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José de la Vara, a first-generation student who thought college wasn't for him, would go on to become San Luis City Prosecutor and a Yuma County legal defender.

First up, we welcome Tyler Woodman, owner of The Lemon Grove and the brand new Grove 95. Tyler comes from a multi-generation Yuma farming family whose roots run deep in local agriculture. We’ll talk about the story behind The Lemon Grove, how it grew into a community favorite, and what inspired him to open Grove 95 — his new spot blending local produce, family legacy, and good food. Tyler also shares the special connection to La Fonda, his family’s long-time Mexican restaurant that helped shape Yuma’s food culture, and how he’s bringing that legacy back through the new Grove 95 menu.

Then, we sit down with Heather Acosta — an educator, behavior specialist, and founder of Positive Expressionz Microschool. With over 22 years in education, dual Master’s degrees, and a deep passion for helping every child succeed, Heather’s created a nurturing, Montessori-inspired environment focused on educating the whole child — academically, socially, and emotionally. We’ll discuss her journey in education, her work through Positive Expressionz Behavioral Consulting, and what parents should know about ESA (Empowerment Scholarship Accounts) — a program giving Arizona families more options and control over their child’s education. Plus, we’ll talk about how parents can find the right support and resources when navigating today’s education system.

First up, we sit down with David Sanchez, representing Friends of the Lower Colorado River. David shares the story of how this local nonprofit got started, the community cleanups they’ve already hosted, and their upcoming October 17th cleanup at West Wetlands Park. We’ll also talk about his personal connection to Yuma and the vision for protecting our riverbanks long term. Then, we welcome Dr. Stacy Jantzi and Maria Lopez from Menta Academy Yuma. They’ll walk us through how Menta was founded eight years ago in Yuma, their “behavior speaks” philosophy, and the impact of creating a therapeutic school where every child is truly seen, heard, and understood. We’ll also dive into their personal journeys, the services they provide to students and families, and their vision for the future.

First up, we welcome Dr. Zach Matteson, also known as Sugar le Fae — an activist, educator, musician, and prize-winning poet. Zach has taught English and writing for two decades, served as Poetry Editor for leading literary journals, and published across North America, including his verse memoir The Mustard Seed and his latest poetry collection Broken Lines. We’ll talk about his personal connection to Yuma, his journey in teaching, and how activism, art, and identity shape his work. Plus, we’ll dive into the inspiration behind his writing, his philosophy as a teacher, and the power of poetry to spark community change. Then, we sit down with Stevie Dub — rapper, performer, and the marketing force behind Helm & Sons Amusements. While leading their social media and event marketing, Stevie continues to perform across the country, recently even sharing the stage with Jamie Foxx. We’ll talk about his start in entertainment, how he balances life as both an artist and a marketer, and what it’s like traveling from fair to fair putting on shows. Stevie will also give us the inside scoop on Petie’s Pumpkin Patch, running now through October 30th, and the upcoming Yuma Fall Festival. And of course, we’ll find out where you can stream his music and follow his journey.

First up, Dave Riek and Alice Ferris — part of the leadership team at KAWC and Border Radio. We’re in our Fall Pledge Drive, and they’ll share why listener support is so critical, what it takes to keep local public radio strong in Yuma, and the behind-the-scenes work that makes these stations a true community voice. Then, James Owens joins us — after three decades with Pizza Hut, COVID forced a career reset that reignited a dream he’d carried for years. In 2020, he launched Angry Italian — starting with a food truck and now running two Yuma locations, including a Foothills spot. His story is one of resilience, family support, and turning frustration into flavor, all while giving back through AWC athletics and Humane Society fundraisers.

First up, Janette & Eric Longoria — a powerhouse couple blending transformation and communication. Eric shares his journey from Army veteran to author of Ignite Your Purpose, guiding people from survival to self-knowing with his concept of INNERstanding. Janette, Chief ARTiculator at Breakthrough Global, helps leaders and nonprofits “Put Words to Your Passion,” showing how words don’t just tell our story, they shape our lives. Then, LaShawn Merritt joins us — Olympic champion and global sprinting star — alongside Chef Jonathan Palacio. They’re here to talk Sprint to Success, a speed and agility clinic bringing world-class training, mindset, and wellness to Yuma’s young athletes.

First up, Anabella De Anda — co-founder of Mama Bella Hot Sauce. Born from her mother’s legacy and rooted in Somerton, Mama Bella is a true farm-to-table brand. Anabella and her husband Paul cultivate guavas, pomegranates, and fiery peppers, transforming them into small-batch sauces and jellies with no shortcuts, no preservatives, and all the flavor of Yuma County. Her story is about family, community, and keeping tradition alive through spice. Then, Melisa Hare joins us — a Yuma native with 16 years in health care, from labor & delivery to primary care, and now the founder of Desert Oasis Wellness. Married to an assistant fire chief and mom of three, Mellisa is passionate about helping others in a holistic, natural way. Her journey blends faith, family, and a commitment to creating healthier lives for her patients.

First up, Angela Bennett — nurse practitioner and founder of Peak Weight Loss & Wellness. From emergency medicine to holistic care, Angela shares her journey of blending Western and Eastern practices, focusing on root-cause healing, weight loss, and wellness therapies. She’s passionate about making health care personal, affordable, and transformative for Yuma families. Then, Katie Drewek and Jessica Beltran join us — two educators bringing music to life in Yuma. Katie, with years of classroom experience, makes learning accessible and fun for every student, while Jessica, with 15 years as a private piano instructor and owner of Jessica Beltran Piano Studio, has built a space where piano and voice lessons foster confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of music.

First, we’re talking with Angela and Brian from Arizona Western College about National Transfer Student Week 2025 — what it means for students, the events happening on campus, and how AWC helps make the transfer process smoother and more successful.