Josh & Patrick sat down with Wendy Lewis, President & CEO of El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO), to discuss the homelessness crisis in Atascadero. We explore the heart & mission of ECHO, organizational structure, their services, parameters of their Conditional Use Permit, as well as the demographics of our unhoused neighbors. Some of the biggest takeaways include a reminder that our unhoused neighbors are human beings, and everyone has a story. The last point in time count of the homeless community in our county came back at 1,500 with upwards of 70% being born and raised in SLO County. We discuss daytime camping, mental health issues, challenges and potential solutions as well as ways for people to get involved. Wendy has a clear passion for people, Atascadero is fortunate to have her leading ECHO and serving our community. 

Josh & Patrick sat down to continue the conversation around racism with Dorien Banks and Marcus Martin, two Black men in their early twenties that grew up in Atascadero. As they share their own personal experiences with racism, we discuss use of the “n-word” as well as Black Lives Matter and police interaction. The founding of Atascadero came up again, what it meant to be a colony, and the need for more diversity & inclusion. We talked about the confederate flag and protesting vs. rioting. Several resources were mentioned in the episode and links can be found below. We are very grateful to Dorien & Marcus for having this conversation with us and sharing their perspective. Racism is real in our community and we can all do our part to put an end to it, together. 

We look forward to continuing this conversation and expanding our understanding even further. 

RESOURCES 

The book Josh is reading (completed now) White Fragility 

 https://www.amazon.com/White-Fragility-People-About-Racism/dp/0807047414/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2S7BMAR6W62VR&dchild=1&keywords=white+fragility&qid=1595979175&sprefix=white+fra%2Caps%2C231&sr=8-2

1988 clip from The Golden Girls about the confederate flag:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgON0w-GivM

The follow-up conversation that Tiffany Riojas had with Greg Baxter after his racially charged explosion:

 https://www.facebook.com/514836641/videos/10156908737151642/

Josh & Patrick sat down with Atascadero's Police Chief, Jerel Haley, to continue the conversations around current social issues including COVID, racism & police brutality, Black Lives Matter, and defunding the police. We also explore Atascadero-specific issues like the transient population, mental health, parking, economic development, and recreational marijuana. This episode is full of great information and perspective from someone that has dedicated his life to public service. It will be abundantly clear that Chief Haley cares about his community and the men & women that he works with. Let us all remember that law enforcement officers are human beings working in a very challenging profession. Let's continue to be part of the solution, seeking to understand by having difficult conversations and respecting people that might think differently than we do. 

Josh & Patrick sat down with Shonntae Cross, a 37-year old African-American and long-time resident of Atascadero, to discuss racism issues in an effort to gain understanding & perspective. It is well-timed to be releasing this episode on June 19th, we discuss "Juneteenth" as well as Black Lives Matter and an array of other challenges & issues that the impact the Black community. Some of the big takeaways are that we need to approach these situations with a spirit of understanding and we need to "teach the ugly" both in schools and in our homes. As a community, Atascadero may need to consider shifting the narrative around E.G. Lewis and forming a review committee for some of the racial issues we are facing. 
We are looking forward to continuing this conversation and expanding our understanding even further. 

Josh & Patrick sat down with Anna Pecharich in February of 2020. She shares her story of pursuing a vision and overcoming obstacles to make her dream a reality. The journey of entrepreneurship is unique, Anna provides great insight and advice. Her positive mindset, willingness to adapt and constant hustle have contributed to Anna & Mom quickly becoming a pillar in the business community of Atascadero! Anna is in the process of rebranding her company, launching an updated website and exploring new social media efforts. 

Josh & Patrick sat down with Jodi Bloom to record the very first "podcast" episode in summer of 2019. As one of the main inspirations behind All Things Atascadero, Jodi shares her journey of entrepreneurship. Her positive mindset and continual perseverance have contributed to her being able to serve the community of Atascadero for over 30 years! Jodi has recently polished the Bloom n Grow brand, is exploring new efforts and rising to current challenges so that she can continue to provide great products and services for many more years to come. Be sure to use our discount code "All Things Atascadero Podcast" when placing your order to receive 10% off. Whatever message you are wanting to convey: "Say it better with Bloom n Grow!"

Josh & Patrick discuss their backgrounds, how they met, current projects and how the idea for this podcast started. You'll hear their individual experiences and connections to the community of Atascadero as well as what to expect on upcoming episodes. In an effort to highlight a very special place, Josh & Patrick are excited to bring you All Things Atascadero!