Salinas NOW Podcast

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

College can tuition can be a barrier to higher education, but California Water Services' scholarship program is one way they give back to the community! In this episode, our hosts chatted with Brenda Granillo, District Manager at our Salinas Cal Water office. Brenda and her team give back in many ways throughout the year and shared some great insider information on how youth can apply for a scholarship ranging from $2,500 to $10,000.

Your hosts for this episode:

Juan Camacho, Youth Intern

Daisy Guerrero, Youth Intern

We see the planes in the sky when it’s Airshow time, but did you know the Salinas Municipal Airport has so much more to offer? You can learn to fly, enjoy a concert or check out a car show. There’s even a restaurant that has everything from pasta primavera with artichokes to lumpia! Learn all about it from our Airport Manager Matt Nelson in this episode of the Salinas NOW Podcast.

Your hosts for this episode:

Juan Camacho, Youth Intern

Natalie Vasquez, Youth Intern

Did you know that the City of Salinas and County of Monterey have a partnership in providing animal services in Salinas? Cindy Burnham is the Animal Services Administrator who manages operations of the Hitchcock Road Animal Services facility. Cindy shares great information on considerations for adopting a pet, responsible pet ownership, and ways you can volunteer. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Juan Camacho, Youth Intern
Natalie Vasquez, Youth Intern

School Districts serve students but have also expanded services for families and the community. In this episode, we chatted with Deputy Superintendent of the Alisal Union School District Monica Anzo. She shared how AUSD has aligned their resources and services with the wholistic needs of their students and families, and gave us a highlight of the services planned for the new Buckhorn resource center. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Sophia Rome, Community Relations Manager

Where did the year go?! Your podcasts hosts share their favorite podcast moments and lessons learned as we close out the year with this holiday special. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Guissel Villalobos, Communications Specialist
Juan Camacho, Salinas Youth Intern
Natalie Vasquez, Salinas Youth Intern