Farm Talk with Paul Ward

Music, History & Magic: The Story of Tiny Porch Concerts at Peter Strauss Ranch

In this exciting episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, we meet Mike Corridori, the visionary behind Tiny Porch Concerts. Mike shares the fascinating history of Peter Strauss Ranch, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, where the concerts take place. From its roaring '20s past, to becoming an amusement park with animals, to finally becoming an iconic music venue, this ranch is full of stories. Mike also recounts the 2019 Wolsey Fire that impacted the area and how Tiny Porch Concerts rose from these challenges.

Mike explains how the concerts started in 2016 and evolved, overcoming the challenge of keeping the events free, intimate, and magical. He describes the variety of music that fills the ranch, highlights memorable performances like Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes, and shares how Nashville bands have become a staple in the lineup. Listeners will also learn how to make the most of their Tiny Porch experience, from bringing picnics and pets to supporting the concerts through donations to the Santa Monica Mountain Fund and/or becoming a sponsor.

 

Watch the full episode HERE:

 

0:00 Paul Ward introduces our guest, Mike Corridori of Tiny Porches Concerts

1:03 Mike Corridori gives us an awesome description of where Peter Strauss Ranch, where the Tiny Porch Concerts are held, is located

2:07 We learn the exciting history of Peter Strauss Ranch, how it ties to the Indy 500, and paints a beautiful picture of what the ranch looked like in the 1920s

4:20 Find out what happened to the ranch after the Roaring Twenties to include an amusement park, a pool and animals.

5:56 Mike Corridori tells us how Peter Strauss, an actor, became owner of the ranch

6:38 Peter Strauss donated the ranch to The National Park Service, who owns and operated the ranch now

7:02 The Wolsey Fire of 2019 destroyed portions of the ranch and the surrounding area  according to Mike Corridori 

7:54 We learn how Tiny Porches came about

9:16 Mike Corridori shares how he came up with ideas to overcome the request by The National Park Service for the concerts to be free

10:04 From the first concert in 2016 to now, Mike describes the evolution of Tiny Porches and how they find bands to play there

11:52 Learn about the type of music typically played, a few artists that have played, and how the setting makes Tiny Porches so magical

13:55 A story about when Taylor Goldsmith, of Dawes, performed at Tiny porches

15:03 Keeping Tiny Porches intimate and free is paramount for Mike Corridori’s vision

16:08 Find out what the future holds for Tiny Porches and how Mike Corridori hopes to keep improving on the overall experience 

18:24 How to learn more about Tiny Porches: www.tinyporchesconcerts.com, social media, and contacting Mike directly from the website and he will offer help in anyway he can

19:20 You can bring your own food and drink, including beer and wine, and make a picnic out of your concert experience

20:18 Why Nashville bands are attractive to Mike Corridori and how many concerts are in the Tiny Porch Series each year.

22:11 Where exactly The Peter Strauss Ranch is located.

22:47 Tiny Porches is a 501c3 and proceeds go to The Santa Monica Mountain Fund

23:36 A little more about the vibe of a Tiny Porches Concert, including the ability to bring your dog!

24:37 A little about the sponsors of Tiny Porches and they are always looking for more sponsors to keep the concerts going and enhance the experience

26:07 Thank you to our sponsor, Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
Wings, Wrenches and Wise Cracks
Sage Brews: A Female-Owned Organic Brewery

 

For More Information on The Tiny Porches Concert Series:
www.tinyporchesconcerts.com 

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

One Vet at a Time: Inside the Vince Street Veterans House with Angel Echeverria

In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, Paul sits down with Angel Echeverria from The Vince Street Veterans House to discuss the vital work being done to support military veterans in need of temporary housing. Established in 2016, the Vince Street Veterans House serves male veterans, providing them with a safe, supportive environment while they transition to permanent housing. Angel delves into the house's capacity, the personalized approach they take with each veteran, and how they maintain harmony among residents. The conversation also covers the various forms of support the veterans receive, from job assistance to managing PTSD, as well as the role of organizations like the VA and The American Legion in funding these efforts. Angel shares inspiring success stories, and we hear from a current resident who is finding a new beginning at the house. The episode concludes with insights into the daily life of the veterans, upcoming programs, and how people can connect with The Vince Street Veterans House to get involved or seek help.

 

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to On the Road with Paul Ward and our special guest, Angel Echeverria with The Vince Street Veterans House

0:32 We learn what The Vince Street Veteran’s House is and it’s mission to help military veterans

1:01 Established in 2016, Angel Echeverria tells us who the Transitional House serves and that they house male veterans who need temporary housing

1:26 Learn how many veterans can be housed at a time

1:54 The veterans seeking help are looked at on a case-by-case basis

2:26 Vince Street Veterans House has a slogan: One vet at a time

2:34 How the veterans are assisted within the house and how harmony is maintained amongst them

5:31 Angel tells us what happens if the time limit of a veteran’s stay is reached, what employment looks like for the veterans and if PTSD plays a part in their transition out of the house

8:22 Statistics on the national suicide rate for veterans

10:22 Angel shares a success story of a teacher that ended up at The Vince Street Vet House

11:13 A day in the life of a veteran in house and special events that are hosted

13:33 Being completely clean and sober is not necessary to live in the house, but the veterans are prohibited from partaking in their activities in the house

14:56 The origins of The Vince Street House and it is part of The Turning Point Foundation

16:46 Financial support for the Vet House is provided by the VA (Veterans Affairs), The American Legion, Food Share and other organizations

17:45 Examples of other programs The Vince Vet House is working to implement to help veterans while in the program and after their stay in the housing

20:33 Richard Eskin, a veteran at the house, shares his story with Paul

24:33 Angel Echeverria is back in the interview seat and tells us about other activities that are happening in surrounding areas in Ventura, CA

25:41 Veterans have benefits that help provide income for each of them

26:42 How to get in touch with The Vince Vet House and The Turning Point Foundation

27:41 Surprisingly, most of the residents at the house are from places outside of California

28:19 A special thank you to our sponsor: Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
Breaking Barriers: Inside the Wellness Center
Growth Beyond Challenges: Cultivating Wellness at Growing Works

 

Contact The Vince Street Vet House: 
turningpointfoundation.org
1736 S Lewis Rd, Camarillo, Ca 93012
(805) 586-9900

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004 paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! On the Road with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures On the Road can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Ventura County Real Estate: Skyrocketed Prices and Surprising Trends

In this episode of "On the Road with Paul Ward," Paul delves into the Ventura County Real Estate Market and its pricing trends over the past few years. He starts by presenting staggering statistics about the average cost of housing in Ventura County. Paul then discusses interest rates and compares the price per square foot of homes in Oxnard (Ventura County) versus Marina Del Rey (LA County). He offers insights into why people have been moving to Ventura County recently. Referencing an economic report from Cal Lutheran University and charts from an article in The VC Star, Paul provides data on GDP growth, the salary-to-rent ratio, and population growth. He also reveals where people are relocating when they leave Ventura County and shares his experiences about why many are moving to Ventura County from LA County. Lastly, Paul discusses the number of new homes built in Ventura County over the past year and how these factors are contributing to the persistently high housing prices in the area.

 

Watch the full episode HERE:

 

0:00 Introduction of topic: The Ventura County Real Estate Market and Pricing over the last few years

0:05 Paul gives us some staggering statistics about the average cost of housing in Ventura County

1:07 Paul discusses interest rates and compares the price per square foot of a home in Oxnard (Ventura County) vs. Marina Del Rey (LA County)

2:38 Some of Paul’s thoughts on why people moved to Ventura County during the last few years

4:23 Cal Lutheran University is referenced for the economic report for Ventura County and provides charts from an article in The VC Star for GDP Growth, The Salary to Rent Ratio and Population Growth

6:20 Find out where people are moving when they leave Ventura County

6:51 Based on his experience, Paul shares that people moving TO Ventura County are coming from LA County and shares his thoughts as to why

7:53 We learn about the number of new homes being built in Ventura County over the last year or so and how all these factors are contributing to the housing prices still being so high in Ventura County

9:19 A special thank you to our sponsor: Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
Construction Your Home Buying Path
Appraisal Anomalies: Situations You Never Saw Coming

 

How to reach Paul:
paul@homeandranchteam.com
805-479-5004 

 

Check out our featured listings as well as other properties for sale in the area:
Homeandranchteam.com 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Highway to Heaven with Beth Pratt and P-22, The Wildlife Crossing in Agoura Hills

In this special episode of Farm Talk, sponsored by petrx.com, we delve into an extraordinary wildlife conservation project with our esteemed guest, Beth Pratt, the California Regional Director of the National Wildlife Federation. Join us as we explore the groundbreaking animal crossing over highway 101 near Agoura Hills CA.  Beth shares the inspiring story of her "BFF" and the world-famous mountain lion, P-22, whose journey highlighted the dangers of highway crossings for wildlife. Discover how freeways not only pose fatal risks to animals but also genetically isolate them, threatening their survival. From the project's inception in the late 2000s to Beth's involvement in 2012, learn about the collaboration between the National Park Service, Caltrans, Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, and the National Wildlife Federation. Beth recounts overcoming skepticism, the challenges of building in a difficult location, and the impressive dimensions of the crossing. Hear about the vital role P-22 and other wildlife play in this project, the research and fundraising efforts, and the significant contributions from figures like Wallis Annenberg and Leonardo DiCaprio. Discover the local support from Agoura Hills, the Save the L.A. Cougars campaign, and the community’s enthusiasm, including spectator interest during construction. Learn about volunteer programs and how you can stay informed via their online platforms. Join us for an inspiring journey into wildlife conservation and the heroic efforts to save California’s mountain lions. Special thanks to our sponsor, petrx.com!

GET  20% OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER WITH PETRX.COM WITH THE COUPON CODE: FARMTALK20

Watch the Full Episode HERE

What you will learn in this episode:

0:00 This is a special episode of Farm Talk that is sponsored by PETRX.com (See above for 20% off your first order with petrx.com)

0:33 Introduction of our episode guest, the California Regional Director of the National Wildlife Federation, Beth Pratt and our topic: The animal crossing over highway 101 in The Santa Monica Mountains.

1:10 Beth Pratt tells us the story of who her, self-proclaimed, “BFF,” and world famous mountain lion, P-22

1:37 Paul explains the problem with animal deaths because of trying to cross major highways

2:36 Beth Pratt describes the beauty of the LA area and its surroundings and how P-22 brought attention to the fact that not only are the freeways in these areas causing animals to be killed by vehicles when the animals are trying to cross, but that the freeways are genetically isolating the animals and causing them risk of extinction

6:08 The history of this project is explained by Beth Pratt starting from its infancy in the late 2000’s to when she got involved in 2012.

8:25 The core group collaborating on this project has been The National Park Service, Caltrans, Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, and then Beth’s group, the National Wildlife Federation

10:02 Beth Pratt shares how in the beginning there was a lot of skepticism about the project and some of things that they had to overcome to get the project started

11:13 This crossing was built in the one of the most difficult places it could be built

12:01 The dimensions of the crossing are shared by Beth

12:50 Beth Pratt shares how P-22 and mountain lions are most at risk of extinction and the reasons why

14:27 Other wildlife and how they are impacted by the building of the crossing

15:48 From inception to now, Beth talks about the research, grants, etc

16:39 Funding for this project has come from both government grants and private donations, which The National Wildlife Federation worked hard at fundraising for.

18:07 More about mountain lions, the territories, the number in the Santa Monica Mountain area and the importance of this crossing for their genetic exchange

19:17 The crossing is named the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Corridor because Wallis Annenberg was the largest donator at 25 Million, and other big names, like Leonardo DiCaprio, join in by donating

21:52 California Governor, Gavin Newosme’s involvement

23:13 P-22 gave this project a story to share the importance of it being completed and Beth Pratt explains P-22’s almost impossible journey with crossing the highway numerous times

26:55 California is looking at building other animal crossings, possible in the Bay Area

28:08 Local support and Beth Pratt praises the city of Agoura Hills and surrounding areas for their support and the Save the L.A. Cougars campaign which was started in 2014

31:09 There have even been spectators during the construction of this crossing and what to expect if you were to come watch for animals actually crossing the bridge and the cameras set up to share as well

33:24 The volunteers, the docent programs, and the training involved for the volunteers to work the docent program

36:22 How to learn more via their websites and Facebook and Instagram

37:19 Thank you to our special sponsor: petrx.com

 

Related Episodes:

Viral Vet Tales: Unveiling Holistic Animal Care with Dr. Rhiannon Fenton

Hear what all the buzz is about in Camarillo with commercial beekeeper Larry Pender

 

Learn More Here:
savelacougars.org
101wildlifecrossing.org

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, Petrx.com! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Petrx.com. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

 

Rethink, Refresh, Rebrand

Hey friends, it's Paul Ward here, and I just wanna let you know that we are rebranding our podcast. It's now called On the Road with Paul Ward. We'll be featuring stories about healthy living, culture, and community. And don't worry, about once a month, we'll still be doing a Farm Talk episode focused on the food we eat and the people who grow it. We hope you like the new format and the expanded focus. Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay connected and join us on this journey!

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! On the Road with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures On the Road with Paul Ward can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Celebrating Mental Wellness: Inside Ventura County's Festival with Josh Carsman

In this episode of "On the Road with Paul Ward," Paul welcomes Josh Carsman, Director of the Mental Wellness Festival of Ventura County presented by the Turning Point Foundation. Josh shares that this is the second annual festival, set to take place on the grass lawn at Ventura County Harbor Village. He discusses the festival's vision and explains the role of the Turning Point Foundation, detailing its various programs and wellness centers. Josh highlights additional services offered by Turning Point, including a Veteran House. Listeners learn what to expect at the festival, including resources for those in need, participation from the Ronald McDonald House, Camp Good Time, and Ventura County Behavioral Health. Josh emphasizes the significance of these collaborations and provides guidance on seeking help even if one cannot attend the festival.

 

Watch the full episode HERE:

What you will learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to On the Road with Paul Ward and introduction of our guest, Direct of the Mental Wellness Festival of Ventura County presented by Turning Point, Josh Carsman

0:50 Josh Carsman tells us that this is the Second Annual Festival and will be held on the grass lawn at Ventura County Harbor Village

1:51 Find out about the whole vision of the Festival

2:33 What is The Turning Point Foundation that spearheads the Festival?

2:59 Find out what the Turning Point programs encompass

3:16 What is a wellness center?

4:33 Josh tells us about a Veteran House and other programs that Turning Point also offers

5:44 What can folks expect to see at the Wellness Festival and more about its participants

8:28 Anyone that needs help or has someone in their life that may need help can find resources at the Wellness Festival

9:00 The Ronald McDonald House and Camp Good Time will be present at the festival

10:13 Also included is Ventura County Behavioral Health. Josh tells us the importance of their work in conjunction with Turning Point

11:13 Find out how to seek help if you cannot attend the festival itself. 

12:41 Thank you to our Sponsor, Opus Escrow

Related Episodes:

Breaking Barriers: Inside the Wellness Center

Growth Beyond Challenges: Cultivating Mental Health

Mental Wellness Festival of Ventura County:
Mental Wellness Festival Ventura Event June 1st 2024
turningpointfoundation.org
1736 S Lewis Rd, Camarillo, Ca 93012
(805) 586-9900

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Breaking Barriers: Inside The Wellness Center

In this episode of On the Road, we welcome Tyler Nash, Program Manager of The Wellness Center in Oxnard, California. Tyler introduces us to the center's mission of providing accessible mental health services to individuals in Ventura County, particularly those who might otherwise be underserved. He explains how people find their way to The Wellness Center, emphasizing that neither insurance nor money is required to receive support. The center refers to its clients as "Members," who have the autonomy to choose how they spend their time within the clubhouse environment. The staff, known as "Peer Support Specialists," play a crucial role in supporting Members, bringing the benefit of lived experience to their interactions.

Tyler shares that while some individuals stay for a short time, others may engage with the center's services for years. Collaborations with other entities are key to helping Members reintegrate into society effectively. He delves into the origins and uniqueness of The Wellness Center concept and its connection to the peer movement at Turning Point. The center prides itself on being a judgment-free zone, which stands in contrast to the outside world.

Additionally, Tyler highlights the center's mobile services, the dynamic interaction between Members and staff, and the rigorous training involved to become a Peer Support Specialist, including WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) classes. He discusses the uniqueness of The Wellness Center as a walk-in facility in Ventura County, sustained by funding from Ventura County Behavioral Health, ensuring all services remain free for Members. Through this engaging conversation, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the vital role The Wellness Center plays in the community.

 

Watch the full episode HERE

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to On the Road and introduction of our guest, Tyler Nash, Program Manager of The Wellness Center

0:32 The mission of The Oxnard Wellness Center is to create a space for people to receive mental health services who may not be reached in Ventura County

1:19 Find out how individuals end up at The Wellness Center

1:59 We learn that you do not need insurance or even money to receive services 

2:41 “Members,” as The Wellness Center refers to individuals receiving services, get to choose how they spend their time in the clubhouse setting

3:28 Tyler tells us that the staff is called, “Peer Support Specialists,” and tells us the benefits of having them support those currently being serviced.

5:15 Some people only stay for a short period of time, others receive services for years at The Wellness Center

5:43 How collaborations with other entities happen to ensure Members can get on track to functioning in society

7:55 The idea of The Wellness Center: Is it a new concept and how did it come together in the beginning?

9:36 Tyler tells us more about the unique value that the peer movement at Turning Point and The Wellness Center

10:59 There is no judging at The Wellness Center, which is no always the case in the outside world

11:38 A mobile version of The Wellness Center

12:43 The interaction between the members and the people that work at The Wellness Center and the training and certification involved to become a Peer Support Specialist including the WRAP classes

17:36 Is The Wellness Center and a walk-in facility something unique to Ventura County

18:08 Funding from Ventura County Behavioral Health and how it keeps it free for members and the type of individuals that come to the center

19:49 A special thank you to our sponsor, Opus escrow

 

Related Episodes:

Growth Beyond Challenges: Cultivating Wellness at Growing Works

Unveiling Humanity Through Compassion, Hope & a Costume

A Recovery Oasis at Nate’s Place

The Wellness Center:
turningpointfoundation.org
Next To Public Health - Center Point Mall
2697 Saviers Rd.
Oxnard, CA 93033
805-653-5045

 

The Turning Point Foundation:
1736 S Lewis Rd, Camarillo, CA 93012
(805) 586-9900

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Racing Through Community Spirit: The Legacy of The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet

In this episode of "15 Minutes with Paul Ward," we delve into the heart of community spirit with special guest Dave Drumright, a prominent figure in The Camarillo Rotary and the longstanding chairman of a local gem: The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet. Dave takes us on a journey through time, recounting the rich history of this cherished event that has graced the community for decades. From its humble beginnings to its current stature, we uncover the essence of what makes this meet so special. Dave shares insights into the intricacies of managing such an event, from the diverse range of participants to the array of activities available. We explore the event, welcoming kids in grades 4th - 8th from various local schools, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact it has on the children involved. As Dave walks us through the bustling atmosphere of the meet, we get a taste of the excitement and camaraderie that fills the air. From thrilling competitions to heartwarming moments, every aspect is meticulously orchestrated by Dave and his dedicated team of volunteers. We learn about the meticulous record-keeping dating back to the inaugural event in 1960 and the tradition of awarding trophies and ribbons to deserving participants. And amidst the hustle and bustle, Dave reveals the behind-the-scenes magic of managing volunteers and navigating the inevitable downtime. So join us as we uncover the magic of The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet and the extraordinary community spirit that brings it to life.

Watch the full episode HERE:

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Introduction of this week’s guest: Dave Drumright of The Camarillo Rotary and the Chairman of a local and unique track meet

0:47 Dave Drumright tells us the history of 

1:27 Find out what the event is called, “The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet”

2:03 Dave has been the chairman of The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet for 14 Years 

2:14 Who is involved in the event, what types of things are available at the event

3:13 What ages of kids can participate and what local schools participate

3:57 We learn the more about the children that are involved in the event

4:50 The activities at the Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet

7:05 Date of the 2024 Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet

7:48 All the event records have been kept since the inaugural event in 1960, trophies and ribbons are awarded as well

8:45 Dave Drumright also manages all the volunteers

9:21 Hurry Up and Wait! What happens during downtime

10:08 A special Thank You to our sponsor: Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:

Pathfinders: Cultivating Good Leaders Through the Scouting Journey

Reel Guppy Adventures: Nurturing Nature, Inspiring Youth

Harvesting Futures in Agricultural Education

2024 Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet:
Camarillo Rotary Foundation
Adolfo Camarillo High School
4660 Mission Oaks Blvd.
Camarillo, CA  93012

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Growth Beyond Challenges: Cultivating Wellness at Growing Works

In this episode of Farm Talk, we're joined by Jenn Rodriguez, the program manager of Growing Works. Jenn kicks off the show by introducing us to Growing Works and its profound connection to the mental health community. She delves into the diverse team behind Growing Works and illuminates the process of getting started with the program.

As our conversation progresses, Jenn sheds light on the immense benefits individuals with mental health challenges experience through their work at Growing Works. She shares touching stories about the individuals who thrive in this nurturing environment and how the program is tailored to their needs. We also learn about the program's operational details, including its schedule, funding, and partnerships with organizations like Ventura County Behavioral Health and Turning Point. Throughout the episode, Jenn highlights Growing Works' impactful festivals, workshops, and its role as a beacon of hope and empowerment in the community.

Watch the full episode HERE

What you’ll learn in this episode:
0:00 Welcome to the show and introduction of our guest, Jenn Rodriguez, program manager of Growing Works

0:35 Jenn Rodriguez tell us what Growing Works is and what the connection is to the mental health community

1:10 Who works at Growing Works and what getting started looks like

2:36 How those with mental health challenges are benefited by working at Growing Works

3:21 Jenn tells us more about the individuals who work at Growing Works

8:25 The days and hours of the program at Growing Works is based on the contract and funding provided by Ventura County Behavioral Health.

9:03 What is Competitive Employment?

10:21 Growing Works has 2 festivals a year: Their Spring Fling and A Fall Festival

11:11 Jenn digs deeper into describing how individuals get involved at Growing Works

13:07 How Growing Works manages their employees who struggle with mental health illness

15:51 The connection between Growing Works and Turning Point

16:30 Find out if the Growing Works employees live in a Turning Point facility or if they live on their own

18:08 Other activities Growing Works has throughout the year and when Growing Works is open to the public

19:06 Who leads the workshops?

19:35 The future of Growing Works

20:58 The awesome watering system Growing Works has on their site

21:48 Where Growing Works sells and some of the clients that they work with

23:12 Jenn tells us where Growing Works receives their funding

23:52 How can people get more involved and contact information and social media for Turning Point and Growing Works

24:44 The age of Growing Works

25:26 Where the idea of mental health patients working with plants originated and what Growing works grows

26:46 Growing Works as a resource for knowledge on water conservation and much more

27:22 An amazing success story shared by Jenn

30:13 A special thank you to our sponsor, Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
Unveiling Humanity Through Compassion, Hope & a Costume

A Recovery Oasis at Nate’s Place

Growing Works Nursery:
turningpointfoundation.org
1736 S Lewis Rd, Camarillo, Ca 93012
(805) 586-9900

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Community Compassion: Keller Williams’ Red Day and The Fisher House

In this episode of "15 Minutes with Paul Ward," we delve into the heart of community service and giving back with special guest Angelika Jedrasik from Keller Williams West Ventura County. Angelika shares insights into Red Day, a remarkable initiative by Keller Williams aimed at serving communities nationwide. She sheds light on this year's  local Keller Williams’ beneficiary, The Fisher House, explaining its vital role in providing free housing for families of veterans receiving medical care. As Angelika underscores the hyper-local nature of Keller Williams, she reveals how each office selects charities tailored to their communities' needs for Red Day. We gain a glimpse into the impactful endeavors planned by Ventura County’s Keller Williams Realtors for Red Day 2024. Furthermore, Angelika highlights essential donation items needed by The Fisher House, alongside convenient QR codes for direct contributions. The discussion turns poignant as the significance of supporting our military community and their families is emphasized. Paul and Angelika also share invaluable resources including websites for Red Day and The Fisher House, culminating in a map guiding viewers to locate Fisher Houses across the nation. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action and community support in making a difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

 

Watch the full episode HERE

 

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to the show and introduction of Keller Williams’ Angelika Jedrasik

0:38 Angelika describes Red Day

1:08 This year’s beneficiary for Red Day is The Fisher House, and Angelika tells us what the Fisher House is

2:18 Because Keller Williams is Hyper Local, each office can pick a charity to work with on Red Day that fits the needs of their individual communities

3:42 We learn what Ventura County Keller Williams realtors will be doing on Red Day 2024

4:24 Donation items needed by The Fisher House

5:04 QR Codes to donate directly

5:39 VA Hospitals are spread out and when the need arises for care, there is a strong need for places like The Fisher House to provide safe, comfortable and FREE housing for families

6:57 The need to help and give back to our Military Community and their families

8:19 Websites for Red Day and The Fisher House

8:49 A map of where to find a Fisher House

10:01 A special thank you to our sponsor: Opus Escrow

Related Episodes:

Unveiling Humanity Through Compassion, Hope and a Costume

A Recovery Oasis at Nate’s Place

VA Loans in Today’s Economy with Chris James

Learn more about Keller Williams Red Day:
RED Day — KWRI

The Fisher House Foundation:
Home - Fisher House Foundation

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.