Beyond the Vines

When your athlete loses their spark, it’s hard to know what to do—or say. In this episode, I sit down with Rebecca Smith, a mental performance coach who’s helped thousands of kids (and parents!) navigate the emotional ups and downs of youth sports. We chat about her book Parenting Through Mental Blocks and what it really takes to raise confident, happy athletes—without the pressure. Whether you’re...

In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Conny Schneider, co-founder of the brand new gym, SomoFit, in Sonoma County. Conny shares her personal journey of discovering fitness as a source of strength, friendship, and belonging after moving to the United States—and how that experience shaped her vision for SomoFit today. We talk about her passion for creating a welcoming, commu...

Step into the world of effortless style with Stacy Templeton Kaplan, the powerhouse behind Bella, a beloved boutique with locations in Petaluma, Novato, Greenbrae, and Mill Valley. In this episode, Stacy shares the inspiring story behind Bella’s beginnings, what it takes to run multiple thriving stores, and how she curates collections that help women feel confident, comfortable, and stylish. Wheth...

​​In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we're lighting things up with Katie May, founder of SoCo Candle Co—a Sonoma County-based business known for its eco-friendly candles poured into upcycled wine bottles, cans, and more. Katie shares how a simple love for DIY projects turned into a creative business rooted in sustainability, local spirit, and unforgettable scents. We dive into how she designs he...

Get ready for wagging tails and heartwarming stories! In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Petra Macega, the beloved founder of The VIP Pack in Petaluma. Known for her joyful dog-walking adventures and irresistible social media presence, Petra shares how she turned her passion for pups into a thriving business. We talk pack dynamics, popular pup photos, behind-the-scenes moments, a...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Mayra Alexandra Hernandez, a Mindset and Leadership Coach who helps high-achieving women break through limiting beliefs and step into their full potential. We talk about her unique journey from engineering to coaching, the challenges she faced as a woman in male-dominated industries, and how neuroscience, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence...

Ever wished for radiant skin without the hassle of a complicated routine? In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Hayley Jacquin, co-owner of Face Foundrie San Francisco, to talk all things skincare, beauty business, and the magic of an efficient facial. Hayley shares her journey into the skincare world, the unique approach Face Foundrie brings to accessible skincare, and expert tips...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we're sitting down with Amanda Norton of Body English Health and Performance in Petaluma. Amanda shares the story behind her unique approach to fitness, where movement, recovery, and mindset all play a role in helping clients perform—and feel—their best. Whether you're an athlete looking to level up, someone simply wanting to move through life with more ease, o...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Lori Walker, the director and owner of Speech and Language Services of Marin-Sonoma. Lori shares her expertise in speech and language development, discussing the early signs that a child may need therapy, practical tips for parents, and the impact of effective communication at any age. We also dive into her journey as a business owner, the evolu...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we’re diving into the world of racing suspension with Joel Burkett, the mastermind behind 707 Racing Suspension. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just curious about what goes into fine-tuning a high-performance vehicle, Joel breaks it all down—explaining how suspension affects speed, stability, and control on the track and beyond. From common misconceptions t...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we’re diving into the world of sourdough with Kelley Brennick, the talented baker and founder of Kelley Sourdough Co in Petaluma. Kelley shares her journey from passionate home baker to successful business owner, revealing the art and science behind crafting the perfect loaf. We discuss the magic of fermentation, the health benefits of sourdough, and the challe...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we sit down with Lena Furlong, the visionary behind Sol Landscapes, a company dedicated to creating beautiful and sustainable outdoor spaces. Lena shares how her passion for irrigation and design led her to start her own business, the challenges and triumphs of running a landscaping company, and how she helps clients bring their dream landscapes to life. Tune i...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we sit down with Nicole Cave and Desiree Fox, the talented sister duo behind The Den Design Group, an interior design firm specializing in both residential and commercial spaces. Nicole and Desiree share the journey that led to the creation of their design powerhouse, their approach to turning clients’ visions into stunning realities, and tips for making your o...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, Amy Ahlers has a conversation with Cara Wasden, a dedicated Communication Coach who specializes in teaching public speaking skills to children. Discover how Cara helps young learners build confidence, overcome the fear of speaking, and develop lifelong communication skills. Amy shares her personal connection to Cara’s work, as her own daughter has benefited fro...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, host Amy Ahlers sits down with Kaitlin Loewenthal, the creative mind behind The Hello Shops, to discuss her journey as a local business owner. Kaitlin shares the inspiration behind her carefully curated selection of products, how she creates a welcoming experience for her customers, and the ways her shops connect with the Petaluma community. Whether you're a fa...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, Amy Ahlers sits down with Ali Kates, an Emotional Health Coach dedicated to helping individuals process trauma, heal their nervous systems, and overcome emotional blocks. Ali shares her journey into emotional health coaching, the importance of genuine self-care, and practical strategies to foster deeper relationships. Tune in to discover small but powerful step...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we sit down with Natalie Vinueza, owner of Grand Central Petaluma, a cozy riverside coffee shop in downtown Petaluma. Natalie shares the inspiration behind her shop, the importance of serving organic and fair trade coffee, and how locally sourced empanadas and pastries have become customer favorites. We also explore the unique challenges of running a coffee and...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we sit down with Amanda Bonivert, Chief Business Official of Petaluma City Schools, to discuss the upcoming school bonds on the ballot this election day. Amanda shares insights into how these bonds aim to improve local schools, the financial impact on taxpayers, and the long-term vision for education in our community. Tune in to learn what’s at stake and how th...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we sit down with Yaasha Sabba, Chief Counsel at Sky Unlimited Law, to uncover the vital importance of estate planning. Whether you’re just starting to think about your future or have already taken steps to protect your family or business, Yaasha shares essential advice on how to create a plan that ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared fo...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we sit down with David Lannon, the passionate and knowledgeable owner of Paradise Found Records & Music in downtown Petaluma. David shares the story behind his thriving record store, why vinyl is making a powerful comeback, and how Paradise Found has become a hub for music lovers in the community. From curating a one-of-a-kind vinyl collection to connecting...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we’re joined by Tali Bouskila, the creative force behind Flower Casita in downtown Petaluma. Tali shares the inspiring journey that led her to open her own floral shop, where she and her team create stunning and unique arrangements for deliveries, purchases, and events—including the gorgeous florals for my own wedding! From her design inspiration to insider tip...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we have the pleasure of speaking with Tiana Sawyer, one of the visionary founders behind Wild Rising Wines. Tiana takes us on a fascinating journey through the world of winemaking, sharing how she combines passion, creativity, and dedication to craft wines that are as unique as they are exceptional. We delve into the inspiration behind Wild Rising Wines, discus...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, we sit down with motorcycle racer and Cover Girl, Shelina Moreda, of Moreda Valley Dairy and Moreda Family Farms. Shelina shares the rich history and daily operations of their organic family-owned dairy in Petaluma, highlighting their commitment to organic practices and animal welfare.  We delve into the traditions and sustainability of running an organic dairy...

Join us on this episode of Beyond the Vines as we dive into the world of personal finance with Haley and Justin Brown-Woods, the dynamic duo behind the popular podcast Price of Avocado Toast. Discover the inspiration behind their unique podcast and coaching program, and learn how they make complex financial topics engaging and accessible.  Haley and Justin share insights into their journey as fina...

On this special episode of Beyond the Vines, join Amy Ahlers, Sean Payne, and Isaiah Chass as they interview Dominic Dotto, founder of the Dotto Construction, a bespoke builder renowned for custom home building in Marin County and the North Bay area. Discover Dominic’s journey, his insights on sustainable home building, and the innovative approaches that set his company apart in the luxury home ma...