The Fremont Podcast

When Jacintha stepped behind the camera, she confronted her deepest fears of cultural ostracism only to be met with an outpouring of support that surprised even her. Her story, rooted in the rich tapestry of Singapore and Indian cinema, is a testament to the transformative power of film in bridging communities and giving voice to the silent struggles within them. This episode unfolds Jacintha&apos...

Join us on a reflective stroll around the grounds of the local Thai Temple (Wat Buddhanusorn) in Niles. We talk about the deep cultural roots and the art of meditation that unite a diverse community. We'll peek into the lives of Buddhist monks, gain insights into their spiritual routines, and celebrate the heartwarming tradition of community members offering food—each morsel a symbol of share...

In this bonus episode of The Fremont Podcast, our editor, Andrew talks with Ishan Gohel, an Eagle Scout in Fremont. His Eagle Scout project is an audio tour for the Sabercat Historical Park located in the Mission San Jose district of Fremont.  Gohel researched and recorded the tour himself and then produced the audio with the help of his brother. He worked with Fremont city officials, his troop le...

Here in Fremont, California the California School for the Deaf stands as a beacon of hope, education, and empowerment for the Deaf community. Joined by interpreter Amber Hodson, we traverse the touching narratives of students and families who've found a sanctuary within these walls. From the dedicated students traveling vast distances for a proper education to the tireless efforts of families...

Discover the story and heart of Fremont Creates with Julie Gibson and Susan Longini. They illuminate the city's journey toward establishing a robust cultural identity, underscored by the inherent challenges of building a performing arts center and cultivating a vibrant arts community. Our conversation navigates Fremont's historical context, the economic implications of arts funding, and...

When life throws curveballs, some catch them with grace and transform them into a dance with destiny. That's certainly true for Junichi Kakutani, the remarkable librarian from Fremont's own Elementary School living with Spinal Cerebellar Ataxia. His story is represented in this episode, where he shares the early whispers of his rare condition and his undying passion for storytelling. The...

In this episode, we chat with Diane Shaw, president of the Ohlone Humane Society. She shares the vivid patchwork of her life, stitched together with stories of post-college adventures, a fulfilling career, and a retirement that's anything but idle. Diane's story is a testament to the beauty of civic involvement, revealing a journey where even the smallest acts of volunteerism blossom int...

Soccer isn't just a game; it's a tapestry of personal connections and life lessons, something Dai Redwood, Executive Director of the Fremont Youth Soccer Club, knows all too well. From kickabouts in Welsh gymnasiums to nurturing young talent in California, he joins us to share how the sport shapes identities and communities. Our conversation  starts with the pure joy of playing for the l...

Embark on an artistic odyssey with Paul Tanompong, the visionary Thai-born 3D artist and co-founder of Props and Pops. Paul's narrative is a vibrant tapestry interweaving his personal evolution from an enthusiastic high school sculptor to a trailblazer in the 3D printing realm. His heartfelt stories of transforming artists' 2D dreams into tangible realities are imbued with the entreprene...

The guests in this episode  share their journey, from the solitary days in Fremont searching for mom friends to the laughter-filled nights that followed. Alongside the FUN (Fremont, Union City, Newark) Mothers Club's president, Darini, we explore the trials and triumphs of parenting, the personal growth that mirrors our community's development, and the sanctuary that support groups provi...

Unlock the heartwarming story of a bank that's as much a part of Fremont, California as the people themselves. In this episode,  Ricky B along with Mike Wallace take you through the remarkable  journey of a financial institution that started with a snack shack revival and became a cornerstone of our community. Mike opens up about his half-century with the bank, revealing tales of his military...

When Brad from Q Branch Woodwork spins a piece of wood into a masterpiece, it's not just a craft; it's an act of transformation. Today's conversation takes us through the whirl of woodturning, where danger and beauty dance together on the lathe, revealing how Brad's signature creations have become a heartbeat for the Fremont community. Discover the nuances of working with wood...

Every coffee shop has its own blend of stories and characters, but it's rare to find one that truly feels like home. Mission Coffee has been a staple in the community for decades. Gael's final goodbye speech is filled with gratitude and  outward recognition of those who helped make Mission Coffee what it was to the end.  A toast to all that Gael has done for the community and to the futu...

Ever wondered how a leader's cultural experiences shape their style and approach? Pankaj Prasoon, author of "Leading with Purpose", shares how his journey across four continents and 52 countries has influenced his leadership style. Embedded with insightful anecdotes and lessons from his time in Fremont, California, this episode promises to stretch your perspective on leadership. We...

Ever wondered about the rich history and cultural significance of Hanukkah? Interested in the heartwarming community work by Chabad in Fremont? We'll explore the courageous story of the Maccabees, share our family traditions, and shine a light on the importance of Hanukkah - a celebration of light over darkness and the power of standing for what's right. We then turn our attention to the...

Ever wondered how a chunk of clay can morph into a piece of art that unites a community? This episode unravels that fascinating journey with our passionate guest, Jake Rodenkirk, a ceramics teacher at Washington High School in Fremont, California. We get candid about his unique path to becoming a ceramics teacher, the struggles of securing funds for art programs. We explore how ceramics transforms...

Ever been backstage at a theater production and wondered what it takes to make the magic happen? Join us for a captivating conversation with Courtney Stokes, the dynamic Programming Director and Digital Marketing Manager of the Starstruck Theater. Courtney takes us on a nostalgic journey through her life in theater, starting from a tender age, and how the company - once known as Kids on Broadway -...

Ever wondered about the intimate, inner workings of a local writing club? Join us as we unpack a fascinating conversation with Tish and Evelyn, representatives from the Fremont Area Writers Club. We delve into the club's rich history, its nurturing inclusivity, and the intriguing stories of its diverse members - a narrative tapestry woven from the threads of their lived experiences. You'...

Feeling a bit isolated in motherhood, Breanna Aranda created a community of her own. In this episode, I had the pleasure of discussing with Breanna, the young mom who initiated the heartening Fremont Mom Walks. Listen as she shares her journey from feeling isolated to forming a vibrant mom community that flourishes with companionship and mutual understanding. We started off by exploring the incept...

Ever wonder how a simple act of kindness can change a life? That's what we're exploring today with our inspiring guest, Kellie Barron, the program manager for Tri-City Volunteers, an organization in Fremont, California that is truly making a difference. Hear her share their unique approach to food distribution, and how the organization brings joy with their daily distribution of food and...

What determines the journey of a man from a humble Hawaiian background to the helm of the prestigious Ohlone College? Meet Charles Sasaki, the first Asian-American president of Ohlone College, as he shares his extraordinary life story and the path that led him to one of the top-ranking institutions in the country. Listen as we discuss the unique features of Ohlone College's facilities, includ...

In this episode, we take a historic journey through Fremont with our guest, Dirk Lorenz, former owner of Fremont Flowers. We kick things off at the Centerville train station before moving on to the cauliflower fields of the Patterson ranch, where Dirk shares tales of local businesses that have played a key role in the community, including his own Fremont Flowers. But that's just the start; we...

Ever marvelled at the magic of a seed transforming into a plant? Want to unravel the wonder of community gardening and the profound effects of regenerative agriculture? Then you're in the right place. Embark on a journey with us, as we explore the power of community, shared interests, and technology in shaping our interactions with the world around us. We delve into the heart of the Local Eco...

Ready to step onto the unique crossroads of family business and baseball? Join us as we sit down with Jim and Cody Stevenson, the dynamic duo leading Stevenson Tire, a family-owned business since 1977. We venture into the captivating history of their tire enterprise, their passion for baseball, and the intriguing intersections between the two. Ever noticed the parallels between sports and business...

In this episode, we chat with our special guest, Olivia Sanwong, director of East Bay Regional Parks District Ward 5 and naturalist Erin Blackman. An expert in sustainability with a background in applied mathematics, Olivia gives us an insider's look into her vital role in managing this abundant park district. You'll be intrigued by her journey, from her time on the Zone 7 Water Agency B...