📄 Episode Description

In this episode of Spotlight SoCal: Pomona Valley Edition, I sit down with community leader and preservationist John Clifford. From saving historic theaters in Hollywood to protecting Pomona’s cultural landmarks, John has dedicated decades to keeping history alive. We dive into stories about his early film-collecting days, his work with legends like June Foray (the voice of Rocky the Flying Squirrel), preserving landmarks like the Fox Theater, and how the Pomona Historical Society is shaping the city’s future. You’ll also hear about local treasures like the Palomares Adobe, Phillips Mansion, Spadra Cemetery, and the historic Ebell Club—along with some unforgettable personal stories that tie Pomona to Hollywood and beyond.

New Episode: Youth Voices in Action – ACT Pomona Design Team Speaks Out

In this inspiring episode of Spotlight SoCal with Andy Quiñones, we sit down with the Youth Design Team from ACT Pomona to hear directly from the next generation of leaders in our community. These passionate young people open up about their lived experiences growing up in Pomona and share their honest perspectives on the challenges they face — from public safety and education to mental health and green spaces.

More than just stories, this conversation is a call to action. The youth offer heartfelt, thoughtful, and practical requests to our local elected officials — urging them to listen, engage, and respond to the needs of Pomona’s young people.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• Real talk from Pomona youth about their neighborhoods

• Powerful reflections on what it means to be heard

• A direct message to decision-makers from the next generation

This episode is part of an ongoing collaboration with ACT Pomona and their efforts to build youth civic engagement and shape policy through community voice.

📍 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube
📢 #YouthVoices #ACTPomona #CivicEngagement #PomonaYouth #SpotlightSoCal

Let me know if you'd like a shorter version for Instagram captions or a script for a teaser video.

In this episode of Spotlight SoCal with Andy Quiñones, we talk with Mitchell Stein about the transformative power of service. Mitch opens up about his personal journey and how he’s now using his 50th birthday to raise funds for a scholarship for youth in Pomona through the Kiwanis Club.

Recorded at 3P Studio in Downtown Pomona, this conversation is a testament to the impact one person can make.

Stream now and be inspired to give back.

#Service #PomonaYouth #KiwanisClub #MitchellStein #SpotlightSoCal

In this episode of Spotlight SoCal with Andy Quiñonez, we dive into the heart of Pomona’s community work. Special guests Joseph McLellan, M.A., Supervisor I - Youth Prevention at Prototypes, and youth leader Dylan Rodriguez from Diamond Ranch High School share their insights on youth mentorship, challenges in our neighborhoods, and the spirit of service that drives real change.

👉 Subscribe for more stories of local impact and leadership.
👍 Like, comment, and share to support Pomona’s rising youth!
📍 Filmed at 3P Studio | Presented by SoCal Service Corps

🎥 Watch here: https://youtu.be/ZSKdu8G-D38

#Pomona #YouthLeadership #CommunityChange #SpotlightSoCal #ServiceMatters #SoCalVoices #Prototypes #DiamondRanchHS

In this episode of Spotlight SoCal: Pomona Valley Edition, I sit down with Michael Witmer for our second interview of the year. We dive into the powerful community-building work happening through Circle of Chairs, a gathering focused on restoration, connection, and healing in our communities.

Michael opens up about his personal journey, his vision for restorative spaces, and how Circle of Chairs creates opportunities for meaningful conversations and transformation.

Join the next Circle of Chairs event: Date: Friday, April 12th, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Pilgrim Place, Claremont, CA

Let’s continue building community through presence, storytelling, and shared humanity.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations that matter.

#CircleOfChairs #CommunityHealing #SpotlightSoCal #PomonaValleyEdition #AndyQuinones #MichaelWitmer #PilgrimPlace #RestorativePractices #ClaremontEvents #SoCalVoices

In this debut episode of Spotlight SoCal with Andy Quinones – Pomona Valley Edition, we sit down with Amy Torrez, Director of AmysPlace.org, to explore her journey of leadership, healing, and community service.

Recorded at 3P Studio in March 2025, this heartfelt conversation highlights the work behind Amy’s Place and what the future holds for Amy after years of dedication to the people of Pomona and beyond.

🔈 Podcast Host: Andy Quinones
📍 Location: 3P Studio, Pomona, CA
🎥 Video + Audio Production: 3P Studio
💬 Follow the conversation: #SpotlightSoCal #PomonaValleyEdition #AmysPlace #CommunityLeadership

In this inspiring episode of the Pomona Promise Network Podcast, we sit down with Grace Sanchez from the McKinley Children’s Family Center. Grace shares her journey of working with families and children, highlighting the incredible programs offered by McKinley to support youth and their families. Tune in as we discuss the importance of community, family resources, and the positive impact McKinley is making in the lives of many. Recorded live at Positive Pomona Productions studio in the heart of the Pomona Arts Colony, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss!

#PomonaPromise #McKinleyFamilyCenter #YouthEmpowerment #FamilySupport #CommunityBuilding #PositivePomona #PomonaArtsColony #GraceSanchez #EmpoweringFamilies #PomonaPodcast #3PStudios #CommunityFirst

Episode 23

Hosted by Andy Quiñones, Executive Director of the SoCal Service Corps

In-Studio Guest: Dr Enrique Medina

A Life in Public Education: A Conversation with Dr. Enrique Medina

In this episode of the Pomona Promise Network Podcast, host Andrew Quinones sits down with Dr. Enrique Medina, the formerly of the Pomona Unified School District. Join us as we delve into Dr. Medina's remarkable career in public education, discussing his journey, accomplishments, and the impact he has made on the community. As Dr. Medina reflects on his recent retirement, he shares insights from his years of service, the challenges he faced, and his hopes for the future of career & education in Pomona. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a dedicated educator who has devoted his life to fostering growth and opportunity for students.

Episode 22

Hosted by Andy Q of the SoCal Service Corps

In-Studio Guest: Josh Swodeck and Antonio Joe Zayas

Episode 21

Hosted by Andrew Quiñones of the SoCal Service Corps

In-Studio Guest: Jeff Johannen

Today's podcast features Jeff Johannsen, the executive director of Pomona Hope, a non-profit, faith-based organization dedicated to empowering Pomona's children, families, and neighborhoods.

Recorded at 3P Studio in downtown Pomona's vibrant arts colony, with the support of two University of La Verne film students (Lindsey and Andrew), our podcast brings you insightful conversations and stories of community impact.

Subscribe now to be part of the dialogue!