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A rescued miniature horse connected to Daryl Hannah helped inspire a mission of joy, healing, and connection. In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, Sanaa Pharayra shares how Romeo Roadshow is bringing mini horses to children, seniors, memory care communities, and others who need a lift. From Romeo’s rescue story to visits with critically ill children and seniors, this is a heartwarming look at the power of miniature horses to comfort, connect, and bring smiles wherever they go. In this episode: * How Sanaa Pharayra began working with Daryl Hannah’s horses * The rescue story behind Romeo * Why Romeo stood out immediately * How Romeo Roadshow was born * Building a custom van for miniature horse outreach * Visits with critically ill children at The Painted Turtle  * Working with seniors and memory care participants * Meeting Ziggy, Romeo’s mini horse partner * Why miniature horse outreach may continue to grow * The emotional impact of animal connection in community settings Subscribe for more conversations featuring inspiring people, local stories, community leaders, and unique journeys from across California and beyond. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:09 Meet Sanaa Pharayra and Romeo Roadshow 00:48 How Sanaa got started with mini horses 02:45 The story of Romeo 05:18 Building the custom mini horse van 06:46 Romeo’s first outings in public 07:32 Bringing joy to children and communities 10:03 Visits with seniors and memory care programs 16:56 Romeo and Ziggy’s personalities 18:22 The future of mini horse therapy and outreach 23:42 How Romeo Roadshow is funded 27:03 What’s next for Romeo Roadshow 27:45 Where to learn more 🐴 Learn more and support the Romeo Roadshow: • Website: https://romeoroadshow.com • Instagram: @RomeoRoadshow 🏡 A special thank you to our amazing sponsor: • Pathway Escrow: https://pathwayescrow.com/ CONTACT PAUL WARD: 805-479-5004 [email protected] www.homeandranchteam.com 🔔 Don't miss an episode! Subscribe to On the Road with Paul Ward for more incredible local stories and community highlights: https://www.youtube.com/@OntheRoadwithPaulWard #RomeoRoadshow #TherapyHorse #MiniatureHorse #PaulWard #DarylHannah #LocalHeroes #CommunityStories

🎥 Behind the Scenes: Rotary’s 2026 Rose Parade Float — The Magic of Teamwork Step inside the Irwindale float warehouse with Paul Ward and get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how Rotary brings a Rose Parade float to life! In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, we meet members of the Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee as they put the final touches on Rotary’s largest float yet—a bold, colorful design featuring an African safari / jungle animal theme and Rotary’s message to the world: “Unite for Good” and “The Magic of Teamwork.” From the professional mechanics and construction to the hundreds of volunteers adding floral detail by hand, this is what it truly takes to create parade magic—and why Rotary’s presence on this global stage matters. ✅ In this episode: • Why Rotary participates in the Rose Parade (and what it does for Rotary worldwide) • How the float is designed, built, and decorated • How Interact youth get involved and earn service hours • Funding, sponsorships, and ways clubs can support the float • Where to see the floats up close after January 1 👥 Featured Guests • Wade Nomura — Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee (Past Chair) • Raghada Khouri — Committee Member • Nancy Filkins — Committee Member / Floral & Float Design Background • Mary Lingua — Camarillo Rotary Club (Interact youth involvement) 🙏 Sponsored by Pathway Escrow — proud sponsor of On the Road with Paul Ward. 📍 Filmed On Location: Irwindale, California (Rose Parade float build site) 📌 Connect with Paul Ward Paul Ward — Home & Ranch Team (Keller Williams West Ventura County) 📞 (805) 479-5004 | ✉️ [email protected] 👍 If you enjoyed this episode: • Subscribe to the channel • Share with a Rotarian (or someone who should become one!) • Drop a comment: Have you ever helped decorate a float? #RoseParade #RotaryInternational #UniteForGood #CommunityService #OnTheRoadWithPaulWard #Camarillo #Volunteer #ServiceAboveSelf #PathwayEscrow   Timestamps / Chapters 00:02 — Sponsor shoutout + inside the Irwindale float warehouse 01:35 — This year’s message: Unite for Good + Magic of Teamwork 01:57 — Float concept reveal: African safari/jungle animals 03:38 — How floats are built: pros handle mechanics, volunteers bring it to life 04:45 — Raghada: “Rotary is the best-kept secret” (and why the parade helps) 06:58 — Nancy: floral design, committee involvement, and fresh flower plans 08:45 — Funding breakdown + how the float is supported each year 10:31 — Post-parade viewing + float tours and education for the public 11:12 — The International Presidents Summit (service org leaders together) 12:38 — Mary: Interact students, service hours, and how youth participate 14:13 — How the design gets chosen (renderings → finalists → final pick) 17:56 — Why Rotary does it: public image + millions of viewers worldwide 20:06 — Rotary pins, collectors, and how the committee is organized 22:37 — Wrap-up + Paul’s promise to keep spreading the good word of Rotary

In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, Paul visits the remote desert outpost of Goat Mountain Recording, home to musicians and audio engineers Pat and Susan Kearns. Nestled on five acres in Landers near Joshua Tree, the Kearns family has created a purpose-built recording studio unlike anything else in Southern California — complete with zero 90-degree corners, custom architectural design, and a quiet desert backdrop that shapes their sound. Pat and Susan share how they built this dream studio from the ground up, how gentrification pushed them out of Portland, and how they transformed their move to the desert into a thriving creative hub. From recording and mixing to mastering and audio restoration, Pat’s decades of experience merge with Susan’s artistry, musicianship, painting, and their shared love of “Western Folk,” the unique genre they’ve coined to describe their sound. We dive into their latest album Together and Alone, their songwriting process (including how melodies often “bubble up from the subconscious”), the stories behind standout tracks like “Charlie,” and the inspiration they draw from the desert’s solitude, landscapes, and creative community. Pat also reveals what it’s like hosting the Z107.7 Local Music Showcase, highlighting and connecting musicians across Joshua Tree, Yucca Valley, Wonder Valley, and beyond. And Susan gives us a peek into her visual art practice, including her participation in the annual Highway 62 Open Studio Art Tours, her expressionist desert pieces, and the lively fusion of art and music that happens when musicians join her shows. Whether you love music creation, desert culture, or behind-the-scenes creative life, this episode paints a vibrant picture of two artists building something extraordinary together. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 0:00 – Welcome to On the Road + introduction to Pat & Susan Kearns 0:35 – Pat explains his role as an audio engineer and multi-discipline sound creator 1:04 – Building their acoustically engineered studio in Landers with architect Ignacio “Nacho” Moreno 1:56 – Why the studio has no 90-degree corners or parallel walls 3:22 – The leap of faith: leaving Portland, gentrification, and starting fresh in the desert 4:08 – Susan encourages Pat to pursue audio full-time 5:32 – How selling everything opened the door to Goat Mountain Recording 6:52 – Running a destination recording studio & keeping clients despite moving off-grid 7:31 – How the desert influences Pat’s work and the artists who visit 8:52 – Their album Together and Alone — concept, recording, and analog effects 9:28 – What is “Western Folk”? Understanding their signature genre 10:06 – Finding truth in Old West imagery, desert landscapes & classic films 11:21 – Writing “Charlie” from subconscious inspiration and notebook fragments 14:13 – Do lyrics or melodies come first? Pat and Susan’s collaborative process 15:12 – “If a Cowboy Goes to Heaven” — melodies that arrive out of nowhere 15:31 – Touring, booking shows, and the cross-country run 16:19 – Indie on the Move: how they book venues and find the right rooms 17:05 – Why Western Folk isn’t honky-tonk — and why punk crowds love them 17:27 – Pat’s radio show on Z107.7 & spotlighting local talent 19:10 – What defines the “desert sound”? Its mystery, diversity, and influence 20:30 – Community connection: emails, friendships & weaving musicians together 22:19 – Matching artists intentionally on air to spark collaboration 24:04 – LIVE performance of “Two…” from Pat & Susan’s set 24:42 – Susan’s desert artwork & the expressionist painting she created for the album 25:18 – Highway 62 Open Studio Art Tours & the local art community 26:27 – How art shows turn into music gatherings 27:12 – Susan’s standup bass journey & choosing between electric & upright 28:33 – How Pat & Susan began performing together 30:13 – Their daily practice routine & making music a shared lifestyle 31:04 – Final reflections + thank you to our sponsor, Opus Escrow Related Episodes: Desert Dreams: The Palms, Wonder Valley’s Artistic Oasis Music, History & Magic: The Story of Tiny Porch Concerts at Peter Strauss Ranch Vines, Wines & Good Times at Cornell Wine Company Connect with the Kearns Family: www.thekearnsfamily.bandcamp.com/ Contact Paul Ward: 📞 805-479-5004 📧 [email protected] 🌐 www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com Have ideas for future episodes? Drop a comment! For real estate needs in Ventura County, reach out anytime. A huge thank-you to our sponsor OPUS Escrow. Supporting OPUS ESCROW helps keep On the Road with Paul Ward thriving and on the move.

Join Paul on a Farm Talk edition of On the Road with Paul Ward as he visits Deep Creek Mushrooms, a compact urban mushroom farm in Apple Valley, California that’s growing roughly 400 pounds of gourmet and medicinal mushrooms every week out of a 1,400 sq ft warehouse. Levi and Kalynn Mobley share how a simple hobby turned into a full-time mushroom operation: from early experiments in a spare bedroom to cashing out their 401(k)s and moving into an industrial space. Along the way, they unpack the real work behind mushroom farming—twice-daily harvests, seven days a week—and why fresh mushrooms have such a short window to get from farm to plate. The episode dives into the world of adaptogenic mushrooms like lion’s mane, reishi, turkey tail, and cordyceps—how they support brain health, gut health, energy, and inflammation—and what to look for in quality supplements in a market dominated by bulk imports. You’ll also hear how Deep Creek Mushrooms helps home gardeners grow their own fungi with countertop grow kits and then recycle spent blocks into rich, mycelium-packed soil for tomatoes, pumpkins, and herbs at home. Whether you’re a foodie, small farmer, gardener, or just mushroom-curious, this conversation offers a practical, down-to-earth look at what it takes to grow fungi for a living. In This Episode: What an urban mushroom farm looks like inside a small warehouse Why Deep Creek grows gourmet varieties instead of standard button or portobello How lion’s mane supports cognitive function, focus, and gut health What makes mushrooms like lion’s mane, reishi, turkey tail, and cordyceps adaptogenic The real day-to-day workload of harvesting about 400 pounds of mushrooms per week Why high-quality mushroom supplements matter—and how Deep Creek keeps their process transparent How at-home mushroom grow kits work and how spent blocks become “super soil” for the garden Where you can find Deep Creek Mushrooms locally and how to order their extracts and kits online Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & episode intro 01:00 – Inside an urban mushroom farm in Apple Valley, CA 02:15 – Gourmet vs. supermarket mushrooms: why Deep Creek grows 16+ varieties 04:30 – Lion’s mane, reishi, turkey tail & cordyceps: adaptogens explained  10:20 – Who buys mushrooms vs. who buys supplements 14:00 – From hobby to business: cashing out the 401(k) and going all-in 19:20 – The truth about farming fungi: constant harvests & short shelf life 24:30 – Grow kits, home mushrooms, and turning spent blocks into garden gold 27:00 – How to connect with Deep Creek Mushrooms & final thoughts Connect with Deep Creek Mushrooms 🌐 Website & Online Shop: DeepCreekMushrooms.com 📱 Social: Instagram & Facebook – search “Deep Creek Mushrooms” 🛒 Find them at local farmers’ markets and select grocery stores in Southern California Connect with On the Road with Paul Ward 🎥 Subscribe for more episodes: On the Road with Paul Ward 📧 Contact Paul & The Home and Ranch Team: 805-479-5004 | [email protected] 🌎 Real estate & rural living resources: www.homeandranchteam.com #DeepCreekMushrooms #OnTheRoadWithPaulWard #FarmTalk #MushroomFarm #LionsMane #Reishi #TurkeyTail #Cordyceps #UrbanFarming #SmallFarm #FarmToTable #AppleValley #LocalFood

Get ready to experience one of California’s most vibrant weekly traditions — Palm Springs Village Fest! 🌴 In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, we explore how a small idea 33 years ago became one of the largest, longest-running street festivals in the U.S. 🎤 Guest: Nicholas Gonzalez, Director of Parks & Recreation for the City of Palm Springs 🎥 Host: Paul Ward, The Home & Ranch Team 💚 Sponsored by: Opus Escrow Stroll through 3–4 blocks of art, live music, food, and fun — meet passionate vendors like Soap by Malta Design, Redmond Weaving, and Crush Crush Cookies, and see how VillageFest strengthens the Palm Springs community every Thursday night, all year long. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 — Intro: Welcome to Palm Springs VillageFest 00:34 — How it all began 33 years ago 01:07 — Vendor stories & local creativity 03:05 — 150+ vendors, thousands of visitors each week 04:49 — The jury process: how vendors get selected 08:30 — How the city runs VillageFest every week 11:19 — Economic impact for downtown Palm Springs 13:06 — Vendor success stories (like The Heyday) 14:31 — Advice for other cities 15:46 — Beyond VillageFest: Parks & Rec programs 16:08 — American Idol’s connection to VillageFest 16:30 — How to visit + where to learn more 🌟 If You Liked This, Watch Next 🎥 The Road to the Rose Parade: Behind the Blooms 🎥 Celebrating Mental Wellness: Inside Ventura County’s Festival 🎥 Laps, Laughs & Legacy: The Hap Rapp Track Meet 🎥 Pedalers Fork: Where Bikes, Brews & Bites Collide 🎥 Strumming Through Life: The Sierra Drummond Story 🗺️ Learn More 🌐 Visit: VillageFest.org 📸 Follow: @VillageFest (Facebook & Instagram) 🏡 Presented by: www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com 👉Contact Paul Ward: www.homeandranch.com p. 805-479-5004 e. [email protected] 📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor: Opus Escrow — making this episode possible.

In this inspiring episode, Paul Ward sits down with regenerative farmer, chef, entrepreneur, and author Mollie Engelhart. Mollie shares her journey from running vegan restaurants in Los Angeles to building Sovereignty Ranch in Texas, where she’s pioneering regenerative farming, hosting events, and building a community rooted in faith, food, and family. They dive deep into: 🌱 What regenerative agriculture really means 🏡 The cultural and practical differences between farming in California vs. Texas 📖 Mollie’s new book Debunked by Nature and how nature never lies 💪 Masculinity vs. femininity, resilience, and lessons from motherhood 🥩 Why “Food is Medicine” and the movement changing how we think about health and nutrition This conversation is full of wisdom, real-life stories, and practical takeaways for anyone interested in food, farming, family, or building a purpose-driven life. 🔗 Learn more: Mollie’s ranch: https://sovereigntyranch.com Mollie’s New Book: https://debunkedbynature.com 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes of On the Road with Paul Ward. ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction & welcome back to Mollie Engelhart 1:00 – Moving from California to Texas: new freedoms and challenges 3:00 – What is regenerative agriculture? Soil, grazing, and working with nature 5:00 – Building Sovereignty Ranch: hotel, restaurant, brewery & farm programs 7:30 – Cultural contrasts: food, faith, family, and community in Texas vs. California 9:00 – Mollie’s new book Debunked by Nature: lessons from the farm 11:00 – From vegan chef to regenerative rancher: a personal transformation 13:30 – Masculinity, femininity, and resilience: stories from motherhood & farming 17:00 – Biggest takeaways from the book: “Nature doesn’t lie” 19:00 – Comfort vs. discomfort: raising resilient families & future generations 24:00 – Teaching kids farm skills & challenging modern parenting norms 25:00 – Preview of the upcoming “Food is Medicine” conference 28:30 – Other Sovereignty Ranch events: Confluence & Divine + Dangerous 30:50 – Where to find Mollie online & how to support the ranch 32:30 – Closing thoughts & thank you 👉Contact Paul Ward: www.homeandranch.com p. 805-479-5004 e. [email protected] 📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor: Opus Escrow — making this episode possible.

Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, Paul Ward sits down with Arkady Milgram, a former Soviet citizen who risked everything to pursue freedom in America. Arkady shares his journey from growing up under communist rule to becoming a successful financial planner in California. Along the way, he reflects on the emotional moments of leaving his homeland, building a new life from scratch, and reuniting his family. His story is a heartfelt reminder that freedom comes at a cost—and with limitless opportunity. ⏱️ Timestamps + Topics 00:05 – Welcome from Paul Paul introduces Arkady Milgram, a Russian immigrant who built a life and career in America. 00:51 – Meet Arkady Milgram Arkady shares his gratitude and excitement to tell his story. 01:22 – Life in the Soviet Union Arkady describes his childhood under communist propaganda and his early curiosity about the West. 02:59 – Cracks in the Narrative Discover how an American magazine article helped shift Arkady’s understanding of the U.S. 05:01 – The Dream of Leaving Learn how Arkady used Israel’s “family reunification” program as a legal route to escape. 07:40 – The First Step to Freedom Arkady recalls the emotional moment stepping off the plane in Vienna—and realizing he was free. 09:14 – Stateless in Italy He explains the three-month transition in Rome, applying for refugee status in the U.S. 11:32 – Arriving in Los Angeles With support from distant relatives and Jewish organizations, Arkady begins his new life in LA. 13:41 – His First Job in America From unloading furniture in Hollywood to biochemistry work, Arkady dives into American work life. 15:35 – From Biochemistry to Business Why Arkady transitioned from lab work to entrepreneurship—and how he started a travel agency. 17:34 – Discovering Financial Planning Arkady finds his true calling helping others navigate personal finance through education. 20:25 – How to Reach Arkady He shares his phone number and open-door policy for financial conversations—no pressure, just help. 23:28 – Reuniting with Family Hear the emotional story of how he brought his parents and extended family to the U.S. 26:12 – A Love Letter to America Arkady closes with powerful reflections on freedom, family, and what it means to be American. 📞 Contact Arkady Milgram: www.milgramfinancial.com Phone: (818) 919-2461 Calls only — texting uses a different number due to compliance. Email: [email protected] 2801 Townsgate Road Suite 320, Westlake Village, CA 91361 👉Contact Paul Ward: p. 805-479-5004 e. [email protected] www.homeandranchteam.com 📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor: Opus Escrow — making this episode possible. **Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. Milgram Financial and Insurance Services, LLC is not a subsidiary or affiliate of MML Investors Services, LLC, or its affiliated companies. 790 E Colorado Blvd, Ste 710, Pasadena, CA 91101, (626) 639-1900 CRN202808-9197265. **

📍 Guest: Ronnie Semler – Founder, Malibu Wines & Beer Garden & Saddlerock Ranch 📍 Location: West Hills, CA Watch Full episode HERE Join Paul Ward On the Road with Ronnie Semler, the visionary behind Malibu Wines & Beer Garden and Saddlerock Ranch. In this inspiring interview, Ronnie shares how he transformed a fire-ravaged Malibu ranch into a thriving vineyard, animal sanctuary, and destination experience featuring estate-grown wines, exotic animals like zebras and giraffes,  and one-of-a-kind events. From surviving the Woolsey Fire to expanding into a Texas safari adventure, Ronnie’s story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and creating joy for visitors from around the world. 🍷🦒 ⏱ Episode Timestamps 00:06 – Welcome & Introduction Paul welcomes Ronnie Semler, founder of Malibu Wines & Beer Garden, and introduces the historic West Hills location. 00:47 – The Historic Building Ronnie shares the colorful history of the Alamo-style structure, once home and stables to silent film star Francis Lederer. 02:06 – Acquiring the Property A chance hospital visit leads Ronnie to purchase the building and transform it into a thriving wine and beer garden. 03:21 – Estate-Grown Wines An overview of Semler’s estate wines grown at Saddlerock Ranch and the varieties they produce. 04:54 – The Birth of Saddlerock Ranch How a devastating 1978 Malibu fire led Ronnie to purchase and rebuild the ranch, eventually expanding to 1,000 acres. 07:07 – From Avocados to Grapes After losing crops to frost, Ronnie transitions from avocados to vineyards—discovering grapes use far less water. 08:25 – First Tasting Room The humble beginnings of Malibu Wines, starting with small sales that grew into massive weekend crowds. 09:42 – Exotic Animals & Unique Experiences Saddlerock Ranch becomes known for its zebras, bison, alpacas, llamas, and even a giraffe named Stanley. 10:45 – Surviving the Woolsey Fire Ronnie recounts evacuating over 150 animals and losing more than 100 structures, but saving every life. 11:54 – Rebuilding & Recent Challenges The difficulties of rebuilding post-fire and the added heartache of his son’s recent loss in the Palisades fire. 12:57 – Life After Malibu Expansion to Texas, moving exotic animals, and preparing to launch a safari business in Brock, TX. 14:22 – Growing Great Grapes Ronnie’s philosophy on vineyard care—from soil quality to irrigation—and the key to great wine. 15:31 – Current Vineyard Operations Replanting efforts in Malibu, now totaling around 50 acres and producing for tasting rooms in CA & TX. 16:07 – Family in the Wine Business Two of Ronnie’s daughters now play key roles in the Texas wine operation and club management. 17:16 – Beyond Wine Malibu Wines offers yoga, pizza, jewelry making, candle workshops, and more for visitors. 17:49 – Limited Public Access to the Ranch Some activities continue through wine hikes, movie shoots, and special approvals. 19:18 – Chumash Indian History The ranch holds a significant archaeological site with ancient cave paintings, shared with schools and visitors. 21:12 – Why Texas? Fewer regulations and a different way of life fuel Ronnie’s enthusiasm for his Texas ranch. 21:19 – How to Visit Malibu Wines is open 7 days a week in West Hills, CA. Info at malibuwines.com. 22:02 – Closing Paul thanks Ronnie for sharing his incredible journey from rebuilding after fires to creating unique wine and safari experiences. Related Episodes: Guardians of the Wild: Dr. Laurie Marker’s Mission to Save the Cheetahs  Strumming Through Life: The Sierra Drummond Story 📍Malibu Wines: [email protected] 23130 Sherman Way West Hills CA 91307 818-578-4146 👉Contact Paul Ward: homeandranch.com p. 805-479-5004 e. [email protected] 📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor: Opus Escrow — making this episode possible.

Episode Summary: Paul Ward visits Mesa in Ojai, California—a 10-acre citrus farm that’s home to an innovative community tackling youth homelessness. Guest Dan Parziale, co-founder of Mesa, explains how this transitional housing project supports vulnerable 18–24 year olds with holistic services, beautiful tiny homes, and a deep sense of community. Discover how Mesa is changing lives by replacing shelters with opportunity, healing, and hope. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction Paul introduces Dan Parziale and the mission behind Mesa Farm. 00:30 – What is Mesa? Dan explains how Mesa began and what the 10-acre farm provides for its young adult residents. 01:41 – Who Mesa Serves A look at Mesa’s participants—many experiencing or at risk of homelessness—and how they are referred. 02:44 – A Spirit of Connection Why collaboration, beauty, and community are essential parts of Mesa’s model. 03:39 – It Takes a Village Dan shares how community members—from realtors to volunteers—play an active role in residents’ success. 04:33 – What’s Required of Residents Minimal mandatory activities, but plenty of engaging opportunities including filmmaking and natural building. 05:26 – Film, Farming & Pizza Ovens Hands-on learning in the arts and agriculture, from shooting short films to selling tangerines. 06:28 – Rethinking Housing Environments Why Mesa is beautiful by design—and how that impacts healing and outcomes. 07:35 – Early Transitions & Support Mesa’s first residents have already started moving out, with rental assistance for the next stage of life. 08:34 – Why Mesa Was Created Dan and co-founder Kyle Thompson wanted to flip the script on how we support at-risk youth. 09:58 – Breaking the Poverty Trap How Mesa’s design philosophy focuses on dignity, restoration, and upward mobility. 11:00 – How Mesa is Funded Mesa began with a state grant and continues through a mix of government and private support. 11:29 – Replicating the Model Mesa’s approach can—and should—be expanded to other communities facing youth homelessness. 12:20 – Meaning Behind the Name “Mesa” A table to gather at. A plateau to launch from. 13:03 – Dan’s Background From Ojai to LA to Haiti—Dan’s unique journey to nonprofit leadership. 14:30 – Preventing Lifelong Homelessness Mesa works upstream to catch youth before long-term homelessness becomes a cycle. 15:51 – The Financial & Human Cost Investing early in young people saves resources—and lives—down the line. 16:50 – A Smarter Approach to Homelessness Prevention, beauty, and opportunity drive lasting impact. 18:35 – Volunteering at Mesa Gardening, cooking, teaching art—Mesa thrives on community support. 19:29 – The Joy of This Work Dan reflects on the honor and hope that comes from working with young adults at a turning point. 20:35 – Remembering Who You Are Helping youth reconnect with their identity and potential. 21:20 – Inside the Tiny Homes Tour the beautifully furnished 270 sq ft homes with mountain views, art, and personalized music. 23:16 – Why Design & Dignity Matter Personalized homes help participants feel welcome, safe, and valued. 24:48 – Why Private Space Matters Tiny homes provide dignity and safety that communal shelters can’t. 25:09 – How to Get Involved Mesa is building a volunteer portal and welcomes people to share their skills and passions. 26:29 – Website & Social Media 🌐 www.mesafarm.org 📷 Instagram: @mesafarm 👍 Facebook: Mesa Farm 27:08 – Final Thoughts Dan shares why Mesa’s model is exciting, replicable, and ready for a broader movement. 📢 Related Episodes: One Vet at a Time: Inside the Vince Street Veterans House with Angel Echeverria Unveiling Humanity through Compassion, Hope and a Costume 👉Contact Paul Ward: homeandranch.com p. 805-479-5004 e. [email protected] 📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor: Opus Escrow — making this episode possible. 📌 Subscribe to On the Road with Paul Ward for more stories of innovation, impact, and inspiration. #MesaFarm #YouthHomelessness #OjaiCA #TinyHomes #CommunitySolutions #OnTheRoadWithPaulWard #DanParziale #SocialImpact #HomelessnessPrevention #VenturaCounty #NonprofitInnovation

Episode Summary: Paul Ward speaks with Marta Dewey, founder of the Performance Theater for Young Artists (PTYA), a Ventura County-based nonprofit that has nurtured thousands of kids through year-round theater productions since 1999. From shy first-timers to confident leads, Marta shares how theater builds confidence, community, and creativity in youth aged 6 to 19. Discover how this beloved local program blends arts education with life skills — all while putting on fantastic musicals like Matilda and Shrek. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction Paul welcomes Marta Dewey and sets the stage for her inspiring story. 00:37 – How PTYA Began Marta shares how a one-time school musical grew into a year-round youth theater company. 01:46 – A Year-Round Program for All Ages How the company works: kids audition per production; many grow with the program for years. 02:55 – Singing, Acting, Dance, and Tech Theater PTYA develops young talent across performance and behind-the-scenes skills. 03:31 – Recent Production: Matilda the Musical Over 40 students from ages 7 to 18 performed in the most recent production. 04:02 – How Students Find Their Passion Some join for fun, others for the spotlight — all build confidence and skills. 05:06 – Rehearsal Schedules & Community Feel 10 hours per week, tech week before shows, and a close-knit cast culture. 06:25 – Costumes & Set Design Parents and students pitch in to bring each show to life. 07:36 – PTYA Alumni Success Stories One student went on to become an opera singer performing internationally. 09:00 – Audience & Performance Space Typical audience size and how they manage sold-out shows with flexible seating. 09:41 – Upcoming Production: Shrek the Musical Details on the next production and how rehearsals are ramping up. 10:22 – Licensing, Scripts & Choreography How PTYA acquires materials and relies on teen choreographers for fresh ideas. 11:20 – Growth Stories: From Shy to Spotlight Powerful examples of personal growth through theater. 13:17 – Funding a Nonprofit Theater Program How PTYA stays afloat: fundraising, tuition, ticket sales, grants, and scholarships. 14:29 – Volunteer-Driven Success Parents, alumni, and teens fuel the program with their time and passion. 15:24 – Performance Frequency & Summer Camp Four to five shows per year, plus a two-week summer camp with a final performance. 16:49 – The Future of PTYA Marta discusses the program’s continued growth and long-standing community roots. 17:17 – Closing & Gratitude Paul thanks Marta for her decades of dedication and impact. 🔗 Learn More About PTYA:  ptya.org 3451 Foothill Rd Ventura, CA 93003 p. (805) 302-6441 e. [email protected] 👉Contact Paul Ward: homeandranch.com p. 805-479-5004 e. [email protected] 📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor: Opus Escrow — making this episode possible. #YouthTheater #PTYA #VenturaCounty #OnTheRoadWithPaulWard #PerformingArts #MusicalTheater #ShrekTheMusical #MatildaTheMusical

Revolutionizing Symphony Behind the Baton with Michael Christie of New West Symphony 🎶 Join Paul Ward as he interviews Michael Christie, the innovative Music Director and Conductor of the New West Symphony! Discover how Michael is transforming the symphony experience by blending classical masterpieces with popular music, engaging diverse audiences, and fostering deep community connections. ✨ In this episode, learn about: How symphonies can appeal to all ages and music tastes (00:34) The creative anniversary-themed concert blending opera, Bach, and pop classics (04:28) Michael’s journey from trumpet player to Grammy-winning conductor (14:45) The unique Steve Jobs opera project and its global reach (19:40) New West Symphony’s vital community partnerships and youth programs (23:04) The future of symphony orchestras in today’s music landscape (26:18) The fusion of rock, pop, and film music with symphony (28:27 & 30:38) Upcoming concerts and how to get involved (33:39) Watch the full episode to explore the evolving world of symphony music and get inspired by Michael Christie’s passion and vision! 🔗 Learn more about New West Symphony: Website: https://newwestsymphony.org Follow on Social: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter @NewWestSymphony Subscribe to On the Road with Paul Ward for more interviews and stories from the heart of music and culture! 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@OntheRoadwithPaulWard 🎵 Sponsor: Thanks to Opus Escrow for supporting this episode!

In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, we’re joined by Dave Drumright of the Camarillo Rotary Club to explore the long-standing tradition of the Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet. Dave shares the inspiring story behind this unique community event, detailing how it has grown from its humble beginnings into a much-anticipated annual gathering that brings together athletes of all ages and skill levels. From the wide range of track and field events to the enthusiastic Rotarian volunteers who make it all happen, the meet stands as a shining example of community spirit and service. Dave also dives into his personal involvement over the years and highlights what makes this event so special—including the fact that it’s the only known track meet hosted by a Rotary club. He offers his resources for other clubs or communities interested in starting similar events and explains how the Camarillo Rotary Club funds this free event through creative fundraising efforts. Whether you're a local parent, a fellow Rotarian, or simply a fan of feel-good community stories, you won’t want to miss this episode.   Watch the full episode HERE   What you’ll learn in this episode: 0:00 Introduction to On the Road and to our guest, Dave Drumright of the Camarillo Rotary and a special thanks to our sponsor: Opus Escrow 0:53 What is the Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet? 1:38 Just how much the Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet has grown since its inception 2:18 Local Rotarians volunteer to help run the event 3:10 The track & field events held at the meet 5:03 The winners and their awards 5:48 The range of ages and skill level of the participants 6:55 Dave Drumright’s involvement in the Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet over the years 7:39 The Camarillo Rotary Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet is the only known track & field event held by any Rotary club, Dave Drumright offers other clubs the information to help start their own track & field event 8:15 Dave’s advice on starting a sporting event like the Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet 8:44 The free event is paid for by the Camarillo Rotary Club’s sale of advertising space and event t-shirts 10:00 This year’s event date and time is shared by Dave 10:45 How to sign up for this year’s Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet Related Episodes: Racing Through Community Spirit: The Legacy of The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet  Roses and Rotary: The Road to the Rose Parade Behind the Blooms Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Inside the YES! Youth Empowerment Summit with  Mary Lingua   2025 Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet: Camarillo Rotary Foundation Saturday, May 17, 2025 8:00AM - 4:30PM Adolfo Camarillo High School 4660 Mission Oaks Blvd. Camarillo, CA  93012   Contact Paul Ward: 805-479-5004 [email protected]   Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to [email protected] or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, Paul visits the charming Cornell Wine Company and chats with local musician and event coordinator, Sierra Drummond. Sierra shares how she got her start organizing music nights at the venue, including open mic nights and featured artist events that spotlight both undiscovered local talent and internationally known musicians like Elliot Lurie, the songwriter of Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl). With a rich musical heritage—her parents are both in the band Ambrosia—Sierra began performing at just four years old and has developed into a passionate performer and songwriter. She opens up about her own songs, “Look Out For Me” and “Slow Morning,” and the creative process behind her music. Sierra also reflects on her love of the stage, the evolution of her sound, and how music connects people, whether through live shows or her involvement in community outreach efforts like clothing drives following recent fires. The conversation dives deeper into Sierra’s musical family, including her mom’s background vocals for Jimmy Buffett and studio work with Pink Floyd, and her own experiences in the family’s band, The Tin Drum Family Band. Sierra discusses her favorite genres, instruments, and how digital media compares to the energy of live music. She also touches on the resurgence of Yacht Rock and its influence on her father’s career, upcoming events at Cornell Wine Company, and her role as a music teacher during the week. From her humble beginnings at Cornell to her multifaceted role as performer, teacher, and event planner, Sierra’s story is one of passion, community, and the power of music. Watch the full episode HERE   What you’ll learn in the episode: 0:00 Welcome to On the Road with Paul Ward and introduction to our guest, musician, Sierra Drummond 0:34 We learn the location of today’s episode, Cornell Wine Company. 1:04 Sierra Drummond tells us more about her role(s) at Cornell Wine Company 1:32 With a mix of events like open mic night, featured artists, etc. Sierra tells us how she got started at Cornell Wine Company and what goes into making a good, solid show. 2:39 The incredible undiscovered talent that performs at Sierra’s events, as well as internationally recognized talent, including the songwriter for Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl), Elliot Lurie 3:58 Sierra’s parents are both in the band, Ambrosia, so she started performing at the age of four 5:15 Some insight into what makes a good songwriter and how songs come about for Sierra 6:37 Learn about Sierra’s songs, “Look Out For Me,” and “Slow morning”  9:35 Sierra enjoys performing any way she can because she loves being on stage and the evolution of Sierra’s music 11:18 Community outreach and a clothing drive with Matt Morris and The Cornell Wine Company after the recent fires 13:11 What Sierra is working on now and where she sees her music going 14:34 Sierra answers Paul question regarding whether she ever saw herself doing all that she does at Cornell Wine Company when she 1st started as event coordinator 15:22 More about Sierra’s musical family, Ambrosia, and her mom’s backups for Jimmy Buffett and studio work with Pink Flloyd 17:32 Sierra’s genres and her favorite instrument to play 19:35 “The Tin Drum Family Band,” Sierra’s family’s band and Sierra tells us more about Abrosia 22:00 Music in this digital world versus live music 25:52 Yacht Rock, coined by Jimmy Fallon, is what reboosted Sierra’s Dad’s career 26:28 The upcoming events at Cornell Wine Company 28:35 Sierra is a music teacher throughout the week   Related Episodes: Vines, Wines and Good Times at Cornell Wine Company Music, History & Magic: The Story of Tiny Porch Concerts at Peter Strauss Ranch Desert Dreams: The Palms, Wonder Valley’s Artistic Oasis   Sierra Drummond Instagram: @sierradrummond MORE HERE   Cornell Wine Co. 29975 Mulholland Rd. Agoura Hills, CA 91301 818-575-7010 www.cornellwineco.com   Contact Paul Ward: 805-479-5004 [email protected]   Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to [email protected] or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com   A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS Escrow! On the Road with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor OPUS Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures that On the Road provides viewers and listeners with the best possible episodes.

In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, Paul sits down with Jackie Lapin, also known as The Historic Traveler, to explore the fascinating world of historic travel. Jackie shares the inspiration behind The Historic Traveler, a unique platform offering a historic book directory categorized by city and country, a hotel and Airbnb directory, travel discounts, and even a travel agent. She explains how to plan a trip using her platform and highlights the value of understanding the history behind the places you visit. Jackie also reveals some of her top travel experiences, having visited over 50 countries and about 500 tourist destinations, and discusses the benefits of joining her monthly community meeting where travel lovers exchange tips and stories. Jackie shares her personal journey into historic travel and the story behind her early blogs, including one about Castello Sforzesco in Milan. She talks about her bucket list destinations, including Savannah, Egypt, and Turkey, and emphasizes how locals often love to share their knowledge with visitors. Jackie also offers a valuable tip for travelers using local guides and introduces The Historic Traveler’s exciting partnership with Elevate Travel X, featuring a drawing for an eight-night stay in Williamsburg, VA worth $2,000. Don’t miss Jackie’s insights and the inspiring motto that guides her adventures—plus visit www.thehistorictraveler.com to start planning your next historic journey!   What you’ll learn in this episode: 0:00 Paul introduces our guest, Jackie Lapin, The Historic Traveler 0:25 Traveling with a twist: We learn the concept behind The Historic Traveler 1:34 The Historic Traveler Blog, their membership program, the first ever historic book directory categorized by country/city, a hotel/AirBnB directory, travel discounts, a travel agent and MORE! 3:15 Jackie explains how to plan a trip using The Historic Traveler 4:30 A once a month Community Meeting where travel lovers meet to exchange travel tips 5:55 Jackie has visited over 50 countries and about 500 tourist destinations 6:41 Jackie’s spotlights and photo gallery on The Historic Traveler’s website 7:56 How Jackie Lapin got into Historic Travel 9:40 Jackie tells us about the first blogs she ever did and goes into detail about the second featuring a castle in the middle of Milan called Castello Sforzesco (Sforza Castle) 11:45 Knowing the history of an area you are traveling to is both meaningful and fun 13:52 Movies, TV Shows and Documentaries Jackie references in her blog 14:40 How Savannah, GA is on Jackie’s bucket list (as well as Egypt and Turkey), and two very helpful guides The Historic Traveler website references to help plan travel in North America and one for International travel 16:18 How many weeks a year Jackie travels and a story about a nine week European trip 18:22 How the locals are so pleased to share their knowledge of whatever area you visit plus a tip from Jackie for when traveling with a guide 20:00 Jackie’s travel “angels.” 20:28 A North American city Jackie believes everyone needs to visit at least once and the benefits of a “Hop on, Hop off Bus” 21:36 Jackie Lapin’s moto and the website: www.thehistorictraveler.com 22:25 The Historic Traveler has teamed up with Elevate Travel X and their drawing worth $2000 for an eight night stay in Williamsburg, VA 23:30 A special thank you to our sponsor: Opus Escrow   Watch the full episode HERE   Related Episodes: A Journey Through Time at The Ventura County Agriculture Museum Harvesting Futures in Education Preserving Paradise with Ventura Land Trust   The Historic Traverler: www.thehistorictraveler.com   References: 18 Great North American Cities: www.thehistorictraveler.com/guide 20 Great International Cities: www.thehistorictraveler.com/guideNA   Contact Paul Ward: 805-479-5004 [email protected]   Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to [email protected] or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS Escrow! On the Road with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor OPUS Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures that On the Road provides viewers and listeners with the best possible episodes.

In this episode of On the Road with Paul Ward, Paul visits Cornell Wine Company in Agoura Hills, CA, to chat with owner and proprietor Matt Morris. Matt shares how his passion for wine led him to acquire the business and gives insight into the history of Cornell Wine Company and its neighbor, the historic Old Place Restaurant. He explains what it means to be a sommelier  /səməlˈyā/ and explores the unique character of Southern California wines, often called “Story Driven Wines.” Matt also discusses the challenges faced by local growers, the different “seasons” of wine, and what’s currently trending in the L.A. area. Paul admits to picking wine based on the label, and Matt explains why that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Matt highlights the wine tastings and pairings at Cornell, including an upcoming Greek food and wine event, and the lively music nights featuring open mic, live performances, and standup comedy. He discusses the unique wines from the Malibu Coast, the influence of microclimates, and L.A.'s surprising Prohibition-era wine history. Matt offers helpful tips for discovering wines you’ll love and pairing them with food. He also talks about the close-knit community at Cornell Wine Company and The Old Place, and how they supported the area after recent fires. Nestled near The Rock Store and Peter Strauss Ranch, Cornell Wine Company offers a “Country Light” escape with peacocks, donkeys, and a rich Hollywood history, including a former big cat training ground for the film industry. What you’ll learn in this episode: 0:00 Welcome to On the Road and introduction of our guest, Matt Morris, owner proprietor of Cornell Wine Company 0:31 Matt Morris tells us where Cornell Wine Company is located 0:48 We learn from Matt what a sommelier is /səməlˈyā/ 1:22 The history of Cornell Wine Company as told by Matt Morris including the Old Place Restaurant, which is next door 4:47 How Matt’s passion for wine started and how he acquired the business 6:11 Paul and Matt discuss Southern California wines, why they are sometimes called, “Story Driven Wines,” and how they make their way to Cornell Wine Company 7:04 Local growers and challenges they have recently faced 9:06 Wines have different “seasons,”and what’s in vogue in the L.A. area right now 10:21 Paul admits he buys a bottle of wine based on the label, Matt gives us insight on why this is good and why this isn’t always great 11:46 Wine tastings and pairings at Cornell Wine Company- Including the upcoming first pairing with Greek food and wine 13:33 The music nights at Cornell Wine Company including Friday performances, open mic and even standup comedy nights 14:04 Matt tells us about the wines that come out of the Malibu Coast based on microclimates and a super interesting fact about L.A, Prohibition and wine-making 16:16 Matt explains the concept behind a wine with a Malibu label that was made outside of Malibu 17:32 Tips on how to best find wines that you enjoy and what food pair well with those 18:43 The community of people who work at Cornell Wine Company and The Old Place Restaurant next door are like a family 19:53 Other items that Cornell Wine Company offers at their gift shop 20:17 Matt tells us about the community outreach done by Cornell Wine Company and The Old Place after the recent fires in the area 21:15 The awesome location of Cornell Wine Company near The Rock Store and Peter Strauss Ranch, complete with peacocks and donkeys, making it a “Country Light” experience outside of L.A. 22:57 Movies filmed in the area as well as a big cat sanctuary back in the day for training animals in movies 23:47 The schedule every month at Cornell Wine Company 24:18 A special thank you our sponsor: Opus Escrow   Watch the full episode HERE   Related Episodes: Music, History & Magic: The Story of Tiny Porch Concerts at Peter Strauss Ranch Desert Dreams: The Palms, Wonder Valley’s Artistic Oasis Pedalers Fork: Where Bikes, Brews, and Bites Collide   Cornell Wine Co. 29975 Mulholland Rd. Agoura Hills, CA 91301 818-575-7010 www.cornellwineco.com   Contact Paul Ward: 805-479-5004 [email protected]   Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to [email protected] or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com   A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS Escrow! On the Road with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor OPUS Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures that On the Road provides viewers and listeners with the best possible episodes.