Moms Building Community

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Mayor Kevin Wilk to discuss his leadership journey, his vision for Walnut Creek, and the important decisions helping shape the city’s future.

Mayor Wilk shares what it means to lead with passion, listen to residents, engage young people, and make thoughtful decisions that help a community grow and thrive. His dedication to public service reminds us why it is so important to bring local leaders directly to the community.

Tune in for an insightful conversation about leadership, community involvement, public service, and building a stronger future fo...

In this episode, we sit down with Napa City Councilmember Beth Painter for an engaging conversation about the city’s growth, upcoming projects, and the decisions shaping Napa’s future.

Councilmember Painter shares her perspective on public service, community development, and the importance of listening to residents as Napa continues to evolve. We also discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the city and how thoughtful leadership can help preserve Napa’s unique character while preparing for the future.

Tune in for an insightful conversation about leadership, progress, and building a stronger Napa for generations to come.<

In this powerful episode, we visit the Monarch Justice Center in Napa to learn how compassion, collaboration, and trauma-informed support can create a safer path forward for survivors and families.

We had the honor of speaking with the dedicated leader Michele Farhat behind the center and hearing about the vital resources, advocacy, and coordinated services they provide to people navigating some of life’s most difficult circumstances.

We were also deeply honored to welcome Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley as one of our guest podcasters. Her leadership, experience, and commitment to justice brought an im...

Welcome to Moms Building Community and Tomorrow’s Table Podcast. In this episode, we are honored to sit down with Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley for an inspiring conversation about justice, leadership, public safety, and community service.

District Attorney Haley shares her personal experiences and powerful journey into law, offering an honest and meaningful look at the challenges and moments that shaped her leadership. Her story left us deeply inspired and filled with admiration for her strength, dedication, and commitment to serving others.

She also discusses the responsibilities of leading the Napa County District At...

In this episode, we sit down with Gateway Community Charters for an inspiring conversation about innovation in education, student success, and preparing young people for the future workforce.

Gateway Community Charters serves diverse learners by creating educational pathways that support students academically, socially, and personally. Through programs focused on opportunity, career readiness, leadership, and individualized learning, they are helping students build the skills and confidence they need for life beyond the classroom.

This conversation highlights the importance of meeting students where they are, supporting families, and creating learning environments that open doors to brighter futures...

In this powerful episode, we sit down with California State Controller Malia Cohen for an inspiring conversation about leadership, public service, financial accountability, and the importance of creating opportunities for the next generation.

Controller Cohen shares her journey in public service, her commitment to serving the people of California, and the role her office plays in protecting resources and supporting communities across the state. Her wisdom, encouragement, and genuine care for young people made this conversation especially meaningful for our youth and community podcasters.

This episode highlights the impact of strong leadership, the importance of...

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson for a powerful conversation about community leadership, youth and family opportunities, transportation, public safety, local resources, and the important role state government plays in supporting everyday families.

We were also honored to have Mayor of Pittsburg Dionne Adams join us as a guest podcaster, bringing her leadership, voice, and community-centered perspective to this meaningful conversation.

This episode is about connection, resources, and bringing leaders closer to the communities they serve. Through honest conversations like this, we continue our mission of uplifting families, empowering...

Welcome back to Moms Building Community Podcast, where we connect families with the leaders, resources, and conversations that help shape stronger communities.

We are honored to welcome Nancy Dunn, Vacaville Unified School District Board President, and Sasha Begell, Superintendent of Vacaville Unified School District, for an important conversation about education, leadership, and the future of our schools.

In this episode, we talk about the importance of supporting students not only academically, but also socially, emotionally, and as part of a larger community. We also discuss how families, educators, and district leaders can work together to...

In this episode, we will learn about Chief Vermillion’s personal journey, the experiences that shaped his heart for service, and how those moments helped guide him into a career dedicated to helping people and protecting his community. We will also talk about his leadership in Pleasant Hill, the importance of building trust between law enforcement and families, and how his example can inspire others to serve with compassion, courage, and purpose.

Chief Vermillion’s story reminds us that leadership is not only about a title. It is about showing up for people, listening to the community, and...

Welcome to another episode of Moms Building Community and Tomorrow’s Table Podcast.

Today, we are honored to welcome Antioch Chief of Police Joe Vigil for a meaningful conversation about leadership, public safety, community trust, and the future of policing in Antioch.

Chief Vigil brings more than 25 years of law enforcement experience and has stepped into this role during an important time for the City of Antioch. His leadership focuses on rebuilding trust, strengthening accountability, supporting officers, and creating safer connections between law enforcement and the community.

In this episode, we will learn mo...

In this episode, California Legal Pathways with Ruthe Catolico Ashley: Opening Doors to Law, Leadership, and Justice, we are honored to welcome Ruthe Ashley, a true trailblazer in law, education, and leadership.

Ruthe has dedicated her career to opening doors for students and creating pathways into the legal profession, especially for young people from diverse communities. Through her work with California Legal Pathways, she has helped inspire the next generation of lawyers, advocates, and community leaders by showing students that they belong in spaces where justice, leadership, and change are created.

We were also honored...

In this episode, we are honored to welcome LaVontae Hill, also known as Kodak King, for a powerful conversation about mental health, healing, purpose, and community impact.

LaVontae is a mental health therapist, Associate Clinical Social Worker, motivational speaker, TEDx speaker, and founder of Open Heart Journey. Through his lived experience and professional work, he continues to help break the stigma around mental health while encouraging others to choose vulnerability, healing, and hope.

During this conversation, we talk about his journey, the importance of mental health awareness, how our stories can become a source of...

Welcome back to Moms Building Community and Tomorrow’s Table Podcast, where we connect our communities with the leaders, organizations, and resources making a difference. Today, we are honored to welcome Congressman Mike Thompson, who represents California’s 4th Congressional District, serving Solano, Napa, Sonoma, Lake, and Yolo Counties. Congressman Thompson is a decorated Vietnam veteran, dedicated public servant, and longtime advocate for working families, veterans, healthcare access, public safety, and our local communities.

Today on our podcast, we are honored to welcome Pablo Benavente, Concord City Councilmember for District 4. Raised in Concord, Councilmember Benavente brings a deep connection to the community he serves, along with experience in government relations, nonprofits, local advocacy, and community leadership.

In this episode, we talk about Concord’s future, community resources, equity, infrastructure, economic development, youth and family opportunities, and what it means to lead with service and purpose.

This conversation is about helping residents better understand local government, the leaders shaping their city, and the opportunities ahead for families and future generations.

Today on our podcast, we are honored to welcome G. Harold Duffey, City Manager for the City of Brentwood. As City Manager, Mr. Duffey plays an important role in helping guide the daily operations of the city, supporting city departments, and helping carry out the vision of the City Council for the future of Brentwood.

In this episode, we talk about Brentwood’s growth, public safety, community resources, youth and family opportunities, economic development, and what it takes to lead a city that is growing while still holding on to its strong community values.

This co...

Welcome back to the podcast. Today, we are honored to welcome Walter O’Grodnick, Interim Chief of Police for the City of Brentwood. This conversation is about more than public safety — it is about leadership, trust, youth voices, family safety, and how police departments can continue building strong relationships with the communities they serve.

Chief O’Grodnick has dedicated many years to law enforcement and to the Brentwood community, and today we are excited to learn more about his journey, his vision for community-centered policing, and what families, youth, and residents should know about staying connected, informed, and sa...

Welcome back to our podcast. Today, we are honored to welcome Len Augustine, a respected leader whose life represents service, sacrifice, leadership, and dedication to community.

Len Augustine’s journey began in the coal mining region of Pennsylvania. After losing his father at a young age, he was raised by a hardworking mother who worked two jobs to give him the opportunity to succeed. That early foundation of resilience, discipline, and determination helped shape the leader he would become.

Len went on to graduate from Lehigh University with a degree in mechanical engineering and later se...

Welcome back to the podcast. Today, we are honored to welcome Rio Vista Mayor Edwin Okamura for a meaningful and fun conversation about leadership, community, and the future of Rio Vista.

Mayor Okamura brings a strong background in finance, wisdom, and public service. In this episode, we talk about the work being done to strengthen opportunities for youth, families, and the community. He also shares the importance of engaging residents, listening to their voices, and making sure the community has input in shaping Rio Vista’s future.

We also had a great conversation about food, tr...

Welcome back to Moms Building Community Podcast and Tomorrow’s Table Podcast. Today we are having an important community conversation about the proposed one-cent sales tax in Vacaville and what it could mean for public safety, city services, emergency response, community programs, and the future of our city.

We are honored to welcome two special guests: Vacaville Police Chief Chris Polen and Vacaville City Manager Savita Chaudhary. Chief Polen has been a valued guest on our podcast before, and our audience always appreciates his transparency, community-focused leadership, and dedication to building trust between law enforcement and residents. Ci...

Congressman John Garamendi on the True Foundation of America, Current Issues Affecting Our Communities, and Today’s Administration

Grammar-Corrected Version: What is the true foundation of America?

Checks and balances. A land of opportunity. A promise built on families, freedom, and the next generation.

We sat down with Congressman John Garamendi to talk about the current issues affecting our communities, the role of today’s administration, and the legacy we are building for the next generation. This conversation is powerful, real, and something every family needs to hear.

We’re honored to welcome Dr. Michael Silva to the podcast—Vacaville Vice Mayor, professor, and candidate for Solano County Supervisor District 4. A lifelong Solano County resident, educator, and public servant, Dr. Silva is committed to strengthening local communities and expanding opportunity for families.

In this episode, we discuss his journey, what inspired his run for County Supervisor, and his vision for the future of Vacaville, Dixon, and Solano County.

We’re honored to welcome Juan Desmarais to the podcast, candidate for Solano County Supervisor District 4. A U.S. Marine veteran, former law enforcement officer, small business owner, husband, and father of six, Juan brings a life story rooted in resilience, service, and firsthand understanding of the challenges families face today.

In this episode, we discuss what inspired his run for office, his commitment to accountability over special interests, support for small businesses and veterans, and his vision for a safer, stronger future for Solano County families.

We’re honored to welcome Alexandra Ikeda and Jason Holley to the podcast—two dedicated leaders helping shape a stronger future for American Canyon. Through their commitment to community growth, youth opportunities, and family-focused initiatives, they are making a lasting impact on the city’s future.

In this conversation, we’ll discuss leadership, collaboration, economic development, and how American Canyon continues to grow while keeping families, education, and quality of life at the center. Join us for an inspiring episode focused on vision, service, and building a thriving community for the next generation.

Today’s recording with Scott Moak — host of @studio40live (@announcerscott) and Vice President at Sacramento Republic FC.

We had a thoughtful and engaging conversation, with Scott bringing a unique perspective shaped by his background in marriage counseling and sociology. His approach to complex topics is grounded in empathy, insight, and a strong understanding of people and community.

We also explored what it means to build human-centered communities—spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected.

Building a Stronger Sacramento: Lisa Kaplan on Safety, Growth & Community

Councilmember Kaplan’s leadership is deeply rooted in community. In this upcoming episode, she shares her commitment to uplifting local voices and addressing the issues that matter most to families and neighborhoods—from public safety and active transportation to economic development, efficient public services, and meaningful investments in infrastructure and family-friendly spaces.

This conversation highlights her dedication to listening, collaboration, and building a stronger, more connected Sacramento. Stay tuned for an episode grounded in service, accountability, and community-driven leadership.

It was an honor to sit down with Chief Marshall for a meaningful conversation on leadership, prevention, and the future of public safety. In this episode, Chief Marshall shares how a proactive, prevention-focused approach can strengthen communities while highlighting the critical importance of mental health resources for those who serve. His commitment to supporting his team and leading with transparency offers a powerful perspective on what modern public safety can and should look like.

We’re grateful to Chief Marshall and the Fairfield Police Department for their continued dedication and service to the community. Tune in for a...

Welcome back to Moms Building Community Podcast / Tomorrow’s Table Podcast. Today we’re spotlighting SANE-SART, a local nonprofit based in Fairfield that provides trauma-informed, evidence-based forensic and mental health services for people impacted by violence—including sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. SANE-SART began as a forensic nursing examination team and has grown into a comprehensive support organization offering advocacy, forensic exams, and trauma recovery services across our region. Content note: this episode discusses sensitive topics related to violence and trauma.

Welcome back to Moms Building Community Podcast. Today’s episode is powerful, resourceful, and deeply community-centered—we’re joined by Mayor Susannah Meyer of Brentwood.

Fun fact: we had the honor of recording this conversation inside the City Council Chambers, where community voices are heard and decisions are made that shape everyday life for families and residents.

Mayor Meyer shares how she’s preserving the heart of small-town Brentwood while thoughtfully bringing innovation forward—through farm-to-fork initiatives, community gardens, and sustainable local growth that keep neighbors connected to their food and to each other.

Welcome back to Moms Building Community and Tomorrowstable Podcast! Today we’re honored to sit down with Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton. DA Becton has dedicated her career to public service—serving more than 22 years as a judge in Contra Costa County, including as Presiding Judge, and since 2017 leading the District Attorney’s Office. She also made history as the first woman, first African American, and first person of color to serve as Contra Costa County District Attorney. Today, we’re talking about community safety, resources for families, and how youth and residents can stay engaged and informed

Today’s interview with Judge Dan Healy was nothing short of phenomenal. As Supervising Judge at the Vallejo courthouse, he presides over felony matters and several collaborative treatment calendars including Drug Court, Reentry Court, Mental Health Court, and Veterans Treatment Court work that centers treatment, accountability, and dignity for impacted residents. Judge Dan Healy’s insight is vital and needed for our communities. We were in awe listening to how he leads with empathy, understanding, and accountability seeing the human story beyond the charge, without letting the charge define the person. What moved us most was how he conveyed it a...

Tanya is doing is vital for Solano County, especially for our youth. She is teaching young women and men how to build healthy relationships, recognize the warning signs of abuse, and most importantly, how to thrive without becoming victims of cycles of violence. Her story is one of courage and resilience: as a multi-generational survivor of domestic violence, she transformed her pain into purpose. Through founding VEST (Victims Empowerment Support Team) and launching the RISE Therapy Program, Tanya is giving survivors the resources, healing, and hope they need to reclaim their lives. This conversation is more than an episode...

Behind the recording with Fairfield Fire Chief John Sturdee🚒 We learned SO much, clear pathways for youth to earn the education and certifications to become firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics, plus practical fire-safety tips families can use today. This episode is a must-listen! Chief Sturdee is a man of honor, community, and family—we truly enjoyed this conversation.

Today, our teams at @tomorrowstablepodcast and @momsbuildingcommunity had the incredible honor of sitting down with Congressman Mike Thompson (@repmikethompson) a Vietnam War Purple Heart recipient who served with the 173rd Airborne Brigade and now represents California’s 4th District on the House Ways and Means Committee. 🇺🇸With Veterans Day tomorrow, this conversation was especially powerful. Congressman Thompson shared his journey of service from soldier to statesman and reminded us that leadership begins with compassion, courage, and community. We discussed community priorities, youth opportunities, small business, public safety & mental health, education, veterans, agriculture, and infrastructure — inspiring our young podcasters to lead with...

Joining hosts Patty Phillips and Amaya of Tomorrow’s Table Podcast was Kyle, Youth Development Coordinator with the Vacaville Police Department, who brought valuable insight on youth mental health. Together, they sat down with our special guest John Mackenzie, President of NAMI Solano County, to talk about: His personal journey into mental health advocacy. The role NAMI plays in supporting Solano families Breaking the stigma around mental health for youth. Practical steps families can take to recognize the signs and support loved ones. John is so amazing, with his background in music, he brings a different kind of energy, em...

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Kennedy Garcia, PhD, known globally as the Spiritual Boss Chick® to both the Solano Moms Building Community Podcast and Tomorrow’s Table Podcast! Dr. Garcia is an international motivational speaker, transformational leader, author, and coach whose impact reaches women, youth, and communities worldwide. From empowering pageant titleholders and college students to coaching executives and entrepreneurs, she has a gift for igniting confidence, leadership, and resilience. Her story is one of perseverance and purpose. A White House Lifetime Achievement honoree, 7-time pageant titleholder, and Stanford graduate, she has been featured on global stages, podcasts, and...

The Future Is Now: Dr. Olaf Groth On AI, Youth Leadership And Building A Better Tomorrow, UC Berkeley Professor Olaf Groth Reveals What AI Will Do Next

From the Navy to Leadership: Mayor Pierre Washington's Mission to Serve with Integrity

Today’s conversation is about books, stories, and the kind of inspiration that doesn’t stay on the page. Our guest, Jameelah Hanif, grew up facing barriers that could have turned anyone bitter or hopeless. Instead, she transformed those experiences into fuel—building a movement that gives back the support she didn’t have growing up.

What I love about Jameelah’s work is this: the most powerful solutions often come from people who’ve lived the problem. She knows the obstacles, she’s walked the path, and she understands how to help others move forward with dignity. You’l...

Today we’re sitting down with Solano County Supervisor Mitch Mashburn—a leader known for steady service, humility, and heart. Patty and I talk with Supervisor Mashburn about what real leadership looks like at the local level, how family and community shape his decisions, and the future he envisions for Solano. We’re also joined briefly by Danette from Mercado, who shares gems of Fairfield history and place. This episode is full of laughs, lessons, and Solano roots, let’s dive in.

Today’s recording with Jared Austin, Co-Founder and Superintendent/CEO of Kairos Public Schools, was one of the most impactful conversations we’ve had on Tomorrow’s Table Podcast and Solano Moms Building Community Podcast.From discussing schools and education innovation to exploring AI in education, Jared shared powerful insights on how student-centered learning and community partnership can transform education and prepare tomorrow’s leaders. His passion for empowering students, mentoring educators, and strengthening families was inspiring to witness in person.