Beyond the Vines

This week on Beyond the Vines, I'm joined by Marnie Blanco, Senior Vice President of Industry Relations at Pacaso, the company that's changing the way people buy and enjoy second homes. As someone who has personally been fascinated by Pacaso—and may have spent more than a little time dreaming about a place in Lake Tahoe—I couldn't wait to dive into this conversation!

Marnie explains how Pacaso's co-ownership model works...

What happens when a teacher, a love for animals, and a dream of creating unforgettable childhood memories all come together?

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I'm joined by Jennifer Crum, owner of Bale of Fun Farm in Petaluma. Jennifer shares the incredible story of how a simple idea grew into one of Sonoma County's most beloved destinations for birthday parties, summer camps and family fun.

We talk about what it's really like t...

What's the secret ingredient behind one of Petaluma's most beloved ice cream trucks? It turns out, it's not just the ice cream.

This week on Beyond the Vines, I'm joined by Dan Sager, owner of Oskey's Ice Cream, to talk about the family legacy that inspired his business, what it's really like driving an ice cream truck, and the countless moments of joy he's created throughout our community.

From carrying on his father's tradition t...

On this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Naomi Crawford, owner of Lunchette in downtown Petaluma. Located just across the street from my office, Lunchette has become one of my favorite local spots — whether I’m grabbing my go-to chickpea salad, ordering ahead for a quick lunch, or stopping in for the brunch bowl with sweet potatoes and poached egg.

Naomi shares the story behind Lunchette, what inspired her v...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Elana Nelson, Director of Development & Social Enterprise for Sonoma Family Meal and Sabor Food Truck.

If you’ve ever grabbed a bite from Sabor, you might know the food is incredible—but what you may not realize is the powerful mission behind it.

We talk about how Sonoma Family Meal began, the need it was created to serve, and how it has grown into an organization...

For this special 100th episode of Beyond the Vines, I’m sitting down with two people who have played such an important role in my own journey—Sean Payne and Nieves DeMartini, co-founders of LivXplore Real Estate.

LivXplore is a boutique brokerage based in the heart of downtown Petaluma, serving Sonoma and Marin Counties, and built on a vision of doing real estate differently—more intentionally, more collaborativel...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Masara Miramontez—renowned local makeup artist and founder of Modern Luxe Lounge—to talk about her journey from building a sought-after bridal beauty business to opening a stunning, full-service beauty space in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa.

Masara shares how she’s grown her brand with intention, what inspired her to create a luxury, all-in-one beauty experie...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Emily Lynch, owner of Acorn Shops in Petaluma and Sebastopol—two beautifully curated spaces that have become staples in our local community.

We talk about how her East Coast and West Coast influences come together in her signature style, what it really looks like to build a brick-and-mortar business, and how she thoughtfully curates what she calls “casual classics&rdq...

When it comes to building wealth, it’s not about one decision—it’s about having a plan that brings everything together.

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Jackie Egidio, Chief Operating Officer at Sonoma Wealth Advisors, to talk about what it really means to take a holistic approach to your finances. From financial planning and tax strategy to investing, retirement, and supporting business owners...

What does it really take to support our local schools, and why does it matter for the entire community?

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I’m joined by Maureen Highland of the Petaluma Educational Foundation to talk about the powerful work PEF is doing for students, teachers, and classrooms across Petaluma. We dive into the programs they fund, the gaps they help fill, and the real impact they’re making every single d...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, Amy sits down with Amber Bledsoe, the voice behind Mornings with Amber on Froggy 92.9. With more than 16 years in broadcasting, Amber has built a career connecting with listeners through music, pop culture, and authentic conversation.

Originally from Georgia, Amber studied Music Business and Communication at the University of Georgia before launching her career in radio. Today, she wakes up Sono...

On this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Maren Bean, owner of X’Core Northbay, with locations in Petaluma, San Anselmo, and soon-to-open Novato.

We talk about how Maren stepped into studio ownership, what makes the X’Core workout so effective, and why it has become such a powerful part of so many people’s weekly routines. She shares what it really takes to grow from one boutique fitness studio to multi...

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I’m joined by Mary Orellana, the owner and founder of Lovey Coffee Co. — a woman-owned, small-batch coffee roaster rooted right here in Sonoma County.

Mary shares her journey from a lifelong love of coffee to building a business centered on community, ethical sourcing, and connection. We talk about what it really looks like to start a coffee company from the ground up, the meaning be...

In this heartwarming episode, Amy sits down with Linda and Isaak Cermak, the married duo behind Sonoma County’s well-loved Red Bird Bakery — a place that feels like stepping into someone’s home kitchen the moment you walk through the door. Together, they share the story behind the name, the roots that inspire their craft, and the early mornings spent “listening to the dough” and growing their business.

Poppy’s was already one of downtown Petaluma’s most charming destinations — a cheerful, thoughtfully curated toy shop where families could find something special for every child. But since our last episode together, owner Kate Brown has taken her dream even further, transforming Poppy’s into a true community hub.

In this episode, Kate shares the heart behind her expansion and what it’s been like to gro...

It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year — and no one spreads the holiday spirit quite like Alyssa Romano, owner of Shades of Green Holiday Design. Based in Petaluma, Alyssa and her talented team specialize in transforming corporate offices, hospitality spaces, and local businesses into festive, elegant holiday showcases.

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, Amy chats with Alyssa about how her creative career...

Step into The Reform Room, Petaluma’s newest Pilates boutique where strength meets serenity. Owner Jess Cain has created a space that’s as beautiful as it is intentional — think exposed brick, lush greenery, warm lighting, and top-of-the-line reformers. From the moment you walk in, there’s an immediate sense of calm, balance, and care (and yes, the chilled eucalyptus towels after class are as amazing as they...

On this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Jennifer Pezzolo, owner of Pezzolo & Co., a premier staging and design business based in Petaluma. Known for her high-end transformations, Jennifer shares how staging creates that all-important first impression for buyers, why her outlet store has become a local favorite for furniture finds, and the fun behind her warehouse sales. We also talk about life as a longtime Petalum...

Today on Beyond the Vines, I’m joined by Sherill Le, owner of Obsessed, and her right-hand woman, Denise Trevino. Obsessed is a downtown Petaluma boutique that’s all about fun, style, and helping women feel confident in what they wear. We’ll dive into Sherill’s journey of starting the shop, Denise’s perspective from behind the counter, and how Obsessed has become more than just a store—it’s...