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Send us Fan Mail Armando Novelo grew up in and around the San Gabriel Valley, where he was raised by a single mother who frequently moved the family between Montebello, East LA, and Monterey Park before finally settling down in West Covina. He went on to attend UCLA, where he earned a degree in Psychology and stumbled into the mortgage industry while still a student 25 years ago. Today, he focuses on guiding first-time homebuyers through free workshops that break down available down payment assistance programs, while also helping existing homeowners navigate government resources to repair and upgrade their homes. Residing in Covina with his wife and two children, he remains deeply active in local real estate education and community outreach. In this episode, Armando Novelo returns to discuss hidden government and city assistance programs across the San Gabriel Valley that can provide tens of thousands of dollars for down payments or home renovations. He explains why many real estate professionals overlook these programs and walks listeners through how to find and qualify for city grants, silent second loans, and home improvement assistance. The conversation also covers his personal growth, and his social media content strategy utilizing AI-driven marketing frameworks. This episode is essential for SGV viewers, prospective homebuyers, and current homeowners looking to maximize financial resources and grants available in their local cities. Anyone searching for actionable real estate advice, home renovation funding, or community-focused mortgage guidance will find practical, expert insights to help them navigate the modern housing market. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this episode to help spread valuable local housing resources throughout our San Gabriel Valley community. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Christopher Luke Trevilla is a first-generation son of Mexican-American immigrants residing in Whittier, California. For over two decades, he has dedicated his career to social services, education, and safety net provider operations, focusing heavily on developmental disabilities and community inclusion. His extensive professional journey spans roles from classroom teacher and Regional Center service coordinator to corporate compliance leadership and his current work supporting employment resources in Southern California. Beyond human services, he has spent many years serving arts and culture in Los Angeles, leading organizations like the Nuvein Foundation for Literature and the Arts to promote culture in the San Gabriel Valley, earning recognition from the California State Legislature. In this episode, Christopher Luke Trevilla discusses his personal and professional journey, sharing experiences from growing up in the Los Angeles area and navigating his own visual impairment and lifelong learning path. He reflects on his extensive career in developmental services, offering invaluable advice for families navigating special needs systems, including the importance of cultivating supportive personal partnerships and finding effective advocates within human service agencies. The conversation also highlights his commitment to poetry, arts leadership, and community building across the San Gabriel Valley, alongside his educational background at Thomas Aquinas College and the Quantic School of Business and Technology. This episode offers San Gabriel Valley viewers, human services professionals, and individuals navigating developmental services an inspiring look at local advocacy, community resilience, and compassionate leadership. Listeners seeking guidance on family support systems, disability inclusion, and regional arts philanthropy will find deeply practical reflections on empowering others and leaving a positive impact. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this episode to help bring important local stories and community insights to our San Gabriel Valley audience. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Live from the 626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California, this special compilation features interviews with local residents, students, food entrepreneurs, and community members. Featured conversations include local entrepreneur Andrew Lee, founder of Zindrew Chili and Zindrew Wonton Shop, alongside local students, festival attendees, and an educator from the Garvey School District. The episode explores San Gabriel Valley food culture, highlighting regional dining spots, late-night boba culture, and local food businesses. Guests discuss regional lifestyles, including local pickleball communities, college experiences across California campuses, music festivals, and local traditions. The conversations also cover community experiences, family histories, education, and personal perspectives on living and growing up in the San Gabriel Valley. This compilation offers San Gabriel Valley viewers and festivalgoers an authentic look at the diverse voices, food businesses, and youth culture defining the region. People interested in Southern California food markets, local small business stories, and regional Asian American culture will gain grounded perspectives on community life in the 626. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this video to celebrate the food, culture, and stories of the San Gabriel Valley! __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Live from the 626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California, we wrap up the weekend with our Sunday compilation of interviews featuring local attendees, food creators, and San Gabriel Valley community members.  This compilation gives viewers and festivalgoers an inside look at the people, small businesses, and shared experiences that bring the SGV to life. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this video to celebrate the food, culture, and stories of the San Gabriel Valley! __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Live from the 626 Night Market at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California, this special Saturday edition brings you more conversations with local residents. Captured right from the heart of the festival, these interviews highlight the vibrant energy, diverse voices, and unique stories that define the San Gabriel Valley.  Whether you are a local resident, a regular 626 Night Market attendee, or someone interested in Southern California food markets and Asian American culture, this episode offers an authentic glimpse into our local community.  Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this video to celebrate the food, culture, and stories of the San Gabriel Valley! __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail OGK Joshua is a San Gabriel Valley native and independent recording artist raised in Covina, California. He played football at Charter Oak High School and the University of La Verne before serving in the United States Army as an 11 Bravo infantryman stationed at Fort Hood and deployed to Europe. Releasing music as an independent artist under the 626 Syndicate label, his discography includes tracks such as "Big God," "Heavenite," "AGB2G," "P31," and "Go Mode," alongside live performances at venues including the House of Blues in San Diego. In this episode, OGK Joshua details his personal journey through athletics, military service, and finding his Christian faith. He reflects on navigating period shifts with depression and identity after stepping away from sports and transitioning out of the military. The conversation explores his development as a musical artist, his commitment to producing West Coast-inspired hip-hop centered on spiritual conviction and positive values, and his outreach work through middle school, high school, and street evangelism.  This episode offers San Gabriel Valley viewers an authentic story of local resilience, faith, and artistic purpose. Listeners interested in independent music production, faith-based hip-hop, military transition stories, and youth mentorship will find practical perspectives on overcoming personal adversity and staying true to core values.  Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this video to help bring inspiring local stories from our community to more viewers.  _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Justin Tran is a San Gabriel native and first-generation Chinese Vietnamese American born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley. Raised by his grandmother, mother, and older sister, he attended Gabrielino High School, where he participated in speech and debate, FBLA, and student clubs. He began working in corporate executive assistant roles at age 18 and earned his bachelor's degree in May 2025. In addition to his corporate background, he serves as a moderator for SGV Eats, supporting local mom-and-pop restaurants across the San Gabriel Valley. In this episode, Justin shares his personal story of navigating family dynamics, grief, and early career development. He discusses the personal impact of losing four loved ones within two months in early 2025 following the passing of his grandmother in 2022. He details his active approaches to mental health and stress management, including hot yoga and Lagree pilates, alongside his work with SGV Eats to help uplift local businesses. This conversation provides San Gabriel Valley residents with a meaningful look at local community advocacy and small business support. Viewers interested in mental health awareness, grief recovery, and first-generation career growth will find practical reflections on resilience, personal growth, and self-awareness. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this video to help bring vital local stories to our San Gabriel Valley community. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Eric "Manny" Padilla is a film and television location manager born in Monterey Park, California, and raised in the San Gabriel Valley. Growing up in an apartment above a laundromat on New Avenue, he attended local schools including Emerson Elementary, Garvey Intermediate, and Mark Keppel High School. After moving to Burbank to pursue work in the entertainment industry, he built a career on major film and television productions, including the first four Transformers movies and live broadcast logistics for the Super Bowl pregame show at Alcatraz. In this episode, Manny discusses his upbringing in the San Gabriel Valley, navigating personal choices during his youth, and the importance of community and family. He shares how meeting a location manager while working at a North Hollywood Home Depot led to industry mentorship, and explains the logistics behind finding locations, securing permits, and managing major movie sets. He also reflects on executing live television broadcasts and reveals his top local San Gabriel Valley dining spots. This episode offers San Gabriel Valley viewers an authentic story rooted in local community experiences, while giving aspiring filmmakers and movie fans practical insights into location management, industry mentorship, and building a career in Hollywood. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this video with friends and family! _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Dr. Keith L. Marshall, PsyD, M.H.D., is the Founder, CEO, and Clinical Supervisor of Dedicato Treatment Center, a California Department of Health Care Services–certified substance use disorder treatment program specializing in co-occurring mental health conditions. Under his leadership, Dedicato earned The Joint Commission’s highest level of accreditation, placing it among approximately twenty-three percent of treatment centers nationwide recognized for excellence. Dr. Marshall earned a Specialist Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies from Glendale College, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in human development from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and a Certificate in Corporate Board Governance from the Wharton School’s Aresty Institute of Executive Education. After overcoming more than twenty-three years of crack cocaine addiction, homelessness, incarceration, and trauma, he became a two-time International Impact Book Award-winning author and recipient of the 2023 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteer Service. In this episode, Dr. Marshall details his integrated recovery philosophy that lasting transformation requires aligning psychological healing, disciplined physical wellness, and spiritual accountability to address the mind, body, and spirit. He shares insights from his academic research on adolescent substance use disorders and human developmental risk factors, alongside his clinical credentials in addiction counseling, anger management, and clinical supervision. The conversation covers how clinical practice, education, and personal accountability combine to treat substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. This episode offers San Gabriel Valley viewers direct clinical insight into behavioral health and treatment services headquartered in Pasadena, California. Readers of Dr. Marshall’s books, including From Dumpster to Doctor and Factors of Transformation, as well as individuals searching for whole-person recovery strategies will find practical perspectives on trauma-informed care, resilience, and sustainable change. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share this video to help bring vital conversations around mental health, recovery, and personal transformation to our community. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Albert Wan is a San Gabriel Valley native, raised in Arcadia, and a second-generation business owner leading his family’s enterprise software company. After studying at UC Berkeley and working as a software engineer at Apple Inc., where he contributed to software projects including Chinese keyboards and CarPlay, he returned home in 2018. Today, he focuses on modernizing his family's business, which has provided business and warehousing software technologies to customers across the San Gabriel Valley and beyond for over three decades. In this episode, Albert shares his journey from attending local schools in Arcadia and participating in marching band and Scouting to earning an engineering role at Apple. He discusses his experience inside a major technology organization, earning an MBA at UCLA Anderson, and deciding to leave Silicon Valley to preserve his family’s business legacy. Albert also details the practical steps involved in updating legacy Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and warehousing software, transitioning to cloud-based systems, and maintaining trust with long-time clients. This conversation offers real-world insights for San Gabriel Valley viewers interested in local business growth, tech professionals exploring career transitions, and second-generation entrepreneurs managing corporate succession. Viewers searching for topics around software modernization, family business leadership, and digital transformation will find clear perspectives rooted in steady progress and long-term strategy. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share this video with others to support local stories on the MySGV Podcast. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Sandy Velasco is an LA-based artist born in the Philippines who earned a degree in Mathematics from UCLA and worked as an accountant before entering the entertainment industry. She has called the San Gabriel Valley home for over 15 years and has performed standup comedy on stage and film across California, Las Vegas, and internationally at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. In addition to her work with Los Angeles theatre companies, including East West Players, Coeurage Theatre Company, Artists At Play, Playwrights' Arena, and Company of Angels, she curates and produces clean comedy shows across the SGV, including MIXED NUTS LIVE! in San Gabriel, CHEERS COMEDY HOUR in Arcadia, and BLEEP COMEDY SHOW at the Ice House in Pasadena. In this episode of the MySGV Podcast, Sandy shares her story of moving to the United States at age 13 and navigating the foster care system in Long Beach alongside her brothers. She discusses becoming a legal guardian for her younger brother after college, relying on her faith during difficult times, and balancing a mathematics and accounting background with her creative pursuits. She also discusses her entry into standup comedy, her work producing accessible clean comedy events for SGV families, and her favorite dining spots throughout the San Gabriel Valley. This episode provides San Gabriel Valley residents with a local perspective on community event production and the growing standup comedy scene in their neighborhood. For fans and followers of Sandy Velasco, the conversation offers a deeper look at how her life as an Asian American immigrant, former foster youth, mother, and comedian informs her clean storytelling on stage. Viewers searching for content about navigating foster care, shifting careers from mathematics to performance, and producing live shows will find practical insights and personal reflection. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the channel and share it with your friends and family! _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Willington Liu is an actor featured in the Creation of the Gods trilogy (封神三部曲) and the founder of Creation Talent Academy (CTA), a performing arts institute based in Arcadia, California. Raised in the San Gabriel Valley, he built a background in competitive Latin dance before earning his BFA in acting from the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts). Through CTA, he offers youth instruction across acting, singing, dance, and martial arts to help students develop artistic confidence and industry readiness. In this episode, Willington shares his path from growing up in the San Gabriel Valley to landing a role in Creation of the Gods during high school. He discusses his experience in the film's year-long training boot camp in China, including equestrian training, historical martial arts, and stage combat, alongside his transition through CalArts. He also outlines the mission behind Creation Talent Academy, explaining how the school supports student auditions, soft skills development, special needs programs, and long-term creative development. For San Gabriel Valley viewers and Arcadia residents, this episode offers an inside look at a local creator bringing international film experience back to the local community. Aspiring performers, parents, and arts supporters will gain practical perspectives on audition preparation, youth mentorship, and balancing passion with academic goals. Anyone searching online for insights into Creation of the Gods, acting programs at CalArts, or performing arts education in SoCal will find actionable takeaways throughout the conversation. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast to stay connected with the artists, educators, and leaders shaping the region. If you found value in this discussion on film production and performing arts training, please share this episode with an aspiring artist, parent, or educator. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Arturo Barrios is a San Gabriel Valley musician born in Monterey Park and raised between Monterey Park and Rosemead. After discovering grunge and punk rock in junior high, he formed a band with classmates at Rosemead High School that became Audio Karate, performing at backyard shows and local venues in El Monte and Baldwin Park. In 2001, Audio Karate signed with Kung Fu Records, releasing two full-length albums, touring internationally, and performing on Warped Tour and Warped Tour Japan. Arturo joined Sweet and Tender Hooligans in 2015, reunited Audio Karate in 2017, became the lead singer of Fenix TX in 2026, and works as a quality assurance and staff onboarding supervisor for Orange County Social Services. In this episode, Arturo discusses his origins in the San Gabriel Valley DIY punk scene and the journey of Audio Karate from local venue shows to international tours. The discussion touches on his work scoring an independent film, placing original music in film and television, and preparing a solo record under the name Small Graffiti. He also reflects on stepping into his role as lead singer for Fenix TX and how he manages his musical career alongside his supervisor role at Orange County Social Services. For San Gabriel Valley viewers, this episode offers a look at the local music scene and DIY history that shaped neighborhoods in Rosemead, El Monte, and Baldwin Park. Followers of Audio Karate, Sweet and Tender Hooligans, and Fenix TX will gain insight into his decades-long career across independent record labels, international tours, and ongoing songwriting projects. Viewers searching for topics on film scoring, independent music production, or balancing a career in public social services with creative arts will find a practical example of artistic longevity. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast to stay connected with the artists, musicians, and community figures shaping the region. If you found this conversation on local music history and creative endurance inspiring, please share this episode with a friend or fellow punk rock fan. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Melanie Sauer serves as the Executive Director of the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center in Pasadena, California, assuming the position in October 2024 after serving as the organization’s Chief Financial Officer since 2021. Her career in financial and operational leadership spans the nonprofit, cultural, and higher education sectors, including senior management roles at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Pacific Oaks College & Children's School, and Southern California Public Media (LAist/89.3 KPCC). A resident of Sierra Madre, she holds degrees from Whitworth University, Azusa Pacific University, and the Peter F. Drucker Graduate School of Management at Claremont Graduate University, and actively serves on the boards of the Child Educational Center and Alma Fuerte Public School. In this episode, Melanie discusses leading the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center and advancing its mission to promote water safety, wellness, competition, and community engagement. The conversation covers her transition from Chief Financial Officer to Executive Director, strategic organizational direction, non-profit financial management, and long-term capital planning. She also shares insights into building sustainable community partnerships, fostering civic engagement across Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley, and overseeing aquatics programming for individuals and families across the region. For viewers in Pasadena, Sierra Madre, and the broader San Gabriel Valley, this episode offers an insider look at the leadership and community operations of a premier regional aquatics facility. Aquatic sports enthusiasts, non-profit professionals, and local families will value her practical breakdown of mission-driven leadership, capital planning, and public health initiatives. Individuals searching online for non-profit management strategies, water safety programs, or community health leadership will find a clear, real-world example of institutional stewardship. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast to stay updated on the leaders, institutions, and community initiatives shaping the San Gabriel Valley. If you found this discussion on non-profit leadership and community aquatics informative, please take a moment to share this episode with a friend or neighbor. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Joshua Lin represents Titanium Robotics (FIRST Robotics Competition Team 1160), a student-led high school robotics program based at San Marino High School in San Marino, California. Now entering its 23rd year as a team, Titanium Robotics designs, builds, and programs competitive robots to participate in international challenges organized by the FIRST® Robotics Competition. Dedicated to fostering engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the organization combines hands-on engineering experience with regional educational outreach and community engagement initiatives. In this episode, Joshua discusses the operational structure, team dynamics, and engineering workflows that drive Titanium Robotics. The conversation explores how students collaborate to design and program competition-ready robots within strict time limits, prepare for FIRST® Robotics Competition events, and lead local STEM educational programs. Key topics include the impact of high school engineering opportunities, the technical problem-solving skills developed through team competition, and the group's efforts to use robotics as a platform for positive community outreach. For San Gabriel Valley viewers, this episode provides a look into a long-running student engineering program based in San Marino. Supporters of Titanium Robotics and the broader FIRST® Robotics community will value the discussion on student leadership, technical development, and competition preparation. Anyone searching online for high school STEM education, youth robotics programs, or engineering pathways will find a clear example of how local students apply technical training to solve real-world problems. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast to stay updated on the local programs, leaders, and student innovators across the region. If you found this look into youth robotics and STEM education valuable, please share this episode with a student, educator, or neighbor. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast [email protected]