Advertise on podcast: Conversations Different with Inez Russell Gomez

In front of a live audience at Sky Cinemas in Santa Fe, Democrat Deb Haaland shares her plan for New Mexico as she seeks to win the governor’s seat in the November election. Haaland, the former U.S. interior secretary and congresswoman, speaks with Santa Fe New Mexican Opinion page editor and “Conversations Different” host Inez Russell Gomez in a wide-ranging interview that touches on child welfare, data centers, support for rural parts of the state, affordability issues and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In front of a live audience at Sky Cinemas in Santa Fe, Republican Gregg Hull shares his plan for New Mexico as he seeks to win the governor’s seat in the November election.  Hull, the former mayor of Rio Rancho, speaks with Santa Fe New Mexican Opinion page editor and “Conversations Different” host Inez Russell Gomez in a wide-ranging interview that touches on child welfare, data centers, a push to phase out personal income tax and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered who’s in charge of maintaining government buildings throughout New Mexico? That would be the General Services Department, currently led by Cabinet Secretary Anna Silva.  Silva, a native New Mexican and longtime state official, oversees a department with various responsibilities, including assisting other state agencies with procurement, insurance and day-to-day administrative tasks. It’s also responsible for ensuring the buildings those agencies are housed in are maintained so the public can easily access them.  It may not sound like a difficult job, but it takes skill and sound decision-making to get the work done.  On the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode, host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Secretary Silva to discuss her department’s efforts to revamp landscaping at state government buildings to improve curb appeal.    Prior to Silva’s tenure, she said a landscaping plan wasn’t really in place which led to trees and weeds overtaking some buildings. The opportunity to create a sustainable plan, under the direction of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, arose and she’s taken it seriously. She’s selected projects of impact and chosen flora that fit a building’s character.   The results caught the attention of Russell Gomez, who wanted to learn more about the new process.   Silva said the work was only possible because it took “a governor with a vision and a secretary with a mission” to make it happen.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As our planet continues to experience environmental changes that have brought extreme temperatures and unpredictable conditions, faith leaders are stepping up to offer diplomacy when outside groups seek to extract precious resources.   Rev. Andrew Black, associate pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Santa Fe and founder of EarthKeepers 360, is one of those leaders. His decades-long work in conservation has centered on protecting the natural landscape and the many ecosystems that inhabit it through implementation of programs and collaborative efforts.   While working for former U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.) and later, the New Mexico Wildlife Federation, Black led coalitions that fought to protect public lands and national monuments, like the Valles Caldera and the Rio Grande del Norte, from irreparable destruction.   That worked has helped him to now fight for the Arctic.   On the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode, host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Black to discuss a trip he took with elected officials and other faith leaders to Alaska. The trip highlighted the relationship wildlife has in that region with the environment and why interference would have serious implications.   In Black’s words, the trip was about “reawakening the moral consciousness of this nation.”   While the trip’s mission didn’t have any direct ties to New Mexico, Black explains why the lessons learned there could apply here as the state sees a drying Rio Grande and an increase in animals seeking refuge in urban spaces. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teachers are often the ones who leave a lasting impact on a child both in and out of the classroom.   But they’re not alone. Community volunteers also play a special role in a child’s learning, especially early on. They are there helping with activities, being a role model for excellence and demonstrating what it means to have healthy relationships with others.   Those types of experiences, you won’t find in any lesson plan or textbook— which makes them valuable in today’s world.   To discuss the importance that volunteers have in Santa Fe Public Schools, Crystal Ybarra, chief engagement officer, and Sabra Romero, volunteer coordinator, join host Inez Russell Gomez on the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode.   Ybarra and Romero talk about the district’s volunteering program that allows community members to get involved and support educators in a variety of areas.   For students, Romero said the program provides necessary enrichment beyond academics. For teachers, Ybarra said the additional support helps kids be interested in their education amid ongoing challenges with attendance and subject comprehension.    The two also elaborate on the process to become a volunteer, emphasizing that anyone who is interested should reach out.   To learn more, visit https://www.sfps.info/page/volunteering-sfps   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Burning of Zozobra, which has taken place annually for over 100 years, is a special event that Santa Feans hold dear to their hearts.   That’s especially true for those who are actually involved in the event like Helene Luna, the Fire Spirit tasked with lighting the 50-foot effigy on fire while dancing in front of the crowd.   Luna became the fire dancer 30 years ago after being asked by her boss at the time to apply for a role assisting at Zozobra festivities. Without hesitation, she said yes, and her background in ballet eventually led to taking over as fire dancer.  The opportunity has allowed her to explore her self-expression on a big stage but also serve as the light in people’s personal lives, which can be gloomy at times.   This year, however, will be her last time as “Mick Jagger,” as she passes the torch to Than Povi Martinez, who will carry it in 2027.   On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Luna to discuss her time in the spotlight and what it has meant to be a part of such a unique and big cultural experience in Santa Fe.   In the episode, Luna talks about her decision to retire, shares which performances were her most memorable and explains why she thinks Old Man Gloom has resonated with so many people.   She ends on a high note telling Russell Gomez her plans to bring all the energy and enthusiasm for this year’s show.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For roughly 30 years, the New Mexico Book Association has been a useful resource for authors and their books throughout the state.   The nonprofit’s work consists of supporting its members in various ways, such as through the editing and marketing process to offering workshops that aim to educate on modern publishing practices.    President Anna I. Sochocky says their efforts are really about building partnerships and supporting people’s love for literature.   On the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode, host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Sochocky to delve into what the New Mexico Book Association has to offer. She discusses the organization’s mission, its role in uplifting small authors and efforts to grow membership beyond Santa Fe.   She also talks about an upcoming summer gala on Aug. 28. that will feature U.S. Poet Laureate Arthur Sze.   For more information, visit nmbookassociation.org  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the successful release of a new album last year called Memory Mountain, Max Gomez has been busy these days on the road performing across the country.   The Taos-raised musician is coming home this month; however, for The Desert Companion Tour with Howe Gelb and band Slant Can. The tour will make stops in the trio’s favorite places across the Land of Enchantment and Southwest. Gomez said, “nowhere in New Mexico and Arizona is safe.”  To discuss the tour and his life on the road, Gomez joins host Inez Russell Gomez, no relation, on the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode.   Max Gomez shares what it’s been like to perform over the last year, especially with a new album out, and what goes into putting on a good show that will captivate an audience. For him, a good show is important because he often plays solo and acoustic, and in those instances the spotlight can be daunting.   In the episode, he also discusses plans to make more music and collaborate with other artists in the folk and Americana scene.   The Desert Companion Tour will include stops in Silver City, Truth or Consequences, Los Alamos, Corrales, Santa Fe and Taos.   Visit maxgomezmusic.com for dates and tickets.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Santa Fe’s John Berkenfield has been a volunteer with the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) Santa Fe Indian Market for nearly 40 years.   He says it was just yesterday that he joined the association, wanting to be more involved with the local arts community as a fellow art lover. His time volunteering started off by sweeping sidewalks and selling soft drinks on the Plaza to now helping with event production and helping on Friday with the preview, including judging.   The experience has taught Berkenfield a lot about Native artists who come from around the world to participate in the market — and have their lives changed. He argues that listening to their stories and seeing their creativity on full display has been eye-opening.    On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Berkenfield to discuss his years of volunteering with Indian Market. The two delve into what exactly the market entails, how winning best in show can make a career and the highlights of attending this world-class event.     In the episode, Berkenfield also speaks on the behind-the-scenes collaboration with other volunteers and partners to put on the market.   This year’s market runs Aug. 15-16. Visit swaia.org for more information.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The newspaper industry isn’t what it used to be.   Over the last decade, publications across the country and here in New Mexico have declined, facing inevitable closures because of financial woes and corporate and private interests mandating restructures.   According to the Medill School’s 2025 State of Local News report, more than two newspapers closed per week last year, adding to what’s called a “news desert.” The term describes a lack of news coverage in communities where there is little to no media presence. The long-term effects are wide from disengaged citizens to unchecked local governments.    Organizations have started digital outlets to help fill those coverage gaps amid a changing consumer landscape. The Santa Fe New Mexican, a 176-year-old newspaper, is about to do the same in one of those markets.   On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by The Santa Fe New Mexican’s Executive Editor Bill Church to discuss the paper’s bold expansion to Las Cruces and Southern New Mexico. The two discuss why the move is justified for the family-owned company and what new and longtime readers can expect.   In the episode, Church talks about efforts to create a robust publication that will have professional journalists staffed in that part of the state to cover key issues. Julia Gentin is among the first reporters to be hired.   Russell Gomez also asks Church about The New Mexican’s own digital growth and products which he says has helped attract a broader state-wide audience.   More information about the new outlet, including an official name, will be released soon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you are on social media, particularly Facebook and TikTok, you may have come across Nité Marquez’s cooking videos. The Taos-based chef uses those platforms to share his passion for cooking, which has drawn thousands of views and followers along the way.   On his pages, you’ll find tutorials on how to make a variety of authentic New Mexican dishes from stacked red chile enchiladas to classic desserts like natillas. The tutorials have helped people connect with their culture while remembering times when their own family members made these same recipes.    On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Marquez to talk about his journey as a chef. Marquez discusses the people and circumstances that brought him into the kitchen at just 5-years-old and explains how those memories unknowingly trained him for the profession.   Before going viral on social media, Marquez was a full-time chef, working in restaurants such as Lambert’s, The Stakeout and El Monte Sagrado. He reflects on those experiences and what it was like working for some of Taos’ esteemed eateries. He became an educator, and his students suggested taking to TikTok — and he took off.  In the episode, he also talks about the significance of preserving cultural recipes, especially for future generations. One way he hopes to do his part is by releasing a series of cookbooks showcasing his recipes. The first edition is in production and will be released soon. More information will be announced on his platforms at a later date.   Follow his cooking on social media at Nité Marquez or Chef Nité Marquez.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Add contemporary dance to the list of experiences you can find in Santa Fe.    Local company Zeitgeist Dance Theatre is taking the artform to the next level by creating shows that center on emotional human connection in the present moment. The company’s artistic director says the goal is to help audiences see the world more intimately and beyond a reality where day-to-day life keeps people disconnected.    On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by Zeitgeist’s artistic director Francisco Gella and apprentice Elena Garcia to discuss the world of contemporary dance and the role it’s played in their creative self-discovery.    In the episode, Gella elaborates on why he chose to create the dance company while reflecting on what it’s like to choreograph award-winning routines. He notes that intense practice has his dancers working hard to achieve perfection before it’s time to set foot on stage.    Garcia, a Santa Fe native now attending college, shares her experience with the craft from starting out at the National Dance Institute of New Mexico to being a rising performer alongside Gella. She explains how the opportunity has transformed her life.   Gella also talks about Zeitgeist’s upcoming panel discussion about its residency event and performances, which include a first-time appearance at The Lensic Theater Aug. 1.   The discussion will be on July 25 at Zane Bennett Galley in Santa Fe.   For more information, visit zeitgeistdancetheatre.org. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Traditional Spanish Market, one of Santa Fe’s biggest cultural events, returns to the Plaza July 25-26, showcasing another year of juried artwork from artists across the region.  The market has been around since 1926. Artists accepted into the event are given the unique opportunity to spotlight their craftsmanship for a weekend while connecting with people in the community whether it be with returning patrons or first-time visitors.   On the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode, host Inez Russell Gomez is joined by an artist and organizer from this year’s Traditional Spanish Market: Arlene Cisneros Sena, master santera, and Jeanette Salazar, program manager with The Atrisco Companies which oversees the market’s operations.   Cisneros Sena and Salazar discuss the market’s cultural significance, reflect on their individual contributions ahead of the market’s debut and share why preserving traditional art forms still has value in today’s world.   As a master santera, Cisneros Sena also explains her work in painting religious retablos. Some have become fixtures in Catholic churches throughout Northern New Mexico.    For more information about the market, visit traditionalspanishmarket.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Mexico’s oil and gas industry is a touchy subject if you ask anyone. Supporters say it’s the lifeline to the state’s economy and without it, New Mexico wouldn’t have the luxuries or cashflow that it does. But on the flip side, opponents argue the industry is allowing contaminants to pollute the environment, putting communities’ health and future sustainability at risk.   To understand a professional’s perspective on this debate, Missi Currier, president and CEO of the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association, joins the latest “Conversations Different” podcast episode.    Currier discusses with host Inez Russell Gomez what energy production means for the state and how it correlates to other industries that affect our economy and daily lives, from personal use products to public infrastructure.   In the episode, Currier is asked about whether she thinks the state can transition away from oil and gas production and what that would look like given modern day environmental challenges.   She also offers her view on the controversial topic of produced water. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fourth of July celebrations are one of America’s favorite pastimes that honor our nation’s history and independence. Each year, friends and family mark the occasion in their own ways, but a common activity is fireworks.    In Santa Fe, the Kiwanis Club puts on a fireworks display for the entire city to experience without having to pay the costs of doing it yourself or the risk of setting anything on fire. The event draws crowds of all ages who watch from afar as the night sky gets painted with color.   However, the magic wouldn’t be possible without the support of fireworks experts such as Santa Fe native Nicolas Flores. He’s in charge of firing off the display.   Flores joins the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” to discuss with host Inez Russell Gomez, what it takes to execute a successful Fourth of July fireworks show.   The two delve into how Flores became certified to handle such explosives aside from his day job of being a massage therapist. He explains the process for getting the fireworks ready for launch and how they even have certain names.    Flores also speaks on the change in venue this year, from Santa Fe Place mall to Gen. Franklin E. Miles Park, and what those logistics will entail for the festivities. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.