Costa Mesa Pod

In this inspiring episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Ms. California to talk about service, purpose, and how volunteering can transform lives. 💙 From helping others find where they belong in the community to connecting people with causes that matter — this conversation reminds us that everyone has something to give.

In this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, I sit down with Lety Soto of Myself, Mind & Body to talk about why shopping local truly matters — not just for business owners, but for the heart and soul of our community here in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, and throughout Orange County. We explore how small brick-and-mortar shops create identity, connection, and culture in a way big box...

In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Holly McDonald sits down with Jason Thibodeau to talk about what it really takes to buy a home in today’s market. From rising rates and media noise to outside opinions and “expert” advice — it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Jason shares how staying grounded, focusing on your own goals, and tuning out the negativity can make all the difference. Whether you’re buyi...

Turn Your House into a HOME | Costa Mesa Pod with Janiece from Velene Design House What makes a house feel like home? 🏡✨ In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Janiece from Velene Design House shares her insights on transforming any space into a sanctuary that brings joy, peace, and love into your life. From creative design solutions to making the quirks of your home work for you, learn how thou...

Costa Mesa Pod | Landlord Tips with Bridget from Boutique Property Management Landlords, are you tired of rental headaches? In this episode of Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Bridget from Boutique Property Management to discuss how to spot bad tenants, avoid rental scams, and protect your money. From credit score checks to income verification and understanding debt-to-income ratios, Bridget share...

Travel Tips with Jamie | Costa Mesa Pod ✈️ Ready to travel smarter and stay debt-free? In this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod, Jamie shares how she turned everyday spending into travel rewards — and how you can too! 💳 Learn: ✅ How to meet credit card minimum spends without overspending ✅ The best types of cards for your lifestyle ✅ Smart strategies to maximize travel perks ✅ Mistakes to avoid...

What if your favorite lip gloss could do more than just add shine? 💄 In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Erin — founder of Mental Skincare — shares how her lip care brand is redefining beauty by promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention. From SPF-infused lip products to meaningful conversations about healing and purpose, Erin opens up about turning pain into purpose and using se...

In this episode of the OC Pod, we sit down with Whitney Larson from the SoCal Spirituality Center to explore the renaissance of authenticity — the shift from performing roles to truly living from who we are. 🌿 Whitney shares insights on: ✨ Why authenticity matters now more than ever 🧘 How alignment helps you manifest the life you want 💫 The difference between “fitting in” and truly belonging...

In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Alex, the owner of Casa De Onda, to talk about transforming his restaurant at The Triangle into a true Costa Mesa oasis. 🌴 From free seven-story parking to perfect year-round weather and an atmosphere that feels like a mini vacation, Alex shares how he created a space where people can relax, connect, and feel transported — without ever leavi...

In this powerful episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with Sue and Dawn Marie to discuss the critical issues facing women and children today. From gender inequality around the world to the rise of online dangers happening right in our own homes, this conversation sheds light on challenges that too often go unseen. ✨ Learn more about the mission of Soroptimist, how they’re empowering women t...

In this episode of The OC Pod, Todd shares two powerful perspectives: 💡 How networking exploded after COVID, with membership surges hitting 10,000+ per month. 💡 Why helping others is actually an act of “enlightened self-interest” that benefits us all. From the challenges of starting small nearly 20 years ago, to the surprising growth fueled by the Great Recession and post-pandemic needs, Todd hi...

In this episode of the OC Pod, Holly sits down with Lara, Jessica, and Deanna — the creative trio behind Pom Bells. 🎉 What started as a spark of inspiration quickly turned into a fitness cheer product full of joy, energy, and community spirit. Tune in as they share how Pom Bells was born, the story behind their collaboration, and why shaking one will put a smile on anyone’s face.

In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, Holly sits down with Fireman Fred to talk about life on the frontlines as a firefighter. From the most unforgettable calls to the behind-the-scenes of what it takes to keep our community safe, Fred shares powerful stories of resilience, teamwork, and the realities of emergency response. This conversation gives a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs that c...

In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, we sit down with the team from Plank Pilates to talk about the power of movement, healing, and community. From personal stories of overcoming pain to the benefits of Pilates for everyday life, this conversation dives into how small, intentional practices can create big changes. Whether you’re curious about Pilates, looking for a supportive studio, or just lov...

Welcome to another episode of the Costa Mesa Pod! 🎙️ In this conversation, we sit down with Negeen from Uma Fitness, a boutique prenatal + postnatal studio in Costa Mesa that’s redefining what it means to support moms. From yoga and Pilates to a true “village” for women at every stage of motherhood, Uma is more than just a fitness space—it’s a community. 💛 ✨ In this episode: Why Umma Fitness is...

Welcome to Babe Yoga, Costa Mesa’s newest yoga studio designed to celebrate the sexiness of women while building authentic relationships. Houri, the owner, came on the pod to share more about the intention of this space.  More than just a workout, Babe Yoga creates an atmosphere where movement meets empowerment. Classes are crafted to awaken your senses, spark self-love, and help you feel grounded...

Welcome to Location 1980, one of the most unique creative spaces in Costa Mesa. Home to a collective of local artists, this community-driven studio blends art, culture, and connection under one roof. From exhibitions and workshops to special events and open studios, Location 1980 is all about bringing people together through creativity. #CostaMesaArt #OrangeCountyEvents #Location1980

California’s SB 326 (balcony and deck inspection law) is already creating challenges for condo sales, refinances, and HOAs — and it’s only going to get more impactful as 2026 approaches. In this episode, I sit down with Jason to unpack what SB 326 means for: ✔️ Condo owners preparing to sell or refinance ✔️ Buyers navigating HOA fees, inspections, and special assessments ✔️ Lenders and why financi...

Every parent has the same dilemma — what to do with the boxes of artwork kids bring home from school. Throwing it away feels impossible, but storing it means it’s rarely seen again. Artist CC Knowles has found a meaningful solution: she repurposes children’s art into large-scale, abstract collages that families can display and cherish for years. These one-of-a-kind pieces have become modern family...

Most homeowners hold off on remodeling because they don’t have the budget upfront—often waiting until after they sell their home to even consider improvements. But what if you could renovate before selling, without paying out of pocket? In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Mercur of Merc Growth Consulting to talk about his innovative construction-backed equity partnerships. Charlie explains h...

Did you know the U.S. and New Zealand are the only two countries in the world that allow pharmaceutical companies to market directly to consumers? 💊 In this episode, we sit down with Holistic Nutrition Center (HNC) Newport to explore the deeper impact of this culture, why so many people seek “quick fixes,” and how holistic health can provide another path. We dive into: Why pharmaceutical marketin...

Join Holly McDonald in the Costa Mesa Pod as she sits down with Patrick, the man behind epic Chargers watch parties in Orange County! ⚡ From Costa Mesa to Huntington Beach, discover how local fans are building community, celebrating football, and keeping the Chargers spirit alive.

In this episode of the Costa Mesa Pod, host Holly McDonald sits down with Corey Rogers and Anthony — the passionate duo behind Verde, Costa Mesa’s rising culinary gem. Located near the Back Bay, Verde brings a fresh, ingredient-driven approach to California cuisine with multicultural influences, seasonal menus, and a commitment to hospitality. From the moody downstairs lounge (soon launching a ful...

In this episode of The Costa Mesa Pod Live, I sit down with Jess Jones of Jess Jones Design to dive into the home design process and how she makes remodel projects—big or small—more manageable for her clients. Jess shares her expert tips on everything from initial planning and budgeting to navigating the challenges that come with transforming a space. Whether you're considering a small update...

💥 "Unlock Your Brain" for success and growth! 💥 In my latest Costa Mesa Pod Live with Desiree from Our Conscious Collective, we dive into how embracing challenges actually rewires your brain for success. By pushing yourself to do hard things, you’re not only rewarding your brain but setting the foundation for tackling even bigger goals. Basically, she is helping people learn how to be...