Viva Downtown's Downtown Discussion

Redding Rodeo Week kicks off May 9–18, and the Asphalt Cowboys saddle up on the Downtown Discussion Podcast to share what’s in store!

Dave Tappan and Mikey join us to talk about the history and tradition of the Asphalt Cowboys, what it takes to become one, and all the excitement around this year’s downtown events. From the return of the iconic Street Dance—featuring a special performance by Ben Haggard, son of country legend Merle Haggard—to the beloved Pancake Breakfast where nearly 30,000 pancakes are served, this episode celebrates Redding’s rodeo spirit and the vibrant...

Tyler Faires is back on the Viva Downtown Discussion Podcast to talk about the Sundial Film Festival's exciting return to the Cascade Theatre on Saturday March 22, 2025. He shares insights into the festival's revitalization, collaborating with filmmakers and artists to establish a dynamic local, regional, and international film event in Downtown Redding. Tyler also explores the future of filmmaking and the crucial role of investing in local film programs in Shasta County. Tune in to learn more about the people shaping the future of downtown Redding through social, cultural and economic development. 

The Sundial Film Festival: Saturday March 22, 2025  at...

Ami and Bart Hauptman, local family brewers, join the Downtown Discussion podcast to discuss their new ownership of Woody's Brewing Company. Woody's Brewing Company celebrates 10 years of being established in Downtown Redding as a family business, learn about Ami and Bart who are excited to take on Woody's with their family and continue producing top quality beers, dining experiences, and community involvement.

https://woodysbrewing.com/
Woody's Brewing Company
530-768-1034
1257 Oregon Street 
Redding, CA 96001

Eddie McAllister, facilitator of the Shasta Beloved Community and recipient of the National Education Association's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award, joins Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion Podcast. 

Eddie discusses the upcoming Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Downtown Redding on January 20, 2025, and the shifting cultural climate of Shasta County. 

He also shares ways to get involved in community organizing and breaking down cultural barriers.

Monday, January 20, 2025: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Schedule of Events: 

Events: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 

• Prayer/Praise Circle/March to Sequoi...

Danny Orloff, director of Paint the Town Redding and Karlo Henry founder of The Art Hunger/Viva Downtown Arts Director, joins Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion Podcast to discuss Beyond the Box Art Project. 

Beyond the Box coordinated by Orloff and Henry is a creative partnership between Redding Electric Utility and 20 local artists to paint 20 unique and diverse murals on City of Redding Electric Boxes in Downtown. 

Danny and Karlo discuss the impact, process, and inspiration behind this project. 

The Shasta Historical Society joins Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion Podcast. Chairman of the Board, Jason Salter, and Development & Marketing Manager, Gabriel Leete discuss the ongoing renovations, improvements that are occurring after a flood damaged the interior of the Society. We also discuss the impact of Historical Societies for Main Streets and the benefits of becoming a member with your local Historical Society.

Since 1930 the Shasta Historical Society mission has been to actively preserve, promote, and bring to life the history of Shasta County.  

Become a member today: https://shastahistorical.org/support/membership/

Redding Roots Revival, the two day music festival that takes place here in Downtown Redding returns September 27,28. Janelle Pierson and Donnie Red joins Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion to discuss the significant efforts to produce this music festival.

Redding Roots Revival activates four stages in Downtown Redding with local, regional and national artists. Redding Roots Revival is going five years strong, in this podcast learn about the social, cultural, and economic development of producing a music festival in your Downtown.

To get Tickets: https://aftontickets.com/event/buyticket/57jm3opl9v/2024-redding-roots-revival-music-festival
Line...

Local Film makers, Tyler Faires, Tyler Lochamy, and Tom Green, join Viva Downtown, on the Downtown Discussion. In this Downtown Discussion we discuss the success of the local documentary ACID Canal, directed by Tyler Faires, the return and reimagining of The Sundial Film Festival, and the importance of film and story telling in your Downtown.

To learn more about their upcoming projects, Sundial Film Festival, and local film making resources follow these links:

ACID CANAL:https://faireswheelfilms.com/acid-canal/
SUNDIAL FILM FESTIVAL:https://info1534400.wixsite.com/sundial-film-festiva
MEDIA COALITION:https://m.facebook.com...

 Maggie Redmon, Cascade Theatre's interim director, joins us to discuss her role with the theatre. Cascade Theatre for the past 20 years since reopening has established itself as the beacon of arts and culture. 

The historic theatre originally opened in 1935.  The theatre eventually shuttered with the original artwork and architecture being covered. Through community, private and public investment and involvement the Cascade Theatre reopened in 2004 with the original art deco design being reintroduced and preserved. 

Maggie shares celebration 20 years Celebration since the Cascade Restoration project, the current direction and goals that the Cascade theatre is working towa...

The Sundial Bridge celebrates 20 years since its completition in the Redding Cultural District. Shannon Philips, Chief Operating Officer of the McConnell Foundation, joins the Downtown Discussion to discuss the 20 year milestone celebration. The festivities will bring Bandaloop Wire Dancers, artists, recreational activities and culinary experiences together from June 28 through July 4. Check out the list of activities Here

The Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay, designed by international architect Santiago Calatava, crosses the Sacramento River in the heart of Redding, California. Opened July 4, 2004, the bridge links the north and south campuses of Turtle Bay Exploration Park and serves as...

Sara Sundquist and Anna Blasco from Healthy Shasta, join Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion podcast to discuss Bike Month and Downtown Community Walking maps. 

The month of May is Bike Month, learn how to participate in local biking events during the month: Information Here at Love to Ride Shasta County: https://www.lovetoride.net/shasta

Healthy Shasta has partnered with Viva Downtown, the City of Redding, Visit Redding, the Redding Cultural District, Shasta Historical Society, and local artist Tyler Brown Cifu Shuster to design four community walking maps in Downtown.

The four m...

Adam Yount, the business owner of AREA 151,  joins Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion Podcast.  Area 151, a full  immersion virtual reality gaming experience based business.   Learn about the Adam's process for developing Area 151, through renovations of a former office space, to how VR is transforming the way people experience immersion gaming and team building. Yount is a lifelong resident of Redding and has been proud to see the momentum and development of Downtown Redding. 

Area 151 develops their games internally and creates team based games fun for the whole family,  friends and business groups.

Learn more about A...

Sharon Brisolara, of Inquiry that Matters, joins Blake Fisher on the Downtown Discussion Podcast to discuss Women's History Month and International Women's Day. 

In coordination with Women's History Month, Viva Downtown and Sharon Brisolara will host presentations and open mic poetry programs that highlight and celebrate Women leadership and contributions. This programming is part of the Upstate California Creative Corp grant. 

Participate and attend the programs at the IOOF HALL 1445 Market Street: UPSTAIRS Ballroom located in the California Street Alley. 

Women's History Month Programming: 

Todd Jones joins Blake Fisher on the Downtown Discussion Podcast to discuss his new roll as the Greater Redding Chamber of Commerce President and CEO.

The Downtown Discussion Podcast highlights people who enhance Downtown Redding through social, cultural and economic development. 

The podcast is edited by Jacob Akana. 

John Truitt from Viva Downtown, an Accredited Main Street America organization, joins us on the Downtown Discussion Podcast to talk about positive development though art; civic engagement through art; and Upstate Creative Corps projects. 

John discusses upcoming arts projects and how Downtown Redding creatives are actively engaging people to make a healthy, resilient and vibrant community.

Learn more about Upstate Creative Corp here: https://www.upstatecreativecorps.org/

New Downtown Discussion Podcast: The Greater Redding Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO Jake Mangas, joins us on the downtown discussion for an exit interview. Jake has recently been hired as the new president of Mercy Foundation North and will begin his role in January of 2024. 

For the last eight years, Jake has navigated the Redding Chamber of Commerce. In this discussion, Jake shares why the Chamber became an early adopter of Downtown Redding revitalization efforts, the values of small businesses that make up a strong chamber, and his appreciation for everyone involved in establishing a vibrant c...

New Downtown Discussion Podcast: The Greater Redding Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO Jake Mangas, joins us on the downtown discussion for an exit interview. Jake has recently been hired as the new president of Mercy Foundation North and will begin his role in January of 2024. 

For the last eight years, Jake has navigated the Redding Chamber of Commerce. In this discussion, Jake shares why the Chamber became an early adopter of Downtown Redding revitalization efforts, the values of small businesses that make up a strong chamber, and his appreciation for everyone involved in establishing a vibrant c...

Happy Holidays from the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion! Jim Calhoun of Redding Electric Utility joins us on the podcast to kick off the Holiday Season. 

Jim Calhoun has been an arborist for close to 45 years, and began  his career with Asplundh Tree Expert Company in Trinity County. In 2003 Calhoun took on the roll of planning, harvesting, and lighting the tree as the supervising arborist for the City of Redding, Redding Electric Utility. This is the 104th year of the annual Downtown Tree Lighting and will be located in the original location on the interseciton of Market and Yu...

Leah Sullivan and Hallie Hawkins, the new business owners of The Post Office Saloon, join Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion. The Post Office Saloon opened in 1976, in the Burton Building of the Downtown Mall. Over the years you may have experienced the Post Office through their staple menu nights like the Wednesday night spaghetti dinner, Thursday night prime rib dinner, or the incredibly fun Saturday Brunch with all you can eat breakfast and bottomless mimosas.

While the business itself has experienced significant Downtown developments surrounding the location the Post Office saloon still remains charming timeless look...

Small Business Development Center, associate Director, Beth Wood joins Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion Podcast. In this discussion, Beth shares with us the SBDC mission,  "Empowering Entrepreneuers and growing businessess in your area." Learn about upcoming free workshops and resources, the growing Downtown business and Redding economy, and the right questions to ask if you are starting a business. SBDC training resources calendar is located here: https://www.sbdcsc.org/events/?e_source%5B%5D=all

On August 16, join Shasta Cascade Small Business Resource Center for an Advisory Panel and networking event at the Shasta County L...

Downtown Discussion: NEW BUSINESS opens in Downtown Redding. Shenagins Baby Boutique a family business opens their doors officially on August 1. Katie Cline -co-owner of Shenagins joins Viva Downtown on the Downtown Discussion to talk about their new location activating the corner of Butte and Market Street. 

Shenagins Baby Boutique opened in 2020 Katie Cline, her mom Angel Weber, and other family members with all hands on deck to manage and design the boutique. Shenagins goal is to be a place where you can find modern, organic, on trend, and functional items designed just for baby as well as y...

1551 MARKET CENTER - REDDING PUBLIC MARKET: Allen Knott from K2 Development and Chris Haedrich from Haedrich & Co., Inc. Commercial Real Estate for a MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT for the future plans of 1551 Market Center, one of the new Downtown Redding Mixed use buildings.  

Since the completion of 1551 Market Center in 2020, Downtown Redding has been anticipating what businesses will open their doors to activate the first floor space of the mixed use building. Apricot Lane Boutique was the first business operating in Market Center with New Clairvaux Vineyards following as the next business to open. In this podcast Allen and C...

Shasta Living Streets OPENING CELEBRATION PODCAST: Shasta Bike Depot and Redding Bikeshare Project Completion: Shasta Living Streets the non-profit focused on biking and interconnected walking paths is celebrating the opening of their new, Shasta Bike Depot in Downtown Redding. 

Anne Thomas, the executive director of Shasta Living Streets, joins us on the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion to share with us this historic preservation project of converting the Bell Rooms brick structure into the Shasta Bike Depot by utilizing the original bricks, when  E-Bikes/Bikeshare will become available in the Redding Cultural District, and how the Shasta Bike De...

A NEW business rides on in to Downtown Redding. True Ride Studio is set to open in Downtown Redding on May 16th at their new location on 2100 Market Street. Co-Owner Laurie Ryan and Studio Manager Olivia Webb join us as our latest guests on the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion. True Ride is a boutique cycling and strength studio that offers high-energy, exhilarating classes for all levels. Whether you want to lose weight, stay in shape, get healthy, or meet new friends True Ride Studio has you covered. Laurie and Olivia share with us their decision to invest in Downtown...

Alex Hauf-Belden, the NEW Managing Director of the Cascade Theatre, is our latest guest on the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion.  In this month’s installment, Alex shares with us how the Cascade is an asset and resource for the community and the changes he is making to enhance the overall experience and quality of the Cascade Theatre. Thank you for joining us on the Downtown Discussion, Alex. 

The Cascade Theatre is an art deco theatre that was built in 1934. The theatre reopened to the public in 2004 after going through significant renovations to bring the Cascade back to its...

🎙️ Downtown Discussion Podcast: Liz Crain, the 2023-24 Chairperson of Leadership Redding, is our latest guest on the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion.  In this month’s installment, Liz shares with us Leadership Redding's (est. 1985) mission and  explains how the  nine month  educational program is designed to prepare and shape the future of the Redding Region.  Leadership Redding's monthly  educational programming features different sectors of the Redding Community:  public safety, arts and culture, health and wellness, local politics, community development and the heritige and history of the area.  Anyone and everyone who is interested in being active, engaged and involved with  the with creatin...

Downtown Discussion: Parking Podcast- City of Redding Transportation Planner, Zach Bonnin,  joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher, to discuss The City of Redding’s restructured Downtown Parking Plan that is set to be implemented in the new year after January 23, 2023. 

Zach, shares the history of parking in Downtown, the functionality of this restructured plan, and the timeline/realities of parking changes and how they affect Downtown transportation and the Downtown economy. This is an episode you do not want to miss. For more information on the City of Redding Parking Program, visit cityofredding.org/downtownparking. 

As...

New Downtown Discussion Podcast: Katie and Erik Janiszewski, from Start Up Redding, a program of the Shasta Economic Development Center, is our latest guest on the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion. In this episode Katie and Erik talk about the 7th annual Start Up Games, Friday November 4th - 6th at the IOOF Hall. The Start Up Games are an educational competition to teach the next steps after getting a great idea! Tickets are on sale now to participate in this 54 hour start up business competition to learn, grow,  find partners and create a  start up business.
For more in...

This month, we're joined by Danny Orloff, the Tourism Marketing Director from Visit Redding to discuss the many tourism opportunities offered by Redding, Ca! Join our temporary host and Executive Director of Viva Downtown, John Truitt, in this month’s installment of our podcast, where we talk to the people who enhance to cultural, social and economic vitality of Downtown Redding.

From VisitRedding.com:
"Welcome to the Redding Convention and Visitors Bureau! Our mission is simple. We want to encourage tourism in Redding where cultural entertainment, downtown dining, and top tier accommodations are just minutes from wa...

Ronda Alvey, Editor in Chief of Enjoy Magazine, is our latest guest on the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion. Join our temporary host and Executive Director of Viva Downtown, John Truitt, in this month’s installment of our podcast; where we talk to the people who enhance to cultural, social and economic vitality of Downtown Redding. In this episode Ronda talks about Enjoy Magazine, Riverfront Playhouse, and the many other hats she wears in our downtown. 

Enjoy is a free lifestyle magazine distributed throughout Northern California. Based in Redding, CA Enjoy focuses on local community and life...

Robbie Givens Superb Skate Shop owner, shredded on over to talk with Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher in the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast. In this episode Robbie shares about Superb Skate Shop, why they are excited to be in Downtown, how skate culture is a fun and healthy way to be active in the community and the opening of the brand new Redding Skate Park. 

Superb Skate Shops is one of the newest businesses in Downtown. Superb sells, repairs,  creates skateboards and skate clothing  - located 1350 Tehama St. Redding, CA. Stop on...

Redding Mayor Kristen Schreder, stopped by to talk with Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher in the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast. In this episode Kristen discusses the future of Downtown Redding, current projects and development, and developing arts and culture. 

Kristen was elected to the City Council in 2014, this is Kristen's second time serving as Mayor. Learn more about Mayor Schreder by visiting https://www.cityofredding.org/city-council/kristen-schreder. The Downtown Discussion is a podcast that focuses on the people who enhance Downtown Redding through social, cultural, and economic development.

Steven Major, owner of Simple Living Co. , joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher in the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast. Simple Living Co. creates sustainable, organic, eco-friendly products for personal care ( moisturizers to toners & serums),  to home care (plant based laundry, dish, and hand soaps).  Steven shares about the creation of Simple Living Co. with his wife Sarah,  the sustainability of using organic local and North State ingredients  in their products,  innovations to streamline their shop to consumers, and future personal and home care products that are in current development. Shop and learn more about...

Erin Resner, current Council Member and former Mayor, joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher in the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast. In this episode Erin shares about her year as Mayor for the City of Redding from her favorite moments to raising a family and shares her optimism for the future of our community. Erin Resner was elected to the City Council in 2018 for a four year term learn more about Council Member Resner by visiting https://www.cityofredding.org/city-council/erin-resner. The Downtown Discussion is a podcast that focuses on the people who...

Karlo Henry,  creator of The Art Hunger, joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher for the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast.  Karlo shares how The Art Hunger returns to the IOOF Hall 1504 Market Street for the Art Hunger Winter Gallery and Workshop December 3 - 23. Over the 2021 summer, Viva Downtown and The Art Hunger partnered up for a three month Summer Art Gallery that featured over 80 +  local artists each month from June - September. We look forward to partnering again for The Art Hunger Winter Gallery which features stunning holiday lights for picture opportunities, local artists wor...

Debra Fox,  President of Kool April Nites, joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher for the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast.  Debra shares how the Shasta Classic Car Club and Kool April Nites will help light up Downtown Redding’s Christmas Tree in a  Classic Christmas Show and Shine to  kick off the Holiday Season. At 4 p.m. thirty classic Decorated Cars will be on the reopened Market and Yuba Streets leading up to the official Lighting at 7 p.m. Kool April Nites is a non-profit organization that presents a week-long public event for cl...

Amanda DeOcampo, The Redding Planner,  joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher for the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast. In this episode Amanda invites you to support Downtown Redding Businesses with the Downtown Passport for Small Business Saturday, November 27, 2021. The Downtown Passport was created in partnership with Healthy Shasta and 26 Downtown businesses that are excited to kick off the Holiday Season and promote walking in Downtown. You can find a passport at any of the participating businesses or Download your passport here.  Get a stamp on your "Passport" at each participating business and be entered to...

Suzanne Russell, the owner of Carousel, joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher for the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast. In this episode Suzanne shares about Small Business Saturday November 27, 2021. Small Business Saturday is a national push to support local businesses; learn how you can participate to support our local businesses around Downtown and check out the exciting Small Business Saturday event from 12 – 5 p.m. at The Park, Redding’s Food Truck Park. Carousel seeks to provide women with a boutique clothing experience in a relaxing, uplifting environment, open Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and...

 Adrienne Celli, Cedar Crest Brewing Bar Manager, joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher in the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast. In this episode Adrienne shares about Cedar Crest Brewing's upcoming events, seasonal beers and renovations for a new Kitchen at their Downtown location 1457 Placer Street, at Cascade Square. Cedar Crest Brewing features exceptional craft beer in a space handcrafted for connection. The tastings rooms in Redding and Red Bluff are favored community-gathering spaces for individuals, friends, groups, and events. The Downtown Discussion is a podcast that focuses on the people who enhance Downtown Redding t...

James Mazzotta, owner of Enjoy the Store and in-house marketing director of Enjoy Magazine, joins Viva Downtown Program Coordinator, Blake Fisher in the latest episode of the Viva Downtown Downtown Discussion Podcast. In this episode James shares what to expect at  Enjoy the Store's brand new location 1261 Market Street, activating the former BoardMart. We also celebrate Enjoy Magazine's 15th Birthday since being published. Enjoy is a free lifestyle magazine distributed throughout Northern California. Based in Redding, CA Enjoy focuses on local community and life. The Downtown Discussion is a podcast that focuses on the people who enhance Downtown Redding t...