Shows
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreDesigning a Home Where Life Happens: Upasana of Urban Nest & Nook on Color, Culture & CraftWhat makes a house feel like home?In this episode of South Bay Buzz, host Megan Lebre sits down with Upasana, founder of Urban Nest & Nook, a South Bay–based home and lifestyle brand rooted in handmade design, cultural heritage, and intentional living.Upasana shares her journey as an immigrant entrepreneur, how growing up surrounded by color and craftsmanship in India shaped her creative vision, and why she believes home is truly “where life happens.” From sourcing hand-crafted textiles and jewelry from India and Dubai to designing single piece, one-of-a-kind items meant to tell a story...
2025-12-1734 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreBuilding a Business That Fits Your Life: Women in Entrepreneurship with The CEO BestiesIn this episode of South Bay Buzz, host Megan Lebre sits down with Natalie Bernacchi and Emily Collins, the women behind The CEO Besties and the Rocketship Mastermind, for a powerful, honest conversation about what it really takes to build a business that supports your life — not the other way around. Natalie and Emily share their journeys as entrepreneurs, mothers, and business partners, unpacking the mindset shifts that helped them move from corporate careers and passion projects into purpose-driven, sustainable businesses. Together, they explore why mindset — not just strategy — is often the missing piece for women entrepreneurs, and ho...
2025-12-1540 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreHumanity in the Courtroom: South Bay Attorney Mona Afrashteh on Justice, Community & HopeIn this episode of South Bay Buzz, Megan sits down with South Bay criminal defense attorney, Mona Afrashteh, to explore what justice really looks like from the inside. Mona shares her journey from growing up in the South Bay to 12 years as a public defender, her transition into private practice, and the human stories behind the cases she’s fought.Together, they unpack false confessions, jury duty, misidentification, and what everyone should know about interacting with police. Mona also reflects on the South Bay community, the impact of storytelling in the courtroom, and the moments of hope, re...
2025-12-0344 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreReaching Beyond Healing: Jade’s Story of Hand Therapy, Motherhood & Resilience in the South BayIn this joy filled and emotional episode of South Bay Buzz, Megan sits down with Jade Wong, certified hand therapist (CHT) and founder of Reach Beyond Therapy in Redondo Beach.What started on a climbing wall became a calling: helping people heal their hands and upper extremities — and their confidence — through compassionate, whole-person care. Jade opens up about her journey from hospital OT to hand-therapy specialist, what it means to truly see a patient beyond the diagnosis, and how motherhood reshaped her approach to healing and hope. Jade closes with sharing her and her husband's jour...
2025-11-2026 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreEffort Counts: How Mathnasium RPV Builds Confidence One Student at a TimeAt Mathnasium Rancho Palos Verdes, math is the gateway, but confidence is the real subject. In this South Bay Buzz episode, Megan sits down with Joey from Mathnasium RPV to talk about how their teaching approach centers on effort, encouragement, and genuine connection — meeting each student where they are and helping them grow from there.From reducing math anxiety to celebrating progress (not perfection), Mathnasium RPV is shaping how kids show up in the classroom and in life. If you’ve ever wondered how to support your child’s confidence without pushing or overwhelming them, this conversation is ful...
2025-11-0520 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreBuilding Leaders Through Theatre: Inside Haven Academy with Rebekah KellawayHaven Academy of the Arts is stepping onto its biggest stage yet as it celebrates 19 years! In this episode, Executive Director, Rebekah Kellaway, joins me to share Haven Academy's origin story, why character development sits at the center of their work, and how productions become life lessons in grit, empathy, teamwork, and community. We talk about expanding from the South Bay to Pico-Union and West Adams, making arts education more accessible across LA, and the full-circle magic of alumni returning as teachers and directors. Rebekah also previews Haven’s upcoming mainstage production, Les Misérables (School Edition), and...
2025-10-2935 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreDr. Jessica Sharratt & Dr. Brenda Perry on Building Heal LA and Redefining WellnessWhat does true healing look like when it’s rooted in integrity, inclusivity, and community?In this episode, Megan sits down with Dr. Jessica Sharratt and Dr. Brenda Perry, co-founders of Heal Los Angeles, to talk about building a wellness collective that bridges Eastern medicine, modern science, and compassionate care. From creating safe spaces where women can heal without shame to announcing their upcoming wellness hotel in Mexico, Dr. Sharratt and Dr. Perry share how they’re redefining what it means to thrive—body, mind, and spirit.Grounded in the South Bay but made to resona...
2025-10-2231 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreRaising Bilingual Kids and the Stories that Shape Them with Mari BellasStep into a heart-led conversation with Megan Lebre, host of the South Bay Buzz podcast, as she sits down with award-winning Puerto Rican author and parenting mentor, Mari Bellas.Mari’s new bilingual children’s book Tío Ricky Doesn't Speak English / Tío Ricky no habla Inglés: A Bilingual English-Spanish Picture Book (Lil' Libros Bilingual Book) is a "story honors the beauty of family, the strength of language, and a culture enriched with plantains, dominoes, and warmth. Tío RickyDoesn’t Speak English/Tío Ricky no habla inglés is a heartwarming tribute to the kids who...
2025-10-0832 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreHealth is Wealth with Martha Gonzales, President of CHM Insurance ServicesHealth is wealth — especially during open enrollment.In this episode of South Bay Buzz, Megan Lebre talks with Martha Gonzales, president of CHM Insurance Services, who has spent 30 years guiding families, small-business owners, and retirees through the maze of healthcare coverage.They discuss the biggest mistakes people make when picking a plan, how to think beyond the monthly premium, tips for freelancers and small-business owners, and why being your own best advocate matters. You’ll also hear why this conversation felt personal for Megan — and why legacy and community drive Martha’s work.----Sub...
2025-10-0133 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreA Birthday, a Website, and a New Chapter for South Bay BuzzThis milestone episode marks Megan’s birthday and the launch of the brand-new South Bay Buzz website (southbaybuzz.com). After five years of cheering on and uplifting small businesses, Megan reflects on the journey from passion project to business, the lessons learned, and the support system that made it possible.She shares gratitude for the people who shaped the brand, why this season of the podcast is audio-only, and the story of reclaiming the SouthBayBuzz.com domain. More than a launch, this is about weaving stories into the fabric of the South Bay — uplifting neighbors, celebrating local busi...
2025-09-2516 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreThe Restoration Project: Giving Hope & Building Connection in WilmingtonSouth Bay Buzz with Megan Lebre is back from summer break! In today's episode, Megan Lebre interviews Kevin Wallner, the founder of The Restoration Project. Kevin shares his inspiring journey of serving the unhoused community in Wilmington for nearly a decade, which stemmed from a childhood experience of serving dinner at a homeless shelter. Kevin explains the mission and impact of The Restoration Project, which includes monthly community events and a new mobile resource unit to provide support directly to those in need. The discussion delves into the misconceptions surrounding the unhoused, the power of community, and the simple...
2025-09-1726 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreStart Living a More Whole & Rested Life with Ciara Lyons, Founder of Her Black WellnessIn this empowering episode of South Bay Buzz, host Megan Lebre sits down with Ciara Lyons-Ragains, MSN, RN, PHN — registered nurse, wellness coach, mother, and founder of Her Black Wellness — to discuss the urgent realities of Black maternal health, preeclampsia awareness, and how to be your own best advocate in healthcare settings.Drawing from her own near-death experience, Ciara deep dives into topics such as systemic racism that fuels health disparities, why Black women are 3-4x more likely to die during pregnancy or postpartum, and what we can do to change the statistics.We also...
2025-08-1342 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan Lebre"Maybe Someday": The Power of Humanizing Your Brand with Jo Delgado, Founder of The Creative InkaIn this episode of South Bay Buzz, Megan Lebre chats with Jo Delgado, founder of The Creative Inka, a brand and website design studio in Redondo Beach. They discuss Jo's journey from corporate life to running her own creative business, the importance of humanizing brands, and the power of a personalized brand strategy. Jo shares her experience and insights into the creative process, offering valuable advice for entrepreneurs looking to build a meaningful and effective brand and website. Megan also highlights her collaborative work on the rebrand of South Bay Buzz, emphasizing the transformation and newfound confidence that came...
2025-07-3137 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreShowing Up As You: Imperfect, Inspired, and In CommunityIn this solo episode, Megan shares a behind-the-scenes story about a podcast mishap that turned into a lesson on grace, growth, and trusting the process.Through honest reflection, she explores what it means to show up before you're ready, the challenges of recovering perfectionism, and the beauty of building something real- messy imperfection and all.Inspired by South Bay business owners who are bravely creating, connecting, and evolving, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that your community doesn’t need you perfect — it needs you.Whether you're building a business, starting a creative proj...
2025-07-1811 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreConnecting Through Conscious Parenting: A Conversation with Bryana KappadakunnelIn this episode of South Bay Buzz, host Megan Lebre sits down with renowned parenting expert Bryana Kappadakunnel, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and founder of South Bay Mommy and Me and Conscious Mommy and author of Parent Yourself First: Raise Confident, Compassionate Kids by Becoming the Parent You Wish You'd Had. 🌟Bryana opens up about her journey from Pittsburgh to the South Bay, her early work supporting local mothers, and how her experiences led to the creation of Conscious Mommy, an online platform rooted in mindful parenting, emotional healing, and neuroscience-informed guidance.Together, Megan and...
2025-07-0943 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreLet It Shine: How Shine Society Fitness Celebrates Empowerment & Community Through MovementIn this episode of South Bay Buzz, Megan is so excited to interview her longtime friends and Shine Society Fitness founders, Yaya Margarita and Hillary Lewis. From their very first meeting in 2017 to the deeply personal way their studio helped Megan navigate the early days of profound loss and grief, this conversation is a full-circle moment.They talk about their nine-year journey building Shine from the ground up, their pandemic pivot, the bittersweet decision to close their original studio doors, and the beauty of what came next through their collaboration with Beach Life Fitness. You’ll hear about the po...
2025-07-0544 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreBehind the Orange Door: Where Work, Creativity & Community Thrive with Eliza & Justin WanIn this episode of South Bay Buzz , Megan sits down with Justin and Eliza, the founders of Orange Door Spaces, a dynamic co-working and event space (and the home of the South Bay Buzz Podcast). Hear about their journey from corporate careers to entrepreneurship, the transformative power of this unique space, and their vision for fostering community and creativity in the South Bay. Learn how Orange Door Spaces offers endless possibilities for local businesses, events, and creatives while supporting an inclusive and vibrant community. For more information about Orange Door, you can visit orangedoorspaces.com as well orangedoorstays.com...
2025-07-0535 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreHow CorRi Vaughn Captures Legacy and Preserves Family Stories Through PhotographyIn this episode of South Bay Buzz, host Megan Lebre sits down with professional photographer CorRi Vaughn, the creative founder of Lenn M. Photography. From her early days as a nanny and preschool teacher to becoming a sought-after South Bay photographer, CorRi shares her inspiring journey of turning passion into profession.What You’ll Hear In This Episode:- How CorRi took the leap into full-time photography- The heartwarming story behind naming her business - Why capturing moments now—even the imperfect ones—are so important- Tips for making family photo shoots fun Whether you’re a fellow photographer, a parent...
2025-07-0526 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreYou are Enough: How 3 Words, Billboards & a 5K are Helping People Heal with Cathy CaplenerIn this heart-centered, emotional episode of South Bay Buzz, host Megan Lebre sits down with Cathy “Cap” Caplener — also known as the “Billboard Lady” — to talk about the powerful story and mission behind the You Are Enough 5K. Cap shares how a deeply personal mental health journey, growth, and healing inspired a national mental health movement built on three core values: worthiness, visibility, and support.From the first cobalt-blue billboard on PCH to her nonprofit, Giving Purpose, Cathy's message has saved lives, uplifted the South Bay and beyond, and reminded people everywhere that they are, in fact, enough. This episode cove...
2025-07-0529 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreSouth Bay Made: Jessica Hickerson on Doing It Scared & Creating with PurposeSouth Bay Buzz Host Megan Lebre sits down with South Bay born & raised local, mom, and creative entrepreneur, Jessica Hickerson — founder of Esplanade Brand and Sun & Sea Collective — for a lively conversation about building a purpose-driven business rooted in community and passion. From launching her first photography business at 19 to creating a thriving South Bay inspired apparel brand and organizing a beloved local pop-up market, Jessica shares how she’s embraced imperfection, leaned into fear, and built it all from the ground up — while raising a family and staying true to her South Bay roots. If you’ve ever dreamed of...
2025-07-0532 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreRooted in Redondo: Sandy Cohen on Everyday WellnessWhat if slowing down just a little everyday could change your life?In this uplifting episode, health writer, coach, and educator, Sandy Cohen, shares how growing up and living in the South Bay has kept her centered as her path took her from high-pressure Hollywood reporting to a more intentional, grounded life. We talk burnout, boundaries, mindfulness practices (and the most accessible first step to start) and how small changes — like conscious breathing or biking on the Strand — can have long lasting, big ripple effects over time.Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, overworked, or interested in how to be more pres...
2025-07-0530 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreHow a Cleanse, a Crush, and a Chef Sparked lil’ Vegerie with Jason CervantesIn this very first episode of the South Bay Buzz podcast, host Megan Lebre sits down with Jason Cervantes— Co-founder of lil’ Vegerie, a beloved plant-based eatery in Redondo Beach —for a heartfelt and fun conversation.From childhood memories in his family’s Mexican restaurants to a life-changing cleanse, a long-time crush turned life partner, and a fateful dinner at Gracias Madre, Jason shares the winding path that led him to create food that’s both nourishing and deeply joyful.We talk tacos, community, and how one smoothie sparked an entire movement. Plus, thoughtful stories about raising kids, being present, a...
2025-07-0521 min
South Bay Buzz with Megan LebreI Did the Scary Thing: My First Solo Episode!In this special solo episode, I’m sharing the story behind launching South Bay Buzz- from the early idea to the mic -and what it’s been like finding my voice as a local storyteller, community connector, and first-time podcaster.You’ll hear what inspired me to start this podcast, how I record and produce it as a one-woman show, and why this passion project means so much to me. Whether you're curious about podcasting, a South Bay local, or pursuing that thing you've dreamed about for so long... this one's for you.Topics include:– My why behind South Bay Buzz...
2025-07-0413 min
Women's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 17El equipo se reúne para hacer un picnic para celebrar lo que han aprendido y hablar sobre sus expectativas personales y profesionales.
La miniserie sobre los estándares mínimos en materia de violencia de género es una iniciativa presentada por el Comité Internacional de Rescate y hace parte del podcast Protección y empoderamiento de la mujer.
Todos los aspectos de la programación sobre VG deben estar centrados en las personas sobrevivientes, y deben preservar y promover la confidencialidad, seguridad, no discriminación y respeto por las elecciones, derechos y dignidad de las mujeres y niñas, inclu...
2023-02-0306 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 16Elena, Catalina y las demás integrantes del equipo llevan a cabo una jornada de aprendizaje para analizar las tendencias observadas en el GBVIMS, —sistema de gestión de la información de casos—, y decidir cómo usar estos datos para mejorar el programa.
Este episodio presenta el estándar nº 16 de los estándares mínimos interagenciales para los programas que abordan la violencia de género en situaciones de emergencia. Según este estándar, “la información, que se debe recopilar de forma ética y segura, debe ser usada para mejorar la calidad de los programas contra la VG y gara...
2023-02-0307 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 15Elena asiste a una reunión de coordinación sobre violencia de género. Entre los asistentes hay otras organizaciones que no son locales, como la organización en la que ella trabaja. Ella hace notar al grupo que la representación de las Naciones Unidas y de las ONG internacionales es mayoritaria. Hace falta una mejor representación y una mayor inclusión de las organizaciones locales que defienden los derechos de las mujeres. Después comenta sus preocupaciones sobre la prevención de la explotación y el abuso sexual (PSEA) y la necesidad de coordinar este tema. Surgen ent...
2023-02-0309 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 14Dalia está aprendiendo sobre el Sistema de Gestión de la Información sobre Violencia de Género (GBVIMS). Elena le explica que este es el sistema que utilizan para la gestión de los casos porque cumple con los estándares internacionales de gestión de datos de sobrevivientes. Dalia le pregunta qué hay que hacer si alguien pide información sobre la gestión de algún caso. Elena le indica que existen protocolos para garantizar la seguridad de la información de las personas sobrevivientes. También le explica cuáles podrían ser los riesgos si esta informació...
2023-02-0308 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 13Antes de lanzar una campaña de comunicación para el cambio social y de comportamiento, Adriana y Dalia organizan un grupo de discusión con mujeres y niñas. Como parte del proceso de diseño, Dalia y Adriana recogen las opiniones de las mujeres y las niñas para hacer frente a las normas sociales perjudiciales conforme a lo que ellas desean.
Este episodio presenta el estándar nº 13 de los estándares mínimos interagenciales para los programas que abordan la violencia de género en situaciones de emergencia. Según este estándar, “los programas contra la violencia de...
2023-02-0308 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 12Elena habla con Sofia, una colega que trabaja por la independencia económica de las mujeres. En sus paseos, ellas conversan sobre la necesidad de involucrar a las mujeres y a las niñas en la planificación e implementación de programas económicos.
Este episodio presenta el estándar nº 12 de los estándares mínimos interagenciales para los programas que abordan la violencia de género en situaciones de emergencia. Según este estándar, “las mujeres y las adolescentes deben poder acceder a ayudas económicas como parte de una respuesta multisectorial contra la violencia de género”.
La min...
2023-02-0306 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 9Elena y Dalia se reúnen con Natalia, la coordinadora del área de salud de su organización, para compartir los resultados de su auditoría de seguridad relacionados con la salud. Juntas encuentran una forma para resolver las dificultades de acceso detectadas.
Este episodio presenta el estándar nº 9 de los estándares mínimos interagenciales para los programas que abordan la violencia de género en situaciones de emergencia. Según este estándar, “los actores que intervienen en la VG deben defender y apoyar la integración de la mitigación de riesgos de VG, mejorar la seguridad de la...
2023-02-0306 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 8Elena convoca una reunión con las otras integrantes del Grupo Asesor del Espacio Seguro para Mujeres y Niñas. En la sesión hablan sobre las medidas que se han llevado a cabo, las acciones que aún son necesarias y el relevo de la dirección del grupo en manos de Maria, quien hace parte de la comunidad.
Este episodio presenta el estándar nº 8 de los estándares mínimos interagenciales para los programas que abordan la violencia de género en situaciones de emergencia. Según este estándar, “debe haber espacios seguros, accesibles y exclusivos para las mujer...
2023-02-0306 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 7Elena y Dalia visitan a la coordinadora del área de salud para hablar sobre las tendencias que han observado en las sobrevivientes que se niegan a ser remitidas a los servicios de salud. Juntas identifican las barreras que están dificultando el acceso a los centros de salud.
Este episodio presenta el estándar nº 7 de los estándares mínimos interagenciales para los programas que abordan la violencia de género en situaciones de emergencia. Según este estándar, “deben establecerse sistemas de remisión para que las personas sobrevivientes de VG accedan a servicios multisectoriales apropiados y de calidad d...
2023-02-0305 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 6Las asistentes sociales y gestoras se reúnen en grupo para hablar sobre los aciertos y retos que están enfrentando en sus casos esta semana y para encontrar formas de apoyarse y aprender mutuamente. Dalia tiene dudas sobre un caso particular y sobre cómo establecer límites en su gestión.
Este episodio presenta el estándar nº 6 de los estándares mínimos interagenciales para los programas que abordan la violencia de género en situaciones de emergencia. Según este estándar, “las personas sobrevivientes de VG deben tener acceso a servicios de gestión de casos de calida...
2023-02-0309 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 4Dalia es nueva en su trabajo y se encuentra en proceso de aprendizaje. Elena, su supervisora en la gestión de casos, decide llevarla a la reunión mensual de coordinación del sector de la salud, para que Dalia conozca de primera mano las responsabilidades que tienen en materia de violencia de género y para presentarle a las personas a cargo de este sector. Durante el descanso, Dalia conoce a Daniela, supervisora de las matronas especializada en salud sexual y reproductiva. Ambas conversan sobre la forma en que los distintos sectores involucrados en la atención a la viole...
2023-02-0306 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 2Pronto se inaugurará un nuevo Espacio Seguro para Mujeres y Niñas. Dalia, una nueva asistente social, descubre cómo y por qué hay que consultar con las mujeres y las niñas al tomar decisiones sobre las intervenciones y servicios ofrecidos.
Este episodio presenta el estándar nº 2 de los estándares mínimos interagenciales para los programas que abordan la violencia de género en situaciones de emergencia. Según este estándar, “las mujeres y las niñas deben participan como socias y líderes activas para influir en el sector humanitario con el fin de prevenir la VG y apoyar a...
2023-02-0307 minWomen's Protection and EmpowermentMiniserie sobre los Estándares mínimos sobre Violencia de Género - Estándar 1La prevención (mitigación) y respuesta a la violencia de género se consideran intervenciones que salvan vidas en contextos humanitarios. En esta nueva miniserie, que forma parte del podcast Protección y empoderamiento de la mujer, conoceremos a Dalia, Esther y Ashanti, tres mujeres que se esfuerzan por prestar estos servicios en entornos humanitarios en situación de emergencia.
Dalia aspira a obtener un puesto en una organización dedicada a la defensa de los derechos de la mujer en la que antes era voluntaria. Acaba de recibir la noticia de que le harán una entrevista para el pues...
2023-02-0308 min