**Title:** Zoom Recording with Chris Rico - Solano EDC

**Host:** Jared Asch

**Guest:** Chris Rico, President and CEO of Solano Economic Development Corporation (EDC)

**Summary:**

In this episode of the Capstone Conversation, Jared Asch interviews Chris Rico, President and CEO of Solano EDC. Chris shares his diverse background, covering his experiences in international relations, Hollywood, education, and politics, ultimately leading him to his current role. They discuss the EDC's mission to attract advanced manufacturing jobs, address housing issues, and improve local infrastructure. Key topics include the Moving Solano Forward 3 Initiative, power challenges, the California Forever project, and supporting non-profits to boost economic development in Solano County.

**Highlights:**

- Chris Rico’s unique career path

- EDC’s focus on advanced manufacturing and housing

- Moving Solano Forward 3 Initiative

- Power infrastructure challenges

- California Forever Initiative's economic impact

- Supporting non-profits for economic growth

**Key Quote:**

“Education is the key to everything.” - Chris Rico

https://solanoedc.org/

https://solanoedc.org/about/staff/

Dive deep into the innovative world of Glydways, a company at the forefront of transforming transportation in urban settings. Joined by Eliot Temple, Vice President of Business Development for Glydways, we explore how this company is making strides in economic development through transportation innovation. Eliot gives us an insider's look into Glydways’ project in East Contra Costa County and in San Jose, aiming to revolutionize how we move by connecting the airport to downtown with a fast, efficient, and eco-friendly transit system. From discussing the technical aspects of their unique vehicles to the broader implications on urban development and environmental sustainability, this conversation sheds light on a future where mobility is seamless, personal, and less reliant on conventional cars. Tune in to learn about the exciting advancements Glydways is bringing to the East Bay and beyond, marking a significant leap towards more intelligent, accessible cities.

https://www.glydways.com/

In this episode of Capstone Conversation, host Jared Asch sits down with Professor Jim DeKloe from Solano Community College to delve into the revolutionary world of biotechnology. As part of a series exploring higher education in the East Bay, this conversation sheds light on the unique four-year biotechnology degree offered by a community college, a rarity in the academic world. Professor DeKloe shares his extensive experience working with the biotech sector, from economic development to recruiting businesses, highlighting how the program prepares students for burgeoning life sciences and biomanufacturing opportunities and plays a pivotal role in attracting innovative companies to the East Bay. Learn about the impact of biotechnology on job creation, the fight against genetic diseases, and the potential for ground-breaking treatments like gene and cell therapies. This episode is an insightful look into how education and industry collaboration drive economic development and scientific advancements in the East Bay and beyond.

President Cal State East Bay President Cathy Sandeen, Ph.D., MBA joins me on this episode of the Capstone Conversation.

https://www.csueastbay.edu/administration/

In a recent captivating episode of "Capstone Conversation," hosted by Jared Asch, listeners were treated to an enriching discussion with two key figures in education from Contra Costa County. Mojdeh Mehdizadeh, the Chancellor, and Rebecca Barrett, the president of the community college board, shared deep insights into the transformative impacts and challenges facing the Contra Costa County Community College District.

Mojdeh Mehdizadeh:  https://www.4cd.edu/about/chancellors-office/index.html

Rebecca Barret: https://www.4cd.edu/gb/index.html#barrett

https://www.4cd.edu/

In a recent episode of the Capstone Conversation, hosted by Jared Asch, a special three-part series on community colleges and local education was kicked off with Tom Epstein, a member of the California Community College Board of Governors. The series explores the unique roles and innovative programs within the California community college system, emphasizing their efforts in local education and community engagement.

I can go to College: icangotocollege.com 

You can find a blog and full transcript of this interview here.

Antioch Marina: https://www.antiochca.gov/antioch-marina/

Glydeways Project: https://contracosta.news/2023/11/29/dynamic-personal-micro-transit-coming-to-east-contra-costa/

Rent stabilization: https://www.antiochca.gov/fc/administration/rent-stabilization/Rent-Stabilization-Ordinance-FAQs.pdf

Desalination plant: https://www.epa.gov/wifia/antioch-brackish-water-desalination-project

In a revealing episode of "The Capstone Conversation" podcast, host Jared Asch converses with Diane Burgis, a Contra Costa County Supervisor, who shares her journey from environmental activism to political leadership. This episode not only delves into Supervisor Burgis's path into politics but also explores the multifaceted responsibilities and impacts of county governance.

About Supervisor Burgis: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/6449/About-Diane-Burgis

Maps and Data of Contra Costa County: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4475/Maps-and-Data 

Northern Waterfront Initiative: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/4437/Northern-Waterfront-Economic-Development

You can find a transcript and blog post for this interview here.

In an insightful episode of "The Capstone Conversation" podcast, host Jared Asch engages Ted Lempert in a deep dive into the East Bay election results and the broader political dynamics in California. Lempert, with a multifaceted background as a former Assembly member, a UC Berkeley political science professor, and the head of Children Now, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the discussion.

More about Ted and Children Now

More about Ted and his courses at UC Berkeley

In a recent episode of the Capstone Conversation podcast, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the heart of Orinda with its dedicated Mayor, Darlene Gee. During this engaging discussion hosted by Jared Asch, Mayor Gee shared insights into her personal journey from the Midwest to the leadership of this scenic and family-oriented town. She also delved into the nuances of addressing urban challenges through infrastructure improvements, inclusivity, and innovative strategies, making this episode a must-listen for those interested in the dynamics of local governance and community development.

Darlene Gee