Beyond the Vines

What's the secret ingredient behind one of Petaluma's most beloved ice cream trucks? It turns out, it's not just the ice cream. This week on Beyond the Vines, I'm joined by Dan Sager, owner of Oskey's Ice Cream, to talk about the family legacy that inspired his business, what it's really like driving an ice cream truck, and the countless moments of joy he's created throughout our community. From c...

On this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Naomi Crawford, owner of Lunchette in downtown Petaluma. Located just across the street from my office, Lunchette has become one of my favorite local spots — whether I’m grabbing my go-to chickpea salad, ordering ahead for a quick lunch, or stopping in for the brunch bowl with sweet potatoes and poached egg. Naomi shares the story behind Lunchet...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Elana Nelson, Director of Development & Social Enterprise for Sonoma Family Meal and Sabor Food Truck. If you’ve ever grabbed a bite from Sabor, you might know the food is incredible—but what you may not realize is the powerful mission behind it. We talk about how Sonoma Family Meal began, the need it was created to serve, and how it has gro...

For this special 100th episode of Beyond the Vines, I’m sitting down with two people who have played such an important role in my own journey—Sean Payne and Nieves DeMartini, co-founders of LivXplore Real Estate. LivXplore is a boutique brokerage based in the heart of downtown Petaluma, serving Sonoma and Marin Counties, and built on a vision of doing real estate differently—more intentionally, mo...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Masara Miramontez—renowned local makeup artist and founder of Modern Luxe Lounge—to talk about her journey from building a sought-after bridal beauty business to opening a stunning, full-service beauty space in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa. Masara shares how she’s grown her brand with intention, what inspired her to create a luxury, all-in-o...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Emily Lynch, owner of Acorn Shops in Petaluma and Sebastopol—two beautifully curated spaces that have become staples in our local community. We talk about how her East Coast and West Coast influences come together in her signature style, what it really looks like to build a brick-and-mortar business, and how she thoughtfully curates what she cal...

When it comes to building wealth, it’s not about one decision—it’s about having a plan that brings everything together. In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Jackie Egidio, Chief Operating Officer at Sonoma Wealth Advisors, to talk about what it really means to take a holistic approach to your finances. From financial planning and tax strategy to investing, retirement, and supportin...

What does it really take to support our local schools, and why does it matter for the entire community? In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I’m joined by Maureen Highland of the Petaluma Educational Foundation to talk about the powerful work PEF is doing for students, teachers, and classrooms across Petaluma. We dive into the programs they fund, the gaps they help fill, and the real impact they’r...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, Amy sits down with Amber Bledsoe, the voice behind Mornings with Amber on Froggy 92.9. With more than 16 years in broadcasting, Amber has built a career connecting with listeners through music, pop culture, and authentic conversation. Originally from Georgia, Amber studied Music Business and Communication at the University of Georgia before launching her career...

On this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Maren Bean, owner of X’Core Northbay, with locations in Petaluma, San Anselmo, and soon-to-open Novato. We talk about how Maren stepped into studio ownership, what makes the X’Core workout so effective, and why it has become such a powerful part of so many people’s weekly routines. She shares what it really takes to grow from one boutique fitnes...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I’m joined by Mary Orellana, the owner and founder of Lovey Coffee Co. — a woman-owned, small-batch coffee roaster rooted right here in Sonoma County. Mary shares her journey from a lifelong love of coffee to building a business centered on community, ethical sourcing, and connection. We talk about what it really looks like to start a coffee company from the gr...

In this heartwarming episode, Amy sits down with Linda and Isaak Cermak, the married duo behind Sonoma County’s well-loved Red Bird Bakery — a place that feels like stepping into someone’s home kitchen the moment you walk through the door. Together, they share the story behind the name, the roots that inspire their craft, and the early mornings spent “listening to the dough” and growing their busi...

Poppy’s was already one of downtown Petaluma’s most charming destinations — a cheerful, thoughtfully curated toy shop where families could find something special for every child. But since our last episode together, owner Kate Brown has taken her dream even further, transforming Poppy’s into a true community hub. In this episode, Kate shares the heart behind her expansion and what it’s been like t...

It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year — and no one spreads the holiday spirit quite like Alyssa Romano, owner of Shades of Green Holiday Design. Based in Petaluma, Alyssa and her talented team specialize in transforming corporate offices, hospitality spaces, and local businesses into festive, elegant holiday showcases. In this episode of Beyond the Vines, Amy chats with Alyssa about...

Step into The Reform Room, Petaluma’s newest Pilates boutique where strength meets serenity. Owner Jess Cain has created a space that’s as beautiful as it is intentional — think exposed brick, lush greenery, warm lighting, and top-of-the-line reformers. From the moment you walk in, there’s an immediate sense of calm, balance, and care (and yes, the chilled eucalyptus towels after class are as amaz...

On this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Jennifer Pezzolo, owner of Pezzolo & Co., a premier staging and design business based in Petaluma. Known for her high-end transformations, Jennifer shares how staging creates that all-important first impression for buyers, why her outlet store has become a local favorite for furniture finds, and the fun behind her warehouse sales. We also ta...

Today on Beyond the Vines, I’m joined by Sherill Le, owner of Obsessed, and her right-hand woman, Denise Trevino. Obsessed is a downtown Petaluma boutique that’s all about fun, style, and helping women feel confident in what they wear. We’ll dive into Sherill’s journey of starting the shop, Denise’s perspective from behind the counter, and how Obsessed has become more than just a store—it’s a plac...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Sahar Gharai, the owner of La Dolce Vita Wine Lounge in downtown Petaluma. With a name that means “the sweet life,” La Dolce Vita is all about creating a warm, welcoming space to enjoy thoughtfully curated wines, delicious bites, and community connection. Sahar shares the inspiration behind opening the lounge, her approach to selecting wines, an...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I’m thrilled to welcome back Coach Cara Wasden — and this time, she’s joined by three of her incredible former students, Kalista, Emma, and Violet. For over a decade, Cara has been teaching middle school students the art (and fun!) of public speaking, guiding them through prepared speeches, impromptu talks, and even summer camps full of improvisation. Together,...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I chat with Alysia Utroske, founder of SoCo Kids Craft Club, Sonoma County’s very own mobile craft club for kids. Alysia brings the creativity right to you, giving kids the chance to explore art through fun, hands-on projects—while parents enjoy a little breather. From her Coffee & Creativity pop-ups to her dream for the future of the club, Alysia is making...

This week on Beyond the Vines, Amy sits down with Jen Klose, Executive Director of Generation Housing, to talk about the organization's mission to ensure everyone in our community has access to a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home. Jen shares how Gen H is working to address local housing challenges, advocate for smart policy, and create opportunities through collaboration, education,...

Lena Furlong is back on Beyond the Vines — and this time, she’s here to invite you to something truly special. The upcoming Vida Flow event, featuring The M Factor documentary, is more than just a gathering; it’s a powerful fundraiser for the Polly Klaas Foundation and a space for people to connect, learn, and celebrate every stage of life from pre-menopause to menopause and beyond. Hosted right h...

Parenting a teen can feel like navigating a whole new world—and you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode, I sit down with Hannah Takajo, Caitlin Severin, and Aliah Singh, the powerhouse trio behind CultivaTeen Roots and their new course for parents, Making AdoleSense. Together, they share what inspired them to launch this meaningful venture, how their unique backgrounds shaped their approach...

This week on Beyond the Vines, I’m joined by Gina Markle—the incredible entrepreneur behind Ji’s Kimchi. Raised in the Bay Area and inspired by her Korean roots, Gina began making kimchi while serving in the Coast Guard in Alaska. What started as a craving for home quickly became a business that now brings bold, beautiful flavor to kitchens across Sonoma County. We talk heritage, entrepreneurship,...

In this episode, I sit down with Melanie Durham—children’s author, mom of two, and a local small business owner. When a sudden illness brought Melanie’s fast-paced world to a halt, she began seeking quiet, meaningful ways to stay connected with her kids. What started as personal rituals of mindfulness became the heart of her first children’s book, Every Day Magic. In this episode, Melanie shares h...