permanent location. He is currently stationed in the Valley Plaza Mall parking lot, but he does cater for events and parties. He is also expanding his menu by adding drinks and even desserts. If you are interested in trying something new or would like to have him host your next event, check out his Instagram page!
LEARN MORE ABOUT GET IT TWISTED:
Website: https://getit-twisted.square.site/
Email: murallesalex1@gmail.com
Instagram: @Get_It_Twisted
Facebook: Get_It_Twisted
Ginger Wejmar has 22 years of Supply Chain experience with a demonstrated history of working in the food & beverages industry. She also is a mother of two William and John and wife to Patrick Wejmar. She currently works for Califia Farms where she is getting ready to celebrate her five year anniversary!
Amanda DiGiacomo welcomes Ginger Wejmar the Senior Director of Supply Chain Planning at Califia Farms as they discuss the challenges and successes in the supply chain industry. Moreover, they discuss the statistics of women leaders in the supply chain industry and how Califia Farms is leading the charge in inclusion and diversity. Ginger states that Califia farms offer plant based products and how they are striving to become more eco friendly. She also touches on what it is like being a female leader in her industry and how she blends her work and home life together.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CALIFIA FARMS:
Website: www.califiafarms.com/
Email: hello@califiafarms.com
Phone: 661-679-1000
Instagram: @califiafarms
Facebook: Califia_Farms
LinkedIn: @CalifiaFarms
Ginger Wejmar has 22 years of Supply Chain experience with a demonstrated history of working in the food & beverages industry. She also is a mother of two William and John and wife to Patrick Wejmar. She currently works for Califia Farms where she is getting ready to celebrate her five year anniversary!
Amanda DiGiacomo welcomes Ginger Wejmar the Senior Director of Supply Chain Planning at Califia Farms as they discuss the challenges and successes in the supply chain industry. Moreover, they discuss the statistics of women leaders in the supply chain industry and how Califia Farms is leading the charge in inclusion and diversity. Ginger states that Califia farms offer plant based products and how they are striving to become more eco friendly. She also touches on what it is like being a female leader in her industry and how she blends her work and home life together.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CALIFIA FARMS:
Website: www.califiafarms.com/
Email: hello@califiafarms.com
Phone: 661-679-1000
Instagram: @califiafarms
Facebook: Califia_Farms
LinkedIn: @CalifiaFarms
David Higdon's focus is investment strategy, deal flow, venture portfolio support, fundraising and client relations. He is also the Co-Founder of Qubitekk, the first company to commercialize a new quantum optic-based cybersecurity solution. David served as President of Ellis Energy Investments for 8 years where he guided numerous companies through the investment, growth, and exit process. David was the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of the Bakersfield Jam, leading the day to day operations from Start-Up to Exit to the Phoenix Suns.
Troy Burden sits down with David Higdon Co-Founder and Fund Manager of Kern Venture Group, the first Seed Fund based here in Bakersfield. David explains how they help local entrepreneurs take their ideas and turn them into functioning businesses. They have a large team that is always looking for new visionary ideas that will improve or change industries. If you are interested check out their website below and submit a plan!
LEARN MORE ABOUT KERN VENTURE GROUP:
Website: www.kernventuregroup.com
Phone: 661-343-1840
Instagram: @kernventuregroup
Facebook: Kern_Venture_Group
LinkedIn: @KernVentureGroup
David Higdon's focus is investment strategy, deal flow, venture portfolio support, fundraising and client relations. He is also the Co-Founder of Qubitekk, the first company to commercialize a new quantum optic-based cybersecurity solution. David served as President of Ellis Energy Investments for 8 years where he guided numerous companies through the investment, growth, and exit process. David was the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of the Bakersfield Jam, leading the day to day operations from Start-Up to Exit to the Phoenix Suns.
Troy Burden sits down with David Higdon Co-Founder and Fund Manager of Kern Venture Group, the first Seed Fund based here in Bakersfield. David explains how they help local entrepreneurs take their ideas and turn them into functioning businesses. They have a large team that is always looking for new visionary ideas that will improve or change industries. If you are interested check out their website below and submit a plan!
LEARN MORE ABOUT KERN VENTURE GROUP:
Website: www.kernventuregroup.com
Phone: 661-343-1840
Instagram: @kernventuregroup
Facebook: Kern_Venture_Group
LinkedIn: @KernVentureGroup
Les Mood's background is in renewable energy project design, development, finance and construction in Central California. For 16 years, his career has been focused on market development for green technology. He has helped some of the earliest and biggest organizations in the industry and helped small ones get started and find a niche throughout his career. Through education and experience, he understands finance and business administration and has found it valuable for marketing early stage technology companies. He is also the founder of GreenTech Talks show launched with support from Linkedin.
Kyle Jones and Dave Plivelich sit down with Les Mood, the Public Affairs Officer for Sine Watts as he explains their move from North Carolina to Bakersfield. Sine Watts prides themselves on their new and innovative technology which will help reshape the power grid as we know it. The move will also create new employment opportunities for our community.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SINE WATTS:
Website: www.sinewatts.com/
Email: les.mood@sinewatts.com
Instagram: @SineWatts
Facebook: SineWatts
LinkedIn: SineWatts
Les Mood's background is in renewable energy project design, development, finance and construction in Central California. For 16 years, his career has been focused on market development for green technology. He has helped some of the earliest and biggest organizations in the industry and helped small ones get started and find a niche throughout his career. Through education and experience, he understands finance and business administration and has found it valuable for marketing early stage technology companies. He is also the founder of GreenTech Talks show launched with support from Linkedin.
Kyle Jones and Dave Plivelich sit down with Les Mood, the Public Affairs Officer for Sine Watts as he explains their move from North Carolina to Bakersfield. Sine Watts prides themselves on their new and innovative technology which will help reshape the power grid as we know it. The move will also create new employment opportunities for our community.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SINE WATTS:
Website: www.sinewatts.com/
Email: les.mood@sinewatts.com
Instagram: @SineWatts
Facebook: SineWatts
LinkedIn: SineWatts
Matt Riley is responsible for the growth and development of the Bakersfield Condors, the organization he has guided since its inception in 1998. He was instrumental in negotiations in the January 2014 purchase of the Condors by the Edmonton Oilers and the team’s elevation to the American Hockey League (AHL) in 2015-16. Another direct initiative during the AHL tenure was the adoption of the Junior Condors name for Bakersfield’s existing youth hockey program. The Condors bought and donated all jerseys in the program’s first year. The Condors have raised over $7.5 million for charitable organizations in Kern County during its history!
Luke Esposito enters his 5th season in Bakersfield, playing forward for the Condors. When not at the rink, Luke works with local youth hockey players, running clinics and skills sessions to help the next generation of Bakersfield hockey stars. He had a career season last year in Bakersfield and is one of the team's captains. He also holds a Bachelor's Degree from Harvard. A big fan of Star Wars, Luke enjoys hanging with his dog Obi and fiance Kelly.
Ryan is originally from Boston, Massachusetts and came to Bakersfield in 2011 to work for the Condors. With the team, he handles all marketing, digital media, public relations, and is the team's play-by-play broadcaster. An avid sports fan, Ryan got into sports because of his affinity for the game. In his spare time, Ryan enjoys being with family (wife Hayleigh, two-year-old son Brendan), watching sports, and eating at many of the great restaurants in Bakersfield.
Scott Hanson sits down with Matthew Riley the President of The Bakersfield Condors, Ryan Holt the Senior Director of Marketing and Broadcasting for the Bakersfield Condors, as well as Luke Esposito, current player for the Bakersfield Condors as they get ready to celebrate 25 years of being in Bakersfield! They all agree that the support and involvement from the community is what has kept the hockey spirit alive here in Kern County. Scott and Matt take a trip down memory lane as they recall what it was like when The Condors first came to town. However, Luke brings us to the present as he tells us about the Junior Condors Program and how beneficial it is to our local youth.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BAKERSFIELD CONDORS:
Website: www.bakersfieldcondors.com
Email: condors@bakersfieldcondors.com
Phone: 661-324-7825
Instagram: @BakersfieldCondors
Facebook: @BakersfieldCondors
Matt Riley is responsible for the growth and development of the Bakersfield Condors, the organization he has guided since its inception in 1998. He was instrumental in negotiations in the January 2014 purchase of the Condors by the Edmonton Oilers and the team’s elevation to the American Hockey League (AHL) in 2015-16. Another direct initiative during the AHL tenure was the adoption of the Junior Condors name for Bakersfield’s existing youth hockey program. The Condors bought and donated all jerseys in the program’s first year. The Condors have raised over $7.5 million for charitable organizations in Kern County during its history!
Luke Esposito enters his 5th season in Bakersfield, playing forward for the Condors. When not at the rink, Luke works with local youth hockey players, running clinics and skills sessions to help the next generation of Bakersfield hockey stars. He had a career season last year in Bakersfield and is one of the team's captains. He also holds a Bachelor's Degree from Harvard. A big fan of Star Wars, Luke enjoys hanging with his dog Obi and fiance Kelly.
Ryan is originally from Boston, Massachusetts and came to Bakersfield in 2011 to work for the Condors. With the team, he handles all marketing, digital media, public relations, and is the team's play-by-play broadcaster. An avid sports fan, Ryan got into sports because of his affinity for the game. In his spare time, Ryan enjoys being with family (wife Hayleigh, two-year-old son Brendan), watching sports, and eating at many of the great restaurants in Bakersfield.
Scott Hanson sits down with Matthew Riley the President of The Bakersfield Condors, Ryan Holt the Senior Director of Marketing and Broadcasting for the Bakersfield Condors, as well as Luke Esposito, current player for the Bakersfield Condors as they get ready to celebrate 25 years of being in Bakersfield! They all agree that the support and involvement from the community is what has kept the hockey spirit alive here in Kern County. Scott and Matt take a trip down memory lane as they recall what it was like when The Condors first came to town. However, Luke brings us to the present as he tells us about the Junior Condors Program and how beneficial it is to our local youth.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BAKERSFIELD CONDORS:
Website: www.bakersfieldcondors.com
Email: condors@bakersfieldcondors.com
Phone: 661-324-7825
Instagram: @BakersfieldCondors
Facebook: @BakersfieldCondors
Bring Back the Kern is a grassroots movement, started by a group of Bakersfield natives with a deep appreciation for the Kern River. After being promised the return of the river was imminent numerous times only to be disappointed, these residents decided it was time to mobilize to bring about a swiffer resolution to the issue. Their goal is to see that the Kern River is used to its highest potential by restoring water and allowing the river's natural and sensitive ecosystems to be restored for future generations.
John Duffield and Kyle Jones welcome Tim McNeely, a team member from Bring Back The Kern. He discusses his passion for restoring the Kern River to its former glory and the many different ways the community can help support this worthy cause. Tim also explains why the Kern River is dry and the common misconceptions that surround the river. If you would like to visit the Kern River again with your family and friends check out their website to see how you can help!
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRING BACK THE KERN:
Website: www.bringbackthekern.org/
Email: tim@bringbackthekern.org
Instagram: @bringback_thekern
Facebook: @BringBackTheKern
Twitter: @BringBackKern
Bring Back the Kern is a grassroots movement, started by a group of Bakersfield natives with a deep appreciation for the Kern River. After being promised the return of the river was imminent numerous times only to be disappointed, these residents decided it was time to mobilize to bring about a swiffer resolution to the issue. Their goal is to see that the Kern River is used to its highest potential by restoring water and allowing the river's natural and sensitive ecosystems to be restored for future generations.
John Duffield and Kyle Jones welcome Tim McNeely, a team member from Bring Back The Kern. He discusses his passion for restoring the Kern River to its former glory and the many different ways the community can help support this worthy cause. Tim also explains why the Kern River is dry and the common misconceptions that surround the river. If you would like to visit the Kern River again with your family and friends check out their website to see how you can help!
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRING BACK THE KERN:
Website: www.bringbackthekern.org/
Email: tim@bringbackthekern.org
Instagram: @bringback_thekern
Facebook: @BringBackTheKern
Twitter: @BringBackKern
Randy Martin is the founder and Chief Encouragement Officer at Covenant Community Services, Inc. and Covenant Coffee in Bakersfield, California. Covenant’s mission is “restoring lives and transforming generations for former foster youth.” Randy loves to coach people and help develop their unique potential to find success. He does this daily with his team, his family and friends, and former foster youth.
Dave Plivelich sits down with super-energized Randy “Taco Man” Martin and learns how he was once arrested in Germany as a spy, why his alter ego is “Taco Man”, and how you talk your wife into allowing 300 bicycles to ride through your living room. Randy also explains how he found his passion for helping local foster youth. They discuss the troubling statistics that surround foster youth and how they aim to break the cycle of abuse and neglect that is found in foster homes. Randy also stresses the importance of working through unresolved trauma and how it aids in the healing process. If you would like to contribute to their cause, 100% of your Covenant Coffee purchases goes towards job training and placement as well as mentoring for former foster youth.
LEARN MORE ABOUT COVENANT:
Website: https://covenantcoffee.org/
Email: randy@covenantcs.net
Phone: 661-829-6999
Instagram: @covenantcoffee
Facebook: @CovenantCoffeeBakersfield
Twitter: @CovenantCS
YouTube: @CovenantCommunityServices
LinkedIn: @RandyMartin
Andrea R Hill, is a local CPA and business owner, mother, grandmother and most recently a leukemia survivor. Andrea's firm, Andrea R. Hill, CPA, An Accountancy Corporation, located in downtown Bakersfield, is a full service accounting firm, offering bookkeeping and payroll services, tax preparation and strategies, as well as advisory consulting. She is now also passionate about raising funds and awareness for medical research to help put an end to all cancers, but especially blood cancer. Andrea was born and raised in the San Joaquin Valley, she attended Fresno State and graduated from Cal State Bakersfield. She has been a Bakersfield resident for almost 40 years. She has recently created a Light The Night Team Red's Warriors that she is turning into a non profit organization to help raise funds for Leukemia research.
Amanda DiGiacomo sits down with Andrea Hill, Owner of Andrea R Hill, CPA, AAC as she tells us her heartbreaking yet inspiring battle with Leukemia. During her treatment she was terrified that she would lose her business and promised herself that if she beat Leukemia she would do whatever it takes to give back to the community. With her help Kern County’s Light It Red will return after 3 years! If you would like to have your logo on the shirt your deadline to apply is August 24th. Or if you would like to donate the link is down below.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ANDREA HILL:
Website: www.arhillcpa.com/splash
Email: ahill@arhillcpa.com
Phone: 661-323-2555
Facebook: www.facebook.com/arhillcpa
Donate to Light The Night and Red’s Warrior’s Here:
https://events.lls.org/pages/cca/Bakersfield22/ahill4
Lizette Patterson’s passion is matching individuals seeking new career opportunities with the right position and company. She sits down with the decision makers within a company and gets down to the core of their needs, not just what they need on a resume. She looks into their environment, personality, future growth, and other details that cannot be met by a resume. In staffing, success comes from reaching beyond experience and skill sets. Lizette gets to know personalities, company cultures, and more to make direct hire matches that work and last.
Troy Burden and Amanda DiGiacomo sit down with Lizette Patterson, Founder/CEO of Cazador Consulting Group Inc as she explains the benefits of going through a staffing agency versus recruiting on your own. Her screening process is customized to fit her clients' needs and she also offers a one-year guarantee for her direct hires. Lizette also touches on the importance of planning ahead for future replacements to minimize the likelihood of turnover. Her company has grown exponentially over the past two years and she has now expanded to Las Vegas! If you are struggling to find the right candidate that fits your company’s culture, don’t hesitate to call Lizette.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIZETTE PATTERSON:
Website: https://cazadorconsultinggroup.com/
Email: lizette@cazadorcg.com
Phone: 877-800-4622
Facebook: @CazadorConsultingGroup
LinkedIn: @CazadorConsultingGroup
Avery Zaninovich, Tlo’s Director of Marketing, studied Agri Business at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and has worked in the wine industry since the age of 21. She and her family started making wine in 2008 as a passion project, but after only one harvest, Avery encouraged her dad to make wine commercially and focused her senior project at Cal Poly on turning the family’s winemaking venture into a feasible business. In 2013, the family released their first wine as Tlo Wines and in 2018, opened the Tasting Room located on 18th Street. Avery became a Sommelier in 2016, has worked to establish Tlo Wines, manage the Tlo Wine Club, and is the reason the Tlo Wines Tasting Room has become a popular destination in Bakersfield. Avery works closely with her dad, Andy (Tlo’s Winemaker), in every aspect of the business, from harvest, production, barrel-tasting, blending, bottling, to designing the labels. Together, the family creates balanced wines, from the Central Coast, that are meant to bring people together to create lasting memories.
Kyle Jones and Dave Plivelich sit down with Avery Zaninovich as she tells us the history behind TLO Wines. They started wine making in 2008 which quickly turned into a family business that centers around their Croatian heritage. They opened Bakersfield’s first wine tasting room and also offers a wine club with about 350 members that get first access to their newly released wines. If you are interested in tasting their wines give them a call today!
LEARN MORE ABOUT TLO WINES:
Website: https://tlowines.com/
Email: avery@tlowines.com
Phone: 661-864-7086
Facebook: @tlowines
Access Plus Capital is a non-profit, mission-driven, community lender, known in the financial industry as a “CDFI” (a community development financial institution). As a CDFI we provide low-barrier, low-interest small business loans to historically disinvested communities. Our mission is to eliminate economic barriers to financial success through fair and equitable community investment, and we do this by working to grow businesses and jobs in underserved communities. Since our inception in 2008, we have helped hundreds of entrepreneurs realize their dreams. Whether you’re starting a business in Fresno County, expanding in Kern County, or looking to support and grow your company in any of the 14 Central Valley counties we serve, we can provide the funding, resources, and business coaching your need.
Scott Hanson and Amanda DiGiacomo sit down with Buffie the Business Service Specialist, Janelle the Communications Specialists and Raquel the Business Development Manager of Access Plus Capital, a non-profit that focuses on helping local entrepreneurs start or expand their businesses. They offer loans ranging from $5,000 to $500,000 and they are backed by grants and a loan committee. They also offer quarterly visits where they help keep your business on track to grow. If you are thinking about starting a business, and don’t know where to start, give them a call!
LEARN MORE ABOUT ACCESS PLUS CAPITAL:
website: www.accesspluscapital.com/
email: info@accesspluscapital.com
phone: 661-448-2133
facebook: @AccessPlusCapital
Anna Marie is a doctor of Traditional Naturopathy, brain health professional, ICF certified coach, certified master herbalist, and lover of life! She is also an author, speaker, employee wellness consultant, and mindset wellbeing coach. Anna Marie is also the formulator of her own brain nutraceutical line which includes, "Happy You, Calm You, & Bright You." Her mission is to end mental health stigmas and help all people upgrade their brains, biology, & energy field through lifestyle choices while rewiring their neuro pathways using holistic modalities.
John Duffield and Kyle Jones sit down with Anna Marie Frank the owner of Happy Whole You as she explains how she offers holistic remedies mixed with technology as an alternative to western medicine. She tells us how her health and healing journey led her to help others stop their overthinking process that accompanies their health concerns. She offers a wide range of services that she recommends after creating a tailor made program to fit your needs and lifestyle.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ANNA MARIE-FRANK:
Website: www.happywholeyou.com/
Email: annamarie@happywholeyou.com
Facebook: @HappyWholeYou
Family man Danny Hill is co-owner of Hill Broadcasting and is co-host of the Danny & Kait syndicated radio show. Danny & Kait have won Best of Bakersfield, Favorite in the Radio Personality category for 4 years in a row. Their show is currently on 11 radio stations in 6 states! Danny is married to Kait and they have five adorable children. Danny is also an accomplished wedding DJ, winner of the Kern County Bridal Association’s Wedding DJ of the year and was featured on “Whose Wedding Is It Anyway” on TLC.
OTC Hosts, Dave Plivelich (The Marcom Group) and Amanda DiGiacomo (Atlas Financial Solutions), welcome back Danny Hill as he updates us on how he came to acquire his own radio stations, the challenges he has had to overcome with the stations, and how he had to get creative during COVID to continue running and growing his business. Danny credits his morning show with his wife Kait as a huge turning point in his career. He also touches on the current music trends and how they are influenced by social media. Danny is currently hosting a backpack drive to help local children with back-to-school supplies. His goal is 300 backpacks and the deadline to donate is July 22nd.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DANNY HILL:
Website: www.rewind981.com/
Phone: 559-213-0173
Instagram: @DJDannyHill1
Facebook: @Danny_and_Kait
YouTube: @DJDannyHill
Nathan Bender grew up in Columbus, NE and attended the University of Nebraska Lincoln, graduating with an Ag Business Degree. After graduating, he moved to Bakersfield, CA where he and his father started growing baby potatoes in 2007. Tasteful Selections has grown from 250 to over 20,000 acres. Nathan started in the farming operation, then managed the packing plant, and is currently the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Nathan serves as a board member for Bakersfield College Automation, Potatoes USA, California Potato Research, and Tasteful Properties. Nathan and his wife Malisa have 2 amazing daughters: Madelyn 8 and Morgan 3.
Troy Burden sits down with Nathan Bender the CEO/COO of Tasteful Selections as they discuss how they pioneered bite-sized potatoes. Troy and Nathan discuss how their potatoes have quick cook times and contribute to healthier and more convenient meals. Nathan also explains how their expansion has opened the door for more employment opportunities.
LEARN MORE ABOUT NATHAN BENDER:
Website: www.tastefulselections.com
Email: nathan.bender@tastefulselections.com
Instagram: @tastefulselections
YouTube: @TastefulSelections
Twitter: @TastefulSelect
Karen King started her career as a bus driver and grew that into a long career in public transit, most recently serving for the past fourteen years as the CEO of the Golden Empire Transit District in Bakersfield, California. She started her career at Utah Transit Authority before moving to California. She worked at Long Beach Transit and then expanded her career to include rail service development and operations as Executive Director of North County Transit District in San Diego.
Karen holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Utah and a Master of Science degree in Transportation Management from the University of Denver. She presently serves as the Chair of the Executive Committee of the California Transit Association and is on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee at the American Public Transportation Association.
Attorney Kyle Jones and Dave Plivelich from The Marcom Group sit down with Karen King the CEO of Golden Empire Transit and Janet Sanders the Marketing Director of Golden Empire Transit. Karen explains how taking the bus is not only beneficial to the rider but to the entire community as well, since it reduces emissions and the number of vehicles on the road. In addition to buses, GET is now offering micro-transits in limited areas, which is similar to popular rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft, at a significantly reduced cost from 7am to 7pm with the goal of being available to the entire metropolitan Bakersfield area. Karen also shares GET’s goal of becoming 100% emission free. Stay tuned to hear the different services GET has to offer and how it might just apply to you and find out what Karen did before entering the transportation industry.
LEARN MORE ABOUT GET BUS:
Website: www.getbus.org/
Email: kking@getbus.org
Phone: 661-869-2438
Instagram: @GETbus
Facebook: Golden_Empire_Transit
Twitter: @GetBus
Richard Beene was raised in Atlanta and graduated from Georgia Southern University. He worked at The Los Angeles Times for seven years and was part of the Pulitzer Prize winning team of reporters and editors who covered the Rodney King riots and the 1994 Northridge earthquake. He also spent seven years overseas working as a foreign correspondent, living and working in Egypt, Spain, and Mexico. Richard has lived in Bakersfield since 1994 where he has served on numerous local boards and organizations, including serving as president of the Bakersfield Museum of Art board of trustees and president of the Rotary Club of Bakersfield. He also served on the Memorial Hospital foundation and the CSUB foundation. Richard was the CEO of The Bakersfield Californian from 1998-2016 and is currently the host of Bakersfield Observed podcast.
Dave Plivelich sits down with Richard Beene to learn about what drives him as he discusses how the media industry has evolved over the years and how print is essentially obsolete. Richard also explains how our homelessness problem cannot be solved with appeasement and the steps we, as a society, need to take. The show ends with Dave and Richard discussing the division that politics has created within our country and how we hold on to hope that we can once again become a united nation.
LEARN MORE ABOUT RICHARD BEENE:
Website: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bakersfield-observed-with-richard-beene-the-podcast/id1570782507
Email: richard.beene@gmail.com
Instagram: @RevRico
Facebbook: @Richard_Beene
Chris Shipp was born and raised in Bakersfield and is proud to call it home as he raises his two beautiful daughters alongside his wife. He started a moving company named “ Smooth Move” but the name was unfortunately already trademarked, which is how Mentors Moving came to be! In addition to Mentors Moving, Chris has coached at Garces Highschool for 9 years. He has a hunger for knowledge and all things leadership, finance and business development which has contributed to his many successes.
John Duffield sits down with Chris Shipp, the President of Mentors Moving to hear how he and his partner Jesse started their moving company. Chris explains that he and Jesse always wanted to start their own business and when the opportunity presented itself they never looked back. Even though they faced struggles at the beginning they are now a successful company that is partnered with The Dream Center, a local program that helps those in foster care who have aged out. Stay tuned to hear Chris’s inspiring story!
LEARN MORE ABOUT CHRIS SHIPP:
Website: https://mentorsmoving.com/
Email: chris@mentorsmoving.com
Phone: 661-220-5155
Instagram: @MentorsMovingandStorage
Facebook: @bakersfieldmentorsmoving
Tune in to our very first Host Round Table Discussion! All 6 hosts sit down to discuss changes, deadlines, and their predictions in their respective fields. Kyle Jones tells us about a new law that will be going into effect for medical malpractice. Scott Hanson discusses the rise in local residential real estate listing inventory and gives his real estate predictions through the end of the year. Troy Burden explains employee benefit trends of 2022 as well as the Cal Savers Deadline. John Duffield goes over AB 150 and some June deadlines to look out for. Amanda explains the new changes to the 1099-k form and how it will affect businesses owners that are paid through 3rd party apps. Dave Plivelich takes us home by explaining how supply chain issues are affecting the marketing industry.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SCOTT HANSON:
Website: www.levelonefinancial.com/
Email: team@levelonefinancial.com
Phone: 661-464-8000
Instagram: @LevelOneFinancial
Facebook: @LevelOneFinancial
YouTube: Level_One_Financial
LEARN MORE ABOUT KYLE JONES:
Website: www.kwjoneslaw.com
Email: kylejones@kwjoneslaw.com
Phone: 661-833-1090 Ext.227
Instagram: @lawofficekylejones
Facebook: @personalinjuryattorneybakersfield
Instagram: Attorney_Kyle_Jones
LEARN MORE ABOUT TROY BURDEN:
Website: www.lynncompany.com
Email: troy@lynncompany.com
Phone: 661-873-2200
Instagram: @TroyTwoCents
Facebook: @LynnCompany
LinkedIn: Troy_Burden
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN DUFFIELD:
Website: www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
Email: John@661cpa.com
Phone: 661-488-7000
Instagram: @bakersfieldaccontants
Facebook: @JohnDuffieldCPA
LinkedIn: John_Duffield_CPA
LEARN MORE ABOUT AMANDA DIGIACOMO:
Website: https://atlasfinancialsolutions.net
Email: adigiacomo@atlasfinancialsolutions.net
Phone: 661-703-7781
Instagram: @atlasfinancialsolutions
Facebook: @atlasfinancialsolutions
LEARN MORE ABOUT DAVE PLIVELICH:
Website: www.themarcomgroup.com
Email: dplivelich@themarcomgroup.com
Phone: 661-489-4444
Instagram: @marcomgroup
Facebook: @TheMarcomGroup
Twitter: @TheMarcomGroup
LinkedIn: The_Marcom_Group
YouTube: The_Marcom_Group
Key Budge coordinates all communication efforts for the City of Tehachapi and has more than 30 years of experience working in government, (25 years as a Deputy Sheriff in LA, 6 years with the City of Tehachapi and 2 years at the City of Palmdale). He also has more than 12 years in media related fields including on air at KUZZ in Bakersfield as a news anchor and DJ. Key has called Tehachapi home for almost 20 years after migrating from the greater LA area.
Scott Hanson and co-host Dave Plivelich sit down with Key Budge, the Community Engagement Specialist for the City of Tehachapi. He tells us that despite living and serving as a Deputy Sheriff in LA he prefers the caring community of Tehachapi. Key discusses the transparency, involvement, and connection that their local podcast, TehachaPod, provides the community. Key also expresses the city’s need for both police officers and engineers. They wrap up the episode with fun events that we can expect to see in the next couple of months. If you are looking for a fun weekend not too far from home, tune into this week’s episode!
LEARN MORE ABOUT KEY BUDGE:
Website: www.liveuptehachapi.com/
Email: kbudge@Tehachapicityhall.com
Phone: 661-822-2200
Instagram: @CityOfTehachapi
Facebook: @CityOfTehachapi
Twitter: @CityOfTehachapi
LinkedIn: @CityOfTehachapi
Norma Dunn is the Director at Mission Community Services Corporation’s Kern Women’s Business Center in Bakersfield California. Norma was born and raised in Kern County, and is committed to making a positive difference in her community. She is also a business and community leader whose passion for education and business, combined with her engaging personality, has earned her a reputation as a high-impact networker. She is a sought-after community leader as she is accomplished at planning and executing strategies that are both effective and efficient; not to mention she has a proven track record of assisting private, public, and non-profit organizations with forging "successful partnerships."
Kyle Jones and first time Co-host Amanda DiGiacomo sit down with Norma Dunn the Director of The Kern Women’s Business Center as she explains all the different ways they help local minority owned small businesses. Norma recounts how during COVID she and her team began spreading the word on different grants that were available to small businesses and how they worked with local accounting firms to help ensure those businesses received the grants. She also gives us examples of the different resources they offer to help local businesses and nonprofits be successful. If you are thinking about starting your own business be sure to call The Kern Women’s Business Center to help get you started!
LEARN MORE ABOUT NORMA DUNN:
Website: www.mcscorp.org/kern
Email: norma@mcscorp.org
Phone: 661-567-0410
Instagram: @kernwbc
Facebook: @KernWomensBusinessCenter
LinkedIn: Norma_Dunn
Morgan Houchin is an Accredited land consultant specializing in the acquisition and sale of agricultural use properties. He has sold over 60,000 +/- acres of ranch properties throughout California totaling over $900,000,000 in transactional value over the past ten years. Morgan is the 3rd generation of farmers who specialize in almonds, pistachios, cotton, onions, and tomatoes. He is also a partner in several family owned and operated farming and agricultural service businesses. Troy Burden is joined by co-host Kyle Jones as they have the opportunity to sit down with Morgan Houchin, a local accredited land consultant. Morgan tells us how his family came from Virginia in search of better opportunities which in turn led to the Houchin Blood Bank. Although his family is no longer involved they were always drawn to Agriculture and real estate and that is how Tech Ag Financial came to be.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MORGAN HOUCHIN:
Website: www.techagfinancial.com/
Email: mhouchin@techag.com
Instagram: @techagfinancial
Facebook: TechAgFinancialGroup
LinkedIn: Tech_Ag_Financial
Kelly Carden is a lifelong 3rd generation Kern County resident. He is a family man with 4 children, ages 10,8,6 and 5. He has had a successful career in Hotel and Restaurant Management culminating as an Operation Supervisor at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. His career has led him to serving some of America's biggest stars. His family has owned a small business since he was 7 years old and he has worked in it off and on ever since. He lives in Rosamond with his children, longtime girlfriend and mother. He hopes to be the first Filipino-American elected to the Board of Supervisors in California history.
John Duffield sits down with Kelly Carden as he tells us what led him to run for Kern County Supervisor 2nd District. He explains that he is running under the Libertarian party and how he has spoken directly to the voters to hear what issues matter the most to them. Kelly tells us how inspirational his mother has been to him since a child and how he will continue to carry those values into office if he wins.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KELLY CARDEN:
Website: www.carden4kern.com/
Email: kelly@carden4kern.com
Instagram: @carden4kern
Facebook: Carden_4_Kern
John Sabovich founded The Epiphany Foundation in 2017 after his daughter found herself battling drug addiction. He knew it was only a matter of time before he received the dreaded call from the coroner and decided to take matters into his own hands. On her appointed hearing date, he pleaded that she be placed into a mandatory in-custody interventional program. The judge agreed and from that point on John felt like it was his mission to help lead others on their road to recovery.
Dave Plivelich and Kyle Jones sit down with John Sabovich, the founder of The Epiphany Foundation, an organization that offers real world solutions to those suffering from drug or alcohol addiction. John explains how they provide a home along with a 12-step program to help those who are truly motivated in becoming sober. He shares his inspiring story with us and explains how he feels like addiction is the true pandemic.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN SABOVICH:
Website: www.epiphanyfoundation.net/
Email: jsabovich@gmail.com
Phone: 866-240-1100
Instagram: @EpiphanyFoundationGrants
Facebook: Find_Your_Epiphany_Today
Jonathan Thomas attended the University of Maine, where he graduated with a degree in Accounting and Finance. He began working for PricewaterhouseCoopers in Portland, Maine, a Big 4 accounting firm doing audits of public and private. After 5 years PwC pulled out of the market and Jon relocated to New York City where he continued to work with PwC for 3 more years and met his beautiful wife.
Jon then started working for Kohlberg Kravis Roberts as they prepared to go public. He stayed with KKR for a total of 6 years (3 years in public reporting and 3 years in strategic planning/FP&A). He and wife finally moved to Bakersfield, where they have been raising their family for the past 9 years. Jon spent 3 years with Jakov Dulcich & Sons, 2 years with Jim's Supply Co. and has been with Laurel Ag for the past 4 years, 2 years as CFO and now going on 2 years as CEO.
Scott Hanson sits down with Jonathan Thomas, the current CEO of Laurel Ag, as he walks us through his time in Maine and New York which ultimately led him to his life here in Bakersfield. Jon has a unique background in private equity which presented major job opportunities in the past and in turn made him a strong asset to the different companies he has worked with. They touch on the biggest challenges Laurel Ag is currently facing as well as what they have on the horizon in the next 10 to 15 years.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JON THOMAS:
Website: https://laurel-ag.com/
Email: Jthomas@laurel-ag.com
Phone: 661-368-3550
Instagram: @laurelagandwater
Facebook: Laurel_Ag_and_Water
LinkedIn: @LaurelAgandWater
Robert Petersen was born in Bakersfield but raised all over the world. He lived in Tripoli, Libya, Dubai, UAE, and Jakarta, Indonesia. He's worked in retail and sales in the past. In the early COVID lockdown days, he passed his time by reading archived newspapers from The Bakersfield Californian. Which led to the creation of The Notorious Bakersfield Podcast which takes a step back in time and looks at some of Bakersfield’s most notorious crimes.
Dave Plivelich, Kyle Jones, and special guest Jamie Urner had the opportunity to interview Robert, the creator of The Notorious Bakersfield Podcast. Robert explains how during the lockdown he wanted to learn more information on how Kern County handled the Spanish Flu but stumbled upon crime articles that have happened here in Bakersfield. He tells us which stories he found the most interesting and which stories he found to be the most disturbing.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ROBERT PETERSEN:
Website: www.notoriousbakersfield.com/
Email: notoriousbakersfield@gmail.com
Instagram: @notoriousbakersfield
Facebook: Notorious_Bakersfield
Twitter: @NotoriousBaker1
Paula received her Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Human Development at Arizona State University and then went on to receive her Master’s Degree in Family Therapy at the University of Massachusetts, at Boston. Post family therapy licensure, she became AASECT (American Association for Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) certified as a Sex Therapist and worked with individuals, relationships, and families in private practice in Quincy, Massachusetts for over ten years. In that time, Paula received AASECT certification as a Supervisor of Sex Therapy, and co-founded a sex therapy agency and training institute where she saw clients in addition to training therapists to become competent, confident sex therapists themselves. Paula continues to regularly present at various training institutes as well as Universities and therapy agencies across the US.
Paula educates Kyle Jones and Dave Plivelich on the misconceptions that surround sex therapy and gives a more in depth analysis on the different types of issues that she treats. She explains how Zoom has been a helpful tool since therapy is now more accessible to couples. They also touch on the common factors that lead couples to seek out therapy.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PAULA LEECH:
Website: www.paulaleech.com/
Email: pleechtherapy@gmail.com
Phone: 602-570-6657
Instagram: @paulaleechtherapy
Facebook: @Paula_Leech_Therapy
Kyle was born in Bakersfield, California. Kyle obtained undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Philosophy from the University of California at Santa Barbara and then his Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara University School of Law. Kyle has 18 years of experience as a Personal Injury and Estate Planning Attorney here in Bakersfield. Kyle’s office handles personal injury cases, including but not limited to: Automobile Accidents, Medical Malpractice and Slip and Fall cases. He also handles LLC/Corporation formation.
In episode two of a unique series of interviews where OTCs hosts interview each other, our very own, Kyle Jones is interviewed by fellow host Troy Burden. Kyle explains how from a very young age he knew he wanted to pursue a career as an attorney despite not knowing the difficult path he was taking. Both hosts express how influential Kyle’s father was to not only his children but to his loving community as well. They end with Kyle’s current career as a successful personal injury and estate planning attorney.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KYLE JONES:
Website: www.kwjoneslaw.com
Email: kylejones@kwjoneslaw.com
Phone: 661.833.1090
Instagram: @lawofficekylejones
Facebook: LawOfficeOfKyleWJones
LinkedIn: @Kyle_Jones
Beth Cornell has been working in Human Resources for over 10 years. Her Bachelor's degree is in Cross-Cultural Studies and she maintains a PHR-CA certification. She has worked at Hall Ambulance for the past 2.5 years and previously worked in HR at manufacturing and industrial companies. Beth started in HR by chance and fell in love with it. Her current focus is on recruiting for emergency medical services through the pandemic.
Myron Smith is the General Manager of Hall Ambulance Service in Bakersfield, CA. He has served Kern County as a paramedic for over 30 years and has been employed with Hall Ambulance for the past 27. He was instrumental in establishing the paramedic education program at Bakersfield College and functioned as the Program Director from 2005 to 2018. Academically, he holds degrees of Masters of Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Teaching and Curriculum. He is actively involved in several community service organizations in both Taft and Bakersfield and has served on numerous non-profit boards.
Troy sits down with Beth and Myron as they explain the history of Hall Ambulance and how they recently celebrated 51 years of service. They currently have many employment opportunities available that come with rewards and great benefits! If you are interested in joining their team stay tuned to find out how to apply!
LEARN MORE ABOUT HALL AMBULANCE:
Website: https://hallamb.com/
Email: billing@hallamb.com
Phone: 661-334-5419
Instagram: @hallambulance
Facebook: HallAmbulanceServiceInc
LinkedIn: Hall_Ambulance_Service_Inc
Scott welcomes new OTC host Dave Plivelich! Dave founded The Marcom Group in 1998 building the company into one of the most well-respected branding and website development agencies in California’s Central Valley. Over his career, he has worked with many established businesses, including Rain For Rent, John Soules Foods, Aera Energy, Castle & Cooke, Golden Empire Transit, Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce, Grimmway Farms, Kern County Department of Human Services, and Tejon Ranch. He is currently or has been a member, board member, president, or advisor for numerous non-profits, including American Heart Association, Bakersfield Police Activities League, Rotary Club of Bakersfield (co-creator of the Non-Profit Leadership Forum), Active 20-30 Club (past president 2003), Petroleum Club of Bakersfield (past president 2009-2021), PCB Foundation, Children’s’ Advocates Resource Endowment, Victory Family Services, Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, Bakersfield College Art Department, Epiphany Foundation, and Mendiburu Magic Foundation. He is also a partner of Kern EDC.He is a co-owner of Valley Ag Voice, a Landmark Forum Curriculum for Living graduate, and was a nominee for Beautiful Bakersfield’s Business Person of Year for 2020.
Dave explains how he has always had a strong entrepreneurship drive and how his family helped pave his path. He takes us on a journey from his first job as a paper route boy to the start of the Marcom Group and how working for someone else was never in the cards for him. They also touch on Dave’s involvement with nonprofits and how he loves the giving nature of the Bakersfield Community.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DAVE PLIVELICH:
Website: www.themarcomgroup.com/about/team/
Email: dplivelich@themarcomgroup.com
Phone: 661-489-4444
Instagram: @marcomgroup
@daveplivelich
Facebook: The_Marcom_Group
Dave_Plivelich
Twitter: @TheMarcomGroup
LinkedIn: TheMarcomGroup
DavePlivelich
YouTube: TheMarcomGroup/TMG
Nicole Giumarra is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a MS in Nutrition Sciences, specializing in Sports Nutrition, Eating Disorders, Pre-Diabetes/Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease. Nicole has worked in a variety of settings including acute and long-term care and currently sees clients for nutrition counseling and education in her private practice in Bakersfield.
Kyle sits down with Nicole as she explains how eating disorders have increased among adolescents and how COVID is a contributing factor. She explains intuitive eating and how it rejects diet culture and honors our body’s needs. They end with Nicole's philosophy on child nutrition and how it's important to have a good relationship with food.
LEARN MORE ABOUT NICOLE GIUMARRA:
Website: www.nicolegiumarra.com/
Email: nicole@nicolegiumarra.com
Phone: (661) 556-8531
Instagram: @nicolegiumarra_rdn
Facebook: Nicole_Giumarra
LinkedIn: @Nicole_Giumarra_RDN
Caleb Bolton was born into a life of painting, and it was only a matter of time before it would become a business. However, Caleb never wanted to do it full time and it all changed after his first garage floor. Epoxy coatings became the route Caleb took in the painting world due to the love of the process, the product, and the results!
Chad Horton was born and raised in Bakersfield California, attended Centennial High School and graduated in 2003. After High School Chad went to the Airforce where he was stationed in Germany and served two tours supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. During this time Chad met his Wife Brittney who is also from Bakersfield. Prior to HB Epoxy Chad had 15 years in the Oil and Gas industry fulfilling positions in operations and sales management.
Chad explains to Troy why he decided to quit his job and how his and Caleb’s opposites in experience lead them to the creation of HB Epoxy. They walk us through their process and the different types of materials they use as well as the different opportunities they have had to showcase their work. Even though they are a fairly new company they have a lot of future opportunities and plans!
LEARN MORE ABOUT HB EPOXY:
Website: www.HBepoxy.com
Emails: Chad.horton@hbepoxy.com
caleb.bolton@hbepoxy.com
Instagram: @hb.epoxy
OTC welcomes back the founder of Marley’s Mutts, Zach Skow. Zach founded his nonprofit organization back in 2009 with the purpose of providing second chances. He has since implemented the Pawsitive Change® Prison Program and Miracle Mutts® Therapy Dog Program.
Kyle and surprise guest host Dave Plivelich (previous guest and Owner of The Marcom Group) welcome back Zach Skow! In case you missed the first episode Zach outlines his journey from battling addiction to founding Marley’s Mutts. They also discuss the opportunity they have been given to return to the prisons as well as a dog rescue from Kabul.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ZACH SKOW:
Website: www.marleysmutts.org/
Phone:
Tehachapi (661) 556-7178
Bakersfield (661) 599-1540
Instagram: @ZachSkow
@marleysmutts
Facebook: Zach_Skow
MarleysMuttsDogRescue
Emails: Inquiries@marleysmutts.org
adoptions@marleysmutts.org
pawsitivechangeprogram@marleysmutts.org
miraclemutts@marleysmutts.org
volunteer@marleysmutts.org
OTC welcomes back Josh King, a local 3rd Grade Teacher in his 11th year Teaching. Throughout his teaching career he has taught both 5th and 6th grade. He has his masters in Educational Technology and an Administrators Credential. Josh went viral back in 2019 for his version of "Truth Hurts" by Lizzo that he sang to his students when they returned from summer vacation. He has since sung his rendition of "Levitating" by Dua Lipa and "Fancy Like" by Walker Hayes for his students.
Kyle and Josh discuss the current COVID regulations in school and the upcoming changes the students can expect. They also touch on how COVID has created a shift in behavior among the students and how Josh is implementing social emotional learning in his classroom. They also expressed their concern on the role social media is playing in young children's lives.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOSH KING:
Email: joshuarylesking@gmail.com
Instagram: @joshuarylesking
Facebook: Joshua_Ryles_King
Michael E. Platt is a specialist in natural hormone replacement. He has also given numerous seminars on hormones worldwide and been a speaker on hormones in Europe and Asia. He's the author of the popular Miracle of Bio-Identical Hormones and his latest book, Adrenaline Dominance: A Revolutionary Approach to Wellness.
In this special episode Kyle and John welcome Dr. Beatty and Michel Platt to have a roundtable discussion on the symptoms and treatments of adrenaline dominance. They discuss the differences between natural and synthetic progesterone as well as how important it is to find the right dosage for your body. Dr. Beatty and Michael explain the important role a healthy diet plays in balancing your hormones to ensure your body is not creating too much adrenaline.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MICHAEL PLATT:
Website
Amazon
YouTube
Lauren Skidmore was named the new CEO of Bethany Services, Inc., the nonprofit that operates the Bakersfield Homeless Center and the Alliance Against Family Violence & Sexual Assault. Lauren replaced Louis Gill, who resigned after 21 years. She has spent five years working as district director for Assemblyman Vince Fong (R-Kern County) and was also appointed to the Kern County Planning Commission and Kern County Employee Retirement Association. Prior to working with Fong, Lauren grew up as a fifth-generation cattle rancher and was the director of Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government. Scott and Lauren discuss the services that the Bakersfield Homeless center has to offer and the barriers they need to overcome in order to make people feel comfortable seeking help. They touch on the different reasons why a person might find themselves without a home and how they cannot force them to stay and accept their services. They wrap up with an update on their new facility and when we can expect construction to start.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LAUREN SKIDMORE:
Website: https://bakhc.org/
Email: lskidmore@bakhc.org
Phone: 661-322-9199
Instagram: @bhccrews
Chris Wilson founded the Tigerfight Foundation in 2015 after he saw a need in the community for families that needed additional financial support when undergoing pediatric blood cancer treatment. Since April of 2015 Tigerfight has provided $135K in financial assistance to 160 Kern County Families, as well as supported other local non-profits including the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
John sits down with Chris Wilson and Board Member Kyle Jones to discuss the upcoming tournament that will be hosted at Stockdale Country Club on March 4th. They also touch on other upcoming events that are scheduled for later in the year, like Light the Night and Casino Night. They end with the natural giving culture that surrounds Bakersfield and how to help the foundation or how to receive help from Tigerfight.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CHRIS WILSON:
Website: www.tigerfight.org
Email: chrisw@tigerfight.org
Phone: 661-200-5655
Instagram: @Tigerfight_Foundation
Facebook: Tigerfight_Foundation
Address:
4208 Rosedale Hwy, Ste 302-200
Bakersfield, CA 93308
John was born and raised in the communities of Bakersfield and Arvin, California. After graduating from Arvin High School he went to Bakersfield College and then CSUB to obtain his accounting degree. Upon obtaining his degree, he later went on to obtain his certified public accounting license and then later a master’s degree in taxation from Golden Gate University. He continues to obtain education to make himself more valuable to his clients. He is married and has three college-aged sons. He enjoys traveling and sharing unique experiences with his family. In this first episode of a unique series of interviews where OTCs hosts interview each other, our very own, John Duffield is interviewed by fellow host Kyle Jones. They discuss John’s interesting path of life from growing up in Arvin to running a successful CPA practice. John outlines his success from starting as an employee in a local CPA firm to starting his own practice and subsequently purchasing four CPA practices in the last 15 years.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN DUFFIELD:
Website: www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
Email: john@661cpa.com
Phone: 661-488-7000
LinkedIn: Office_of_John_Duffield
Facebook: @John_Duffield_CPA
Local music sensation Jim ranger has been involved in music since he was 20 years old. He was on American Idol when he was 28 and the Voice when he was 38. He has also had the privilege of singing the national anthem for the Lakers over 20 times! He has recorded 3 solo albums and 2 eps and produced music for others. In addition to being involved in the music business, Jim has been a Pastor since he was 24.
Jim dives into his family background and how they inspired his love for music. He tells us the story of how he met his beautiful wife and the successes they have had over the years. Finally he gives us an inside look at his journey from auditioning at American Idol to The Voice.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JIM RANGER:
Email: jimrangermusic@gmail.com
Twitter: @JimRanger
Instagram: JimRangerMusic
Facebook: Jim_Ranger_Music
YouTube: @Jim_Ranger
Bob Meadows is the Business Development Director for the City of Shafter and is responsible for attracting new businesses, accelerating the success of existing local businesses, advancing skills of the local workforce, and promoting Shafter through multiple media platforms and personal networking efforts. He also connects with local residents and business owners while building relationships with economic directors and site selectors in other cities.
Shannon and Bob start off by discussing all things Shafter and what the city has in store for its future. They dive into Bob’s career and the multiple different paths that led him to his current career. Finally they end with Bob’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs that are learning the ropes of networking.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BOB MEADOWS:
Website: www.shafter.com
Email: bmeadows@shafter.com
Phone: 661.746.5001
Instagram: BobMeadows55
Facebook: Bob_Meadows
LinkedIn: @Bob_Meadows
Brian Miller is a local product of Bakersfield who grew up and attended school in the city from elementary school through postsecondary education. He has worked as an administrator at the Regional Occupational Center (ROC) and now also the Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) in a variety of capacities the past 11 years, including most recently as Principal. He has a passion for providing opportunities for students at ROC/CTEC that will help to prepare them for their future career and college success. He has worked to develop relationships in the community with both industry partners and postsecondary partners to strengthen the opportunities provided to students at ROC/CTEC.
Troy and Brian discuss how ROC prepares students who are about to enter the workforce by tailoring their programs to stay relevant to the industry they are training for. They also offer students internships in their 2nd semester to give them a more hands-on experience. They wrap up by going over the different classes ROC now offers and how they have adapted since COVID-19.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRIAN MILLER:
Website: https://roc.kernhigh.org/
Email: brian_miller@kernhigh.org
YouTube: ROC_CTEC
LinkedIn: Regional_Occupational_Center
Instagram: roc_ctec
Facebook: ROC-CTEC
Dr. Jeremy Alan Woods is an Associate Professor for the California State University Bakersfield (CSUB) School of Business and Public Administration and leads the school’s entrepreneurship program. He is a Stanford-educated former Fulbright Scholar with over 25 years of experience as an educator, entrepreneur, executive, and consultant. In addition to teaching and coaching over 4,000 students, publishing 15 peer-reviewed journal articles and conference proceedings papers, and authoring over 30 additional thought leadership works over the past decade as a professor, from 1995-2010.
Jeremy takes us through his different endeavors that ultimately lead him to his career today. He touches on what he believes to be the six behaviors that entrepreneurs should follow in order to be successful as well as the habits that can cause an inspiring entrepreneur to fail. John and Jeremy discuss the grand opening for The Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at CSUB. Finally they end with the importance of knowing when to pivot.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JEREMY WOODS:
Website: www.csubentrepreneurshipclub.com/
Email: jwoods7@csub.edu
LinkedIn: @JeremyAlanWoods
Instagram: CSUB_Entrepreneurship_Club
Facebook: @JeremyWoods
Twitter: CSUB_Club
YouTube: @CSUBEntrepreneurshipClub
Brian was born the ninth of eleven children in Philadelphia, PA. He served four years in the United States Marine Corps and obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. He was in the California Highway Patrol (CHP) for 28 years where he created the Peer Support Program and retired as an Assistant Chief.
Scott and Brian discuss how his true police articles called “Cop Tales' appear in the Bakersfield Californian, the Kern Valley Sun and several social media posts. They dive into his 28 year career as the Assistant Chief of the California Highway Patrol and the many changes he witnessed during that time. Brian also had the opportunity to talk about his published book “We Were 17 Again” and how it is a great read for anyone.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BRIAN SMITH:
Email: bmsmith778@gmail.com
Instagram: @icehkky77
Facebook: Brian_Smith
LinkedIn: @BrianSmith
His 'Cop Tales' articles: Cop_Tales
Brian Smith's Book: "We Were 17 Again"
Robert Price is Digital Managing Editor, and a columnist and broadcast reporter, for 17 News and KGET.com.
Robert joined the team in February 2020 after 32 years at the Bakersfield Californian, where he served in more than a dozen roles, among them Metro Columnist, Executive Editor, News Editor, Opinion Editor, Eye Street/Features Editor, city and county government reporter, business/energy reporter, entertainment reporter, sports reporter, page designer, radio host and webcast host. His popular newspaper column was published three times per week, 1999-2008 and 2016-2020, and generally once a week in between, and it continues Sundays in The Californian and on KGET.com.
Robert’s work has been honored by the University of Oregon, Kansas University, Fresno State University, CSU Bakersfield, the Associated Press, and the California Newspaper Publishers Association. He is the author of The Bakersfield Sound: How a Generation of Displaced Okies Revolutionized American Music (Berkeley: Heyday Books, 2018), which received a 2019 Recorded Sound Collections Awards for Excellence prize in the country/folk history category.
Shannon and Robert touch on the harrowing Lords of Bakersfield story and the recent events that have come to light. From there they dive into Kern County’s silent killer, fentanyl, and the number of lives it has claimed. Finally they discuss the rich history tied to the Bakersfield Sound and the talented artists that called Bakersfield their home.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ROBERT PRICE:
Website: www.KGET.com
Website: www.bakersfield.com/columnists/robert-price/
Email: rprice661@yahoo.com
Instagram: RobertPrice661
Facebook: Robert_Price
LinkedIn: RobertPrice_661
Twitter: @stubblebuzz
Educate yourself on the dangers of Fentanyl
Leah Lopeteguy-Hoffman is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who is passionate about people. As a jack of all trades, and ace of one, Leah has been able to utilize the knowledge and experiences gained from her employment within the service industry to work with diverse populations including senior and aging adults, students and families, spectrum disorders, law enforcement, and veterans. Leah currently works in private practice where she continues to engage with clients promoting positive change and compassion for all.
Leah's most recent accomplishments include Certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and becoming an EMDRIA approved EMDR Consultant in Training (CIT). Leah is a lover of learning and continues to expand her growth in the field of therapy for the benefit of those she serves. Leah holds a Master of Science in Counseling degree from University of Phoenix, Bachelor of Arts degree in Religious Studies from California State University of Bakersfield, and an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Studies from Bakersfield College. She lives in Bakersfield, California with her charming husband, Patrick, their six children, and their cat, Gracie Lou Freebush.
Kyle and Leah discuss the common misconceptions surrounding mental health and the barriers that prevent many from seeking professional help. They dive into Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy and how it can significantly help those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
LEARN MORE ABOUT LEAH L. LOPETEGUY-HOFFMAN:
Website: Simple_Practice
Email: hello@innerbeacontherapy.com
Phone: 661-412-4291
David J. Reibstein is the William S. Woodside Professor and Professor of Marketing at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he is a world-renowned expert on branding, marketing metrics, product line decisions, and competitive marketing strategy. For several years he served as the Vice Dean of The Wharton School.
Professor Reibstein is a dynamic, award-winning teacher who has been honored with more than 30 teaching awards. He also received the John S. Day Distinguished Alumni Academic Service Award of Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management, an honor given to a graduate whose service within the academic community reflects the spirit and service of former Krannert Dean John Day. His teaching interests include Marketing Strategy in the MBA Program, as well as teaching Competitive Marketing Strategy, Marketing Metrics, Pricing Strategies, and various other programs for Wharton’s Executive Education Program.
Professor Reibstein received his PhD from Purdue University and his BS and BA degrees from the University of Kansas.
John Eckroth has over 30 years of tax and accounting experience, working in the tax department of PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, as a Partner in a small CPA firm in Claremont, California and later as CFO of a U.S. based subsidiary of the Spanish banking firm BBVA. After leaving the firm in 2002, John has continued as a Consultant for BBVA’s U.S. operations, working with its Houston based subsidiaries in the areas of financial reporting and analysis, internal controls and regulatory compliance.
Shannon and Kyle have a lively debate with Professor Reibstein and Senior Instructor John Eckroth with no topic off limits. They dive into the economic impact of college and the overall investment of time before there is a clear return of investment. They lay out the clear benefits of college beyond job market research and the major tech companies that are no longer requiring a college degree.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DAVID REIBSTEIN:
Website: https://marketing.wharton.upenn.edu/profile/reibstei/
www.measuredthoughts.com
Email: reibstein@wharton.upenn.edu
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/MeasuredThoughts
LinkedIn: @DavidReibstein
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN ECKROTH:
Website: www.pdx.edu/profile/john-eckroth
Email: jeckroth@pdx.edu
LinkedIn: @JohnEckroth
Troy Burden shares five things to consider at open enrollment plus one bonus tip.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TROY BURDEN:
Website: www.lynncompany.com
Phone: 661-301-1247
Instagram: @TroyBurden
Roshni Patel is the Founder/CEO of Thrive HR Consulting, skilled in all aspects of HR including recruiting, benefit administration, payroll, leadership development, performance management, and compliance to name a few. Her main passion is to work with business owners and management teams to develop strategic plans that are tailored and convenient for every business’s success.
Roshni Patel discusses her reasoning behind her decision to take a leap of faith during a worldwide pandemic and start her own company, Thrive HR Consulting. She and Troy discuss her journey from working at Brown Armstrong as an accountant, to enrolling online at Cornell University to obtain her Masters Certificate in Human Resources. Finally, they explain how COVID-19 has changed policies and protocols with work and how jobs are now moving forward.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ROSHNI PATEL:
Website: www.thrivehrc.com
Email: roshni@thrivehrc.com
Phone: 661-498-THRC
Jon Ferrara is the founder and CEO of Nimble, an award-winning social sales, and marketing CRM for individuals and teams. It's Ranked #1 in Overall Satisfaction by G2 Crowd and integrates with Microsoft Office 365 and Google G Suite. Learn more at Nimble.com.
Ferrara was the creator and co-founder of the award-winning customer management product GoldMine. In 1999, Goldmine was acquired by FrontRange and Ferrara left to pursue other interests. During those years, Ferrara continued to watch the CRM market. He saw that most of the CRM products that were serving small businesses moved upmarket (and became more costly and complex) or fell by the wayside, leaving the market underserved.
Shannon and Jon discuss the importance and value of knowing your customers, best practices for documenting that information to benefit both the sales team and the company as a whole. They also touched on the concept of social selling and using social media as one of your primary channels of engagement towards your current and future customers. Shannon invites Jon to share more about his experiences in developing his original CRM software solution, Gold Mine back in the late 80’s.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JON FERRARA:
Email: jon@nimble.com
Instagram: @JonFerrara
Facebook: Jon_Ferrara
Twitter: Jon.Ferrara
Mark Kelegian, a Southern California native and an attorney who operated casinos, acquired the original—and only—Randy’s Donuts in Inglewood, California, in 2015 with plans to eventually expand. Since 2017, under Sansmark Inc. — the name adds the initials of Kelegian’s wife, Shelly, and daughters Ashley, Nicolette and Susan to his own first name — Mark Kelegian has opened locations in El Segundo, Pasadena, Torrance, Costa Mesa, Santa Monica and Downey.
Shannon and Kyle sit down with Mark Kelegian the Owner of Randy’s Donuts to learn more about his journey from casinos to owning a now international donut chain. Mark has taken the famous Randy's Donuts brand and developed a franchise model with over 60 new locations in progress as of the date of recording.
Learn more about Randy’s processes in developing wild new recipes, marketing their signature store fronts, and their future growth plans.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MARK KELEGIAN:
Email: mark@randysdonuts.com
Phone: 661-864-7160
Instagram: @RandysDonuts
Facebook: RandysDonuts
Twitter: Randys_Donuts
GET IN TOUCH WITH THE NEW BAKERSFIELD LOCATION:
Website: https://randysdonuts.com/
Instagram: @RandysDonutsCentralCA
Phone: 661-864-7160
Facebook: RandysDonutsBakersfield
Tracie Barmann has 15+ years in Business and commercial banking. 20+ years managing her own residential real estate and almost 4 years as co-owner of a real estate franchise. She has a passion for entrepreneurship, business, and pursuing possibilities. She started 'Sharing Spaces' a few years ago but she encourages everyone to be a part of her journey.
Tracie and Scott discuss the long journey it has been in order to create 'Sharing Spaces'. Tracie discusses the different services that 'Sharing Spaces' has to offer and the many benefits it has to someone looking for short term housing. Finally, they take a look into Tracie's goals and what she has planned for her company's future.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TRACIE BARMANN:
Website: https://sharingspaces.com/
Email: contact@sharingspaces.com
Phone: 833-557-4273
Instagram: @sharing.spaces
Joe Peters is a born and raised Bakersfield native who has a background in the oil and gas industry for the last 13 years. He recently purchased a new company and stepped out of the oil industry all while being a self managed and independent touring musician/singer songwriter.
Joe discusses his reasoning for leaving the Oil industry and the different companies he and his family have had the opportunity to be involved in. He takes us on the journey of his music career from the beginning to the road ahead. Joe leaves us with some exciting news about what he has planned for the future.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOE PETERS:
Websites: https://americalawning.com/
https://joepetersmusic.com/
Email: officialjoepeters@gmail.com
Phone: 661-328-1292
Instagram: @joepeters_music
Heather Laganelli founded Locale Farm to Table in 2015 and focuses on using sustainable organic ingredients. She is a Board Member of Bakersfield Hub and is the Chair for their innovation Lab Project. Aside from running her successful restaurant she enjoys photography, art designs, and blogging.
John and Heather discuss how difficult it can be to take over an already existing restaurant and how important it is to not stray from your vision. They talk about how unique Bakersfield is and how it reflects in our community. Finally, Heather expresses her love for travel and how she plans on incorporating it into her future plans.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HEATHER LAGANELLI:
Website: www.localefarmtotable.com
Email: heather@localefarmtotable.com
Phone: 661-322-9090
Instagram: @localefarmtotable
Facebook: LocaleFarmToTable
Team OTC welcomes Sheriff, Donny Youngblood. Sheriff Youngblood joined the Kern County Sheriff's Department in 1972 as a Correctional Officer assigned to the Lerdo Facility. Two years later, he entered the basic academy to begin training to become a Deputy Sheriff. And in 2006, the citizens of Kern County elected Donny Youngblood to the Office of Sheriff-Coroner-Public Administrator.
Listen while Scott, Shannon, and Sheriff Youngblood discuss the many employment opportunities the Sheriff's department is offering and to apply. Along with this, they discuss Prop 47 and the effects it has on our homeless population here in Kern County. Finally, Sheriff Youngblood sheds some light on the rise of crime and how the media has played a large role in it. You won't want to miss this episode!
LEARN MORE ABOUT DONNY YOUNGBLOOD:
Website: www.kernsheriff.org
Email: youngblood@kernsheriff.org
Phone: 661-391-7500
Instagram: @donnyyoungbloodforsheriff
Facebook: Donny_Youngblood
Krista and Bryce Horton are local Bakersfield Instagram influencers with a global following. Their journey started back in 2012 when Krista started posting “mommy-and-me” pictures with her then 1 year old, Boston (Boss). Over time, the Hortons started sharing more and more of their personal lives and their audience exploded. Krista now has over 1.3 million followers on Instagram. Kyle and Shannon sit down with Krista and Bryce to get an inside look at their journey to becoming “Insta-famous”. They also discuss how it’s possible for someone to follow in their footsteps with the right social strategy. Finally they discuss the goals and plans they have set for the future and what we can possibly expect. Instagram: @krista.horton
Jeremy S. Adams is one of the most decorated educators in the state of California. In 2018, he was the first classroom teacher inducted into the California State University Bakersfield Hall of Fame. A graduate of Washington & Lee University and CSU-Bakersfield, he has written on politics and education for the Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, Huffington Post, The Daily Caller, The American Conservative, New Discourses, and many other outlets.
Kyle and Scott discuss Jeremy's new book, Hollowed Out. Jeremy explains how teachers and their classrooms have gone through recent changes. Students are now more reliant on technology and are struggling to interact with others. However, Jeremy ends with an explanation on how we can help America's next generation.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JEREMY ADAMS:
Email: jsa76@yahoo.com
Instagram: @jeremyadams1976
Link to his book: Hollowed_Out
Troy Burden talks about September being Life Insurance Awareness month and how important it really is during these crazy times.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TROY BURDEN:
Website: www.lynncompany.com
Phone: 661-301-1247
Instagram: @TroyBurden
Amy Travis serves as the Executive Director of CASA of Kern County. She has been instrumental in the organizations restructuring and development, in launching new funding streams, and increasing volunteerism. She serves on the Kern County Network for Children Board of Directors addressing the most critical issues facing children in Kern County.
Troy sits down with Amy and Diana to discuss CASA's need for more volunteers. As well as the positive economic impact CASA provides for Kern County. Stay tuned, as they discuss their upcoming fundraisers.
LEARN MORE ABOUT AMY TRAVIS AND DIANA RAMIREZ:
Website: https://kerncasa.org/
Email: atravis@kerncasa.org
Phone: 661-631-2272
Instagram: @kerncasa
Facebook: CASAofKernCounty
LinkedIn: @AmyTravis
LinkedIn: @DianaRamirez
Shannon Eckroth sits down with Kyle Jones to discuss social media marketing and much more.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SHANNON ECKROTH:
Website: www.eckroth.net/
Email: info@eckroth.net
Phone: 661-567-7875
LinkedIn: @ShannonEckroth
Anthony Garcia is an expert in sales training, recruiting, goal achievement and motivating salespeople to peak performance. He is the Author of the 'International Best-Selling' book: "Catapulting Commissions: Achieve Your Next Sales Goal" which has been endorsed by Selling Power Magazine as one of the BEST sales book to read in 2021. Anthony is a keynote speaker who has shared the stage with Les Brown and Jack Canfield and is a highly sought-after speaker passionate about unlocking the high performer lying dormant in every sales professional.
Shannon and Anthony discuss how to grow your business post COVID-19 as well as how important it is to build a personal brand. They touch on the importance of giving back to the community. While Anthony explains the key characteristics he looks for when he is hiring a salesperson.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ANTHONY GARCIA:
Website: www.anthonypgarcia.com
Email: anthony@anthonypgarcia.com
LinkedIn: @AnthonyPGarcia
Instagram: anthonypgarcia99
Facebook: AnthonyPGarcia99
Twitter: @AnthonyGarcia
YouTube: AnthonyPGarcia
Anthony's Book: CatapultingCommissions
Troy Burden breaks down the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
LEARN MORE ABOUT TROY BURDEN:
Website: www.lynncompany.com
Phone: 661-301-1247
Instagram: @TroyBurden
P.K. has over 25 years of sales experience and is the Director of Business Development for Mid Cal Labor Solutions. A local business that serves the employment needs for Petroleum and Construction Industries in Kern County.
Employer's are receiving a surplus of applications but continue to struggle filling their positions. Troy and P.K. discuss how temp agencies like Mid Cal Labor Solutions can help relieve some of the stress businesses are under.
LEARN MORE ABOUT P.K. ZANDER:
Website: www.midcallabor.com
Email: pk@midcallabor.com
Phone: 661-549-7901
LinkedIn: @PKZander
Twitter: PKZander
Kyle Jones shares a few tips you should know when funding a living trust.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KYLE JONES:
Website: www.kwjoneslaw.com
Phone: 661-833-1090
Email: kylejones@kwjoneslaw.com
Kaelyn Peterson is the Executive Vice President, Public Affairs and the Executive Director of BAKPAC. Kaelyn began her career in Sacramento, CA working for then Senator, Jean Fuller in the California State Capitol and moved back to Bakersfield in 2018 to begin her work with the Chamber. Kaelyn runs the Chamber's comprehensive advocacy and public affairs platform, where she works to promote business friendly policy at the local, state and federal levels.
Kyle Jones sits down with Kaelyn to discuss the importance of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce. She explains how the Chamber is pro-business and offers support for both our small and large local businesses.
LEARN MORE ABOUT KAELYN PETERSON:
Website: www.BakoChamber.com
Email: kpeterson@bakochamber.com
Phone: 661-304-4540
Instagram: @BakoChamber
Facebook: KaelynPeterson
LinkedIn: @KaelynPeterson
Troy Burden shares this week's "Tip of the Week" as he discusses the Affordable Care Act: Pay or Play mandate.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TROY BURDEN:
Website: www.lynncompany.com
Phone: 661-360-1721
Instagram: @TroyBurden
Sebastian Aza is a Financial Planner and Jessica Johnson is a Pension Consultant. Jessica provides qualified independent assistance relating to qualified plans. As well as assisting financial advisors build/maintain their qualified business plan.
Troy sits down with Sebastian Aza and Jessica Johnson as they explain the CalSavers mandate and what it means for employers. They break down the different types of plans an employer can choose from, as well as important dates and deadlines.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JESSICA JOHNSON:
Website: http://hicksfresno.com/
Email: jj@hicksfresno.com
LinkedIn: JessicaJohnson
Scott Hanson and Kyle Jones share this week's "Tip of the Week" as they discuss rent raises.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SCOTT HANSON + KYLE JONES:
Website: www.ourtwocentspodcast.com
Scott Hanson: www.levelonefinancial.com
Kyle Jones: www.kwjoneslaw.com
Dave started his journey in the Pest Control Industry in 1992 and was fortunate enough to be able to train in the greater Morro Bay, CA area, where he became an Expert on the different types of pests that are in California. Dave and his wife, Terry, started Oxley Pest Control in Bakersfield, California, and have been serving our community with quality pest control service for over 25 years.
Scott, Shannon and Dave discuss the hardships along with the joyous moments that come with owning your own business. Dave explains how difficult it was when he took that leap of faith and how he refused to give up on his dream. After 25 years of service, Dave has no shortage of advice for new entrepreneurs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DAVE OXLEY:
Website: www.oxleypest.com
Email: Dave@oxleypest.com
Phone: 661-325-2687
Facebook: OxleyPestControl
LinkedIn: @OxleyPestControl
Allison is the Executive Director of Bakersfield Angels, a local chapter of a national nonprofit that wraps support around children, youth and families in the foster care community. Allison has spent a lot of time speaking and teaching at various women's events, bible studies and has volunteered with Flood Ministries. Allison is passionate about doing her part to level the playing field so that kids experiencing foster care can grow up to reach their full potential.
John sits down with Allison McClain to discuss how Bakersfield Angels supports both children and families in the foster care community. Allison shares startling statistics and explains the different ways we can help change those numbers. For instance, Bakersfield Angels offers two different programs that leave a lasting impact on these families.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ALLISON MCCLAIN:
Website: www.bakersfieldangels.org
Email: allison@bakersfieldangels.org
Phone: 661-343-2343
Instagram: @bakersfield_angels
Facebook: BakersfieldAngelsNonProfit
John Duffield, CPA shares a "Tip of the Week" as he breaks down the recent Child Tax credit payments and much more.
LEARN MORE ABOUT JOHN DUFFIELD:
Podcast: www.ourtwocentspodcast.com
Website: www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
Phone: 661-488-7000
Email: backoffice@661cpa.com
John Duffield, CPA sits down with Debbi Bagley, Owner of Bakersfield Locksmith to gain insight on what has made her company so successful.
Debbi shares her secret on what sets her apart from other locksmith's while also giving great advice to aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs. We also received a sneak peak into the marketing side of Bakersfield Locksmith with Shannon Eckroth.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DEBBI BAGLEY:
Website: www.bakersfield-locksmith.com
Email: teamlock1101@gmail.com
Phone: 661-322-3371
LinkedIn: @DebbiBagley
Facebook: @BakersfieldLocksmith
OTC welcomes the Founder of J. Webb Consulting, Dr. Juanita Webb. Dr. Juanita has direct experience with manufacturing, automotive, agriculture, education, software, real estate and non-profits. She is licensed in California as a Private Investigator/Qualified Manager. She also conducts training, investigations and is retained as an Expert Witness regarding harassment, discrimination and retaliation issues.
Troy and Dr. Juanita discuss safety concerns employees/employers have faced after Covid. They also dive into the different roles businesses have implemented to keep their employees safe (vaccination policy, mask policy, social distancing) in addition to safety concerns. Dr. Juanita explains how difficult the hiring process has been for companies.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. JUANITA WEBB:
Website: https://jwcempowers.com/
Phone: 661-747-4386
Email: dr.juanita.webb@gmail.com
LinkedIn: @juanitawebb
Kyle sits down with NASA's News Chief, Megan Person. Megan has spent the last 16 years helping organizations communicate with their audiences and has become an expert in plain language, communication strategy development, audience evaluation, brand and voice development, public speaking, speech writing and brand management.
Megan discusses how there is more to NASA than just space flight. She also explains how NASA plays an important role in our everyday lives by constantly advancing the technology we use. Lastly, we get an inside look at the upcoming goals NASA is aiming for.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MEGAN PERSONS:
Website: www.nasa.gov
Email: Megan.person@nasa.gov
Instagram: @megan_person_
LinkedIn: Megan_Person
OTC welcomes Brian Conner, CFO at Bolthouse Properties LLC. Brian is a Business professional with a well-rounded background in finance, accounting, and systems. He has also had direct experience with manufacturing, automotive, agriculture, education, software, real estate and non-profits.
Brian and Scott discuss how important financial and accounting knowledge is for business and your personal life. We also get an inside look at how Bolthouse has adapted over the years and what we can expect to see in the near future.
Learn More About Brian Conner:
Website: https://bolthouseproperties.com
Phone: 661-323-4005
Instagram: @Yobeecee
LinkedIn: @BrianConner
John and Kyle welcome Dr. Beatty back to the show where he discusses the importance of wellness and how it can improve your quality of life.
Dr. Beatty explains the different types of services he offers, such as GAINSWave Therapy, and PRP Stem Cell Treatment. As well as, how much our hormones affect our everyday life.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. HUGH BEATTY:
Website: Dr. Hugh Beatty, M.D.
Email: dr.beatty@yahoo.com
Phone: 661-395-0315
Instagram: @docnbak
Facebook: The Wellness Doc
Ryan Beckwith is the Owner/Operator of A3 Sports & Wellness, Inc. and has helped thousands of athletes achieve their goals in sports (and life) over the last 20 years as a coach and educator. His specialties are biomechanics, weightlifting for athletes, speed and power and developing the holistic athlete.
Ryan explains how the trainers at A3 are passionate about helping you achieve your goals. As well as the common mistakes people make when working out and the importance of knowing the proper form.
LEARN MORE ABOUT RYAN BECKWITH:
Website: www.a3sports[erformance.com
Email: ryan@a3sportsperformance.com
LinkedIn: @RyanBeckwith
Instagram: a3sportsperformance
Facebook: a3sportsperformance
Twitter: a3sportsperformance
John Duffield and Kyle Jones sit down with Scott Garrison the Co-Owner/Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Stria Inc. Stria is a locally owned and operated tech company that has made the 'Inc 5000' list five times. In 1987, Mr. Garrison graduated from CSU-Bakersfield's School of Business and is currently a board member for the Bakersfield Police Activities League.
Scott takes us through his amazing career from the very beginning to the current success of Stria. He discusses all of his hard learned lessons and gives great advice to aspiring entrepreneurs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SCOTT GARRISON:
Website: www.stria.com
Email: sgarrison@stria.com
LinkedIn: ScottGarrison
Instagram: @ScottGarrison
Host Scott Hanson has an Agricultural Round Table Discussion with: Todd Snider, Owner of Western Ag Crop Insurance Services, LLC, John Moore the Vice President of Moore Farms, and Lucas Espericueta the Vice President of Farm Credit West.
These three experts discuss the corporate side of farming and how it economically benefits our region. The constant water shortage and everyday problems our local farmers face. As well as the actions we can take to help our farming community.
Learn More About Todd Snider:
- Website: www.westernagcropinsurance.com
- Email: todd@westernagcrop.com
- Phone: 661-695-1700
- Instagram: @tee.snider or @westernagcropinsurance
- Facebook: Western Ag Crop Insurance
Learn More About John Moore:
- Website: moorefarmsca.com
- Email: johnmoore@moorefarmsca.com
- Phone: 661-854-5588
- Instagram: @johnchesshermoore
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-moore-94614012/
Learn More About Lucas Espericueta:
- Website: farmcreditwest.com
- Email: lucas.espericueta@farmcreditwest.com
- Phone: 661-399-7360
Become a member of the Kern County Farm Bureau at https://kerncfb.com
Andrew McCormack of SunPower by SunSolar stops by OTC's studio to talk about the current state of solar for this episode.
OTC host, Troy Burden and Andrew talk us through the various types of solar and their benefits for homeowners.
Since 2004, Andrew has been developing himself as the ultimate 'go-to' guy in Bakersfield when it comes to converting to solar, cost and fees of solar along with an in-depth knowledge of the mechanics of solar and energy storage.
More about SunPower by SunSolar:
Address: 8803 Scobee Street / Bakersfield, CA 93311
Website: www.sunpowerbysunsolar.com
Email: info@sunpowerbysunsolar.com
Phone: 661-379-7000
Instagram: @sunpowerbysunsolar
Facebook: SunPowerbySunSolar
MORE ABOUT TROY BURDEN:
Website: www.thelynncompany.com
Email: troy@lynncompany.com
Telephone: 661-360-1721
LinkedIn: TroyBurden
Instagram: @TroyBurden
During the show, Brett explains the difficulties and successes that have have came with running a small (one acre) family farm. If you'd like to sign-up for weekly deliveries of produce and participate in the farm 10-week CSA membership, visit their website www.finsterfarms.com
The Finster Farms team offers local delivery of their most current produce weekly.
MORE ABOUT FINSTER FARMS:
Website: www.finsterfarms.com/csa
Email: brett.finsterfarms@gmail.com
Phone: 661-293-0167
Facebook: FinsterFarms
Instagram: @FinsterFarms
Who do you call when you want your dreams to come true?
FAIRY GODMOTHER!
isten to this week's episode as our hosts sit down with the Founder of the Fairy Godmother Inc. a Wedding and Event Company. Colleen Bauer as she discusses how her magical company came to be.
MORE ABOUT FAIRY GODMOTHER INC:
Website: www.fairygodmotherco.com
Phone: 661-808-7816
Facebook: FairyGodmotherInc
Instagram: @FairyGodmotherInc
Team OTC interviews DC Attorney Phil Andonian of law firm Caleb/Andonian LLC. to discuss his case against the former President Donald Trump, Donald Trump Jr., Rudy Giuliani and Rep. Mo Brooks.
Mr. Andonian represents Rep. Eric Swalwell in his civil case against Donald Trump.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PHIL ANDONIAN:
Website: https://www.calebandonian.com/phil-andonian
Instagram: @calebandonian
Telephone: 202-787-5792
Email: contact@calebandonian.com
The OTC team sits down with Shannon LaBare of Purveyor Branding Co. to learn more about branding and presenting yourself as both an individual and a company.
Tune into gain better insight into the art of storytelling and listening to your audience to engage and better understand the value of investing time and thought into branding visuals.
MORE ABOUT PURVEYOR BRANDING CO:
Website: www.purveyorbranding.com
Email: hello@purveyorbranding.com
Facebook: PurveyorBranding
Instagram: @PurveyorBrandingCo
Kevin McCarthy represents California’s 23rd District and is currently the Republican Leader in the US House of Representatives.
MORE ABOUT KEVIN MCCARTHY:
Website: www.kevinmccarthy.house.gov
Liliya Rudan explains how the Better Business Bureau is the perfect resource for both business owners and consumers.
MORE ABOUT THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU:
Website: www.bbb.org/ccie
Email: info@bbb.org
Phone: 800-675-8118
Instagram: @BBB
Facebook: BBB
Assembly Member Rudy Salas represents the 32nd Assembly District and has been responsible for passing legislation that support disabled Veterans, bringing clean drinking water to the Valley and combating human trafficking.
MORE ABOUT RUDY SALAS:
Website: www.a32.asmdc.org
During this episode, the OTC team learns more about 420 Kingdom's delivery services and offered products along with their unique cultivation approach. Currently, they are in the process of building out a 10,000 ft. facility in Arvin growing and harvesting cannabis with an aeroponic growing system.
This episode is a great listen for anyone curious about the status of the operation settling into the greater Bakersfield area (for delivery) and anyone seeking a better understanding of cannabis in general and the various categories available (ex. THC vs CBD, edibles vs vapes, sativa vs indica).
MORE ABOUT 420 KINGDOM DELIVERY:
Website: www.420kingdom.com
Phone: 661-777-5464
Instagram: @420KingdomDelivery
Facebook: 420KingdomDelivery
Episode #080 features Dr. Anna L. Jacobsen, a plant anatomist and Dr. R. Brandon Pratt, a plant ecophysiologist from CSUB to discuss why our climate is globally unique. Tune in to hear their explanation on how climate change is affecting our county specifically and how COVID has changed the way field research is conducted.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. ANNA JACOBSEN:
Website: www.csub.edu~ajacobsen
Phone: 661-654-6572
LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. BRANDON PRATT:
Website: www.csub.edu/~rpratt
Phone: 661-654-2033
The OTC podcast team sits down with Kristin Smith and Alycia McCain of Smith & McCain to learn more about their company, started proudly here in Bakersfield in 2014.
This duo is proud to share that their company was founded on the purpose to empower women, beginning in scent and later expanding into the rest of the beauty world. Smith & McCain combine luxury with innovation and keep pushing the envelope in designs and new scents.
Tune in while the OTC team walks through their unique and challenging business model and learn how they overcame the massive hurdles they encountered trying to sell a fragrance online.
MORE ABOUT SMITH & MCCAIN:
Website: www.smothmccain.com
Email: hello@smithmccain.com
Instagram: @smithmccain
Facebook: www.facebook.com/smithmccainfragrances
Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue is a registered non-profit organization that is concentrated on saving the lives of Kern County's incarcerated canines.
From the founder himself and the road of success, this story will leave you speechless.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MARLEY'S MUTTS:
Website: www.marleysmutts.org
Instagram: @MarleysMutts
Facebook: MarleysMutts
Jennifer Etcheverry is married to a third generation farmer in Bakersfield, California. After several years of farming hardship, she took matters into her own hands and began marketing for her husband's almonds. The company has grown nationwide and has gained national recognition including an appearance on ABC's The View.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MY HUSBAND'S NUTS:
Website: www.myhusbandsnuts.com
Instagram: @myhusbandsnuts
Facebook: MyHusbandsNuts
Team OTC brought newly elected County Supervisor - Phillip Peters in for this episode and we had a really interesting discussion about the current state of projects in his new territory and where he left off exiting the Kern High School District Board. We also got a good look into Phillip's political journey thus far after landing his second electoral seat in Kern County.
MORE ABOUT PHILLIP PETERS:
Website: www.petersforsupervisor.com
Facebook: PhillipPeters
The Vision of Success...Team OTC welcomed, Sue Watson, Founder of Business Initiative. Sue is a Business Consultant, Leadership and Strategy Expert, Coach, Author and Speaker with her primary focus centered on development of people and helping them realize their human potential.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SUE WATSON:
Website: www.businessinitiatives.com
Email: Sue@businessinitiatives.com
Phone: 661-301-7162
Facebook: BusinessInitiatives
We welcome back Dr. Nimisha Amin, MD to our podcast! Nimisha Amin is a pediatrician and pediatric nephrologist at Southwest Pediatrics in Bakersfield, CA. She is a native of Bakersfield, but completed her undergraduate and medical degree at UC Irvine, followed by residency and fellowship at Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA. After completion of her training in 2010, she chose to return to the community that she grew up in, in hopes of providing quality pediatric care to those who need it most.
Get social with Nimisha Amin: Webpage
Get social with us here: Webpage, Facebook, Instagram, Contact Us
We welcome back Derek Jeffery, Vice President and General Manager at KGET TV-17.
Derek is responsible for all daily operations of three TV stations and digital products. Tune in as he talks with Kyle Jones and Troy Burden about identifying "Fake News" and much more.
MORE ABOUT DEREK JEFFERY + KGET:
Website: www.kget.com
Instagram: @KGETNews
Facebook: KGET
Aaron Norris is the Vice President of Market Insights at PropertyRadar. His role includes loan, officer, investor relations, business development, as well as marketing. Aaron has been in the real estate field for over a decade having worked in the construction and design industry before joining The Norris Group. You can catch some his work on BiggerPockets.com, ThinkRealty Magazine, and Forbes.
Get social with Aaron Norris: Webpage, Youtube, Linkedin, and Twitter
Get social with us here: Webpage, Facebook, Instagram, Contact Us
LVL Fitness is where you can expect to take your workout to the next level. In just 45 minutes, you will experience the most revolutionary core-focused, full-body workout in the fitness industry. Kristi Windtberg and Nicole Lazzerini are owners of LVL Fitness that have a strong passion of the Lagree community that includes their love for fitness, health, and pushing your body to limits. Tune in to hear how this 45-minute minute class will give you the results you are looking for!
MORE ABOUT LVL FITNESS:
Website: www.lvl-fitness.com
Email: info@lvl-fitness.com
Instagram: @lvlfitnessbakersfield
Facebook: LVLFitnessBakersfield
Healthcare Finance Direct is a team of amazing people who seek to provide the absolute best experience to both patients and providers. They've categorized themselves as a "finance as a service" because they offer a unique solution to patient financing, centered in financial clarity for patients. They work with both large corporations that have custom workflows and small practices but the goal is always the same: treat more patients.
MORE ABOUT HEALTHCARE FINANCE DIRECT:
Website: www.healthcarefinancedirect.com
Phone: 661-616-4400
Email: support@healthcarefinancedirect.com
Facebook: HealthcareFinanceDirect
LinkedIn: HealthcareFinanceDirect
The OTC team sits down with Dr. Siegfried to discuss the financials of college athletics in a Covid environment and the protocol of resuming competition.
Later in the show, Dr. Siegfried shares his opinion on whether college athletes should be financially compensated.
MORE ABOUT DR. SIEGFRIED + CSUB ATHLETICS:
Website: https://gorunners.com/staff-directory/dr-kenneth-ziggy-siegfried/224
Email: ksieffried@csub.edu
Instagram: @CSUBAthletics
Kevin Charette from KGET + CEO of Thumbs up, Cancer Down joined us in studio to discuss their mission for those who are battling cancer.
You may have seen his familiar face around Kern County. Charette joined the 17-weather team 15 years ago and not only loved the science behind it but found it incredibly rewarding to keep the community on top of their day.
He has a true passion for helping cancer patients in the community. Each year his organization passes out hundreds of care bags to those going through chemotherapy in Kern County.
MORE ABOUT THUMBS UP, CANCER DOWN:
Website: www.ThumbsUpCancerDown.com
Kyle Jones and Scott Hanson sit down with Matt Constantine, Director of Public Health Services. Matt earned his graduate degree in Environmental Health at California State University, Northridge . He enjoyed working for Indian Health Services, State of California, and for the last 15 years, the County of Kern. Matt is driven and passionate about his community and desire to make Kern County an outstanding place to live.
MORE ABOUT KERN COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES:
Website: www.kernpublichealth.com
Facebook: KernCountyPublicHealth
Bob Meadows has been the Business Development Director for the City of Shafter since October 2018, after nearly 40 years in the banking industry. He is generally responsible for attracting new business to Shafter and helping existing businesses become more successful.
MORE ABOUT BOB MEADOWS:
Website: www.shafter.com
Email: bmeadows@shafter.com
Facebook: CityofShafter
Did you know Tejon Ranch is the largest contiguous of private land in California? In today’s show Kyle and Troy interview Barry Zoeller, Senior VP, Corporate Communications & Investor Relations, at Tejon Ranch Company. We discuss the history and growth of the Tejon. We also talk about the development of the outlets and future development of 35,000 residential homes.
MORE ABOUT TEJON RANCH AND BARRY ZOELLER:
Website: http://tejonranch.com/
I just took a DNA test turns out this guy knows what he is talking about! We interview local 3rd grade teacher at Independence Elementary, Josh King. Mr. King was inspired by Lizzo’s “Truth Hurts” song for back-to-school and landed an invitation to New York City. Josh sits down with our team to discuss his VMA red-carpet experience in New York and gives some advice to parents who are struggling with keeping their children stay on track during virtual learning.
Get in touch with Josh King here:
www.ruesd.net/Domain/484
jking@ruesd.net
Get social with us here:
www.ourtwocentspodcast.com
www.ourtwocentspodcast.com/contact
www.facebook.com/Ourtwocentspodcasts
www.instagram.com/ourtwocentspodcasts
The OTC team welcomed Senator Shannon Grove of California’s 16th Senate District to the studio (via Zoom!) last year and had a very spirited conversation where Shannon shared her passion for fighting a variety of issues. Most refreshing was her take on women’s roles in leadership and what it takes to make changes in our system.
Shannon Groves is the first woman veteran elected to serve in the California Legislature and is proud to serve as the Vice-Chair for the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs. Shannon served in the United States Army and was stationed in Frankfurt, Germany where she witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. The experience solidified her passionate patriotism and appreciation for the freedoms our country offers to all people.
MORE ABOUT SHANNON GROVE:
Website: www.grove.cssrc.us/
Instagram: @ShannonGroveCA
Facebook: ShannonGroveCA
Twitter: @ShannonGrove
Today we talk with Brent Van Tasssel of the Sofa King Podcast. Brent is a founding member and one of the three co-hosts.
In today’s episode, we talk about the business of podcasting and some of the ingredients that has made Sofa Kings so successful. We talk marketing, social media, and the importance of building a relationship with your audience.
MORE ABOUT THE SOFA KING PODCAST:
Website: www.sofakingpodcast.com
Instagram: @SofaKingPodcast
Facebook: SofaKingPodcast
Looking to help protect your home and loved ones in the unexpected event of your death? In today's episode Troy Burden sits down with Scott and Kyle to discuss the difference between PMI and mortgage protections with life insurance. Tune in now to hear the pros and cons!
FOR MORE ABOUT TROY BURDEN:
Website: www.lynncompany.com/contact/troy_burden
Phone: 661-360-1721
Email: Troy@lynncompany.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 060
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Assistant Vice Mayor Chris Parlier and Assistant City Manager Chris Hout
If you missed out on payroll protection and The Kern Recovers program listen in to learn about Bakersfield Cares, which is scheduled to be rolled out in the last week of September. Bakersfield Cares has three main components: Grant Program, Payroll Protection and Non-Profit.
https://bakersfieldcity.us/gov/elected_officials/chris_parlier.html
https://bakersfieldcity.us/gov/depts/city_manager/covid19.htm#CARES%20Act%20Funding
becares@bakersfieldcity.us
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 059
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week with John Duffield, CPA
www.bakersfieldaccountants.com/index.php
661-827-5221
@bakersfieldaccountants
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 058
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Shannon Zimmerman, Candidate for Bakersfield City School District Trustee Area 5
Troy Burden and Kyle Jones sit down with local educator Shannon Zimmerman, Candidate for Bakersfield City School District Trustee Area 5. Shannon’s goal is to work to provide a better, more integrated education system that will empower students to achieve greater possibilities for their futures.
Get social with Shannon Zimmerman
Email: Zimmshannon@gmail.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 057
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of The Week: Bakersfield Attorney, Kyle Jones
Is your ex still listed as your beneficiary on any of your assets? In this episode Troy Burden sits down with Kyle Jones to discuss how important it is to always double check who is listed as your beneficiary.
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 056
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Nicole Giumarra, MS, RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist & Sports Performance Dietitian)
Do you find it difficult eating healthy on the go? We welcome Nicole Giumarra, MS, RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist & Sports Performance Dietitian) to our show giving us the latest tips for a healthier lifestyle. Nicole is very passionate about empowering individuals with evidence-based knowledge and confidence to support their food and lifestyle choices.
nicole@nicolegiumarra.com
Scott Hanson with Level One Financial discusses the basics of renting-to-own and shares examples of when this seller/buyer model proves to be beneficial for everyone.
MORE ABOUT SCOTT HANSON + LEVEL ONE FINANCIAL:
Website: www.levelonefinancial.com
Email: Scott@levelonefinancial.com
Phone: 661-464-8000
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 054
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Dr. Vernon B. Harper Jr., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at CSUB
Show Notes:
https://news.csub.edu/provost-announced
https://news.csub.edu/ethnic-studies-and-social-justice-requirement-passed
https://www.csub.edu/returntocampus/fall2020
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 053
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Annie Florendo, Owner Sweet Tree Farms
Show Notes:
@sweettreefarms
www.cropdrop.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 052
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Abran (Abe) Padilla. Spectrum Data Analytics
Show Notes: Abran (Abe) Padilla, is the owner of Spectrum Data Analytics as well as Cal State Bakersfield professor. On the show he talks about the field of analytics and how it can be used to help businesses become more profitable as well as the potential risks to society when analytics and automation start to displace workers.
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 051
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of The Week: Garro Ellis with The Moneywise Guys
Show Notes:
Garro Ellis. Financial Advisor with The Moneywise Guys, radio and television personality joins Our Two Cents to talk about the coin shortage we are experiencing during the crazy Covid era.
www.MoneywiseGuys.com
Office: (661) 847-1000
Questions: info@moneywiseguys,com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 050
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Dr. Christopher Gambrioli
Show Notes:
Dr. Christopher Gambrioli has been a staff physician at CSUB since 2005. He is board-certified in family medicine.
Dr. Gambrioli graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies in 2002 and completed his family medicine residency training at Kern Medical Center in 2005.
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 049
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Zane Smith, Executive Director of Boys & Girls Club of Kern County
Show Notes:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County
801 Niles Street
Bakersfield, CA 93305
661-325-3730
Office Hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm
Mailing Address:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County
PO Bin 5J
Bakersfield, CA 93385
www.bgclubsofkerncounty.org
https://twitter.com/bgckc
https://www.instagram.com/bgckerncounty/
Facebook: https://www.youtube.com/user/BGCKC
Zane Smith zanesmith@bgclubsofkerncounty.org
BGCKC
https://www.bgclubsofkerncounty.org/virtual-clubhousewww.bgclubsofkerncounty.org/virtual-clubhouse
covid-19 LATEST UPDATES
statement:
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County will align with local school districts where the Club operates on school campuses. Approximately 59 locations in Kern County will be impacted. However, the Club will continue to operate at three separate facility-based program sites and extend hours from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm to create day camp settings while schools are closed. The three Club locations, Armstrong Youth Center (East Bakersfield), Stockdale Club (Southwest Bakersfield), and Lamont Club, will be accepting new members, extending programs, and serving meals. Our primary goal is to provide full-day activities for school-age children of first responders, healthcare professionals, essential community personnel, and those parents/guardians who must work to maintain employment.
“We want to support working families who may be experiencing challenges due to school closures in our area,” said Zane Smith, Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kern County. “We are working to be cautious and responsive as possible to our family and community in this challenging time.”
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 048
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Troy Burden, Insurance Specialist
Show Notes:
linkedin.com/in/troyburden
troystwocents
Websites
Phone: 661-873-2200 ext. 227 (Work)
Address: 3761 Bernard St Bakersfield, Ca 93306
Email: troy@lynncompany.com
Twitter: tburden0414
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 047
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Bakersfield Police Chief, Greg Terry
Show Notes:
https://bakersfieldcity.us/gov/depts/police/default.htm
https://www.bakersfield.com/news/greg-terry-continues-lifes-work-as-bakersfields-new-police-chief/article_58e9367a-84c4-11ea-a022-177363a60064.html
https://bakersfieldnow.com/news/local/bpd-chief-greg-terry-discusses-new-policy-and-reform-partnership-with-csub
https://www.cs.csubak.edu/~kie/
Tip Of The Week w/John Duffield, CPA
MORE ABOUT JOHN DUFFIELD, CPA/MST
Website: www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
Instagram: @BakersfieldAccountants
Phone: 661-827-5221
Steven Gamboa, Ph.D. - Department Chair of Philosophy and Religious Studies Professor Philosophy.
MORE ABOUT STEVEN GAMBOA, PH.D:
Website: www.StevenPinker.com
Email: Sgamboa@csub.edu
Phone: 661-654-2196
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 044
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Nick Cushman of Level One Financial
Show Notes:
@levelonefinancial
Nick@levelonefinancial.com
661-464-8000
https://levelonefinancial.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 043
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: John Duffield, CPA/MST
www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
661-827-5221
@bakersfieldaccountants
https://www.kerncounty.com/government/kern-recovers
https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program
https://www.sba.gov/page/disaster-loan-applications#section-header-0
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 042
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Bakersfield Attorney, Kyle Jones
661-833-1090
Kylejones@kwjoneslaw.com
www.kwjoneslaw.com
@lawofficekylejones
https://www.sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 041
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Amanda DiGiacomo
Amanda DiGiacomo – Owner of Atlas Financial Solutions
Modern financial solutions made to remove the burden from small businesses.
Atlas Financial Solutions loves to help small businesses Start, Manage & Grow their dreams. We will gladly handle all your financial needs so you can focus on what you are truly PASSIONATE about- your business!
https://atlasfinancialsolutions.net/
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 040
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Shelley Wyrick, Wyrick and Associates Real Estate
Ready to talk?
Wyrick & Associates Real Estate
1620 Mill Rock Way #100
Bakersfield CA 93311
Email: wyrickrealestate@icloud.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 039
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Emily Waite, Personal Trainer and Writer
Show Notes:
https://www.bakersfield.com/opinion/community-voices-this-slower-paced-life-will-help-us-decide-which-utensils-to-put-back/article_01d4f8d6-9a33-11ea-83ad-c3a704dd93af.html
What are some good workout routines for at home exercising?
Instagram: @memzy
Email: emilykw8@gmail.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 038
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Justin Leland, Director of Business/Financial Advisor for Moneywise Wealth Management
Contact Info
linkedin.com/in/jleland
Websites
Phone: 661-847-1000
Address: 8700 Stockdale Hwy. Bakersfield, CA 93311
Email: Justin@moneywiseguys.com
Twitter: BTownFinance
Show Notes:
https://401kspecialistmag.com/dol-issues-strong-erisa-401k-esg-fiduciary-stance/
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 037
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Chris Leone from Hall Ambulance Manager, (Hall Critical Care Transport)
Show Notes:
https://hallamb.com/
In March 2009 they opened a new front-line facility, Bakersfield Jet Center which includes a 3.5-acre aircraft parking ramp as well as state-of-the-art customer facilities.
Bakersfield Jet Center by Loyd’s Aviation is the only full-service Fixed Base Operation (FBO) at Meadows Field in Bakersfield, California. They were founded in 1958 and have built a for the best service in the region.
Airplanes are like time machines. They allow you to do so much more in your work day with a bigger market.
MORE ABOUT BAKERSFIELD JET CENTER + LOYD'S AVIATION:
Website: www.loydsaviation.com
Email: info@loydsaviation.com
Phone: 661-393-1334
Instagram: @bakersfieldjetcenter
Facebook: BakersfieldJetCenter
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 035
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Danny Hill, Rewind 98.1 FM
http://rewind981.com
Email: Dannyhill@rewind981.com
Call: 1-877-516-9981
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 034
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Attorney, Kyle Jones
Show Notes:
@lawofficekylejones
www.kwjoneslaw.com/
661-833-1090
Kylejones@kwjoneslaw.com
www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-uninsured-motorists
www.iii.org/automobile-financial-responsibility-laws-by-state
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 033
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Cloud 9 Coffee Company (Morgan Bonn)
Show Notes:
https://cloud9coffeeco.com/
@cloud9coffeeco
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 032
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Assemblyman Vince Fong
Meet Vince Fong:
I was born and raised right here in Bakersfield and will be the first to tell you that Kern County is an amazing place to live and work. We are a proud community of faith, family and patriotism, and I am committed to fighting for our way of life.
My grandfather started with nothing and worked day in and day out to build a life for his family. My father is a local pharmacist, who always stressed the importance of helping others and giving back. It was through these strong role models that I learned the values of hard work and personal responsibility. They did not rely on the government but rather on personal initiative, and always reminded us kids of how lucky we were to live and grow up in America with the opportunities it provided.
Unfortunately, today, the American Dream has become less and less attainable for good, honest, hardworking Californians who just want to better the lives of their families. I have worked for years on the issues facing the Central Valley and have watched as decisions are made that threaten our way of life. Whether it is halting energy production, drying up water supplies or moving forward with ridiculous projects like the bullet train that wastes taxpayer money, Sacramento simply does not have our best interests in mind.
That’s why now more than ever we need to send problem solvers to Sacramento. I ran for the State Assembly on the promise that I would be a strong advocate for the Central Valley and our values. As your Assemblyman for the last two years, I fought for lower taxes and limited government, and will work to ensure that our kids receive the education they deserve and that small businesses have the room needed to grow and create jobs.
I am proud to call Kern County home and want to make sure all Californians have an opportunity to get ahead — but I can’t do it alone. I hope you’ll join me in fighting for our way of life.
**Vince** **Fong -****(R) California**
State Assembly member - California Assembly District 34
State District
4550 California Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Phone: (661) 395-2995 Fax: (661) 395-3883
**State Capitol**
1303 Tenth Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 319-2034 Fax: (916) 319-2134
* vince@vincefong.com
Links
http://twitter.com/vfong
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 031
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Doug Gosling is a local Bakersfield attorney who specializes in water law, contract and real estate law. Growing up in Bakersfield Doug worked on local Dairy farms and developed a deep appreciation for farmers and the struggles they face in the State of California concerning their water rights.
www.braungosling.com
(661) 663-8300
Water Law
Surface and Groundwater rights
Water Quality
Land Use
Special Districts/Public Agency
Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA)
Environmental review/Oil & Water
Business and Commercial Litigation
Natural Resources
Real Property
State and Federal Regulatory Compliance and related Actions
Eminent Domain/Inverse Condemnation
Construction Defects
Agribusiness Litigation
Lease/Solar Transactions and Litigation
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 030
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week:
Shelley Wyrick – Wyrick and Assocaites Real Estate
Ready to talk?
Wyrick & Associates Real Estate
1620 Mill Rock Way #100
Bakersfield CA 93311
661-444-5330
Website: www.wyrickrealestate.com
Email: wyrickrealestate@icloud.com
Social
Facebook @Shelleywyrickrealtor
Insta: @wyrickrealestate
Kris gives us some tips on how to prepare our household so that we do not become victims of bad economic environments when our emotions can run high.
MORE ABOUT KRIS PELSTER:
Website: www.MoneywiseGuys.com
Email: Kris@moneywiseguys.com
Phone: 661-847-1000
Someone once said "Anything is possible if you work hard enough to achieve it...." No one embodies that statement more than KC Mitchell. Team OTC sat down with him to learn more about his incredible story.
From his history as a veteran of the US military, to the things he has accomplished in powerlifting, KC has beat the odds in more ways than you can count. Not only is he a competitive powerlifter, which is hard enough with all of your limbs, but he is the FIRST AMPUTEE IN THE WORLD to compete in and complete a full USPA Powerlifting Meet.
MORE ABOUT KC MITCHELL:
Website: www.risinglabsco.com
Instagram: @That1legmonster
Facebook: That1LegMonster
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 027
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Troy Burden, Insurance Specialist with The Lynn Company talks about: COVID-19 impact on insurance premiums and plan modifications carriers have put in place.
www.lynncompany.com/contact/troy_burden.aspx
(661) 360-1721
Interview: Dr. Hemmal Kothary, Chief Medical Officer for Dignity Health Central CA Division
Show Notes:
Dignity Health Medical Group - Bakersfield is a medical group that offers many services, including family medicine, internal medicine, and primary care. Visit Dignity Health Medical Group - Bakersfield located at 9500 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA. This Bakersfield medical group is one of the best in California. As part of the Dignity Health network, Dignity Health Medical Group - Bakersfield is dedicated to delivering high quality, compassionate care and access to Bakersfield and nearby communities.
www.dignityhealth.org
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources dignityhealth.org/coronavirus-disease
Additional information and resources
remdesivir-and-why-is-it-promising-for-covid19-treatment
www.dignityhealth.org/memorial-hospital
www.dignityhealth.org/mercy-bakersfield
https://kernpublichealth.com/2019-novel-coronavirus/
* Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
California State Health Department
Addressing the Crisis of Violence During COVID-19
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 026
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: CPA, John Duffield discusses the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
(661) 827-5221
Interview: Local seasoned politician and Kern County Supervisor, David Couch
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 025
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Shelley Wyrick and Kyle Jones have a great discussion with local doctor, Nimisha Amin, about COVID-19
Show Notes:
@namin\_md
https://swpediatrics.com/Home
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 024
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Legal Expert Kyle Jones discusses alternatives to Bankruptcy with local attorney Joseph Pearl
Interview: Daniel Betts, Comedian
Show Notes:
Law Office of Joseph Pearl:
Law Office of Joseph Pearl (661) 281-0253
Daniel Betts Comedy:
www.danielbettscomedy.com
Facebook Daniel Betts Comedy
@michaelissac
@cheetosantino
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 023
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Scott Hanson of Level One Financial on mortgage regulation during COVID19
https://levelonefinancial.com
(661) 464-8000
Scott@LevelOneFinancial.com
Interview: Christie Ludwick of Vibe Stitch
Instagram: @christiee_diane + @vibestitch
Show Notes:
Article about Chase now requiring more down payment
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 022
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Shelley Wyrick, Wyrick & Associates Real Estate on How COVID-19 has impacted the housing market and what the experts are saying about the industry’s future
www.wyrickrealestate.com
(661) 444-5330
Interview: Sarena Hess, Personal Development and Confidence Coach for Women
IG: @SarenaHess
https://sarenahess.com/podcast/
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 021
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Legal Expert, Kyle Jones and Insurance Specialist, Troy Burden interview Ken Keller with Dignity Health, President and CEO of Bakersfield Memorial Hospital. Ken shares the impact of the COVID-19 has had on the hospital system locally and how they have responded to this critical time for care
California State Health Department
Here are a few additional actions you can take to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Practice social distancing, by avoiding crowds and remaining 6 feet apart from each other while in public places.
For this week's episode of Our Two Cents Podcast, we've invited two guests along for the ride: Garro Ellis with The Moneywise Guys and local influencer and all around ray of sunshine for our community, Keri Lynn Kehoe.
Garro provided all of us some relevant investment strategies that can be applied in these unpredictable COVID times and invites anyone interested in further guidance or portfolio review to reach out to their offices directly.
Keri on the other hand comes to us with valuable insight into gaining a large following on social media (Instagram especially) and managing that platform in a way that is consistently positive and value driven despite all of the toxicity seemingly running rampant during these challenging times.
MORE ABOUT GARRO ELLIS + MONEYWISE:
Website: www.moneywiseguys.com
Email: Garro@moneywiseguys.com
Phone: 661-847-1000
Facebook: Moneywise
MORE ABOUT KERI LYNN KEHOE:
Email: officialkerilynnkehoe@gmail.com
Facebook: CaliCoastKeri
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 019
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Tax Expert, John Duffield, CPA/MST discusses the 2.2 trillion dollar relief package + what those tax ramifications mean for you.
(661) 827-5221
www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
Interview: Avery Andrew, Owner of Avery's Appetite
averysappetite@gmail.com
IG: @averysappetite
phone: 661-912-4354
Show notes:
Luigi’s Restaurant https://www.shopluigis.com/
Sweet Surrender https://www.sweetsurrenderbakery.com/
Louisiana Culinary Institute https://www.lci.edu/
Louisiana State University https://www.lsu.edu/
Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/
PeopleMap https://www.peoplemap.co/
Planoly https://www.planoly.com/
@averysappetite
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 018
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Insurance Expert, Troy Burden discusses Employers need to take out the candy and soda pop machines and replace them with healthy alternatives.
(661) 360-1721
Interview: Jessica Johnson, Hicks Pension Services on if you are aware of the CalSavers mandate that will impact all California employers with five or more employees?
(559) 779-8357
http://hicksfresno.com/
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 017
“Since the recording and posting of this episode the IRS has extended the filing deadline to July 15, 2020”.
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Interview: Dr. W. Gifford-Jones, M.D.
Dr. W. Gifford-Jones, M.D. is a graduate of the University of Toronto and the Harvard Medical School. He trained in general surgery at the Strong Memorial Hospital, University of Rochester, Montreal General Hospital, McGill University and in gynecology at Harvard. He has also been a general practitioner, ship’s surgeon and hotel doctor. His weekly medical column is published by 70 Canadian newspapers and 12 in the U.S. He is the author of 10 books.
contact-us@docgiff.com or docgiff@sympatico.ca
www.docgiff.com
Episode #016 takes Team OTC and you, our audience on an eye-opening journey through one black man's deprived childhood in inner-city Birmingham to becoming one of the nation's most famous farmers. Through stories of survival and mistakes, he demonstrates how we can all go further in life by learning to escape the fears that stop us from achieving our ambitions.
he interview ends with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones challenging all of us with this simple question: ----> What could you achieve, if you decided to stop letting fear hold you back?
MORE ABOUT WILFRED EMMANUEL-JONES:
Website: www.theblackfarmer.com
Twitter: @theblackfarmer
Find his book here: Jeopardy
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 015
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Law Expert, Kyle Jones discusses updating trusts, etc.
www.KWJonesLaw.com
(661) 833-1090
Interview: Dr. Hugh Beatty, M.D., "The Wellness Doc"
(661) 395-0315
www.hughbeattymd.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 014
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Investing Expert, Scott Hanson goes on a refinancing rant
https://levelonefinancial.com/
Interview: Bret Sill, Morning Star Fresh
(661) 900-8469
www.morningstarfresh.org
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 013
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Financial Expert, Sherod Waite of the Moneywise Guys discusses financial stress
www.MoneywiseGuys.com
Interview: Michael Hawkesworth, Local businessman talks about his journey with business, real estate and life
Shared notes:
https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Deluxe-Complete/dp/1585426598/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3SXBAPQY41GGP&dchild=1&keywords=think+and+grow+rich+napoleon+hill&qid=1584064451&sprefix=think+and+grow+rich+%2Caps%2C225&sr=8-4
https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Driven-Life-Rick-Warren/dp/0310205719/ref=sr_1_2?crid=R8FPRVJ3O383&dchild=1&keywords=the+purpose+driven+life+rick+warren&qid=1584064492&sprefix=the+purpose+driven+life+%2Caps%2C210&sr=8-2
https://www.amazon.com/Success-Your-Own-Damn-Fault/dp/1722502290/ref=sr_1_2?crid=264J70LRNUKGK&dchild=1&keywords=success+is+your+own+damn+fault&qid=1584064521&sprefix=your+success+is+your+damn+%2Caps%2C220&sr=8-2
Chad Hathaway, born with an entrepreneurial spirit and the drive to do something with it founded Hathaway, LLC in 2001 and he takes us from his first experiences in the industry at age 7 to present - a well respected leader, named Hathaway LLC was named the fastest growing privately owned company in Kern County by Inc. Magazine in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and was named the TEEMCO 2013 West Coast E&P Company of the Year.
Chad is also the co-founder of Kern Citizens for Sustainable Government and the Kern County Energy Foundation. And yes, he also currently serves on the Board of California Independent Petroleum Association.
MORE ABOUT CHAD HATHAWAY:
Website: www.hathawayllc.com
Email: chathaway@hathawayllc.com
MORE ABOUT TROY BURDEN:
Website: www.lynncompany.com/contact/troy_burden
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 011
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Real Estate Expert, Shelley Wyrick discusses Trustee’s sale auctions and what investors need to be cautious of and fully consider
www.wyrickrealestate.com
Interview: Appraiser, Steve Magar discusses the value of owned solar
https://kernvalpro.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 010
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Legal Expert, Kyle Jones on Life Insurance policies and Living Trusts
www.KWJonesLaw.com
Interview: Derek Jeffery, Vice President/General Manager of KGET-TV 17 News
www.KGET.com
(661) 283-1700
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 009
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Financial Expert, David Anderson of Moneywise Wealth Management
www.MoneywiseGuys.com
Interview: Jim Damian, Founder/CEO of Stria Inc.
www.stria.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 008
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Insurance Specialist, Troy Burden with The Lynn Company talks about the need for life insurance + how much you need
www.lynncompany.com/contact/troy_burden
Interview: Stephanie Verrel, Dignity Health Medical Group
https://services.dignityhealth.org/mercy-hospital-downtown-bakersfield/general-hospital/#~O7V4W32
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 007
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Experts Kyle Jones and John Duffield on California Corporations and LLC’s
www.kwjoneslaw.com
www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
Interview: Michelle August, Studio Manager at Orangetheory-Bakersfield
https://bakersfield.orangetheoryfitness.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 006
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Have you thought about investing in Real Estate but lacked the necessary capital? Investing in Real Estate with Scott Hanson.
https://levelonefinancial.com
Interview: Chris Wilson, Chairman of the TigerFight Foundation
https://www.tigerfight.org
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 005
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Has anyone ever said to you that I'm afraid of making more money and enter a higher tax bracket?
www.bakersfieldaccountants.com
Interview: Steve Holloway, Owner of Steve Holloway Painting
www.stevehollowaypainters.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 004
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Legal Expert, Kyle Jones on Estate Planning
www.kwjoneslaw.com
Interview: Local Attorney + Businessman, David Bynum
www.bynumandwells.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 003
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Insurance Specialist, Troy Burden with The Lynn Company talks about if employers have to offer health insurance or not
www.lynncompany.com
Interview: Marketing Extraordinaire, Dave Plivelich, The Marcom Group
www.themarcomgroup.com
Our Two Cents Podcast
Episode 002
https://ourtwocentspodcast.com
Tip of the Week: Real Estate Expert, Shelley Wyrick tells us what we need to do and not do before listing our home for sale
www.wyrickrealestate.com
Interview: Todd Gall, Owner of Surf Thru Express Car Wash
www.surfthruexpress.com
Welcome to Episode #1 of Our Two Cents Podcast!!! We are thrilled to kick this journey off with the local leadership of NAWBO, National Association of Women Business Owners!!
We have NAWBO’s current President, Allie Anderson along with the President-Elect, Amanda DiGiacomo with us, paving the way for women business owners throughout Central California.
MORE ABOUT NAWBO:
Website: www.nawbo.org/bakersfield
Phone: 800-556-2926
Facebook: NAWBO
Instagram: @NAWBO