Costa Mesa Pod
Interviews and information about some of the unique, hip places in Costa Mesa, CA. Hosted by Realtor Holly McDonald.
The Entrepreneurial Journey Behind Southe with Hallie | The Costa Mesa Pod
Hallie, owner of Southe on East 17th Street in Costa Mesa, joins Holly to talk about her entrepreneurial journey and the story behind her boutique.
From bedazzling phone cases and graphic design to building a six-figure photography business and eventually opening Southe, Hallie shares how each chapter of her career shaped what she's created today.
They also talk about small business, community, the changing 17th Street scene, affordable fashion, collaborating with other women entrepreneurs, and Hallie's vision for growing Southe into a lifestyle brand.
📍 Find Southe at 333 E 17th Street, Sui...
How to Design a Home That Fits Your Lifestyle | Daniela of DCondo Design
What if your home could be designed around the way you actually live, instead of simply following the latest design trends?
On this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, Holly McDonald sits down with Daniela, interior designer and founder of DCondo Design, to talk about her incredible journey from Calabria, Italy, to London and now Orange County.
Daniela shares how she built her design career from the ground up, why she believes in timeless design over trends, and what it really means to be a “lifestyle designer.”
They also talk about:
✨ Design...
Decluttering, Moving & Preparing Your Home for Sale with Laura Maldonado | ReCreate Spaces
On this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, Holly sits down with Laura Maldonado, founder of ReCreate Spaces, to talk about the art — and sometimes emotion — of getting organized.
Laura shares the story behind her organizing business and how something she's loved since childhood became a career. She also explains why decluttering can be especially important when preparing a home for sale, moving, downsizing, or navigating a major life transition.
Holly and Laura discuss:
🏡 How clutter can influence a buyer's perception of a home
📦 How to prepare your home before...
A New Free Public Charter School Is Coming to Orange County | Atlas College Prep with Alex
Atlas College Prep: A New Free Public Charter School in Orange County
A new free public charter school is opening in the Tustin/Santa Ana area for Fall 2026 — and in this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, we talk with Alex from Atlas College Prep to learn what families can expect.
Part of the Ednovate network, Atlas will begin with a founding class of approximately 50–60 ninth-grade students and a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
Alex explains Atlas’ personalized, family-style approach to education, including its “whole child” report card, whic...
Why Financial Planning Matters More Than You Think | With Lety Aguilar
Financial planning isn’t just about investments—it’s about understanding people.
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Podcast, Holly McDonald welcomes financial planner Lety Aguilar for an honest conversation about money, mindset, and the life experiences that shape our financial decisions.
Lety shares her remarkable journey from immigrating to the United States as a young child to building a career helping individuals and families gain confidence with their finances. She discusses how cultural beliefs, trust, education, and personal relationships all play an important role in financial planning.
Throughout the co...
How PadSplit is Transforming Affordable Housing | Tony from PadSplit
Affordable housing has become one of the biggest challenges facing communities across the country—and Southern California is no exception.
In this episode, Holly McDonald sits down with Tony from PadSplit to explore how the company is creating a new model for affordable housing through thoughtfully designed shared living spaces.
Together they discuss:
• What PadSplit is and how it works
• Why shared housing is becoming more popular
• The opportunities for real estate investors
• PadSplit’s expansion into Orange County and beyond
• How this model helps both property owners and residents
Whether you’re a real e...
From Abuse to Hope: Rosie’s Story & National Love Is Kind Day
What does it truly mean to be kind—and where does that journey begin?
In this heartfelt episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Holly McDonald welcomes Rosie, founder of National Love Is Kind Day, for an inspiring conversation about resilience, healing, and the power of choosing kindness.
Rosie shares her deeply personal story of surviving an abusive relationship, rebuilding her life, and creating a movement that encourages people everywhere to lead with compassion. Together, Holly and Rosie discuss healthy boundaries, self-worth, emotional healing, and why kindness toward yourself is often the first step to...
Newport Rib Company: Costa Mesa's Local Legend Story on the Costa Mesa Pod Podcast
What makes a local restaurant become a true community landmark?
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Holly McDonald talks with John Rispoli of Newport Rib Company about the restaurant’s origins, its family history, and how supporting the local community has remained at the heart of the business for more than four decades.
From opening their doors in Costa Mesa to building lasting relationships with generations of customers, John shares stories that highlight why Newport Rib Company continues to be one of Orange County’s favorite family-owned restaurants.
If y...
Women’s Weightlifting, Confidence & Community | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, Holly McDonald sits down with Michelle, founder of J’Adore Body Studio, to talk about her fitness journey, losing 60 pounds, building confidence through weightlifting, and creating a women-focused fitness community in Costa Mesa.
From entrepreneurship and wellness to strength training and mindset, this conversation highlights the passion and purpose behind one of Costa Mesa’s unique local businesses.
Love Costa Mesa Day Recap
From local small businesses and community organizations to neighbors coming together, Love Costa Mesa Day was all about celebrating what makes our city special. Thank you to everyone who showed up, supported local vendors, and helped make a positive impact in our community.
#LoveCostaMesa #CostaMesa #SupportLocal #CommunityFirst #SmallBusiness
Bringing Chiropractic Care Home with Sarah Cathers
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Holly McDonald chats with Sarah Cathers of Sunrise Movement Chiropractic about redefining chiropractic care through a mobile, patient-centered approach. Sarah shares how she built a flexible business that aligns with her values as both a healthcare provider and mom, while helping clients throughout Orange County improve mobility, nervous system health, and overall wellness.
The conversation covers gentle chiropractic techniques, healing after surgery, stress and inflammation, aging actively, and why movement truly is “lotion” for the body. Sarah also opens up about what inspired her to become a chiropractor after witne...
Inside Love Costa Mesa Day | Community, Connection & Impact
In this episode, we’re talking about Love Costa Mesa Day and the incredible impact community involvement can have.
From service projects and donation drives to supporting local schools and foster youth, this conversation highlights how even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference. We discuss the story behind Love Costa Mesa Day, ways to get involved, and why authentic community connection is what makes Costa Mesa so special.
A conversation full of inspiration, heart, and practical ways to give back locally.
The Costa Mesa Pod - Love Costa Mesa Day - A Family Tradition!
Love Costa Mesa Day is a city-wide volunteer day coming up on Saturday, May 16. I had the pleasure of interviewing Jill & Jonathan Dease on The Costa Mesa Pod about their years of service and how they've brought their kids into the tradition.
Unexpected bonuses for their kids included:
-Volunteer hours
-Confidence
-Leadership skills
What a great way for families to do something together & help the community too!
If you want to join the fun, there are plenty of projects to sign up for - that will work for all age...
Inside the Halecrest Neighborhood with Holly Horikawa | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, Holly McDonald sits down with Costa Mesa resident and community leader Holly Horikawa to talk about life in the Halecrest neighborhood, the power of community involvement, and why Costa Mesa is such a special place to raise a family.
After previously living in Huntington Beach, Holly and her family discovered the Halecrest neighborhood and quickly fell in love with its strong sense of community, family-friendly atmosphere, and convenient location. As a PTA leader and active volunteer at Killybrooke Elementary School, Holly shares how getting involved in...
How to Turn Your Experience Into Income | Patrick Snow on the Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, Holly sits down with international bestselling author and coach Patrick Snow to talk about entrepreneurship, writing books, and designing a life around freedom.
Born and raised in Michigan, Patrick built his speaking and coaching career from the ground up — eventually relocating to Maui after realizing his business could be run from anywhere in the world.
We cover:
• How writing a book can launch your speaking or coaching career
• Why your life experience qualifies you to help others
• Turning adversity into opportunity
• Replacing your day job income...
Women, Heart Disease & Self-Advocacy | Sarah Wilson | Costa Mesa Pod
What if a heart attack didn’t feel like a heart attack?
In this powerful conversation, Sarah Wilson shares the moment she drove herself to the hospital thinking she was having a panic attack — only to discover she was experiencing a full-blown heart attack.
No chest pain.
No arm pain.
No jaw pain.
Just subtle symptoms that are often overlooked — especially in women.
In this episode, we talk about:
• The hidden signs of heart disease in women
• Why heart disease awareness still lags behind
• How to advocate for...
Sebastian Rusk on Purpose, Accountability & Showing Up | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode, I sit down with Sebastian Rusk — professional podcaster, keynote speaker, and comedian — to talk about the moment that forced him to take ownership of his life and stop drifting on autopilot.
We unpack the turning points that come from discomfort, the role accountability plays in personal growth, and why learning to show up fully changes not just your own life, but the people around you too.
This conversation is honest, reflective, and full of perspective shifts that stick with you long after it ends.
🎙️ Topics we cover:
The power...
Why Smart People Still Struggle With Money | Money Coaching with Erika | Costa Mesa Pod
Money problems aren’t always about math — they’re about mindset.
In this episode, I sit down with Erika, a professional money coach, to talk about the habits, beliefs, and emotional triggers that quietly keep people stuck financially — even high earners.
We cover:
Why credit card debt feels overwhelming (and how to start tackling it)
The snowball method and how small changes can save years of interest
Spending triggers like stress, convenience, and lifestyle creep
Why making more money doesn’t always solve the problem
How money...
Chiropractic at Every Age | Costa Mesa Pod
What if chiropractic care wasn’t just about back pain — but about supporting families at every stage of life?
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, I sit down with Dr. Corrin of House of Chiropractic to talk about what modern, family-focused chiropractic care really looks like. From newborns just days old to patients over 100 years old, Dr. Corinne shares how thoughtful diagnostics, proper imaging, and gentle care can make a lasting difference.
We discuss:
Why X-rays matter in chiropractic care
How chiropractic can support infants, kids, and parents
...
Insurance Isn’t a Scam with Andrew from Goosehead Insurance | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Andrew from Goosehead Insurance to break down how insurance actually works and why so many homeowners and buyers feel frustrated by the process.
We talk about:
Why insurance is based on pooled risk (and what that really means)
How carriers evaluate both the home and the homeowner
Why some homes are denied coverage or quoted higher premiums
How insurance companies use “red flags” — much like dating — to decide what risks they’ll take on
Why finding the right...
Paul Gorman on Business Planning & Using Your CPA Wisely | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, I sit down with Paul Gorman of ClearView Strategies, a CPA and financial coach with nearly four decades of experience in accounting and government finance. Paul shares what new business owners are often not prepared for, including self-employment taxes, estimated payments, and why so many people feel blindsided in their first year.
We also talk about why your CPA should be more than someone who looks backward at last year’s numbers. Paul explains how proactive planning, early conversations, and financial education can make a major difference in reducing st...
Personalized Wellness & Self-Care for Busy Moms | Vanity Compound | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with the team at Vanity Compound to talk about modern wellness, medical-grade aesthetics, and why thoughtful, individualized care matters—especially for busy moms, professionals, and anyone juggling real life.
We dive into:
Why consultations and medical history matter in aesthetic and wellness treatments
How Vanity Compound approaches IV therapy, skincare, injectables, and laser services with intention
Balancing motherhood, business, and self-care without burnout
Creating a welcoming, family-style environment in a medical wellness setting
What makes a wellness sp...
Terri Brien on Timeless Design | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Terri Brien of Terri Brien Interiors to talk about what separates good design from amazing design. Terri shares why a home should do more than look beautiful—it should support your lifestyle, elevate how you live, and function effortlessly every day.
We dive into:
Why design should be built around how you actually live
The importance of listening deeply to clients (even when they don’t know how to articulate what they want yet)
How to evoke a coastal feeling with...
Burnout, Boundaries & Why Your Energy Matters in Healing Work with Ann Marie Schofield | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, I sit down with Ann Marie of Restore Massage for an honest conversation about burnout, boundaries, and the unseen energy exchange that happens in wellness work.
We talk about what it’s really like to build a business — especially during high-stress seasons — and how overworking, people-pleasing, and ignoring limits can quietly impact both practitioners and clients. Anne Marie shares why learning to slow down, trust the flow of business, and protect your own nervous system isn’t selfish — it’s essential.
We also explore something many people have felt bu...
From Face Painting to Full Party Magic | Mama Mia Party Pros with Cass | Costa Mesa Pod
What started as face painting has turned into a full-scale, mom-owned party entertainment business serving families across Orange County.
In this episode, Cass — founder of Mama Mia Party Pros — shares how she built a thriving local business offering face painting, airbrush and glitter tattoos, balloon twisting, craft stations, and even maternity bump painting. We talk about spotting gaps in the market, growing a business while raising kids, and why creating meaningful experiences matters more than ever.
This conversation is all about community, creativity, and building something that supports families while staying present for your own.
...
Finding Strength in the Mess with Sarah Wilson | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of Costa Mesa Pod, I sit down with Sarah from Everything’s Messy Podcast to talk about stress, perfectionism, and the moment everything changed — including surviving a heart attack at 43.
We dive into:
Why stress is more dangerous than we admit
Letting go of the “perfect life” illusion
Sitting with the messy reality instead of rushing to fix it
How facing the hardest moments can become a source of real strength
This is an honest conversation about healing, self-awareness, and choosing yourself — even when it’s uncom...
Supporting Local, Building Community & Growing with Purpose | Shaun & Amada | Costa Mesa Pod
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Shaun and Amada from Top Notch Cleaning to talk about what it really means to grow a business without losing the heart behind it.
From maintaining a small business feel as a company scales, to reinvesting back into the local community, Shaun and Amada share how supporting local goes far beyond transactions — it creates real impact. We talk about why choosing local businesses matters, how business growth can fuel generosity, and the importance of showing up for clients with consistency and care.
This co...
Surf City Splash = the BEST way to start the year
Surf City Splash = the BEST way to start the year
Rain or shine, Huntington Beach is kicking off 2025 the only way we know how…
by running straight into the ocean
New Year’s Day Costume contest (yes, really — you’re getting wet anyway) Miss HB + her court in attendance New Mayor Casey McKeon doing the official countdown New category this year: Most Patriotic to launch America’s 250th anniversary Jump in → Certificate of Success Stay dry → Certificate of Sanity
Whether you’re splashin...
Hidden Newport Beach History You’ve Never Heard! | Costa Mesa Pod with Bill
Get ready for a mind-blowing deep dive into Newport Beach’s hidden history with Bill from Newport in Rearview Mirror! From a river that completely reshaped the coastline, to the forgotten stories behind local landmarks, to how a passion for podcasting and local history turned into a viral community phenomenon — this episode is packed with fascinating insights you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you're a lifelong Orange County resident or just curious about how coastal cities evolve, this episode is a must-watch.
Community, Kindness & Impact with Shawn Kortes | Costa Mesa Pod
In this multi-part conversation on the Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Shawn Kortes, founder of the Facebook Group HB Quarantine Cuisine, to talk about what it really means to support your community — from uplifting local businesses to navigating life-changing health experiences.
Shawn shares powerful insights into kidney donation, including how modern kidney swap and voucher programs allow people to donate even without a direct match. We also discuss living a full, healthy life with one kidney and how the system is designed to make selfless acts more accessible than most people realize.
Beyond he...
Pelvic Floor Therapy Explained with Carrie | Costa Mesa Pod
Pelvic floor therapy is one of the most misunderstood — and most impactful — areas of women’s health. In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Carrie from Recharge Therapy to talk about why pelvic floor issues affect so much more than people realize, and how the right care can be truly life-changing.
We discuss how pelvic floor therapy has evolved over the past 20 years, why many women struggle silently with symptoms like bladder leakage, pain, and discomfort, and why postpartum moms and athletes often benefit the most from this specialized work. Carrie also shares...
Costa Mesa Pod | Jason Thibodeau Explains the “New Normal” in Real Estate
Are interest rates finally leveling out… or are buyers and sellers in for another surprise?
In this episode of Costa Mesa Pod, mortgage expert Jason Thibodeau breaks down the frustrating ups and downs of the past three years — from quick dips that vanished overnight to rates snapping back above 7%, and why today’s market feels different.
If you're trying to make sense of today’s market or planning your next move in real estate, this conversation will give you clarity, strategy, and a grounded perspective from someone who’s been in the trenches for decades.
The Conversation Every Woman Needs to Hear with Heather | Costa Mesa Pod
In this powerful episode, we challenge the outdated idea of “bouncing back” after motherhood — and instead celebrate the evolution every woman goes through.
Heather shares why moms become the most powerful version of themselves, how creating life fundamentally transforms you, and what it really means to rise as a woman today. This conversation is vulnerable, honest, and deeply empowering — whether you're a mom, a soon-to-be mom, or simply a woman on a journey of becoming.
Ms. California on Giving Back, Finding Purpose & Building Community | Costa Mesa Pod
In this inspiring episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Ms. California to talk about service, purpose, and how volunteering can transform lives. 💙
From helping others find where they belong in the community to connecting people with causes that matter — this conversation reminds us that everyone has something to give.
The Costa Mesa Pod - Small Business Power! Featuring Guest Lety Soto of Myself, Mind, Body
In this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, I sit down with Lety Soto of Myself, Mind & Body to talk about why shopping local truly matters — not just for business owners, but for the heart and soul of our community here in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and throughout Orange County. We explore how small brick-and-mortar shops create identity, connection, and culture in a way big box stores simply can’t, and how every dollar spent locally fuels real people, families, dreams, and neighborhood growth. From wellness to retail to the cafes that remember your order, smal...
Real Advice from Real Experts | Costa Mesa Pod with Jason Thibodeau
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Holly McDonald sits down with Jason Thibodeau to talk about what it really takes to buy a home in today’s market. From rising rates and media noise to outside opinions and “expert” advice — it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
Jason shares how staying grounded, focusing on your own goals, and tuning out the negativity can make all the difference. Whether you’re buying your first home or your next investment, this conversation will remind you to trust your gut and move forward with confidence.
Costa Mesa Pod - Velene Design House.
Turn Your House into a HOME | Costa Mesa Pod with Janiece from Velene Design House
What makes a house feel like home? 🏡✨ In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Janiece from Velene Design House shares her insights on transforming any space into a sanctuary that brings joy, peace, and love into your life. From creative design solutions to making the quirks of your home work for you, learn how thoughtful interiors can truly elevate your everyday living.
🎧 Listen to the full episode now and discover how to turn your house into a home you’ll love. C...
Costa Mesa Pod - Boutique Property Management
Costa Mesa Pod | Landlord Tips with Bridget from Boutique Property Management
Landlords, are you tired of rental headaches? In this episode of Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Bridget from Boutique Property Management to discuss how to spot bad tenants, avoid rental scams, and protect your money.
From credit score checks to income verification and understanding debt-to-income ratios, Bridget shares expert tips every landlord should know to keep their properties safe and profitable.
✅ What you’ll learn in this episode:
How to identify red flags in prospective tenants
Key...
Costa Mesa Pod - Jamie's Travel Tips
Travel Tips with Jamie | Costa Mesa Pod
✈️ Ready to travel smarter and stay debt-free? In this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, Jamie shares how she turned everyday spending into travel rewards — and how you can too!
💳 Learn:
✅ How to meet credit card minimum spends without overspending
✅ The best types of cards for your lifestyle
✅ Smart strategies to maximize travel perks
✅ Mistakes to avoid when chasing rewards
If you’ve ever dreamed of free flights, luxury stays, or just stretching your dollar further, this episode is packed with practical, real-world tips you...
How Lip Care Is Sparking Conversations About Mental Health | Costa Mesa Pod
What if your favorite lip gloss could do more than just add shine? 💄
In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Erin — founder of Mental Skincare — shares how her lip care brand is redefining beauty by promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
From SPF-infused lip products to meaningful conversations about healing and purpose, Erin opens up about turning pain into purpose and using self-care as a bridge to self-love. 💚
🌿 About Mental Skincare:
Mental Skincare offers lip glosses, liners, and scrubs — each designed to spark conversations around mental wellness while supporting suicide prevention init...
