In an E&I Studio first, we welcome two guests onto the podcast to share details about the important work they're helping bring to the Central Valley. Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero welcomes Gloriamar Gámez and Gehad Elhanafy of BEAM Circular to explore the concept of the circular economy, where agricultural waste is looped back into the production cycle to create positive impact on the environment and job market.This episode highlights the work of transforming organic waste into valuable bio-ba...

Join Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero and guest Danny Bernstein as they delve into the untapped potential that is the Central Valley bioeconomy and plans to leverage innovation to revitalize the region. The founder and Managing Partner of HawkTower, Danny emphasizes the importance of equitable opportunities, accessible partnerships, and community outcomes integral to his investment strategy.The Central Valley's agricultural legacy provides fertile ground for transformative technological solutions. Wi...

Join Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero and guest Marian Kaanon as they explore her approach to community development. CEO of the Stanislaus Community Foundation and 2022 Champions of the American Dream honoree, Marian has spearheaded initiatives that have transformed the Central Valley's business and nonprofit sectors. From her early life traversing different countries to leading the charge in philanthropic efforts, Marion’s leadership is marked by deliberate data-driven decision-making. With a f...

Join us as we explore what it means to lead with authenticity and resilience through the lens of Oscar Garcia's career. As a first-generation program creator and proud Latinx entrepreneur, Oscar's narrative provides valuable lessons on the significance of hard work, cultural identity, and community support. Listen in as we discuss the pivotal moments in his life, his path to becoming an international speaker, and his mission to empower others by sharing the lessons he learned from his diverse...

Discover the integral role of community in shaping Ann Endsley's dynamic career and philanthropic ventures in this insightful episode. Owner of multiple local businesses and the 2024 Champions of the American Dream Honoree, Ann grew up in a supportive environment where she developed a keen awareness of community needs and engaged in various volunteer projects from a young age. Her move to the Central Valley unveiled a blend of prosperous multi-generational businesses and under-served com...

With the academic year coming to a close at Stan State and with two seasons of the E&I Studio in the can, the student-led Warrior Entrepreneurship and Innovation (WEI) Group recently hosted the inaugural WEI Fair — an ambitious celebration of all things entrepreneurial. The capstone of the WEI Fair was the E&I Studio Season 1 Reunion. Six guests returned for another conversation with Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero, this time in front of a live audience, to reflect on their podcast exp...

Larry Rivera, a Latinx entrepreneur proudly representing Modesto, California, shares his inspiring story in the world of business as the CEO and co-founder of Mango Crazy, a vibrant restaurant chain renowned for its creative fusion of Mexican street food and drinks. Larry recalls his humble beginnings in 2014 within the Central Valley. Larry and his business partner Andy Lopez first started with just a few small locations around the Modesto area. But due to their shared endless dedicati...

Charlie Nguyen is a fascinating storyteller with a passion for building community through outreach and artistry. The chief advocate at the nonprofit organization Chalk Wild, Charlie and his team distribute clear-fronted canvas backpacks for children to create artwork on. Charlie advocates for the use of art as a motivator for children to help heal from trauma. His dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity in the Central Valley stems from confronting and healing from his ...

Immerse yourself in the remarkable chronicles of the owner of Trevino’s Barber Shop, Tony Trevino. Listen to his journey from downtown Livermore, California, to his ventures in Modesto. Tony’s story embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and is a testament to his commitment to uplifting his community. In essence, Tony's journey is a riveting exploration into the heart of entrepreneurial endeavors that spring from his love for art, music and barbering. This episode of E&I Studio take...

Following her story of resilience from Jalisco, Mexico, to Newman, California, Eva Preciado embodies the spirit of true entrepreneurship. She was inspired by the perseverance and friendship of her first mentor, May Michelle, to follow her dreams of owning her own business. Now, with over 20 years of experience in insurance, Eva is the CEO of Lumix Insurance Agency. In her work and personal life, Eva values making connections, the power of leadership, and most importantly: her faith. Eva is a ...

Emmanuel Escamilla is an entrepreneur with an intriguing blend of vision and zeal. The chairman of Debrief and former executive director of Codex, Emmanuel is a cerebral and empathic servant-leader who once rode a bicycle across the country. Everything he does is a testament to his drive and fortitude, a byproduct of humble beginnings growing up in south Modesto before attending UC Berkeley and Harvard University. His support of underserved communities is a brilliant example of social entrepr...

Entrepreneurship isn’t for the faint-hearted. It requires innovative thinking, self-awareness, continuous resilience and, above all else, faith. Jeremiah Williams, CEO of Oak Crafts by Jeremiah and a Modesto City Councilmember, is the epitome of these traits. From his childhood days living in foster homes in the Bay Area to his turn as a family man and Valley-based entrepreneur, Jeremiah has opted to live by example for the many communities he calls his own. According to Jeremiah, commun...

When it comes to creating long-lasting connections, Christine Schweininger is a pro. The CEO of Valley Builders Exchange, Christine is a natural networker with a well-documented history of leadership and development in the Central Valley. From her upbringing in a diverse and religious home to her commitment to lifelong learning and innovation, the Bay-area native discusses her views on community, past mentors and influences, and the fundamentals needed for entrepreneurial success.She also ref...

This episode of the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Studio features Vanessa Robledo, owner and founder of Vintner’s Diary and subject of the award-winning documentary Harvest Season. Listen as Vanessa takes us through her personal journey which includes her family's migration from Mexico to Napa Valley and the complexities involved with the balancing of traditional expectations and innovative aspirations.Vanessa shares how she built her brand in a male-dominated industry and her unique appr...

On this episode of E&I Studio, we welcome guest Johnny Garcia, a man who perfectly embodies the essence of entrepreneurship. Owner of Got IT All Insurance in Modesto and CEO of the Stanislaus Latino Chamber of Commerce, Garcia discusses the importance of striking a crucial balance between personal and professional life, placing equal precedence on both.Listen as Garcia sheds light on his journey, stresses the importance of community engagement, and reveals the foundation for his continued...

This episode of the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Studio welcomes German Zavalza, the Director of the Valley Sierra Small Business Development Center (SBDC), to share his expertise on all things small business in the Central Valley.Host Dr. Pablo Paredes Romero speaks with German about the importance of putting ideas and plans on paper, finding mentors, and utilizing resources like the SBDC and the Warrior Entrepreneurship Innovation Program. The conversation highlights the collaborative ...

Join us as we unravel Monica Escamilla's journey into entrepreneurship and innovation—rooted in her Venezuelan heritage and upbringing in Modesto, California. Currently serving as Center Director for the non-profit Digital NEST, Monica's worldview is significantly shaped by her experiences living in a melting pot of immigrants. A fascinating tale of self-discovery and identity formation, her story is about understanding an individual's position and purpose. Monica's perspective differs f...

Welcome to another compelling episode of the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Studio, where we explore the passion and purpose of entrepreneurs in our community. In this episode, we revisit the remarkable ascent of Prime Shine Car Wash, this time through the lens of Evan Porges, one half of the dynamic father-son duo that revolutionized the car wash industry in the Central Valley.Evan takes us on a compelling journey, recounting his transition from a liberal arts major to a dedicated entrepr...

Welcome to the first episode of the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Studio, where we explore the passion and purpose of entrepreneurs in our community. In this episode, we take a journey with Norm Porges, the retired visionary behind Prime Shine Car Wash who transformed the car wash industry in the Central Valley. Listen as Norm shares his views on innovation, life-long learning and the role of family in business. A fascinating insight into balancing business, family, and community, th...

Something is happening in the Central Valley, and it’s been happening for some time. Enterprise. Entrepreneurship. Innovation. At the E&I Studio, you will hear stories as told by the people who built something. Stories of inspired leadership, inspiration and imagination called to action. Through intimate conversations, the people who make our region the special place it is will share their lived experiences and moments of brilliance. Their stories will challenge, inspire and move yo...