Talking Downey with Mayor Mario Guerra

After being publicly mentioned multiple times during recent meetings and political discussions involving Downey Councilmember Mario Trujillo, former Mayor Mario Guerra says enough is enough. In this special commentary episode, Mario responds to recent criticisms, addresses comments made publicly, discusses ethics conversations, commissioner controversies, public conduct, and shares why he believes...

Downey’s legacy in space exploration is bigger than most people realize—and it’s about to get even bigger. In this episode, Mayor Mario and his guest dive into the incredible story behind the Columbia Memorial Space Center and the ambitious new “Inspiration” expansion. From a historic NASA mockup nearly being given away… to becoming a hands-on, immersive exhibit for future generations—this convers...

What does it take to grow a small cooperative into a multi-billion dollar financial institution? In this episode of Talking Downey, Mayor Mario sits down with the CEO of Financial Partners Credit Union to unpack a remarkable journey of leadership, resilience, and community impact. From its humble beginnings in 1937 with just $800 to becoming a financial powerhouse, this conversation dives into how...

We spent the day at a Women’s Empowerment Event hosted by the Downey Chamber of Commerce, connecting with inspiring women across industries, from business owners to community leaders. Each woman shared her journey - what it takes to build something from the ground up, how to stay resilient through challenges, and the mindset needed to succeed. From powerful reminders like “don’t give up” to storie...

Natalie from Talking Downey visits One 12 Caffe to sit down with Sarah and Sam, the young entrepreneurs behind one of Downey’s most talked-about coffee spots. From fresh pastries and creative matcha drinks to a robot barista named Tom, this café blends innovation, family values, and community support. In this interview, Sarah shares what it’s like being a young woman entrepreneur during Women’s Hi...

A new mural now stands in the heart of Downtown Downey, celebrating the city’s rich history from orange groves to aerospace innovation. In this episode, Mario Guerra breaks down every detail of the artwork, explaining the meaning behind each symbol, from North American Aviation and the Apollo program to the Columbia Memorial Space Center. He also meets with the mural artist to discuss the vision,...

This episode of Talking Downey takes a different turn. Former Mayor Mario Guerra reads and responds to real comments from viewers — both supportive and critical — following recent discussions about ICE activity, racial profiling, empty storefronts, police relations, and local leadership. From accusations of hypocrisy to attacks on his faith, Mario addresses the controversy head-on and calls for ci...

As Lent begins, former Downey Mayor and Catholic Deacon Mario Guerra and his wife Ann offer a deeply personal look into faith, service, and reflection. From explaining the meaning of Ash Wednesday and Holy Week to sharing emotional moments as a police chaplain and mentor to incarcerated youth, this episode invites viewers to slow down, reflect, and rediscover purpose during the Easter season.

From the Space Race to the Moon’s next chapter, Downey has played a critical role in America’s space story and it is still happening today. In this special clip of Talking Downey, former Mayor Mario reflects on Downey’s rich aerospace legacy, the importance of the Columbia and Challenger Learning Centers, and an exciting opportunity for residents and viewers to be part of NASA’s Artemis 2 mission....

In this episode of Talking Downey, Mario reflects on what makes the city of Downey unique, from the value of local journalism to the importance of preserving community history. He shares appreciation for Downey’s hometown newspaper, discusses recent stories impacting residents, and offers insight into potential future development that could bring new energy to the city. The conversation highlights...

A tense incident involving ICE agents and two local gardeners sparks outrage, protests, and heated accusations in Downey. Former Mayor Mario A. Guerra breaks down what really happened, why the city cannot intervene in federal immigration actions, and how misinformation fueled division at City Hall. He will discuss the inappropriate, hypocritical comments and deflections of one Councilmember toward...

Downey City Council Member Horacio Ortiz shares a real look at leadership, balance, and mental health both in public service and personal life. Sponsored by Financial Partners Credit Union – thank you for supporting Talking Downey and our community conversations.

Serving the community comes with pressure most people never see. Downey Mayor Claudia Frometa opens up about burnout, mental health, public expectations, and why self-care is essential for strong leadership. A real and honest conversation about what it means to serve.

As the holiday season begins, former Downey Mayor Mario Guerra reflects on Advent, anticipation with hope, and the importance of kindness, faith, and community. From family holiday traditions to a powerful story about Mother Teresa, this episode is a reminder to slow down, reflect, and be there for one person at a time. Talking Downey highlights the heart of our city—its people. Sponsored by Finan...

Downey has been busy! In this episode, Former Mayor Mario recaps a full month of community events, city updates, exciting new developments, and a few missed opportunities worth talking about. From honoring local veterans to breaking ground on a major expansion at the Columbia Memorial Space Center, this episode packs in everything happening across Downey.

Mario interviews Stonewood mall GM Vito Bello about the evolution of retail, how malls integrate online and in-store shopping, and why Stonewood remains a vital part of Downey. They also touch on community ties, local shopping habits, and the mall’s upcoming upgrades. Sponsored by Financial Partners Credit Union – thank you for supporting Talking Downey and our community conversations.

This episode dives into Downey’s biggest updates as Mayor Sosa highlights new businesses, important city investments, local programs, and the major projects underway. A great overview of everything moving our city forward.

When Ryan Guerra was just 12 years old, his life — and his family’s — changed forever. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, Ryan’s journey became one of courage, discipline, and hope. In this powerful Talking Downey episode, Mario Guerra sits down with his youngest son, Ryan, now 26 and finishing his doctorate in physical therapy. Together, they share the emotional ups and downs of living with diabetes...

Discover what’s being built at the old Downey Family YMCA site! The brand-new Kohler Family YMCA is transforming into a state-of-the-art center for community wellness — complete with modern design, expanded parking, new pools, and family-friendly programs. Hear from Dan Powell and Mauricio Nunes as they share the vision, progress, and ways you can help finish this $23.5M project.

Former Downey Mayor Mario A. Guerra and Cerritos College Trustee Zurich Lewis unpack LA County’s ICE “state of emergency,” eviction moratorium talk, Katie Porter controversy, the brewing LA mayoral field, Gov. Newsom’s latest bill signings, a youth-sports blue-ribbon commission, and why Prop 50 could reshape redistricting in California. Clear takes, real context, and what it all means for voters.

Former Downey Mayor Mario Guerra sits down with Roxanne Hodge, Chairwoman of the Los Angeles Republican Party, for an eye-opening discussion on Prop 50, LA County’s emergency declaration, property rights, and California’s political future. From redistricting controversies to small landlords losing protection, this episode dives deep into how local policies affect everyday Californians. Watch, lear...

Why are political lines being redrawn — again? Mario Guerra and guest LAGOP Chair Roxanne Hodge dive deep into Proposition 50, discussing how it changes who controls district maps, who really benefits, and what’s at stake for California’s democracy. ✅ Understand before you vote. #Gerrymandering #CaliforniaElections #TalkingCalifornia

Meet Johana Hernandez, the powerhouse Latina designer behind GLAUDI. In this episode, she opens up about building her brand, honoring her heritage, and empowering women through fashion. Sponsored by Financial Partners Credit Union – thank you for supporting Talking Downey and our community conversations.

This inspiring day brought together over 100 Warren High School JROTC cadets to explore the history of the Space Shuttle Columbia, learn about STEM and leadership, and get an exclusive look at the upcoming Inspiration Building — a $40 million project that will showcase Downey’s aerospace legacy. From leadership lessons to hands-on robotics, coding, and rocket-building, this episode highlights how...

Prop 50 takes redistricting away from voters and gives it back to politicians. Mario Guerra explains how this move threatens fair elections and silences voters. Don’t be fooled—vote NO on Prop 50.