Conversations Different with Inez Russell Gomez

Santa Fe New Mexican
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Conversations Different is presented by the Santa Fe New Mexican and features host Inez Russell Gomez in provocative talks with local and regional personalities shaping the landscape of Northern New Mexico. Inez Russell Gomez is Opinion Page Editor at the Santa Fe New Mexican with decades of experience writing and editing the news in America's oldest capital city.  

  1. 6d ago

    Crystal Ybarra and Sabra Romero discuss why volunteers play special role for kids at Santa Fe Public Schools

    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.

  2. Aug 31

    One last dance: Zozobra fire dancer Helene Luna shares on her time in the spotlight before passing the torch

    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.

  3. Aug 24

    Anna I. Sochocky delves into the offerings of New Mexico Book Association and its upcoming gala

    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.

  4. Aug 17

    Max Gomez discusses the touring life, making music and upcoming shows in New Mexico

    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.

  5. Aug 10

    John Berkenfield reflects on 40 years volunteering at Santa Fe Indian Market and why the event is life-changing for artists

    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.

  6. Aug 3

    Bill Church of 'The New Mexican’ discusses the paper’s expansion to Southern New Mexico and reaching readers

    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.

  7. Jul 27

    Taos chef Nité Marquez shares his journey with cooking, social media stardom and writing cookbooks

    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.

  8. Jul 20

    Francisco Gella and Elena Garcia discuss Zeitgeist Dance Theatre’s contemporary performances in Santa Fe

    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.

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Conversations Different is presented by the Santa Fe New Mexican and features host Inez Russell Gomez in provocative talks with local and regional personalities shaping the landscape of Northern New Mexico. Inez Russell Gomez is Opinion Page Editor at the Santa Fe New Mexican with decades of experience writing and editing the news in America's oldest capital city.  

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