Dear San Diego

Tony Manolatos
  • 5.0 (4)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Dear San Diego is a public affairs podcast with personality. Hosted by veteran communication specialists Tony Manolatos and Juan Hernandez, Dear San Diego gives newsmakers and others a platform to discuss the big issues of the day, but that’s just the beginning.  Tony and Juan’s guests share what’s not in their bios, who they are away from work, secrets to success, and more. Tony and Juan also discuss work, home, fatherhood, health and wellness, and youth sports – where the politics can be way more fierce than they are at city hall.  Tony and Juan met a decade ago while working for dueling mayoral candidates in San Diego. Since then, the two friends have worked together on numerous public affairs, land-use, and issue campaigns. 

  1. Little League & Travel Baseball: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

    10/16/2025

    Little League & Travel Baseball: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

    In this new episode of Dear San Diego, Tony and Elizabeth sit down with their twins Alex and Nicky, who are 12, to talk about baseball — not just the stats and scores, but the lessons the game teaches. As a former Division I athlete and CEO of a large nonprofit, Elizabeth knows athletes at every level perform best when they’re loose, happy, and confident. The family opens up about the highs and lows of Little League and travel baseball: the thrill of big hits and close games, the car rides home, the friendships, the politics, and the small victories that boost confidence. Alex shares how he’s learned to stay calm under pressure — to trust the process and the work he’s put in, and to bounce back quickly after mistakes. Nicky offers a different perspective: he stopped playing, but he has stayed involved in the game.  Listen now: Little League & Travel Baseball: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly — available wherever you get your podcasts or at Olas Media. Don’t forget to check out our first youth baseball episode. This Episode Is Made Possible By Berry’s Athletic Supply Serving San Diego athletes for more than 70 years, Berry’s Athletic Supply in Lemon Grove is the go-to spot for sporting goods, varsity jackets, and gear for baseball players at every level — as well as soccer, football, and other sports. Over the decades, Berry’s has designed more than 30,000 varsity letter jackets. Visit berrysathleticsupply.com  East County Rattlers Baseball Club The East County Rattlers are building something special in San Diego — focused on player development, sportsmanship, and community. FEATURED EVENT: Swing Into the New Year Classic Tournament January 2–4, 2026 | San Diego | 4-Game GuaranteeKick off the New Year with competitive play and great energy at one of San Diego’s top travel baseball tournaments! REGISTER & LEARN MORE ABOUT OTHER EVENTS. Charlie Rose Baseball Your one-stop shop for bats, gloves, and gear — and a trusted partner for San Diego’s youth baseball community. Shop in store or at sandiegobaseballsupply.com.   Bonus for our listeners: There’s an exclusive offer from Charlie Rose Baseball available only to Dear San Diego listeners — tune in to this episode to get the coupon code! Resources and Recommendations for Baseball Parents See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    52 min
  2. Family, Leadership, and San Diego’s Talent Challenge - Mark Cafferty

    09/02/2025

    Family, Leadership, and San Diego’s Talent Challenge - Mark Cafferty

    In this episode of Dear San Diego, Tony and Juan sit down with the CEO of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation - Mark Cafferty, to talk about family, leadership, boxing, and the challenges facing San Diego’s economy. From his Boston upbringing shaped by strong role models to raising two boys in San Diego, he shares how family keeps him grounded even while working on major projects for the region. The conversation dives into why San Diego struggles to keep young talent, the high cost of housing, and what leaders must do to protect the city’s future. Listen to more episodes at olasmedia.com Here are some key moments of the conversation: 00:03:20 – Growing up in Boston and moving to San Diego00:06:20 – Family life, raising kids, and the role of his wife’s career00:10:30 – Culture shock of Boston vs. San Diego00:15:10 – Parenting, role models, and balancing work with family00:20:10 – Sports, boxing, and lessons from athletics00:33:10 – Developing a leadership style rooted in kindness and empowerment00:42:00 – Why businesses and talent leave San Diego00:48:00 – The cost of living and the challenge for young professionals00:50:00 – Direct flights, trade missions, and building global connections See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    59 min
  3. Focused on Helping Others - John Van Cleef

    06/18/2025

    Focused on Helping Others - John Van Cleef

    A revered and longtime North County neighbor, the Community Resource Center (CRC) provides meals and other services to senior citizens, low-income families, and others who need a helping hand. But its downtown Encinitas location has attracted critics recently because of expansion plans on the coveted real estate it occupies along 2nd Street between Hwy. 101 and the Pacific coastline. Tony and Juan sit down with CRC CEO John Van Cleef to unpack all of it. They also dig into who John is away from the office, what motivates him, and why he has devoted his life to helping others. Tune in now to check out this timely and  informative episode of Dear San Diego. Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com Here are some notable moments from this episode: 00:00:00 – Catching Up: Weddings, Babies, and Family Milestones 00:08:45 – Meet John Van Cleef: CEO of the Community Resource Center 00:11:22 – CRC’s Mission & Evolution 00:15:30 – Who CRC Serves: Seniors, Families, and the Working Poor 00:21:45 – Homelessness Prevention vs. Intervention 00:25:10 – Local Criticism, Misinformation & Real Estate Pressures 00:32:30 – Homelessness Data: Facts vs. Fear 00:37:00 – Effective Encampment Resolution Work 00:40:10 – The Personal Side of Leadership 00:47:50 – A Swift Graduation Gift 00:51:00 – Rapid Fire: Chilaquiles, Walks, and Wisdom 00:56:00 – Final Thoughts: Vocation and Hope   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    50 min
  4. San Diego Unified is Getting Into the Housing Business

    05/08/2025

    San Diego Unified is Getting Into the Housing Business

    San Diego Unified School Trustee Shana Hazan sits down with Tony and a very special guest co-host, Tony’s wife Elizabeth Fitzsimons, to discuss what’s happening locally with the state’s second largest school district, and why it’s getting into the housing business and what that is expected to look like.  Shana also discussed the importance of wellness in the classrooms, the Trump effect on education, her ambivalence for the White Lotus, working from home with a spouse who does the same, and more. When Shana is not caring for her two children or the tens of thousands who attend San Diego Unified schools, she works as a consultant for the company she owns and operates, Hazan Strategies, assisting non-profits, businesses and government agencies with development, strategy, planning, and more. Tune in now to check out this fun and informative episode of Dear San Diego. Be sure to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com Several key moments of the show are: 00:00:35 - Guest Host: Elizabeth Fitzsimons Joins the Show 00:04:00 - What is Head Start and Why It Matters 00:05:44 - Meet Shana Hazan: Trustee, Consultant, and Mom 00:07:23 - Shana’s San Diego Roots and Social Justice Background 00:11:26 - Diversity and Inclusion in San Diego Unified 00:14:32 - Why We Need a U.S. Department of Education 00:20:53 - San Diego Unified’s Bold Move Into Housing 00:25:25 - Why Shana Ran for School Board 00:30:13 - Expanding Arts, Athletics, and Equity in Schools 00:44:34 - Shana’s Parenting Philosophy   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    46 min
  5. Youth Baseball Parents: Stop Talking!

    03/13/2025

    Youth Baseball Parents: Stop Talking!

    As little league seasons kick off across San Diego we take a deep dive into youth baseball with three guests who are as committed as anyone to the sport: Jeff Rosa, Joe Lewis  and Chad Starkey. Our guests shared essential advice for parents, coaches, and players, on handling  nerves, failure, car rides home, “daddy ball", arm care, and much more. They also highlighted some of the ways baseball, and the love of the game, teaches kids life skills that serve them long after they’ve finished playing the game. Tune in to hear that,  and learn what Tony and his guests enjoy doing with their Little League and travel ball teams when they’re not on the field. Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com Key moments in this episode include: 00:00:07 - What is Dear San Diego? 00:00:32 - Little League Opening Day Reflections 00:03:19 - Guest Introductions 00:05:46 - Why Do We Invest in Youth Baseball? 00:11:27 - The Real Value of Youth Baseball 00:18:55 - Travel Ball vs. Little League 00:30:07 - Arm Care and Multi-Sport Athletes 00:46:26 - Coaching Your Own Kid & Avoiding “Daddy Ball” 00:52:01 - Keeping Players Engaged After Failure 00:55:27 - Handling Nerves & Failure in Baseball 01:04:51 - Favorite Local Eats & Family Activities See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1h 12m
  6. Creating Beauty from Devastation, Mariah Dawn on her new book, Dragon In You: A Memoir

    11/22/2024

    Creating Beauty from Devastation, Mariah Dawn on her new book, Dragon In You: A Memoir

    Unable to catch her breath because of PTSD – brought on by years of abuse and trauma she suffered at the hands of her husband – Mariah Dawn sat down and tried something new. She opened a Word document and started writing. She noticed right away that she felt better. The writing was a release. It was cathartic. So, she kept at it, eventually telling a friend at church she thought she had written a book. Would he take a look?  That 164-page Word document is now “Dragon In You, A Memoir” written by Mariah Dawn. Her book was published in October, which is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the 3-year mark of her husband’s death. Mariah says she wrote the book to help herself, to help others, and to use the dragon in her (she says there’s a dragon in all of us) for good.  You can buy Mariah’s new book on her website and use the code DearSD at checkout to receive a 10 percent discount. Her book also is available on Amazon minus the discount. Tune in to this episode of Dear San Diego to learn more about Mariah and her new book. More than 1 in 3 women (36%) and 1 in 4 men (29%) in the U.S. have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime, according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. If you or someone you know needs help, please visit www.thehotline.org from a safe computer or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at OlasMedia.com The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Overcoming Adversity 00:03:20 - Kendall's Animal Adventures 00:04:32 - Introducing Mariah Dawn 00:07:28 - Writing as Therapy 00:11:25 - Leaving the Mormon Faith 00:13:41 - Exploring Faith and Relationships 00:15:01 - Transitioning Away from Mormonism 00:16:39 - Finding Compassion and Grace 00:20:24 - Understanding Trauma and Violence 00:26:03 - Leaving and Finding Courage 00:29:03 - Finding the Courage to Write a Book 00:30:38 - Overcoming Domestic Violence 00:31:55 - Advice for Women in Similar Situations 00:34:11 - Breaking the Cycle of Abuse 00:39:54 - The Message of the Book 00:44:47 - The First Responder Mentality 00:46:11 - Regaining Confidence and Professional Growth 00:46:25 - Memorable Concert Experiences 00:47:49 - Rapid Fire Questions    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    58 min
  7. Election Special 2024 - Chris Cadelago

    10/09/2024

    Election Special 2024 - Chris Cadelago

    POLITICO’s Chris Cadelago joined Tony and Juan for a special 2024 Election Episode of Dear San Diego. Chris provided really smart takes on local, state, and national races, and shared some behind-the-scenes info, too. Chris covered the Trump White House and the Biden White House. He is currently working on building a statewide bureau for POLITICO in California, and covering Kamala Harris and her presidential campaign.  Don’t forget to vote by mail or in person on Election Day, Tuesday Nov. 5! You can register to vote online through Oct. 21 or in person at your polling place on Election Day. Use this polling place lookup tool to find your polling location. Don't forget to follow and subscribe at OlasMedia.com The key moments in this episode are:00:00:01 - Introduction to Dear San Diego podcast 00:04:27 - Chris Cadelago's Career 00:11:33 - Covering the Trump and Biden White Houses 00:12:43 - Insights into the Trump White House 00:14:31 - Shocking Remarks from Former President Trump 00:17:19 - Presidential Endorsements and Primary Process 00:19:41 - Harris's Flawless Campaign Strategy 00:24:28 - The Importance of Economic Plans 00:26:18 - Trump's Base and Swing States 00:27:38 - California Politics 00:29:32 - House and Senate Races 00:30:56 - Mayoral Races and Ballot Measures 00:35:54 - News Sources and Digital Media 00:39:30 - Exploring the San Diego and Texas Political Landscape 00:40:15 - Insight into the 2020 Presidential Election 00:41:41 - Predictions for the 2024 Presidential Election 00:44:37 - Political Dynamics in San Francisco Insta: @ccadelago Twitter: @ccadelago LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ccadelago/ Web main: https://www.politico.com/  Web bio: https://www.politico.com/staff/christopher-cadelago     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    54 min
  8. Padres Uniforms and Persuadable Voters: The Art of Polling with John Nienstedt

    08/28/2024

    Padres Uniforms and Persuadable Voters: The Art of Polling with John Nienstedt

    The Padres sensed they had a problem. So they called John Nienstedt, who helped them figure out they should switch to brown jerseys. John brought in models who wore different jerseys to a series of focus groups. Each participant in the room was armed with a dial that they cranked one way for approval and another way for disapproval. John used the dial tests to block debate and strong personalities from influencing the room, he said. The Padres, of course, used John’s research and data to switch from blue to brown uniforms a few years ago. John has been surveying voters, consumers, fans, and others for decades as head of the company he co-founded in graduate school at SDSU, Competitive Edge Research & Communication or CERC. The information he provides his clients helps them make informed decisions about strategy, marketing, messaging, and more. John counts some of the biggest names and brands in San Diego as clients, including Mayor Kevin Faulconer, COX and Sempra. Nationally, John and his research firm have worked for Costco, Airbnb, and other leading organizations. On this episode of Dear San Diego, John discusses his love of family, baseball, and polling. At the end of the show, he shares a funny story with Tony and Juan about Tony’s last name. Stick around for that and more. Don't forget to Follow and Subscribe at OlasMedia.com The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:01 - Introduction to Dear San Diego00:01:06 - Catching Up on Personal Lives00:03:07 - Work and Business Development00:05:15 - Personal Health and Wellness00:08:34 - John's Values and Priorities00:12:56 - The Impact of Seasonal Play on Performance00:14:06 - The Real Deal: Over 45 Baseball00:15:01 - The Intersection of Baseball and Politics00:16:58 - Public Sentiment on San Diego's Direction00:19:18 - John's Journey to Becoming a Pollster00:26:34 - Explaining Ballot Measures vs. Candidates00:27:30 - The Importance of Research in Decision-Making00:32:05 - Unique Branding in Baseball Uniforms00:34:17 - The Power Metrics Approach00:37:14 - The Role of Newsletters in Lead Generation00:39:37 - Expectations and Leadership00:42:23 - Movie Preferences00:43:03 - Breakfast and Coffee00:44:45 - Physical Activity and Fitness00:50:12 - John's Personality and Passion00:52:05 - Unique Last Name00:53:01 - Podcast Credits   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    56 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Dear San Diego is a public affairs podcast with personality. Hosted by veteran communication specialists Tony Manolatos and Juan Hernandez, Dear San Diego gives newsmakers and others a platform to discuss the big issues of the day, but that’s just the beginning.  Tony and Juan’s guests share what’s not in their bios, who they are away from work, secrets to success, and more. Tony and Juan also discuss work, home, fatherhood, health and wellness, and youth sports – where the politics can be way more fierce than they are at city hall.  Tony and Juan met a decade ago while working for dueling mayoral candidates in San Diego. Since then, the two friends have worked together on numerous public affairs, land-use, and issue campaigns. 

Information

  • Creator
    Tony Manolatos
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Dear San Diego