Fresno's Best

Jordan Mattox
  • 4.6 (30)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

An interview podcast highlighting interesting people doing important work in Fresno. https://linktr.ee/fresnosbest

  1. OCT 14

    Robert Scott, President of Fresno Cactus and Succulent Society

    In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox talks with Robert Scott, President of the Fresno Cactus and Succulent Society and Caltrans environmental specialist, about the surprising richness of succulents and cacti in the Central Valley. Scott explains how his environmental work informs his love of plants, shares practical tips on caring for and propagating succulents, and discusses the ethics of collecting, the debate over hybrids, and the importance of drought-tolerant landscaping in California. Together, they explore how Fresno’s plant enthusiasts are cultivating both sustainability and community. Fresno Cactus and Succulent Society Website

    51 min

  2. SEP 4

    Mona Cummings, CEO of Tree Fresno

    In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Mona Cummings, CEO and Director of Tree Fresno. Mona shares her fascinating journey from serving in the Peace Corps on islands off the coast of Africa to leading international forestry projects in Mozambique, and how those experiences shaped her approach to community work in Fresno. The conversation dives into the role of trees in urban life—from cooling neighborhoods and improving air quality to the deep inequities reflected in canopy cover across the city. Along the way, Mona reflects on the power of storytelling and data in nonprofit fundraising, the cultural meanings of trees, and the importance of engaging communities in building greener, healthier neighborhoods. Whether you’re passionate about the environment, local equity, or just love Fresno, this episode will leave you looking at the city’s trees in a whole new way.

    54 min

  3. AUG 4

    Jordyn Houseworth, Love on Tap Speed Dating

    In this episode, Jordan sits down with Jordyn Houseworth, the creative force behind Love On Tap, a unique singles experience bringing speed dating to breweries and venues across California. They dive into the ins and outs of modern romance—how dating apps are changing the game, why in-person connection still matters, and what it takes to organize a successful speed dating event in today’s world. Book Recommendation:  I'm Glad My Mom Died Jennette McCurdy

    34 min

  4. JUN 3

    Crystal Uyeno and Nayantara Rodrigues, Rooted Heart Yoga

    Today we have Crystal Uyeno and Nayantara Rodrigues on the show. They're the co-founders of Rooted Heart Yoga, a 200-hour, all-levels yoga teacher training located here in Fresno. Between these two amazing women, there is so much knowledge and perspective—not only about yoga, the body, and mental health, but also about the qualities of a good teacher and developing a business-minded approach to fitness. Rooted Heart Yoga's Website

    49 min

  5. MAY 15

    Stephen Wilson, President and CEO of the Fresno Philharmonic

    Today, we have Stephen Wilson. Stephen is the President and CEO of the Fresno Philharmonic, a gem in our community, and is one of our city's biggest advocates for the arts. Stephen and I had a fantastic conversation covering classical music, of course, but also exploring the arts more broadly. Please enjoy! Fresno Philharmonic's Website Books:  Authority and Freedom: A Defense of the Arts Jed Perl The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York Robert Caro Middlemarch George Eliot

    54 min

  6. MAY 12

    Molly DeFrank, Author of Mothering Boys and Digital Detox

    Today, we have Molly DeFrank on the show. Molly is a mom to six children and the author of two parenting books, Mothering Boys: 8 Things Your Son Needs From You Before He Turns 10, and  Digital Detox: The Two-Week Tech Reset for Kids. Before children, Molly worked as a press aide to Governor Schwarzenegger.  Molly's Website Books:  The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness Jonathan Haidt  Pride and Prejudice Jane Austen

    47 min

  7. APR 29

    Dustin Hail and Matt Denson, Burning Sun Brewing Company

    Today we have another edition of our brewery tour through Fresno and Clovis, and we are going to meet Dustin Hale and Matt Denson, the founders of Burning Sun Brewing Company, right on Clovis Avenue in Clovis, California. Burning Sun's Mission Statement:  Our mission at Burning Sun Brewing Company is to craft exceptional, high-quality beers that ignite passion and inspire moments of enjoyment. We strive to create a memorable experience for our customers by combining innovative brewing techniques, unique flavors, and a commitment to excellence. Through our craft, we aim to foster a sense of community and connection while leaving a positive impact on the environment and the beer industry. Burning Sun Brewing Company Website  Books:  How To Brew: Everything You Need to Know to Brew Great Beer Every Time John Palmer  The New IPA: Scientific Guide to Hop Aroma and Flavor Scott Janish

    56 min

  8. APR 25

    Danielle R. Shapazian, Founder and Director of the San Joaquin Valley Bookfest

    Danielle R. Shapazian is a registered nurse and writer who lives in Fresno. Her essays have appeared in the Fresno Bee and the Los Angeles Times. She is the founder and director of the San Joaquin Valley Bookfest. We dig into all things books, literary culture, audio vs. print books, keys to hosting events in Fresno, and more.  Bookfest Website Get (Free) Tickets Here Books:  Esperanza Rising Pam Muñoz Ryan Tell Me Everything: A Novel Elizabeth Strout

    37 min
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4.6
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

An interview podcast highlighting interesting people doing important work in Fresno. https://linktr.ee/fresnosbest

Information

  • Creator
    Jordan Mattox
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2021
  • Show Website
    Fresno's Best

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