Dive into the powerful story behind the Salinas Hometown Heroes Banner Program. We explore its mission to honor local veterans and active-duty service members and discuss the profound impact this tribute has on the community.

This episode features City Manager and City Engineer and its proposed sewer rate increase. 

This episode features Harmony At Home and its mission to break cycles of violence and abuse. The episode explores their different programs like Sticks & Stones, which empowers children who've experienced trauma to develop healthy emotional expression and build resilience.

Your host for this episode: Daisy Guerrero and Lali Solis-Gil, youth podcasters

High school soccer in Salinas isn’t just about competition—it’s about community, character, and celebrating the game we love. Carlos Rubio, Executive Director of the All Stars Soccer Classic, shares how this annual showcase highlights high school senior athletes across Monterey County. As the high school soccer season kicks off in November, Carlos has already begun building the program for the year that helps players grow both on and off the field. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on soccer’s deeper impact in Salinas! 

Your host for this episode:

Guissel Villalobos, Communications Specialist

What if giving back to your community could also give you more life? In this episode, Cindy and Paola from Blue Zones Project Monterey County share how volunteer programs not only uplift communities; they add years to your life! From building connection to sparking purpose, hear how ordinary actions can also make extraordinary health impacts.

Your host for this episode:

Natalie Vasquez

In this 1st episode of City Chats with the Mayor, our podcast hosts sat down with Mayor Donohue to learn more about his journey into public service, the community values that drive him, and the people who have inspired his leadership. He also offers advice for those interested in getting involved in local government and making a positive impact. 

City Chats with the Mayor is a new quarterly series of the Salinas NOW Podcast! Each episode will offer insights on city initiatives, projects, and the future of Salinas through conversations with the Mayor. It’s your chance to stay connected to what’s happening now and what’s on the horizon for the city. 

Your hosts for this episode: 

Trinity Arreola, Youth Podcaster

Ishana Patel, Youth Podcaster

In this episode, we spotlight DigitalNEST in Salinas — a hub where creativity meets opportunity. Hear how this youth-centered nonprofit is equipping the next generation with skills in design, storytelling, and digital media. From building websites to crafting visual content, discover how young people in Salinas are finding their voice, growing their skills, and shaping their future — all through the power of the NEST. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Daisy Guerrero, Youth Intern

Juan Camacho, Youth Intern

In this episode of Salinas NOW, our hosts talked with Asya Guillory & Kendra Cabrera with Salinas Juneteenth who talked about the origins of the local event, what goes into planning it, and how it’s grown over the years. They share insights into the cultural significance of Juneteenth, the partnerships that make the event possible, and their hopes for continued community engagement. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Lali Solis, Youth Podcaster

Trinity Arreola, Youth Podcaster

What if making the healthy choice was the easy choice? In this episode, Tiffany DiTullio and Kendra Howell of Blue Zones Project Monterey County shared how their team is working to improve health and well-being across the county, side-by-side with the community. From working with restaurants and businesses to extra benefits for EBT cardholders,  @bzpmontereyco is partnering with the community to bring healthier options to the table. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how small changes can lead to a longer, better life. 

Your host for this episode:

Guissel Villalobos, Communications Specialist

In this episode, we sat down with Gracie Garcia, Community Engagement Specialist with the Monterey County Rape Crisis Center, to discuss the vital work of supporting survivors and fostering safer communities. Gracie shares insights into the center’s support and advocacy efforts, the resources available to victims and their families, and the ways we can all contribute to creating a culture of prevention and healing. Whether you're looking for resources, ways to get involved, or simply seeking to understand how community-driven support makes a difference, this conversation is both informative and inspiring. Tune in and join us in amplifying the voices of those working toward change.

Your host for this episode:

Guissel Villalobos, Communications Specialist