Episode 59: Desert Dust and Dangerous Driving with Jordan Price

When life throws curveballs, some catch them with grace and transform them into a dance with destiny. That's certainly true for Junichi Kakutani, the remarkable librarian from Fremont's own Elementary School living with Spinal Cerebellar Ataxia. His story is represented in this episode, where he shares the early whispers of his rare condition and his undying passion for storytelling. The challenges to his mobility and speech have done little to deter Junichi's indomitable spirit. From conquering a Hawaiian marathon to his plans to ascend Mount Fuji, his resilience and proactive approach to life are the embodiment of inspiration.

Our conversation then transitions to an insider from the San Francisco film industry, whose journey from mastering English to refining their craft at the Academy of Art University exemplifies the power of perseverance. Junichi opens up about his personal battles, the dedication to the art of Kendo, and the communal love for Fremont and the echoes of silent films from yesteryear. The shared nostalgia for the cinematic arts binds our story threads together, painting a portrait of purpose and the relentless pursuit of dreams, even as life presents its unique challenges. Join us for these profound narratives that not only warm the heart but invigorate the soul in our quest for meaning amidst the ebbs and flows of existence.

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Diane Shaw, president of the Ohlone Humane Society. She shares the vivid patchwork of her life, stitched together with stories of post-college adventures, a fulfilling career, and a retirement that's anything but idle. Diane's story is a testament to the beauty of civic involvement, revealing a journey where even the smallest acts of volunteerism blossom into a richer experience of community connection.

As we spotlight the lifeline forged between humans and their cherished pets, our conversation illuminates the network of care that the Ohlone Humane Society extends to our feline friends through their innovative Trap Neuter Return program. Without a traditional shelter, their approach is as unique as the wildlife they protect, including a wildlife rehabilitation center tucked away in Newark. It's a heartening look into how dedicated fosters, volunteers, and the TNR team are pivotal in responsibly managing community cat populations and preserving our local ecosystem, weaving a narrative that intertwines with Fremont's own rich history.

Join us for an exploration of how engaging in the community can reshape not only the lives of countless animals but also our own. We talked about Diane's commitment to the Ohlone Humane Society and her multifaceted path to leadership. It's a conversation that champions the ripple effect of volunteering — how a single act can inspire continuous involvement, shaping both individual lives and the wider community. Discover the power of collective effort and the unexpected joys of uncovering hidden community gems with us.

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

Soccer isn't just a game; it's a tapestry of personal connections and life lessons, something Dai Redwood, Executive Director of the Fremont Youth Soccer Club, knows all too well. From kickabouts in Welsh gymnasiums to nurturing young talent in California, he joins us to share how the sport shapes identities and communities. Our conversation  starts with the pure joy of playing for the love of the game and evolves into the nuanced world of coaching, where patience and an athlete-centered approach triumph over the scoreboard's tyranny.

As we reminisce about the transition from youthful play to adult leagues, we uncover the cultural heartbeat of soccer that resonates through the personal development of each player. The stories span the globe, from the influence of supportive family and mentors to the role of soccer in different cultural contexts. It's a tale of both the sport's universality and its local flavors, of how it fosters communication skills, and of the shared passion that can ignite a lifelong love for the game, regardless of whether you call it "soccer" or "football."

We talk about the architecture of youth sports programs with a critical eye, challenging the early competitive labels that can overshadow the true spirit of the game. We advocate for a nurturing environment where children develop at their own pace, guided by coaches who value growth over glory. It's about cultivating a holistic approach to player development, one that looks beyond immediate results and nurtures the seeds of future success. Join us for an in-depth exploration of the power of soccer to not only develop athletes but to build character and community.

For more information, check out these links below:

Check out the website here.

Follow them on Facebook here.

Follow on Instagram here.

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

Embark on an artistic odyssey with Paul Tanompong, the visionary Thai-born 3D artist and co-founder of Props and Pops. Paul's narrative is a vibrant tapestry interweaving his personal evolution from an enthusiastic high school sculptor to a trailblazer in the 3D printing realm. His heartfelt stories of transforming artists' 2D dreams into tangible realities are imbued with the entrepreneurial zeal that has defined his journey. With a Bronx-style gangster shark among his eclectic creations, Paul's chronicle is a celebration of the joyous intersection of artistic expression and the power of sharing one's craft with the world.

Imagine a world where DIY electronics and garage hobbies merge seamlessly into successful business ventures—that's the world Paul's father envisioned and brought to life. Our conversation meanders through the homegrown roots of technology, from plywood computers to the meticulous crafting of toys, shedding light on how the DIY movement has reshaped the approach to creativity and entrepreneurship. As we traverse from a father's inventive past to Paul's contemporary musings on quality versus quantity in toy production, listeners garner insights into what it truly takes to breathe life into a concept, from inception to final product.

As the kaleidoscope of Paul's career continues to turn, the episode takes a deeper look into his graphic design and animation prowess, revealing an industry in flux and the ability to adapt as the key to longevity. We share a laugh over Paul's first graphic design gig at a mortuary, an unusual yet memorable foray into the field, and marvel at his dynamic switch to the video game industry. Lest we forget the pièce de résistance, we delve into the creation of Afronut Afro and the Herculean task of assembling a life-size Dunkleosteus skull—a testament to the boundless potential of imagination and hands-on creativity. Whether you're an artist, a dreamer, or an entrepreneur at heart, this episode promises a symphony of inspiration and practical wisdom.

To learn more about Props and Pop,

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

The guests in this episode  share their journey, from the solitary days in Fremont searching for mom friends to the laughter-filled nights that followed. Alongside the FUN (Fremont, Union City, Newark) Mothers Club's president, Darini, we explore the trials and triumphs of parenting, the personal growth that mirrors our community's development, and the sanctuary that support groups provide when the going gets tough.

But it's not all about the challenges; it's also about the joy that comes from shared experiences, like the hilarity of a game night gone awry or the collective wisdom exchanged over coffee. One new mother recounts how our club became her lifeline after moving from DC, painting a vibrant picture of the mental shifts and the longing for advice that resonates with every new parent. Through these stories, we celebrate the strength found in solidarity, demonstrating that it's the shared understanding and companionship that truly defines the FUN Mothers Club.

We highlight the events and volunteer efforts that stitch the fabric of this community even tighter. From comedy nights to educational expos, we explore how these gatherings do more than entertain—they forge bonds that last a lifetime. Each mother shares the impact of the collective efforts, marking calendar dates for upcoming club events that promise to enrich our lives far beyond the scope of parenthood. It's a tale of finding your tribe, nurturing connections, and the undeniable truth that while our little ones might bring us together, it's the enduring friendships and wisdom exchanged that keep us rooted.

To find out more about them, check out their website here.

You can also connect with them on Instagram here.

And get plugged in to their Facebook Page here. 

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

Unlock the heartwarming story of a bank that's as much a part of Fremont, California as the people themselves. In this episode,  Ricky B along with Mike Wallace take you through the remarkable  journey of a financial institution that started with a snack shack revival and became a cornerstone of our community. Mike opens up about his half-century with the bank, revealing tales of his military service and how an unexpected encounter overseas led to a lifelong career and connection to the founding Hyman family.

Venture into the past as we trace Fremont Bank's growth from Morris Hyman's vision, born from his father's less than stellar banking experiences in Mississippi, to its pivotal role in the city's development. With stories of writing procedural manuals as a management trainee, we'll showcase the strategic decisions and community investments that built a stable foundation for both the bank and Fremont. Discover how a lawyer's career shifted to banking, intertwining his fate with the economic progress of our thriving city.

Our episode culminates with a reflection on how cultural exchanges and community support are woven into the fabric of Fremont Bank's identity. As we peek into the construction of the new headquarters, we honor a legacy that continues through initiatives like the Employee Stock Ownership Plan, ensuring Fremont Bank remains a beacon of community engagement for generations to come. Join us on this inspiring episode that's as much about banking as it is about the people and stories that make Fremont an extraordinary place to call home.

To learn more about the Fremont Bank and all that it offers to everyone in our community, go to their website here.

You can find them here on Instagram. 

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

When Brad from Q Branch Woodwork spins a piece of wood into a masterpiece, it's not just a craft; it's an act of transformation. Today's conversation takes us through the whirl of woodturning, where danger and beauty dance together on the lathe, revealing how Brad's signature creations have become a heartbeat for the Fremont community. Discover the nuances of working with wood at high speeds, the well-oiled dance between maker and machine, and the anticipation of larger projects with Brad's upcoming lathe upgrade, a promise of grander artistry on the horizon.

Navigating a path from idle pandemic hobbyist to a thriving online business, Brad's story is a testament to the power of passion and persistence. His journey, much like the art of podcasting, highlights the significance of presentation and the meticulous attention to detail—whether it's in shaping stunning wood bowls or crafting conversations that captivate your mind. Join us as we explore the shared dedication that goes into creating things of beauty and value, be it through the microphone or the hands of a skilled wood artisan.

In this episode, we celebrate the intersection of handcrafted goods and the community that embraces them. We step into the challenges of standing out in a marketplace like Etsy, where quality and design become the lifeblood of a woodturner's craft. But it's not just about the products; it's about a dream to weave this art into the fabric of Fremont, to open a storefront in Niles that's more than a shop, and perhaps one day, transitioning from passion to full-time pursuit. Witness the journey, the craft, and the community in an episode that's all about the beauty of wood and the hands that shape it.

If you want to seen more or learn more about Brad Bond and his amazing woodturning work, check out his website here. 

If you want to follow him on Instagram, you can find it here. 

Our if you would like to see some of his work on Youtube,

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

If you have enjoyed the Fremont Podcast, and if you want to help us make a difference, take a minute to listen to this plug. We believe that we can make our community better, and we want to do our part. Will you help? 

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/thefremontpodcast/membership

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

Every coffee shop has its own blend of stories and characters, but it's rare to find one that truly feels like home. Mission Coffee has been a staple in the community for decades. Gael's final goodbye speech is filled with gratitude and  outward recognition of those who helped make Mission Coffee what it was to the end. 

A toast to all that Gael has done for the community and to the future. This bonus episode invites us all to savor the bittersweet blend of farewell and new beginnings. Pour yourself a comforting mug and join us in celebrating the legacy of Mission Coffee, where every patron leaves with a story. Cheers to the future!

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.

Ever wondered how a leader's cultural experiences shape their style and approach? Pankaj Prasoon, author of "Leading with Purpose", shares how his journey across four continents and 52 countries has influenced his leadership style. Embedded with insightful anecdotes and lessons from his time in Fremont, California, this episode promises to stretch your perspective on leadership.

We also take a deep dive into understanding purpose and its link to happiness and fulfilment, with the transition to a dream company serving as a defining moment. Pankaj also discusses leadership in the digital era. He brings in a wealth of insights on strategic decision-making, active listening, body language, and the critical importance of learning from diverse individuals.

Bringing two worlds together, our guest, with a tech industry background, explores the symbiotic relationship between the digital and physical worlds. The discussion extends to the value of building relationships outside work, the art of teaching, and the vibrant city of Fremont. As we wrap up, we underscore the significance of giving back and using our voices to uplift others. This episode, rich in inspiration and empowerment, is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and purpose-driven living. Tune in for a dynamic conversation that will engage, educate, and inspire.

To discover more about Pankaj and his work, go here. 

Check out Minuteman Press in Irvington for all your Design and Printing needs. They have a five star rating and are wonderful to work with. Find out more about them here. 

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, check out Petrocelli Homes in Niles.

There is not a better place to find a book in Fremont than Banter Bookshop. 

If you are interested in supporting the podcast, please reach out to us at thefremontpodcast@gmail.com, or you can contact us here. 

Check out our new podcast focused on Niles CA called the Cast of Niles. You can find episodes on almost any podcast platform. You can also find it here.

Also, Petrocelli Homes has been a key sponsor for the Fremont Podcast almost from the beginning. If you are looking for help or advice about buying or selling a home, or if you are looking for a realtor, get in touch with Petrocelli Homes on Niles Blvd in Niles.

Additionally, Banter Bookshop is the best little bookshop in Fremont. They are a sponsor of that podcast. And we are excited to have them as a partner.

Intro and Outro voiceovers made by Gary Williams. Check out garywilliams.org.

This episode was edited by Andrew C.

Scheduling and background was done by Sara S.

This is a Muggins Media Podcast.