Aimee Faucett has spent her career in the room where decisions get made.

From City Hall to the Chamber of Commerce—and now as CEO of the San Diego County Building Industry Association—she’s built a reputation as someone who doesn’t just understand how things work in San Diego, but how to actually move them forward.

In this episode of Dear San Diego, Tony Manolatos and guest co-host Elizabeth Wilberg sit down with Aimee to talk about what it really takes to lead under pressure—and why some of the region’s biggest challenges remain so difficult to solve.

Chapters:

00:00:00 – Welcome to Dear San Diego & ECS Community Impact
00:04:17 – Introducing Aimee Faucett: From City Hall to Housing Leadership
00:09:03 – Early Life, SDSU, and a Career in Public Affairs
00:13:00 – Inside the Mayor’s Office: Pressure, Crisis, and Leadership
00:17:20 – COVID Response and Managing Citywide Challenges
00:19:39 – Leadership Styles: Jerry Sanders vs. Kevin Faulconer
00:28:10 – San Diego’s Housing Crisis: Policy, Politics, and Reality
00:35:21 – Leading the Building Industry: Solutions Over Complaints
00:38:20 – Women in Leadership: Challenges, Mentorship, and Growth
00:43:53 – Is San Diego on the Right Track? Final Thoughts & Predictions

Aimee Faucett has spent her career in the room where decisions get made.
From City Hall to the Chamber of Commerce&mdash;and now as CEO of the San Diego County Building Industry Association&mdash;she&rsquo;s built a reputation as someone who doesn&rsquo;t just understand how things work in San Diego, but how to actually move them forward.
In this episode of Dear San Diego, Tony Manolatos and guest co-host Elizabeth Wilberg sit down with Aimee to talk about what it really takes to lead under pressure&mdash;and why some of the region&rsquo;s biggest challenges remain so difficult to solve.
Chapters:
00:00:00 &ndash; Welcome to Dear San Diego &amp; ECS Community Impact 00:04:17 &ndash; Introducing Aimee Faucett: From City Hall to Housing Leadership 00:09:03 &ndash; Early Life, SDSU, and a Career in Public Affairs 00:13:00 &ndash; Inside the Mayor&rsquo;s Office: Pressure, Crisis, and Leadership 00:17:20 &ndash; COVID Response and Managing Citywide Challenges 00:19:39 &ndash; Leadership Styles: Jerry Sanders vs. Kevin Faulconer 00:28:10 &ndash; San Diego&rsquo;s Housing Crisis: Policy, Politics, and Reality 00:35:21 &ndash; Leading the Building Industry: Solutions Over Complaints 00:38:20 &ndash; Women in Leadership: Challenges, Mentorship, and Growth 00:43:53 &ndash; Is San Diego on the Right Track? Final Thoughts &amp; Predictions

Aimee Faucett on Leadership, What People Don't See, and Why San Diego’s Housing Crisis is So Hard to Solve

Deacon Jim Vargas, CEO of Father Joe’s Villages, joins Dear San Diego for a powerful conversation about homelessness, housing, behavioral health, and what it really takes to move people from the streets to stability.

But this episode goes beyond policy and systems. Deacon Jim shares his journey from the Bronx to San Diego, how faith shaped his path, and why simply saying hello, volunteering, and listening changes how we see people experiencing homelessness.

Chapters:

00:00:00 – Welcome to Dear San Diego + Life Updates
00:02:20 – Introducing Justine Murray & Deacon Jim Vargas
00:04:06 – From the Bronx to San Diego: Jim’s Early Life
00:07:35 – From Banking to Ministry: A Life Pivot
00:11:11 – Leading Father Joe’s Villages
00:14:05 – The Legacy of Father Joe Carroll
00:18:26 – Innovation in Homeless Services
00:21:12 – What Father Joe’s Villages Actually Does
00:27:15 – Measuring Progress & What’s Working
00:39:13 – Behavioral Health Surge & The Human Side of Homelessness

Deacon Jim Vargas, CEO of Father Joe&rsquo;s Villages, joins Dear San Diego for a powerful conversation about homelessness, housing, behavioral health, and what it really takes to move people from the streets to stability.
But this episode goes beyond policy and systems. Deacon Jim shares his journey from the Bronx to San Diego, how faith shaped his path, and why simply saying hello, volunteering, and listening changes how we see people experiencing homelessness.
Chapters:
00:00:00 &ndash; Welcome to Dear San Diego + Life Updates 00:02:20 &ndash; Introducing Justine Murray &amp; Deacon Jim Vargas 00:04:06 &ndash; From the Bronx to San Diego: Jim&rsquo;s Early Life 00:07:35 &ndash; From Banking to Ministry: A Life Pivot 00:11:11 &ndash; Leading Father Joe&rsquo;s Villages 00:14:05 &ndash; The Legacy of Father Joe Carroll 00:18:26 &ndash; Innovation in Homeless Services 00:21:12 &ndash; What Father Joe&rsquo;s Villages Actually Does 00:27:15 &ndash; Measuring Progress &amp; What&rsquo;s Working 00:39:13 &ndash; Behavioral Health Surge &amp; The Human Side of Homelessness

Deacon Jim Vargas on Homelessness, Hope, and the Human Beings Behind the Crisis

In this new episode of Dear San Diego, Tony and Elizabeth sit down with their twins Alex and Nicky, who are 12, to talk about baseball — not just the stats and scores, but the lessons the game teaches.

As a former Division I athlete and CEO of a large nonprofit, Elizabeth knows athletes at every level perform best when they’re loose, happy, and confident.

The family opens up about the highs and lows of Little League and travel baseball: the thrill of big hits and close games, the car rides home, the friendships, the politics, and the small victories that boost confidence.

Alex shares how he’s learned to stay calm under pressure — to trust the process and the work he’s put in, and to bounce back quickly after mistakes. Nicky offers a different perspective: he stopped playing, but he has stayed involved in the game.

 Listen now: Little League & Travel Baseball: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly — available wherever you get your podcasts or at Olas Media. Don’t forget to check out our first youth baseball episode.

This Episode Is Made Possible By

Berry’s Athletic Supply

Serving San Diego athletes for more than 70 years, Berry’s Athletic Supply in Lemon Grove is the go-to spot for sporting goods, varsity jackets, and gear for baseball players at every level — as well as soccer, football, and other sports.

Over the decades, Berry’s has designed more than 30,000 varsity letter jackets.

Visit berrysathleticsupply.com 

East County Rattlers Baseball Club

The East County Rattlers are building something special in San Diego — focused on player development, sportsmanship, and community.

FEATURED EVENT: Swing Into the New Year Classic Tournament

January 2–4, 2026 | San Diego | 4-Game Guarantee
Kick off the New Year with competitive play and great energy at one of San Diego’s top travel baseball tournaments!

REGISTER & LEARN MORE ABOUT OTHER EVENTS.

Charlie Rose Baseball

Your one-stop shop for bats, gloves, and gear — and a trusted partner for San Diego’s youth baseball community. Shop in store or at sandiegobaseballsupply.com. 

 Bonus for our listeners: There’s an exclusive offer from Charlie Rose Baseball available only to Dear San Diego listeners — tune in to this episode to get the coupon code!

Resources and Recommendations for Baseball Parents

In this new episode of Dear San Diego, Tony and Elizabeth sit down with their twins Alex and Nicky, who are 12, to talk about baseball &mdash; not just the stats and scores, but the lessons the game teaches.
As a former Division I athlete and CEO of a large nonprofit, Elizabeth knows athletes at every level perform best when they&rsquo;re loose, happy, and confident.
The family opens up about the highs and lows of Little League and travel baseball: the thrill of big hits and close games, the car rides home, the friendships, the politics, and the small victories that boost confidence.
Alex shares how he&rsquo;s learned to stay calm under pressure &mdash; to trust the process and the work he&rsquo;s put in, and to bounce back quickly after mistakes. Nicky offers a different perspective: he stopped playing, but he has stayed involved in the game.
&nbsp;Listen now: Little League &amp; Travel Baseball: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly &mdash; available wherever you get your podcasts or at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/dear-san-diego">Olas Media.</a> Don&rsquo;t forget to check out our <a href="https://olasmedia.com/blogs/youth-baseball-parents-stop-talking">first youth baseball episode.</a>
This Episode Is Made Possible By
Berry&rsquo;s Athletic Supply
Serving San Diego athletes for more than 70 years, Berry&rsquo;s Athletic Supply in Lemon Grove is the go-to spot for sporting goods, varsity jackets, and gear for baseball players at every level &mdash; as well as soccer, football, and other sports.
Over the decades, Berry&rsquo;s has designed more than 30,000 varsity letter jackets.
Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.berrysathleticsupply.com/">berrysathleticsupply.com</a>&nbsp;
East County Rattlers Baseball Club
The <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ec_rattlers_enright/">East County Rattlers</a> are building something special in San Diego &mdash; focused on player development, sportsmanship, and community.
FEATURED EVENT: Swing Into the New Year Classic Tournament
January 2&ndash;4, 2026 | San Diego | 4-Game Guarantee Kick off the New Year with competitive play and great energy at one of San Diego&rsquo;s top travel baseball tournaments!
<a href="https://tonymanolatos.substack.com/p/little-league-and-travel-baseball">REGISTER &amp; LEARN MORE ABOUT OTHER EVENTS.</a>
Charlie Rose Baseball
Your one-stop shop for bats, gloves, and gear &mdash; and a trusted partner for San Diego&rsquo;s youth baseball community. Shop in store or at <a href="https://sandiegobaseballsupply.com/">sandiegobaseballsupply.com</a>.&nbsp;
&nbsp;Bonus for our listeners: There&rsquo;s an exclusive offer from Charlie Rose Baseball available only to Dear San Diego listeners &mdash; tune in to this episode to get the coupon code!
<a href="https://tonymanolatos.substack.com/p/little-league-and-travel-baseball">Resources and Recommendations for Baseball Parents</a>

Little League & Travel Baseball: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/9923fb33-36e9-4d38-a112-b3770174561a/transcript

In this episode of Dear San Diego, Tony and Juan sit down with the CEO of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation - Mark Cafferty, to talk about family, leadership, boxing, and the challenges facing San Diego’s economy. From his Boston upbringing shaped by strong role models to raising two boys in San Diego, he shares how family keeps him grounded even while working on major projects for the region. The conversation dives into why San Diego struggles to keep young talent, the high cost of housing, and what leaders must do to protect the city’s future.

Listen to more episodes at olasmedia.com

Here are some key moments of the conversation:

00:03:20 – Growing up in Boston and moving to San Diego
00:06:20 – Family life, raising kids, and the role of his wife’s career
00:10:30 – Culture shock of Boston vs. San Diego
00:15:10 – Parenting, role models, and balancing work with family
00:20:10 – Sports, boxing, and lessons from athletics
00:33:10 – Developing a leadership style rooted in kindness and empowerment
00:42:00 – Why businesses and talent leave San Diego
00:48:00 – The cost of living and the challenge for young professionals
00:50:00 – Direct flights, trade missions, and building global connections

In this episode of Dear San Diego, Tony and Juan sit down with the CEO of the San Diego <a href="https://www.sandiegobusiness.org">Regional Economic Development Corporation</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-cafferty-61b3765/">Mark Cafferty</a>, to talk about family, leadership, boxing, and the challenges facing San Diego&rsquo;s economy. From his Boston upbringing shaped by strong role models to raising two boys in San Diego, he shares how family keeps him grounded even while working on major projects for the region. The conversation dives into why San Diego struggles to keep young talent, the high cost of housing, and what leaders must do to protect the city&rsquo;s future.
Listen to more episodes at <a href="http://olasmedia.com">olasmedia.com</a>
Here are some key moments of the conversation:
00:03:20 &ndash; Growing up in Boston and moving to San Diego 00:06:20 &ndash; Family life, raising kids, and the role of his wife&rsquo;s career 00:10:30 &ndash; Culture shock of Boston vs. San Diego 00:15:10 &ndash; Parenting, role models, and balancing work with family 00:20:10 &ndash; Sports, boxing, and lessons from athletics 00:33:10 &ndash; Developing a leadership style rooted in kindness and empowerment 00:42:00 &ndash; Why businesses and talent leave San Diego 00:48:00 &ndash; The cost of living and the challenge for young professionals 00:50:00 &ndash; Direct flights, trade missions, and building global connections

Family, Leadership, and San Diego’s Talent Challenge -  Mark Cafferty 

A revered and longtime North County neighbor, the Community Resource Center (CRC) provides meals and other services to senior citizens, low-income families, and others who need a helping hand. But its downtown Encinitas location has attracted critics recently because of expansion plans on the coveted real estate it occupies along 2nd Street between Hwy. 101 and the Pacific coastline. Tony and Juan sit down with CRC CEO John Van Cleef to unpack all of it. They also dig into who John is away from the office, what motivates him, and why he has devoted his life to helping others. Tune in now to check out this timely and  informative episode of Dear San Diego.

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com

Here are some notable moments from this episode:

00:00:00 – Catching Up: Weddings, Babies, and Family Milestones

00:08:45 – Meet John Van Cleef: CEO of the Community Resource Center

00:11:22 – CRC’s Mission & Evolution

00:15:30 – Who CRC Serves: Seniors, Families, and the Working Poor

00:21:45 – Homelessness Prevention vs. Intervention

00:25:10 – Local Criticism, Misinformation & Real Estate Pressures

00:32:30 – Homelessness Data: Facts vs. Fear

00:37:00 – Effective Encampment Resolution Work

00:40:10 – The Personal Side of Leadership

00:47:50 – A Swift Graduation Gift

00:51:00 – Rapid Fire: Chilaquiles, Walks, and Wisdom

00:56:00 – Final Thoughts: Vocation and Hope

 

A revered and longtime North County neighbor, the <a href="https://crcncc.org/">Community Resource Center</a> (CRC) provides meals and other services to senior citizens, low-income families, and others who need a helping hand. But its downtown Encinitas location has <a href="https://voiceofsandiego.org/2025/04/21/social-media-targets-provider-as-homelessness-surges-in-encinitas/">attracted critics recently</a> because of expansion plans on the coveted real estate it occupies along 2nd Street between Hwy. 101 and the Pacific coastline. Tony and Juan sit down with CRC CEO John Van Cleef to unpack all of it. They also dig into who John is away from the office, what motivates him, and why he has devoted his life to helping others. Tune in now to check out this timely and&nbsp; informative episode of Dear San Diego.
Don&rsquo;t forget to follow and subscribe at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/dear-san-diego">olasmedia.com</a>
Here are some notable moments from this episode:
00:00:00 &ndash; Catching Up: Weddings, Babies, and Family Milestones
00:08:45 &ndash; Meet John Van Cleef: CEO of the Community Resource Center
00:11:22 &ndash; CRC&rsquo;s Mission &amp; Evolution
00:15:30 &ndash; Who CRC Serves: Seniors, Families, and the Working Poor
00:21:45 &ndash; Homelessness Prevention vs. Intervention
00:25:10 &ndash; Local Criticism, Misinformation &amp; Real Estate Pressures
00:32:30 &ndash; Homelessness Data: Facts vs. Fear
00:37:00 &ndash; Effective Encampment Resolution Work
00:40:10 &ndash; The Personal Side of Leadership
00:47:50 &ndash; A Swift Graduation Gift
00:51:00 &ndash; Rapid Fire: Chilaquiles, Walks, and Wisdom
00:56:00 &ndash; Final Thoughts: Vocation and Hope
&nbsp;

Focused on Helping Others - John Van Cleef

San Diego Unified School Trustee Shana Hazan sits down with Tony and a very special guest co-host, Tony’s wife Elizabeth Fitzsimons, to discuss what’s happening locally with the state’s second largest school district, and why it’s getting into the housing business and what that is expected to look like. 

Shana also discussed the importance of wellness in the classrooms, the Trump effect on education, her ambivalence for the White Lotus, working from home with a spouse who does the same, and more. When Shana is not caring for her two children or the tens of thousands who attend San Diego Unified schools, she works as a consultant for the company she owns and operates, Hazan Strategies, assisting non-profits, businesses and government agencies with development, strategy, planning, and more.

Tune in now to check out this fun and informative episode of Dear San Diego.

Be sure to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com

Several key moments of the show are:

00:00:35 - Guest Host: Elizabeth Fitzsimons Joins the Show

00:04:00 - What is Head Start and Why It Matters

00:05:44 - Meet Shana Hazan: Trustee, Consultant, and Mom

00:07:23 - Shana’s San Diego Roots and Social Justice Background

00:11:26 - Diversity and Inclusion in San Diego Unified

00:14:32 - Why We Need a U.S. Department of Education

00:20:53 - San Diego Unified’s Bold Move Into Housing

00:25:25 - Why Shana Ran for School Board

00:30:13 - Expanding Arts, Athletics, and Equity in Schools

00:44:34 - Shana’s Parenting Philosophy

 

<a href="http://www.sandiegounified.org/about/board_of_education/overview/shana_hazan">San Diego Unified School Trustee Shana Hazan</a> sits down with Tony and a very special guest co-host, Tony&rsquo;s wife Elizabeth Fitzsimons, to discuss what&rsquo;s happening locally with the state&rsquo;s second largest school district, and why it&rsquo;s getting into the housing business and what that is expected to look like.&nbsp;
Shana also discussed the importance of wellness in the classrooms, the Trump effect on education, her ambivalence for the White Lotus, working from home with a spouse who does the same, and more. When Shana is not caring for her two children or the tens of thousands who attend San Diego Unified schools, she works as a consultant for the company she owns and operates, <a href="http://www.hazanstrategies.com/">Hazan Strategies,</a> assisting non-profits, businesses and government agencies with development, strategy, planning, and more.
Tune in now to check out this fun and informative episode of Dear San Diego.
Be sure to follow and subscribe at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/dear-san-diego">olasmedia.com</a>
Several key moments of the show are:
00:00:35 - Guest Host: Elizabeth Fitzsimons Joins the Show
00:04:00 - What is Head Start and Why It Matters
00:05:44 - Meet Shana Hazan: Trustee, Consultant, and Mom
00:07:23 - Shana&rsquo;s San Diego Roots and Social Justice Background
00:11:26 - Diversity and Inclusion in San Diego Unified
00:14:32 - Why We Need a U.S. Department of Education
00:20:53 - San Diego Unified&rsquo;s Bold Move Into Housing
00:25:25 - Why Shana Ran for School Board
00:30:13 - Expanding Arts, Athletics, and Equity in Schools
00:44:34 - Shana&rsquo;s Parenting Philosophy
&nbsp;

San Diego Unified is Getting Into the Housing Business

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/2d4a6b7d-a55c-474f-b88f-b2d501676fef/transcript

As little league seasons kick off across San Diego we take a deep dive into youth baseball with three guests who are as committed as anyone to the sport: Jeff Rosa,Joe Lewis  and Chad Starkey. Our guests shared essential advice for parents, coaches, and players, on handling  nerves, failure, car rides home, “daddy ball", arm care, and much more. They also highlighted some of the ways baseball, and the love of the game, teaches kids life skills that serve them long after they’ve finished playing the game. Tune in to hear that,  and learn what Tony and his guests enjoy doing with their Little League and travel ball teams when they’re not on the field.

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com

Key moments in this episode include:

00:00:07 - What is Dear San Diego?

00:00:32 - Little League Opening Day Reflections

00:03:19 - Guest Introductions

00:05:46 - Why Do We Invest in Youth Baseball?

00:11:27 - The Real Value of Youth Baseball

00:18:55 - Travel Ball vs. Little League

00:30:07 - Arm Care and Multi-Sport Athletes

00:46:26 - Coaching Your Own Kid & Avoiding “Daddy Ball”

00:52:01 - Keeping Players Engaged After Failure

00:55:27 - Handling Nerves & Failure in Baseball

01:04:51 - Favorite Local Eats & Family Activities

As little league seasons kick off across San Diego we take a deep dive into youth baseball with three guests who are as committed as anyone to the sport: <a href="http://www.marketsocal.com/">Jeff Rosa,</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/1kru_sd/">Joe Lewis</a>&nbsp; and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ca_coachtbtbaseball/">Chad Starkey.</a> Our guests shared essential advice for parents, coaches, and players, on handling&nbsp; nerves, failure, car rides home, &ldquo;daddy ball", arm care, and much more. They also highlighted some of the ways baseball, and the love of the game, teaches kids life skills that serve them long after they&rsquo;ve finished playing the game. Tune in to hear that,&nbsp; and learn what Tony and his guests enjoy doing with their Little League and travel ball teams when they&rsquo;re not on the field.
Don&rsquo;t forget to follow and subscribe at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/dear-san-diego">olasmedia.com</a>
Key moments in this episode include:
00:00:07 - What is Dear San Diego?
00:00:32 - Little League Opening Day Reflections
00:03:19 - Guest Introductions
00:05:46 - Why Do We Invest in Youth Baseball?
00:11:27 - The Real Value of Youth Baseball
00:18:55 - Travel Ball vs. Little League
00:30:07 - Arm Care and Multi-Sport Athletes
00:46:26 - Coaching Your Own Kid &amp; Avoiding &ldquo;Daddy Ball&rdquo;
00:52:01 - Keeping Players Engaged After Failure
00:55:27 - Handling Nerves &amp; Failure in Baseball
01:04:51 - Favorite Local Eats &amp; Family Activities

Youth Baseball Parents: Stop Talking!

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/ea52748f-4755-401b-b8e1-b292013f7840/transcript

Unable to catch her breath because of PTSD – brought on by years of abuse and trauma she suffered at the hands of her husband – Mariah Dawn sat down and tried something new. She opened a Word document and started writing. She noticed right away that she felt better. The writing was a release. It was cathartic. So, she kept at it, eventually telling a friend at church she thought she had written a book. Would he take a look? 

That 164-page Word document is now “Dragon In You, A Memoir” written by Mariah Dawn. Her book was published in October, which is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the 3-year mark of her husband’s death.

Mariah says she wrote the book to help herself, to help others, and to use the dragon in her (she says there’s a dragon in all of us) for good. 

You can buy Mariah’s new book on her website and use the code DearSD at checkout to receive a 10 percent discount. Her book also is available on Amazon minus the discount.

Tune in to this episode of Dear San Diego to learn more about Mariah and her new book.

More than 1 in 3 women (36%) and 1 in 4 men (29%) in the U.S. have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime, according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. If you or someone you know needs help, please visit www.thehotline.orgfrom a safe computer or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at OlasMedia.com



The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Overcoming Adversity 
00:03:20 - Kendall's Animal Adventures 
00:04:32 - Introducing Mariah Dawn 
00:07:28 - Writing as Therapy 
00:11:25 - Leaving the Mormon Faith 
00:13:41 - Exploring Faith and Relationships 
00:15:01 - Transitioning Away from Mormonism 
00:16:39 - Finding Compassion and Grace 
00:20:24 - Understanding Trauma and Violence 
00:26:03 - Leaving and Finding Courage 
00:29:03 - Finding the Courage to Write a Book 
00:30:38 - Overcoming Domestic Violence 
00:31:55 - Advice for Women in Similar Situations 
00:34:11 - Breaking the Cycle of Abuse 
00:39:54 - The Message of the Book 
00:44:47 - The First Responder Mentality 
00:46:11 - Regaining Confidence and Professional Growth 
00:46:25 - Memorable Concert Experiences 
00:47:49 - Rapid Fire Questions 

 

Unable to catch her breath because of PTSD &ndash; brought on by years of abuse and trauma she suffered at the hands of her husband &ndash; Mariah Dawn sat down and tried something new. She opened a Word document and started writing. She noticed right away that she felt better. The writing was a release. It was cathartic. So, she kept at it, eventually telling a friend at church she thought she had written a book. Would he take a look?&nbsp;
That 164-page Word document is now <a href="https://www.dragoninyou.com/">&ldquo;Dragon In You, A Memoir&rdquo;</a> written by <a href="https://thedragoninyou.com/author">Mariah Dawn.</a> Her book was published in October, which is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the 3-year mark of her husband&rsquo;s death.
Mariah says she wrote the book to help herself, to help others, and to use the dragon in her (she says there&rsquo;s a dragon in all of us) for good.&nbsp;
You can <a href="https://www.dragoninyou.com/">buy Mariah&rsquo;s new book on her website</a> and use the code DearSD at checkout to receive a 10 percent discount. Her book also is <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0981595898?ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_DD2THSY0MEX3TCNEPJ2S_1&amp;ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_DD2THSY0MEX3TCNEPJ2S_1&amp;social_share=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_DD2THSY0MEX3TCNEPJ2S_1&amp;skipTwisterOG=1">available on Amazon</a> minus the discount.
Tune in to this episode of Dear San Diego to learn more about Mariah and her new book.
More than 1 in 3 women (36%) and 1 in 4 men (29%) in the U.S. have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime, according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. If you or someone you know needs help, please visit <a href="http://www.thehotline.org/">www.thehotline.org</a> from a safe computer or call <a href="tel:1-800-799-SAFE">1-800-799-SAFE</a> (7233).
Don&rsquo;t forget to follow and subscribe at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/dear-san-diego">OlasMedia.com</a> 
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Overcoming Adversity&nbsp; 00:03:20 - Kendall's Animal Adventures 00:04:32 - Introducing Mariah Dawn 00:07:28 - Writing as Therapy 00:11:25 - Leaving the Mormon Faith 00:13:41 - Exploring Faith and Relationships 00:15:01 - Transitioning Away from Mormonism 00:16:39 - Finding Compassion and Grace 00:20:24 - Understanding Trauma and Violence 00:26:03 - Leaving and Finding Courage 00:29:03 - Finding the Courage to Write a Book 00:30:38 - Overcoming Domestic Violence 00:31:55 - Advice for Women in Similar Situations 00:34:11 - Breaking the Cycle of Abuse 00:39:54 - The Message of the Book 00:44:47 - The First Responder Mentality 00:46:11 - Regaining Confidence and Professional Growth 00:46:25 - Memorable Concert Experiences 00:47:49 - Rapid Fire Questions&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Creating Beauty from Devastation, Mariah Dawn on her new book, Dragon In You: A Memoir

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/511f93a3-8aad-467c-b444-b22e012b71f8/transcript

POLITICO’s Chris Cadelago joined Tony and Juan for a special 2024 Election Episode of Dear San Diego. Chris provided really smart takes on local, state, and national races, and shared some behind-the-scenes info, too. Chris covered the Trump White House and the Biden White House. He is currently working on building a statewide bureau for POLITICO in California, and covering Kamala Harris and her presidential campaign. 

Don’t forget to vote by mail or in person on Election Day, Tuesday Nov. 5! You can register to vote online through Oct. 21 or in person at your polling place on Election Day. Use this polling place lookup tool to find your polling location.

Don't forget to follow and subscribe at OlasMedia.com

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Introduction to Dear San Diego podcast 
00:04:27 - Chris Cadelago's Career 
00:11:33 - Covering the Trump and Biden White Houses 
00:12:43 - Insights into the Trump White House 
00:14:31 - Shocking Remarks from Former President Trump 
00:17:19 - Presidential Endorsements and Primary Process 
00:19:41 - Harris's Flawless Campaign Strategy 
00:24:28 - The Importance of Economic Plans 
00:26:18 - Trump's Base and Swing States 
00:27:38 - California Politics 
00:29:32 - House and Senate Races 
00:30:56 - Mayoral Races and Ballot Measures 
00:35:54 - News Sources and Digital Media 
00:39:30 - Exploring the San Diego and Texas Political Landscape 
00:40:15 - Insight into the 2020 Presidential Election 
00:41:41 - Predictions for the 2024 Presidential Election 
00:44:37 - Political Dynamics in San Francisco 

Insta: @ccadelago

Twitter: @ccadelago

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccadelago/

Web main: https://www.politico.com/

Web bio: https://www.politico.com/staff/christopher-cadelago

POLITICO’s <a href="https://www.politico.com/staff/christopher-cadelago">Chris Cadelago</a> joined Tony and Juan for a special 2024 Election Episode of Dear San Diego. Chris provided really smart takes on local, state, and national races, and shared some behind-the-scenes info, too. Chris covered the Trump White House and the Biden White House. He is currently working on building a statewide bureau for POLITICO in California, and covering Kamala Harris and her presidential campaign. 
Don’t forget to vote by mail or in person on Election Day, Tuesday Nov. 5! You can register to vote <a href="https://registertovote.ca.gov/?t=s">online</a> through Oct. 21 or <a href="https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voter-registration/same-day-reg">in person</a> at your polling place on Election Day. Use this <a href="https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/polling-place/">polling place lookup tool</a> to find your polling location.
Don't forget to follow and subscribe at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/dear-san-diego">OlasMedia.com</a>
The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:01 - Introduction to Dear San Diego podcast 00:04:27 - Chris Cadelago's Career 00:11:33 - Covering the Trump and Biden White Houses 00:12:43 - Insights into the Trump White House 00:14:31 - Shocking Remarks from Former President Trump 00:17:19 - Presidential Endorsements and Primary Process 00:19:41 - Harris's Flawless Campaign Strategy 00:24:28 - The Importance of Economic Plans 00:26:18 - Trump's Base and Swing States 00:27:38 - California Politics 00:29:32 - House and Senate Races 00:30:56 - Mayoral Races and Ballot Measures 00:35:54 - News Sources and Digital Media 00:39:30 - Exploring the San Diego and Texas Political Landscape 00:40:15 - Insight into the 2020 Presidential Election 00:41:41 - Predictions for the 2024 Presidential Election 00:44:37 - Political Dynamics in San Francisco 
Insta: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ccadelago/?hl=en">@ccadelago</a>
Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/follow?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.politico.com%2F&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Ebuttonembed%7Ctwterm%5Efollow%7Ctwgr%5Eccadelago&amp;region=follow_link&amp;screen_name=ccadelago">@ccadelago</a>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccadelago/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccadelago/</a>
Web main: <a href="https://www.politico.com/">https://www.politico.com/</a> 
Web bio: <a href="https://www.politico.com/staff/christopher-cadelago">https://www.politico.com/staff/christopher-cadelago</a>

Election Special 2024 - Chris Cadelago

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/4f79226a-e4e3-45c5-85fb-b203012f6fa3/transcript

The Padres sensed they had a problem. So they called John Nienstedt, who helped them figure out they should switch to brown jerseys. John brought in models who wore different jerseys to a series of focus groups. Each participant in the room was armed with a dial that they cranked one way for approval and another way for disapproval. John used the dial tests to block debate and strong personalities from influencing the room, he said. The Padres, of course, used John’s research and data to switch from blue to brown uniforms a few years ago.

John has been surveying voters, consumers, fans, and others for decades as head of the company he co-founded in graduate school at SDSU, Competitive Edge Research & Communication or CERC. The information he provides his clients helps them make informed decisions about strategy, marketing, messaging, and more.

John counts some of the biggest names and brands in San Diego as clients, including Mayor Kevin Faulconer, COX and Sempra. Nationally, John and his research firm have worked for Costco, Airbnb, and other leading organizations.

On this episode of Dear San Diego, John discusses his love of family, baseball, and polling. At the end of the show, he shares a funny story with Tony and Juan about Tony’s last name. Stick around for that and more.

Don't forget to Follow and Subscribe at OlasMedia.com

The key moments in this episode are:


00:00:01 - Introduction to Dear San Diego
00:01:06 - Catching Up on Personal Lives
00:03:07 - Work and Business Development
00:05:15 - Personal Health and Wellness
00:08:34 - John's Values and Priorities
00:12:56 - The Impact of Seasonal Play on Performance
00:14:06 - The Real Deal: Over 45 Baseball
00:15:01 - The Intersection of Baseball and Politics
00:16:58 - Public Sentiment on San Diego's Direction
00:19:18 - John's Journey to Becoming a Pollster
00:26:34 - Explaining Ballot Measures vs. Candidates
00:27:30 - The Importance of Research in Decision-Making
00:32:05 - Unique Branding in Baseball Uniforms
00:34:17 - The Power Metrics Approach
00:37:14 - The Role of Newsletters in Lead Generation
00:39:37 - Expectations and Leadership
00:42:23 - Movie Preferences
00:43:03 - Breakfast and Coffee
00:44:45 - Physical Activity and Fitness
00:50:12 - John's Personality and Passion
00:52:05 - Unique Last Name
00:53:01 - Podcast Credits

The Padres sensed they had a problem. So they called <a href="https://cerc.net/our-team/">John Nienstedt,</a> who helped them figure out they should switch to brown jerseys. John brought in models who wore different jerseys to a series of focus groups. Each participant in the room was armed with a dial that they cranked one way for approval and another way for disapproval. John used the dial tests to block debate and strong personalities from influencing the room, he said. The Padres, of course, used John’s research and data to switch from blue to brown uniforms a few years ago.
John has been surveying voters, consumers, fans, and others for decades as head of the company he co-founded in graduate school at SDSU, <a href="https://cerc.net/">Competitive Edge Research &amp; Communication or CERC.</a> The information he provides his clients helps them make informed decisions about strategy, marketing, messaging, and more.
John counts some of the biggest names and brands in San Diego as clients, including Mayor Kevin Faulconer, COX and Sempra. Nationally, John and his research firm have worked for Costco, Airbnb, and other leading organizations.
On this episode of Dear San Diego, John discusses his love of family, baseball, and polling. At the end of the show, he shares a funny story with Tony and Juan about Tony’s last name. Stick around for that and more.
Don't forget to Follow and Subscribe at <a href="https://olasmedia.com/shows/dear-san-diego">OlasMedia.com</a>
The key moments in this episode are:
 00:00:01 - Introduction to Dear San Diego 00:01:06 - Catching Up on Personal Lives 00:03:07 - Work and Business Development 00:05:15 - Personal Health and Wellness 00:08:34 - John's Values and Priorities 00:12:56 - The Impact of Seasonal Play on Performance 00:14:06 - The Real Deal: Over 45 Baseball 00:15:01 - The Intersection of Baseball and Politics 00:16:58 - Public Sentiment on San Diego's Direction 00:19:18 - John's Journey to Becoming a Pollster 00:26:34 - Explaining Ballot Measures vs. Candidates 00:27:30 - The Importance of Research in Decision-Making 00:32:05 - Unique Branding in Baseball Uniforms 00:34:17 - The Power Metrics Approach 00:37:14 - The Role of Newsletters in Lead Generation 00:39:37 - Expectations and Leadership 00:42:23 - Movie Preferences 00:43:03 - Breakfast and Coffee 00:44:45 - Physical Activity and Fitness 00:50:12 - John's Personality and Passion 00:52:05 - Unique Last Name 00:53:01 - Podcast Credits

Padres Uniforms and Persuadable Voters: The Art of Polling with John Nienstedt

Dear San Diego is a public affairs podcast with personality.

Hosted by veteran communication specialists Tony Manolatos and Juan Hernandez, Dear San Diego gives newsmakers and others a platform to discuss the big issues of the day, but that’s just the beginning. 

Tony and Juan’s guests share what’s not in their bios, who they are away from work, secrets to success, and more. Tony and Juan also discuss work, home, fatherhood, health and wellness, and youth sports – where the politics can be way more fierce than they are at city hall. 

Tony and Juan met a decade ago while working for dueling mayoral candidates in San Diego. Since then, the two friends have worked together on numerous public affairs, land-use, and issue campaigns. 

Dear San Diego is a public affairs podcast with personality.
Hosted by veteran communication specialists Tony Manolatos and Juan Hernandez, Dear San Diego gives newsmakers and others a platform to discuss the big issues of the day, but that’s just the beginning. 
Tony and Juan’s guests share what’s not in their bios, who they are away from work, secrets to success, and more. Tony and Juan also discuss work, home, fatherhood, health and wellness, and youth sports – where the politics can be way more fierce than they are at city hall. 
Tony and Juan met a decade ago while working for dueling mayoral candidates in San Diego. Since then, the two friends have worked together on numerous public affairs, land-use, and issue campaigns.

Dear San Diego

Hosted by veteran public relations specialists, Tony Manolatos and Juan Hernandez discuss the not so obvious talents, attributes, and behaviors of fellow colleagues. Learn what's not in the bios and CV's and what's be the secret to the sauce of their success.

Hosted by veteran public relations specialists, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonymanolatos">Tony Manolatos</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-m-hernandez-pisano-3166a275/">Juan Hernandez</a> discuss the not so obvious talents, attributes, and behaviors of fellow colleagues. Learn what's not in the bios and CV's and what's be the secret to the sauce of their success.

Dear San Diego

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