Vitamin OC

California voters are facing a packed ballot, and on Vitamin OC, hosts Joanna Weiss and Whitney Gomez talk with Jenny Farrell, Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of California, about what’s at stake for voters and democracy. From voter privacy and access to the ballot to campaign financing and California’s recall process, Jenny explains the issues behind key ballot measures and how t...

Laguna Beach schools are at a crossroads, and the biggest question is not test scores - it's trust. Joan Malczewski, PhD, reveals what happens when a high-performing district still has to confront challenges such as declining reading habits nationally, AI in the classroom, financial scrutiny, and a community rift over leadership. A UC Irvine history professor, former CPA, parent, and current...

Confused by a long ballot and competing campaign claims? Joanna Weiss and Whitney Gomez welcome back attorney and civic advocate Gialisa Gaffney for a clear, lively guide to the November election. Together, they unpack key Orange County races and the most debated propositions, explaining what’s at stake for voting access, insurance, housing, schools, and local leadership. Whether you’re looking fo...

On this episode of Vitamin O C , Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley joins Joanna Weiss and Whitney Gomez to discuss why the race for the county’s Fifth District seat matters and how county decisions affect residents’ everyday lives. Foley talks about coastal erosion and beach replenishment, federal funding cuts affecting health care and food assistance, and efforts to strengthen oversight of h...

This episode explores a pivotal moment for Newport Beach with Dr. Andy Gerken, an orthopedic surgeon and District 6 candidate who says the city’s decisions today will shape its future for years to come. In conversation with Joanna Weiss and Whitney Gomez, Gerken explains why he entered the race, shares his concerns about development and civic space, and discusses local debates over housing, public...

In this episode of Vitamin OC, New York Times bestselling biographer and Newport Beach City Council candidate Walter Stahr discusses his new book, William Howard Taft: A Great American Life . He explains how Taft’s career spanned the presidency and the Supreme Court, addresses the enduring bathtub caricature, and describes the research behind his biography, including his earlier work on John Jay,...

Has the national conversion about election integrity made you wonder about what really happens to your ballot after you send it in? Orange County Registrar of Voters Bob Page joins Joanna Weiss and Whitney Gomez for a timely, nonpartisan look inside the election process. They discuss everything from ballot security and paper-ballot audits to voting deadlines, signature checks, and local election d...

Joanna Weiss and Whitney Gomez look back on Season 2 of Vitamin OC , revisiting conversations about journalism, political courage, immigration, public health, technology, volunteering, local elections, and the growing threat of political incivility. They reflect on guests including Jeff Perlman, Pastor Paul Capetz, Michael Moodian, and other community leaders who explored how national policies aff...

Unlock the power of energy healing and subconscious change with Kristen Perlmutter, Reiki and Hypnosis Wellness Practitioner. If you’re curious about how Reiki and hypnotherapy can support anxiety, sleep, or emotional balance, this episode offers a clear and practical introduction to both practices. Kristen shares her journey from art history to energy healing, along with how these modalities show...

In this episode of Vitamin OC, Newport Mesa Unified School District Trustee Carol Crane shares how her path from immigrant and educator to community leader shapes her approach to local control, student safety, and public education. In this conversation, she talks about leading through COVID, responding to community concerns, expanding career technical education, and creating policies on issues lik...

In this episode of Vitamin OC, Dr. Ellen Shockro shares her background as a swimmer, triathlete, academic, and community volunteer. The conversation covers her early days in the sport of triathlons, including competing in two Ironman events, participating in open water races over several decades, and helping standardize triathlon distances that later became part of the Olympics. She also discusses...

This episode of Vitamin OC features an in-depth conversation with Kyle Williams, founder of A Long Talk About the Uncomfortable Truth, about how education, empathy, and practical skills can help people interrupt racism and ignorance in everyday life. Kyle explains how his 21-day “activation experience” is designed not just to inform participants, but to move them toward action by giving them tools...

This episode of Vitamin OC focuses on youth homelessness in Orange County, especially the hidden reality of student and family homelessness. Joanna Weiss and Whitney Gomez speak with Jennifer Friend, CEO of Project HOPE Alliance, who shares her own childhood experience of homelessness and explains how the organization supports youth through school-based case managers, tutoring, transportation, acc...

Join our conversation with University of Pennsylvania professor Dr. Victor Pickard as he explores the challenges facing local journalism and the impact of corporate media ownership on democracy. This episode delves into how policy shifts and profit-driven journalism have led to sensationalism, fake news, and news deserts, while Big Digital platforms drain traditional outlets. Professor Pickard hig...

In this episode, Dr. Michael Moodian delves into the complexities of California's election system, exploring the challenges of the jungle primary system and the importance of voter turnout. Discover how the top-two primary system and local races influence political outcomes, and what recent election patterns reveal about the future of Orange County and the nation. Perfect for civics enthusias...

In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Eric Ball, a leading pediatrician and health advocate, reveals the critical truths about vaccine safety and policy. Sparked by the Disneyland measles outbreak, Dr. Ball's passion for vaccine advocacy has led to significant policy changes that protect millions. He discusses the real risks of vaccine-preventable diseases, the rise of misinformation, and the impo...

In this episode, we explore how California is redefining civic service through innovative programs like College Corps and Climate Corps. Join Josh Fryday, California's Chief Service Officer, as he shares inspiring stories of individuals transformed by service, including formerly incarcerated youth and first-generation college students. Discover how these initiatives are bridging divides, fost...

In this episode, Gialisa Gaffaney delves into the complexities of California's primary election system, highlighting key statewide and local races. She emphasizes the importance of informed voting and how these elections impact both daily life and the broader future of the state. From understanding the jungle primary system to engaging in local politics, this episode equips listeners with the...

Join us as we explore actionable crime prevention tips, technological tools, and recent success stories shared by Crime Prevention Specialist Sara Verschueren with the Newport Beach Police Department. Learn how residents can effectively safeguard their homes and stay informed to prevent crime. Sign up for Newport Beach Police Department's alert and general information  distribution system, Ne...

This episode features an in-depth conversation with Krista Hollinger, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties. We explore healthcare access, political challenges, misconceptions about Planned Parenthood, and the organization's resilient path forward in a polarized environment. Takeways: Healthcare Impact: Learn how Planned Parenthood's services benef...

In this episode, Scott Burnett from Integrity Computer Concepts shares practical advice on how to safeguard your smartphone, secure your data, and effectively respond if your phone gets stolen. Whether you're an iPhone user or in charge of a family tech plan, these insights will help you stay safe and prepared. Integrity Computer Concepts' website:  https://iccguru.com/ Takeaways:  Passw...

In this compelling episode, Kristin Bride shares her deeply personal story of loss and her relentless advocacy for safer social media practices for children. Join us as we explore the dangerous impacts of anonymous apps, the need for legislative reform, and how parents can play an active role in protecting young minds online. This is the documentary featuring Carson Bride's story and Kristin...

In this episode, we dive into the multi-faceted world of Meesh Pierce, a true Renaissance woman. From behind-the-scenes stories at the Oscars to cutting-edge drone technology for public safety, Meesh shares her journey across industries, parenting in Hollywood, and her latest ventures. Find Meesh's son, actor Banks Pierce in Episodes 7 - 10 of Season Two of The Pitt, on Amazon's blockbus...

This episode features a profound discussion on the intersection of religion, politics, and society in the United States. Pastor Paul Capetz shares insights on the misrepresentation of Christian faith in politics, the decline of religious affiliation, and the dangers of politicized religion, emphasizing the importance of religious pluralism and constitutional boundaries. Key Topics The misrepresent...

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Mahjong with Sally Bartz, a passionate instructor and enthusiast with Mahjong OC. Discover how this ancient game promotes brain health, fosters community, and offers a fun, engaging hobby for all ages. Mahjong OC is the is premier Mahjong instruction group in Southern California. Follow them on Instagram @mahjongoc for Mahjong group lessons, private l...