It's a great time to celebrate the nation's independence, especially with the 250th anniversary coming up. But don't ruin your holiday with a trip to the E.R. or a costly fine!

Bakersfield Fire Department Public Information Officer A.J. Clark joins the podcast to talk about fireworks safety, how to know what to buy and not buy, plus how to report illegal fireworks if you see or hear them around your neighborhood.

Check it out, stay safe, have fun and have a great holiday!

We're up to 30 episodes and for the first time ever, we're going VIDEO on The Something Better Podcast! We're trying something new, so we hope you enjoy it!

And our first video guests are Katherine Dye & Anthony Bishop who help run things at the McMurtrey Aquatics Center in Downtown Bakersfield. They have some great tips on how to stay safe in the pools - both the City's facilities and at home - as well as letting us know about the great programs and classes they offer for ALL AGES!

Check it out, stay cool and, of course, stay safe!

After six years, the Bakersfield Police Department has a new leader at the top. Brent Stratton was appointed the new Chief of Police, taking over in April 2026.

Chief Stratton joined the podcast to talk about his life growing up here in Bakersfield, his career in law enforcement, his goals for the department, and what it means to him to be part of the community.

On Episode 28 of The Something Better Podcast Recreation & Parks Director Darin Budak discusses new changes at The Park at River Walk, programs being offered through the department and gets into the benefits of the Park Ranger Program.

Darin even discusses an upcoming major project that should be complete by summer 2026.

Public Works Director Zac Meyer and Assistant City Manager Gary Hallen return to talk multi-modal projects the City is bringing to our local roads.

But, what exactly is multi-modal and what does it mean for road users? Zac and Gary explain and tell us about projects you may soon see when you're moving around town, how they're funded, and how they'll make a difference in your life.

We welcome Bakersfield Fire Chief Kevin Albertson and BFD PIO AJ Clark back to the podcast this episode to talk about something that is on a lot of people's minds after the devastating fires in L.A. in 2024: How can you keep your home and family safe ahead of fire season?

They explain how to come up with a plan for your family in an emergency, whether something like the L.A. fires can happen here, and how the Bakersfield Fire Department would respond if it did.

As always, thanks for listening, don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast on your favorite service so you never miss an episode!

Adam Miller returns to the podcast to talk about the improvements that have been made at the Dignity Health Arena.

Miller is the General Manager of the Arena and in this episode he tells us what you can expect when you come to a game or event at the City's premiere venue. From seat and scoreboard upgrades to saving on energy costs with new solar collection panels. And don't forget the new name on the outside!

Remember to like and subscribe so you don't miss an episode!

A major improvement project is coming to H Street in Downtown Bakersfield, so Public Works Director Zac Meyer and Assistant City Manager Gary Hallen stopped by to talk about what you can expect as things get underway.

New roundabouts, pedestrian crossing bulb-outs, lane reductions and more are on the way to the road. Learn why we're making these improvements and how they'll help everyone who uses the road, from vehicle drivers to walkers and joggers as well as bicyclists.

The City Clerk's Office is always looking to fill seats on our boards and commissions.

And on this episode of The Something Better Podcast, City Clerk Julie Drimakis and Assistant City Clerk Cari Cowling breakdown the importance of each, their roles within the City, recruitment and how you can apply.

Anyone interested in learning more and applying for a board or commission can visit the City Clerk's online portal.

Asst. Water Director Evette Roldan returns to talk more about the City's Wastewater Division, the proposed sewer rate changes and Prop 218 notices and more about the system we all use but never really think about.

And if you missed Evette's first visit, check it out here.