"The Good Stuff"

This week, hosts Karissa and Virginie sit down with Oded Shakked, founder and winemaker of Healdsburg’s Longboard Vineyards, to explore the unexpected connections between surfing, winemaking, and a life shaped by a deep appreciation for nature, community, and the journey along the way.  Tune in to hear Oded’s perspective on supporting small local farmers, keeping agricultural communities thriving, and the American dream that brought him from Israel to building a life and raising a family in Healdsburg! 

This week, hosts Karissa and Virginie sit down with Chef Chris Ricketts Chris Straub of Santa Rosa’s Flamingo Resort & Spa and Palm House Hospitality to explore the people, experiences, and creativity shaping Sonoma County’s hospitality scene.  Tune in as Chris Straub shares his journey from working with luxury hotel brands across the country to bringing his passion for hospitality to Santa Rosa, while Chef Chris Ricketts reflects on following his love of cooking from culinary school to acclaimed kitchens and his role leading the culinary experience at the Flamingo. Together, they discuss the resort’s transformation, its unique blend of mid-century modern style and laid-back California energy, and the experiences that keep guests coming back.  Plus, get a preview of the Flamingo’s upcoming holiday celebrations, including the return of Sippin’ Santa, festive tropical cocktails, and New Year’s Eve festivities! 

This week, hosts Karissa and Virginie sit down with Lupita Medina Flores, Associate Director of Operations at Bevill Vineyard Management, to explore how hard work, community, and a deep respect for the land are shaping the future of Sonoma County winegrowing.  Tune in as Lupita shares her journey from growing up in Santa Rosa as the daughter of immigrants from Michoacán, Mexico, to building a career in vineyard management. From adapting to the evolving needs of the agricultural workforce to finding opportunities to grow within the industry, Lupita discusses the importance of doing the right thing, building strong partnerships, and supporting the people who make winegrowing possible.   Don't miss this episode to hear how Lupita's perspective, leadership, and dedication to her community are helping cultivate a stronger future for Sonoma County winegrowing! 

This week, hosts Karissa and Virginie sit down with Sarah Citron, CEO & Co-Founder of Bricoleur Vineyards, to explore how family legacy, creative marketing, and a passion for bringing people together are shaping the future of Sonoma County wine.  Tune in as Sarah shares her journey from fashion and digital marketing in New York City to building a welcoming wine country destination rooted in her family’s deep Sonoma County ties. From immersive wine and culinary experiences to sustainable farming and the “Sip with Purpose” program supporting cancer research, Sarah discusses how creating community and giving back can bring new meaning to the wine experience.   Don’t miss this episode to hear how a fresh perspective and a sense of purpose are helping shape what’s next for our industry! 

This week, hosts Karissa and Virginie sit down with Mike Bailey, Global Director of High Value & Small Acre Crops at John Deere, to explore how technology, innovation, and relationships are shaping the future of agriculture.  Tune in as Mike shares his passion for helping farmers tackle real-world challenges, the importance of understanding growers’ needs, and how pilot programs in Sonoma County are bringing new solutions into the vineyard to advance the future of winegrowing. Don’s miss this episode to hear how collaboration between growers and innovators is helping shape what’s next for our industry!