In this episode of Sonoma Voices, host Nada Rothbart interviews Michelle Dale Jernigan, one of the co-founders of G3 (Gather, Grow, Go). They discuss the origins of G3 and mission to create a space for personal growth and connection. Michelle shares how G3 conferences touch on various aspects of life, such as financial stability, friendship, grief, wellness, and motherhood. They also talk about the importance of storytelling and building community in Sonoma. Michelle emphasizes the value of generational interaction and the power of leadership development. They conclude the episode by discussing the luxuries of living in Sonoma, including nature, health, peace, and the convenience of nearby facilities to live a full life.

In this episode of Sonoma Voices, Nada is joined by Jeanette Fernandez, owner of A Soul's Touch, Holistic Healing and Astrology in Sonoma.  Jeanette shares her journey of becoming a nurse and transitioning to holistic healing. She emphasizes the importance of healing on a deeper level, addressing the mind, emotions, and spiritual connection. Jeanette incorporates astrology as a tool to help individuals remember who they are and connect with the natural rhythms of life. She highlights the healing power of nature and the sense of community in Sonoma. Jeanette's approach to healing is personalized and focuses on creating a safe and sacred space for individuals to do their own healing, which is why Sonoma is the perfect location for Jeanette to share her influence. 

In this episode of Sonoma Voices, host Nada Rothbart interviews Brittany, a marketing agency owner specializing in content marketing. They discuss the unique charm of Sonoma, the French influence in the area, and the importance of storytelling in marketing. Brittany shares her plans for creating a TV series about Sonoma lifestyle and her work with Chateau Sonoma. They also talk about favorite places for wine tasting and outdoor activities in Sonoma. The conversation highlights the close-knit community and the abundance of opportunities in Sonoma.

In this episode of Sonoma Voices, host Nada Rothbart interviews Eric Mayer, a biochar producer in Sonoma. Eric shares his background and how he got involved in making biochar, an agricultural product made from woody material that is turned into charcoal and mixed back into the soil. He explains the process of making biochar and its benefits for carbon capture and soil health. Eric discusses his clients, including vineyards, and how biochar is an alternative to burning vineyards. He also shares his love for Sonoma and the strong sense of community in the area.

Podcast Takeaways

• Biochar is an agricultural product made from woody material that is turned into charcoal and mixed back into the soil.
• Biochar serves as a long-term habitat for soil microbes and is a form of carbon capture.
• Biochar is already a viable solution for carbon capture and storage, with 90% of carbon dioxide removal credits based on biochar.
• Sonoma offers a strong sense of community and connection, focusing on regenerative agriculture and local living.

In this episode of Sonoma Voices, host Nada Rothbart interviews Stuart Piontek, owner of Stage Interiors in Sonoma. They discuss the daily business of staging, the role of stagers in home design, and the history and purpose of staging. They also explore the benefits of staging, including fulfilling fantasies and showing scale. Stuart dispels misconceptions about staging and explains the four principles of staging. They discuss the magic and financial benefits of staging and the joy and organic process involved. Stuart and Nada then share their thoughts on the beauty and community of Sonoma.

Takeaways

• Staging is the process of preparing a home for sale by adding furniture, rugs, art, and accessories to fulfill buyers' expectations of what the house should be.
• Staging is a tool to show scale and can make small rooms appear larger in photographs.
• Staging is not about fooling buyers, but about enhancing a home's features and creating a lifestyle story that resonates with potential buyers.
• Staged properties often sell for 6-10% higher prices than properties that are not staged.

Nada is joined by Mike Zakowski, a local artisan baker who brings together the Sonoma community every Friday at the Farmer's Market. 

Nada is joined by Daniel Harding, owner of The Flight Roasting Co which is bringing sensational coffee at the Friday farmers market in Sonoma. Listen in to hear how coffee brings people together, how Daniel lives his Sonoma life and more. 

Nada is joined by Eddie Thornton, author of 'Stolen: Stories from a Violent Childhood'. Eddie shares his life story and motivation for writing the book. Eddie is also now a resident of Sonoma and is enjoying the town's shops, culture, biking and much more. A moving episode.

Nada is joined by Kate Kennedy, the Valley's leading Shakespearean and theatre director. Kate has lived in Sonoma for over 30 years and runs the most vibrant theatre performances of Shakespeare's plays at the Buena Vista Winery. Kate is such an energy and in this episode, she shares some of her love for Sonoma and her work. A must listen!!!!

Nada is joined by Joel Hendler. Joel is a leading interior designer who has completed major commercial design and pivoted to grand residential projects in his portfolio. Like Nada, Joel is also a yoga enthusiast and enjoys how yoga is part of the community in Sonoma. Joel talks so passionately about his love for the Sonoma area, one of the oldest towns in California. He loves the wine country, the rolling hills, and the color that bursts through the landscape and life of Sonoma. With the town square bringing people together, Joel shares that Sonoma is so good at community building with many events and activities throughout the year. This is a Sonoma love-in.