In this episode of Ojai Talk of the Town, we sit down with Jessica Thompson, owner of Green Goddess Garden, to discuss the vital steps homeowners and communities can take to protect their properties from the ever-present threat of wildfires. With recent devastation in Pacific Palisades and Los Angeles serving as a stark reminder, Jessica shares her expertise on creating defensible spaces, adopting responsible building practices, and restoring native plants to enhance resilience.

Jessica also talked about her game-changing visit to Iranian-American architect and writer's Nadir Khalili's property near Hemet, and the incredibly firesafe homes and buildings he created near Hesperia. Khalili, who died in 2008, is regarding as a pioneer in sustainable, eminently livable homes.

We also explore the benefits of drought-tolerant landscaping and how these practices intersect with Ojai’s thriving citrus industry, a cornerstone of our local economy. Whether you're looking to safeguard your home or support sustainable land stewardship, this episode offers practical advice and a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities facing our community in fire-prone Southern California.

We did not talk about fiat currency, the evolution of baseball gloves or the Humboldt Current.

Check out more about Jessica at GGGOjai.com.

Or about Khalili's work at CalEarth.org.