Recorded live at Sunrose California Eatery in front of a packed house, I sit down with co-owner Marc Hernandez.
It is a candid, funny, and deeply inspiring conversation about the winding path that led him here — from his first job as a 16-year-old delivery driver at Brent’s Deli, to meeting his now-wife and business partner Carie while working there again after college, to navigating the highs, lows, risks, and reinventions that come with building a hospitality vision from scratch.
Marc shares the vulnerable moments that shaped him, the lessons learned along the way, and the heart behind Sunrose’s commitment to warm, unpretentious California dining. Whether you love food, entrepreneurship, or a good origin story, this episode is a reminder that the most meaningful journeys are rarely linear — and always worth it.
Tune in for laughter, honesty, and a behind-the-scenes look at the passion powering one of the Conejo Valley’s favorite restaurants.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Sunrose California Eatery here
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
Can you imagine opening a brick-and-mortar retail store at the age of 22? Me neither. But that's what today's guest Timmy Heague did.
Timmy is the owner of Arsenal Comics & Games, a beloved comic book and gaming store serving Newbury Park and Ventura. Timmy shares the story of opening his first location at 22, utilizing the early days of social media to build it into a thriving local business, and how he's supported the Conejo Valley community - and vice versa - during challenging local events and personal hardships.
Timmy shares his take on:
Growing a small business in Ventura County
Engaging with the local comic and gaming community
Leadership and business lessons from a successful entrepreneur
Tips for other small business owners in Southern California
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a comic and gaming enthusiast, or interested in local Conejo Valley businesses, this conversation is packed with inspiration and actionable advice.
In this episode, we're thrilled to introduce our season five listener-nominated guest, Dr. Rachael Cappuccino, the owner of Cappuccino Physical Therapy in Thousand Oaks.
Rachael is a Conejo Valley native who never imagined owning her practice. But after giving birth to her second child, she set out to create her own schedule while supporting women of all ages with their pelvic floor health.
Join us as we explore her impactful work in women's health, her entrepreneurial journey, and the profound influence she's had on the Conejo Valley community.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Dr. Rachael Cappuccino here
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
Where can you find John Edney when he’s not running Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. in Thousand Oaks? Morumbi Jiu Jitsu, Ragamuffin Coffee Roasters, and Bom Dia Acai!
The frontman of WDO also shares his favorite local bands, cocktail of choice, and go-to Conejo Valley sushi spot in this week’s episode of “Best of Conejo Valley."
Do you agree or disagree with these picks? Comment your thoughts!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions. Thank you to videographer Andrea DeSantis .
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
We’re replaying one of our most popular episodes from Season 1 — From Hollywood to Wine: Amy Bates’ Journey to Building West Tasting Room in Thousand Oaks.
Before co-founding one of Ventura County’s most beloved wine spots, Amy Bates spent over a decade managing major feature films across the globe. But when burnout hit hard, she pressed pause on Hollywood — and quietly nurtured a long-held dream: creating a space where community, connection, and wine could thrive.
In this episode, Amy shares the behind-the-scenes story of West Tasting Room — from the moment the idea sparked, to the six years it sat on the shelf, to the leap of faith it took to finally open in 2021. She opens up about the highs and lows of small business ownership, the power of finding your people, and how she and co-founder Rachel built something truly special — one pour at a time.
Whether you're chasing a dream of your own or just love discovering hidden gems in your community, this conversation will leave you inspired.
It’s time to ditch the overwhelm and reclaim your mornings.
In this special episode, we're bringing you inside the “Reset & Recharge” event, hosted by Conejo Valley Visionaries x Neighborly at their Westlake Village space — a morning of matcha, mindfulness, and meaningful conversation.
You’ll hear:
Whether you're navigating a seasonal shift or craving a reset of your own, this episode is your permission slip to slow down and prioritize you.
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
Curious what it's like to date in the Conejo Valley? I sit down with Tammi Pickle, owner of Elite Connections, a matchmaking service with roots in Thousand Oaks and a reach across the nation.
Discover how Tammi's mother met her husband through a matchmaker 30 years ago, sparking the creation of their family business.
Tammi shares insights on the changing landscape of dating, the challenges of online platforms, and the enduring value of personalized matchmaking. Tune in for Tammi's hot takes on dating advice and her recommendations for first dates in the Conejo Valley.
Join us for a fun and enlightening conversation about finding love in today's world.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Elite Connections here
Loved this episode? Leave us a 5 star review — it helps more visionaries like you discover the show and keeps inspiring conversations coming your way.
Got a visionary story to share? We’d love to hear it. Reach out at conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com — we're always looking for bold founders, creatives, and changemakers to feature.
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
In this episode, Finn Kerns, the student trustee for the Conejo Valley Unified School District, shares his journey into public service, inspired by the musical Hamilton.
We discuss:
Finn emphasizes the significance of face-to-face interactions in leadership and his vision for a more inclusive Conejo Valley. He also offers advice for young leaders looking to make a difference in their communities.
Loved this episode? Leave us a 5 star review — it helps more visionaries like you discover the show and keeps inspiring conversations coming your way.
Got a visionary story to share? We’d love to hear it. Reach out at conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com — we're always looking for bold founders, creatives, and changemakers to feature.
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
Join us on Visionaries for a candid conversation with Mélanie Masarin, founder & CEO of Ghia, the cult-favorite non-alcoholic aperitif redefining the zero-proof category.
Mélanie unpacks how she built a brand that’s more than just a drink — it's a lifestyle, rooted in her French-Mediterranean heritage and brought to life through bold, inclusive branding.
From shaping a powerful personal brand to navigating the messy middle of startup life, Mélanie gets real about the highs, lows, and the “theater” of entrepreneurship — the stuff no one tells you about.
If you're building a business, brand, or just want the inside story behind one of the most distinctive products on the market, don’t miss this episode.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Ghia here
Connect with Mélanie Masarin here
Loved this episode?Leave us a 5 star review — it helps more visionaries like you discover the show and keeps inspiring conversations coming your way.
Got a visionary story to share?We’d love to hear it. Reach out at conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com — we're always looking for bold founders, creatives, and changemakers to feature.
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
Brittaney Carpenter, owner of Face & Soul Studios in Thousand Oaks -- recently named Best Waxing by The Acorn, shares her favorite Conejo Valley spots (including a coffee shop I'd never heard of).
Do you agree or disagree with her picks? Comment your thoughts!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions. Thank you to videographer Andrea DeSantis .
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was recorded during our first-ever Neighborly x Conejo Valley Visionaries "Meet Your Neighbors" event!
DM the word "Neighborly" to @ConejoValleyVisionaries on Instagram to get early access to tickets for our next one.
Thank you to all of our partners and panelists:Neighborly @beneighborlyGaby Dalkin @whatsgabycookin @dalkinandcoDominick DiBartolomeo @thecheesestoreofbeverlyhills @domsfoods
Andrea DeSantis @andresantisBarton Designs @bartondesignslive
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
Wondering what’s really happening with the Downtown Thousand Oaks development? You're not alone — and we’ve got answers.
Akbar Alikhan, Deputy City Manager of Thousand Oaks, returns to address the most pressing community questions about the city's future.
Listen to our first interview with Akbar here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2f1LYaJpwhAlfezJdID8fM?si=pQotDcV-TcyRgLjUFYofAQ
Whether you're a resident, business owner, or just curious about local growth, this episode breaks down what you need to know in clear, actionable detail.
Tune in now to stay ahead of the changes shaping Thousand Oaks — and be part of the conversation.
Share your feedback on the program directly with the city here https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=8C-MGj-qX0ScrXR38aQKbFlPqJ2MgftEhk621rbqNIhUQkJCSUowQ1Q5UEJBVUNMSTM2S1RRQUxISS4u&route=shorturl
This episode was filmed at the City of Thousand Oaks TOTV studio.
In today's episode, you'll hear from our community-nominated season 4 guest, Dr. Bieta Kia, PT, DPT of Bieta Kia Physical Therapy in Westlake Village.
In their nomination for Bieta, one listener wrote, “she is amazing and life-changing for so many.”
Bieta is a physical therapist who takes a total body hands-on approach to addressing dysfunction.
Bita shares her journey into physical therapy, what led her to start her own practice -- shout out to prior guest, Tyler Cusick of Westlake Yoga Co. -- and how her patient-first holistic approach helps professional athletes and weekend warriors throughout the Conejo Valley.
Please enjoy this conversation with our listener-nominated season 4 guest, Dr. Bieta Kia.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Dr. Bieta Kia here
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
Did you know that one of the pioneers of the West Coast graffiti movement lives right here in Thousand Oaks? Yep — that’s right. This week’s guest is none other than Risky.
In this very special — and very visual — episode, Risky invites us inside his massive art compound right here in the Conejo Valley. Trust me, this one is a true feast for the eyes, so if you can, I highly recommend watching it on Spotify or YouTube.
Risky has called the Conejo Valley home for 19 years. He started out in graffiti and has since built a thriving fine art business — with work featured in some of the most prestigious galleries around the world.
Right here in Thousand Oaks, he runs Compound Contemporary, a contemporary art gallery on Thousand Oaks Boulevard.
I first learned about Risky through John Edney, co-founder of Tarantula Hill Brewing Co (listen to his episode here), who shared that Risky collaborated on the design of the first Tarantula Hill cans. I’m so grateful to Risky for welcoming us into his incredible space.
I want to give a special shout out to Andrea DeSantis who filmed and recorded this episode.
This episode is a visual journey, a story of evolution, and a glimpse into the creative engine behind one of graffiti’s greats.
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Risky here
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
We’re bringing back a fan favorite from Season 2 featuring Collin and Vicki, the husband-and-wife team behind Moody Rooster and Moody Market & Provisions in Westlake Village, CA. If you love fresh, locally sourced food, warm community vibes, and inspiring entrepreneurial journeys, this episode is for you!
In this replay, you'll hear how Collin and Vicki met, what brought them to the Conejo Valley, and how they turned their passion for hospitality and farm-to-table cooking into a thriving culinary destination beloved by locals and visitors alike. We also dive into the story behind their expansion and what continues to drive their success.
🎟️ Exclusive Listener Discount
Our friends at Apricot Lane Farms are offering 20% off farm tour tickets for local listeners. Use code locallove (all lowercase) at checkout by visiting apricotlanefarms.com/tours. It’s a perfect summer weekend activity for foodies, families, and nature lovers!
Hit play and discover how Moody Rooster became a cornerstone of Westlake Village’s local food scene — and why their story continues to inspire.
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Moody Rooster here
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
In this episode, hear from Jeff Bozz and Mekela Swing, two of the co-founders of the Pickleball Athletic Club (PAC) in Thousand Oaks, CA.
Jeff and Mekela share how their passion for entrepreneurship and the rising pickleball trend led them -- and 3 other longtime friends -- to open an indoor pickleball club that's quickly becoming a hub for players of all ages and skill levels in the Conejo Valley.
Whether you're a pickleball enthusiast like me or an aspiring entrepreneur, you won't want to miss this one.
Did you hear we're collaborating with Neighborly this summer? DM me "Neighborly" @conejovalleyvisionaries to get access to our first event!
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Pickleball Athletic Club here
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
Today, we're joined by Molly Chester, co-founder of Apricot Lane Farms in Moorpark and a leading voice in regenerative agriculture.
In this episode, Molly shares her path from culinary student to farmer and how restoring soil can restore so much more -- our food systems, our health, and our connection to each other.
From cookbook writing to compost, from managing people to nurturing ecosystems, this conversation digs deep into the heart of what it takes to build a farm and more importantly, a movement.
We talk about the impact the farm has on the Conejo Valley community and vice versa, as well as Molly's favorite things to do in Moorpark.
Once you're done listening, make sure to watch your documentary, The Biggest Little Farm. It's a beautiful glimpse into the story behind the soil. Let's dive in.
Did you hear we're collaborating with Neighborly this summer? DM me "Neighborly" @conejovalleyvisionaries to get access to our first event.
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Apricot Lane Farms here
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
We're replaying one of our most popular episodes with Gaby Dalkin of What's Gaby Cooking and Gaby's at Neighborly in Westlake Village, to make a special announcement.
After the incredible response to our Female Founder Series event in March, I've teamed up with Neighborly to bring you more in-person opportunities to connect and get inspired. And of course, try some delicious Neighborly eats.
Have a listen to hear how you can be the first to grab a ticket!
If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to leave a 5-star review and rating! Your support helps more people in the Conejo Valley discover these amazing stories.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Gaby Dalkin here
Connect with Neighborly here
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Gaby Dalkin and Her Journey
03:03 From Pre-Med to Culinary School: A Career Shift
06:03 The Importance of Community and Connection Through Food
09:05 Starting a Blog: Documenting the Culinary Journey
12:00 The Cookbook Journey: Learning and Growth
14:54 Opening Gaby's: The Restaurant Concept
18:01 The Evolution of Ideas: From Baby Food to Restaurant
18:17 The Birth of Gaby's: A Collaborative Journey
24:08 Creating Unique Culinary Experiences
30:27 Building a Supportive Community
34:12 Vision for the Future: Expanding What's Gaby Cooking
36:28 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
"Just do it."
Not just a Nike slogan—but the exact mindset that motivated today’s guest, celebrity event stylist and floral designer Sarah Z, to launch Sarah Z Events in 2011, and later bring her creative vision to life with the opening of XO Bloom in Westlake Village in 2015.
In this episode, Sarah takes us behind the scenes of her journey—from dreaming of being a party planner to building a thriving business in the world of luxury events and floral design. We talk early inspirations, real challenges, and what it really takes to grow a brand rooted in passion, creativity, and connection.
You’ll hear her insights on the evolving trends in the floral world, the importance of knowing your customer, and why community is everything.
Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or just love a good origin story—this one’s for you.
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with XO Bloom here
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.
When you search for the best Italian deli in Los Angeles, Italia Deli in Agoura Hills consistently ranks at the top. A family-owned institution since 1981, Italia Deli has become a beloved staple in the Conejo Valley for its authentic Italian flavors, old-school charm, and unwavering commitment to quality.
In this episode, we sit down with Marisa DeFalco, one of the four siblings helping run Italia Deli today. This was one of our most requested interviews—and it's easy to see why.
Marisa shares heartfelt stories about growing up behind the deli counter, juggling a career in education while managing a family business, and the incredible moment her team won the lottery. We also dive into the challenges of preserving tradition in a fast-changing world, and how Italia Deli has remained a cornerstone of community, connection, and culinary excellence for over four decades.
Whether you’re a foodie, a fan of Italian cuisine, or love stories about family-run businesses with deep roots, this episode is a must-listen.
If you enjoyed this episode and find value in the podcast, please leave us a five-star review and rating. This helps more folks in the Conejo Valley find the podcast and that allows each story to reach more people.
Connect with Conejo Valley Visionaries here
Connect with Italia Deli here
If you want to share your visionary story on the podcast, send an email to conejovalleyvisionaries@gmail.com - we are always open to guest nominations!
This episode was produced by Cristina Dennstedt and Justin K. Sloan. Conejo Valley Visionaries is edited by Justin K. Sloan and J.Sloan Productions.