Hometown Friends

It is never too late.  Especially when it comes to making positive changes in our lives and in this first episode of Season 2 of Hometown Friends, we see that James LaBlanc is a living example of this. James is an author, motivational speaker and community developer who was born a biracial orphan, adopted into a white family, with seemingly every possible advantages but experienced the challenges...

Mark Conway and I delve into his memories of the friendships that gave him the opportunity to become a different person and lead to a new understanding of himself. We share and explore the unique bonds that ties  us both to out Berkeley roots.  This episode ties together the adventures of adolescence with the joys and challenges of parenthood, and promises relatability stories of being lost and th...

In this heartfelt episode of Hometown Friends, join us as we dive into the life and memories of Greg White, who was born in Denver Colorado but moved to “Bizerkeley” CA where he grew up. Hometown Friends is not only about the stories of our youthful friendships, it’s about where you are from and where you feel you belong!  Greg has always identified with the people, history and culture of his home...

Host Chandler Hoffman and his first grade friend, Carvel Watson reminisce about their childhood friendship and the sense of community they experienced growing up in Berkeley. They discuss their beloved teachers that made them feel loved and allowed them to learn, in contrast to other teachers that made them feel negative about themselves and squelched their confidence in school. They discuss the s...

Join us on "Hometown Friends" as we hear from John Sasaki, whose journey from discovering lacrosse on the east coast to founding a team at Berkeley High paved the way for a remarkable 20-year career in TV news at KTVU and his current role as Communications Director for the Oakland Unified School District. Host Chandler Hoffman explores the transformative power of friendships and the esse...

Join us for a captivating episode of "Hometown Friends," featuring Alex and Emily from Berkeley, California. Dive into their experiences growing up in a multicultural environment and how it shaped their views on diversity and friendship. Alex discusses the challenges of losing diversity in high school, while Emily shares her unique experience as a White Jewish woman in a Black sorority,...

Join Owen and Dave—two friends who found each other later in life but share a deep bond rooted in their hometown of Berkeley, California.   From childhood adventures to navigating adulthood, they reminisce about coffee shops, pedal through scenic cycling routes, and swap stories about staying healthy.   Tune in as they celebrate enduring friendship, sipping lattes and conquering hills. True camara...

In today's episode, we delve into Rich Stroud's deeply personal journey of battling addiction and the transformative power of friendship. Rich shares his raw and moving experiences, highlighting the crucial support of friends who stood by him, offering a lifeline during his darkest days. This conversation is not just about struggles; it's a showcase of two friends appreciating their...

In today’s episode, "Rob and Chris," we’re getting into the heart of a friendship that’s stood the test of time. These guys aren’t just old friends; they’re lifelong companions who’ve been each other’s rock through every high and low life has thrown their way. Their story isn’t just about sticking together; it’s about how they’ve been essential to each other’s survival through the tough...

 Hey everyone! Welcome back to "Hometown Friends," where we're all about celebrating those enduring connections that stand the test of time! In this second episode, get ready to be inspired as we shine a spotlight on a friendship that's lasted over 40 years! Jenny Fellows and her best friend Jesse Parker join us for 60 wholesome minutes to share their unique bond.  These two ar...

This first episode is with my own Hometown Friend, Maurice Howell (Reece), a retired Fire Captain, an All American Lacrosse Player, CAL Football scholarship recipient and the best man at my wedding.  He is a dedicated husband and father of five boys (my God son’s). Reece and I met at Berkeley High School and have stayed close even when our paths were separate over the last 40  years.  We discuss t...