Hello Sonoma!

Sherman Tylawsky is an engaged citizen, an avid historian, and a proud American. He has spent time on both sides of Capitol Hill as an intern with both a Republican and Democratic Senator, his Masters in International Affairs put him on track to be a true public servant, and his desire for increased civility in US politics all make him a unique voice in Sonoma County and beyond. In this episode, we discuss his podcast "Friends and Fellow Citizens" which brings American history to life and connecting them to contemporary issues, his upbringing in a multicultural household, and his thoughts on what makes a good leader – all just in time to celebrate the 4th of July.

Hello Sonoma is going Global! Or at least, partially. This is the first episode in which Hello Sonoma is going on the road, eventually to visit and conduct interviews in 3 of Sonoma's Sister Cities in France, Italy, and Hungary.

In this episode, I introduce the Sister City project as I begin my travels in New York and Madrid. I also speak with Brenda, a flight attendant who tell me about some of her time in the skies, and Augustin Pizzichillo, with whom we discuss global politics, the NBA, and the incredible effort behind global food supply logistics. 

John Brians is a local legend. From his perch in front of his frame store on East Napa St., he has seen it all. Though he grew up in Penngrove and has now lived for many years in Sonoma, he had a roundabout way of coming home by way of New York City and Casablanca, developing careers first as an artist and then as a framer of art. I sat down to talk with him on his bench to talk about his experiences around the world, his time as an artist, and what it means to come back to Sonoma.

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When he first started Loudmouth Golf, he was Scott Woodworth. Since then, the single-named "Woody" has become a fashion icon and a sports fashion influencer in everything from the PGA tournament to Olympic curling. The pants that made his company famous continue to turn heads, enliven fairways, and, perhaps most importantly, start conversations. In this episode, we talk about how Woody started Loudmouth, his upbringing on the east coast, the importance of having fun in life no matter where you are.

Lynne Lancaster is an expert on both public speaking and cross-generational communication. Whether through corporate talks or private coaching, she has used her platform to help others communicate effectively to a variety of audiences. Her ability to bridge generational gaps has helped create better understanding between the 5 generations now fully embedded in the workforce. In this episode, we discuss the future of work, how generations were created and how they're viewed, and the ultimate value of listening for bridging divides.

Lee Armstrong got her start in puppetry in her home province of Nova Scotia, Canada. What began as a stroke of luck has since transformed into a lifelong career spanning kids classes at Sonoma elementary schools, working with international animation studios, and teaching at UC Santa Cruz and across the country. In this episode, we talk about just how powerful puppets can be in helping people of all ages talk about challenging topics, bridging differences, and opening their eyes to make believe.

Kathryn Del Chiaro Williams has seen both sides of the spotlight. She has been a star on many stages, including various roles in Sonoma Shakespeare, Sonoma Arts Lodge and even the Moose Lodge. But as a teacher, she has helped shine light on the star within each of us. In this episode, we talk about the way she sees people either through the lens of an actor, or a masseuse, discovering that the best way to fit in can sometimes be to stand out. 

Elise is a community builder. Whether in downtown Sonoma or central Delhi, she brings people, young and old, together. As the culinary arts director at the Sonoma Community Center, she uses the power of sharing a meal to build special connections. But her 10 years living in India, where she met her husband, infused in her a worldly perspective and a desire to bridge them. In this episode we talk about her decision to move to India, her upbringing in Sonoma, and her dreams for the future of our community.

Dina Saoudi doesn't like the word "empower." Not only is it overused, it seems to imply that the people receiving its benefit are incapable and powerless to begin with. Over the course of her careers in finance, consulting, investing, and book publishing, Dina has managed to overcome this idea and find a way to highlight the power people have through their tremendous skill, abilities, and potential. Her organization "Empowering Through" reclaims the word to showcase the amazing work women around the world are doing either through things like art, cooking, and so much more. In this episode, we discuss Dina's experiences in the United States and Jordan, how the number 7 has played a role in her life, and the true challenges facing the world today.

In her new book, Kimberlee Williams highlights the positive side of sisterhood, the myriad ways in which women of all backgrounds and races can stand up for one another. She shares about her own experiences with racism in many forms, about the intersection of her various identities as a black, queer, disabled woman, and all in a way that is approachable and encourages questions and growth. In this episode we are joined by Debby Irving, Kimberlee's friend and publisher, to talk about cross-racial friendships, the omnipresence of race in America, and the power of true authentic relationships.