My SGV Podcast

Kind Monster Productions

Welcome to the My SGV Podcast. A show where you will hear personal stories of triumph over failures, and how others successfully navigated the unique landscape that is the San Gabriel Valley. What makes us different? Well, just like you, we have chosen the San Gabriel Valley for our home or businesses, or both. We believe it is the people and small businesses that make this community great and we love to share their stories with you. We always encourage your questions and feedback and you can find all of our contact information at sgvmasterkey.com.

  1. 6d ago

    Karen Cheung Lee - Continuing the Legacy of Sam Woo BBQ Restaurant

    Send us Fan Mail Karen Cheung Lee grew up in the San Gabriel Valley alongside her three sisters, raised in the community where her family built the local restaurant Sam Woo. In her early adulthood, she worked in the events and hospitality industry and helped launch the restaurant's San Gabriel location. She later transitioned into a corporate career for ten years to focus on raising her two daughters. Now, as her father prepares for retirement, Karen has returned to the family business to learn its daily operations and carry the establishment's legacy forward. This episode covers Karen's journey through the hospitality industry, her corporate career, and her eventual return to operations at Sam Woo. The conversation focuses on the realities of running a family-owned business, the personal sacrifices required to sustain a local brand, and the perspective shift that occurs after starting one's own family. Karen also shares her current efforts to learn every facet of the restaurant's management as she prepares to guide it into the future. For viewers in the San Gabriel Valley, this episode offers an inside look at a restaurant that has been a community staple for decades. Karen's audience will find value in her honest reflection on balancing corporate work, motherhood, and family expectations. Additionally, anyone searching for real-world insights on business transitions and legacy preservation will benefit from her practical breakdown of taking over a long-standing brand. To hear more stories from local leaders and business owners, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast. If you enjoyed this conversation, please take a moment to share the episode with a friend or a fellow food enthusiast. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast info@sgvmasterkey.com

    1h 2m

  2. May 19

    Paramveer Bedi - Preserving the Legacy of Bhanu’s Indian Cuisine

    Send us Fan Mail Paramveer Bedi is an entrepreneur in the San Gabriel Valley and one of the owners of Bhanu Indian Cuisine & Market. Located in San Gabriel, the business was originally established by his father and aunt with the goal of providing authentic Indian food and culture to the local community. The establishment operates as both a sit-down restaurant and a specialized marketplace, offering a wide range of traditional Indian spices, lentils, and imported goods. This episode explores the history of Bhanu’s and how Paramveer is continuing the business legacy alongside his cousin. The conversation covers the origins of the business as a catering service and its growth into a prominent physical storefront on Rosemead Boulevard. Key topics include the importance of family collaboration, the challenges of maintaining multi-generational standards, and the dual nature of managing a retail grocery store while running a full-service restaurant. For San Gabriel Valley residents, this episode offers an inside look at a long-standing family business that has become a regional staple. Viewers interested in entrepreneurship will find value in the discussion on legacy management and the evolution of a community-focused brand. People searching for information on authentic Indian cuisine and specialty grocery resources in Southern California will learn about the history and mission that define this local establishment. Subscribe to the MySGV Podcast to stay connected with the local stories and businesses shaping the San Gabriel Valley. If you enjoyed this conversation, please share the episode with others who appreciate the food and cultural diversity of our community. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast info@sgvmasterkey.com

    1h 2m

  3. May 12

    Thee Sawadwid - Building Fillet Sushi in Old Town Monrovia

    Send us Fan Mail Thee Sawadwid is the chef and owner of Fillet Sushi, located in Old Town Monrovia. Raised in Thailand, he transitioned into the culinary world through a deep respect for Japanese discipline and craftsmanship. His path into the profession was defined by hands-on practice and experience in high-level kitchens, including training at Matsuhisa Beverly Hills, rather than formal culinary schooling. Together with his wife and partner, Lin Sawadwid, he has established a dining experience centered on intentional hospitality and technical precision. This episode explores the journey of launching and operating Fillet Sushi in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley. Thee discusses his culinary philosophy, which prioritizes balance, consistency, and restraint over excess. The conversation covers the practicalities of maintaining long-term standards, the importance of a calm dining environment, and his approach to thoughtful evolution. This philosophy honors Japanese foundations while allowing flavor and harmony to lead the way. He also shares the challenges of navigating growth with humility alongside Lin, who oversees the restaurant's operations. For viewers in the San Gabriel Valley, this episode provides an inside look at the dedication required to run a successful independent business in Monrovia. The guest’s audience and those interested in the culinary arts will find value in his perspective on self-taught mastery and the discipline of sushi. People searching for insights into restaurant management and Japanese food culture will benefit from Thee’s breakdown of how he balances traditional roots with a modern, community-driven business model. To hear more stories from local leaders and innovators, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast. If you found this conversation insightful, please share this episode with a friend or fellow food enthusiast. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast info@sgvmasterkey.com

    46 min

  4. May 5

    George Dera - Authentic Lebanese Cuisine and Wahib’s Mediterranean Express in San Gabriel

    Send us Fan Mail George Dera is the owner of Wahib’s Mediterranean Express, a restaurant located in San Gabriel, California. Born in Zahle, Lebanon, Dera moved to Glendora, California, at the age of 14 and has remained a resident of the city since his arrival. Today, he operates his business while residing in Glendora with his wife, Aileen, and their two children, focusing on traditional hospitality and fresh ingredients. This episode explores the history and values behind Wahib’s Mediterranean Express, focusing on the transition from Lebanese traditions to the Southern California business landscape. Dera discusses the importance of authentic recipes, the role of family in his operations, and how his upbringing in Zahle influenced his approach to service. The conversation also highlights the specific Mediterranean dishes that define the restaurant’s menu and its connection to the local community. For viewers in the San Gabriel Valley and those interested in the regional culinary scene, this episode provides an inside look at a local staple. It offers valuable insights for food enthusiasts searching for authentic Mediterranean dining and for individuals interested in the immigrant entrepreneurial experience in California. By bridging the gap between Lebanese heritage and local service, Dera’s story resonates with anyone looking to understand the intersection of culture and commerce in the SGV. If you enjoyed learning about the flavors and history of Wahib’s Mediterranean Express, please subscribe to the podcast and share this episode with others. Your support helps us continue to highlight the stories and businesses that shape our community. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast info@sgvmasterkey.com

    55 min

  5. Apr 28

    Armando De La Torre Jr. - Guisados Founder on Boyle Heights Tacos and LA Restaurant Growth

    Send us Fan Mail Armando De La Torre Jr. is a Los Angeles–born restauranteur, entrepreneur, and artist known for creating and developing Guisados, Georges Burger Stand, and Playita Mariscos. A graduate of Loyola High School and Loyola Marymount University, where he studied Business Law and Marketing, he began his career path toward law before shifting into the restaurant industry. In 2011, he co-founded Guisados in Boyle Heights with his father, building a taqueria centered on homestyle braises and fresh handmade corn tortillas. He later expanded his work by acquiring and revitalizing Georges Burger Stand and opening Playita Mariscos in Silver Lake. In this episode, Armando shares the story behind launching Guisados in Boyle Heights and growing it into a multi-location restaurant group. He discusses the development of Georges Burger Stand and the concept behind Playita Mariscos, along with the operational realities of running multiple restaurant brands in Los Angeles. The conversation also explores his work as an artist, including designing menus, merchandise, and brand identities, as well as his creation of G’s on Sunday, an automotive lifestyle brand that collaborates with major partners and hosts community events. This episode offers value for San Gabriel Valley viewers and greater Los Angeles audiences interested in restaurant ownership, food culture, and creative entrepreneurship. It highlights the evolution of well-known LA food concepts rooted in Boyle Heights and expands into how branding, art, and community engagement intersect within the hospitality industry. For listeners searching topics like starting a restaurant, scaling food businesses, or building a multi-brand presence in Los Angeles, Armando’s experience provides a detailed, real-world perspective. If you enjoy conversations with Los Angeles founders and creators shaping the local food scene, subscribe for more episodes and share this with someone interested in restaurants, entrepreneurship, and creative work. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast info@sgvmasterkey.com

    1h 2m

  6. Apr 21

    Aaron (Phu) Luong - From SGV Upbringing to Aloha Food Factory Owner in Alhambra

    Send us Fan Mail Aaron (Phu) Luong was born in Hong Kong under British rule and immigrated to the United States at a young age. He grew up in Rosemead and Monterey Park, later attending San Gabriel High School, where he balanced academics, extracurriculars, and Taekwondo, earning his black belt in his sophomore year. He went on to graduate with a double major in Business Management and Supply Chain Management. Today, he owns and operates Aloha Food Factory in Alhambra, a 30-year Hawaiian restaurant originally founded by Auntie Betty. In this episode, Aaron shares his experiences growing up in a traditional immigrant household, navigating bullying, and finding structure through training and discipline. He talks about setbacks during his school years, his time in Taekwondo, and the path that led him through college and into the workforce. The conversation also covers pivotal moments in adulthood, including legal challenges, personal struggles, and the shift toward personal growth. Aaron also discusses taking over Aloha Food Factory during the pandemic and the operational challenges he faced, from redevelopment threats to infrastructure issues. This episode offers insight into the realities of growing up in the San Gabriel Valley while navigating identity, responsibility, and resilience. For SGV viewers, it highlights the story behind a longstanding local restaurant and the effort required to sustain it. For listeners interested in personal development, discipline, and entrepreneurship, Aaron’s experiences provide a grounded perspective shaped by real events and decisions. If you enjoy stories rooted in the San Gabriel Valley and conversations about growth and accountability, subscribe for more episodes and share this with someone who would connect with Aaron’s journey. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast info@sgvmasterkey.com

    53 min

  7. Apr 14

    Marcel Rene Michel - From Corporate Recruiting at Disney to Opening a Pasadena Restaurant

    Send us Fan Mail Marcel Rene Michel is a Southern California native born in Bellflower and raised in Hacienda Heights, with roots in Guadalajara and Colima, Mexico. A first-generation Mexican American, Marcel attended Don Bosco Tech Institute and later built a career in corporate recruiting, working with major companies including ARYZTA, Hasbro, Red Bull, and Disney. His professional journey spans sales, recruiting, and leadership, shaped by early experiences in programs like Profit Techniques and a strong foundation in personal development. In this episode, Marcel shares his journey from navigating identity growing up in the San Gabriel Valley to building a career in corporate America, and ultimately pivoting into entrepreneurship. He talks about the lessons he learned in sales and recruiting, the impact of being furloughed from Disney during the 2020 pandemic, and how that moment led him and his wife to start cooking for friends and family. What began as a small effort grew into catering opportunities, a spot at Smorgasburg, and eventually opening a brick-and-mortar food business in Pasadena. This conversation highlights the resilience and adaptability that define many SGV stories. For local viewers, Marcel’s experience reflects the diverse cultural upbringing of the area and the realities of career pivots in uncertain times. For his audience and aspiring entrepreneurs, this episode offers a grounded look at building something from scratch, embracing failure, and staying committed to long-term growth. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, share it with your community, and follow along for more stories from the San Gabriel Valley and beyond. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast info@sgvmasterkey.com

    1h 10m

  8. Apr 7

    Shelly Lin - From Medan, Indonesia to SGV Small Business Owner at Coconut & Co.

    Send us Fan Mail Shelly Lin is the co-founder of Coconut & Co., a San Gabriel Valley business built around natural, high-quality drinks and desserts that are inclusive, health-conscious, and made for everyone. Born and raised in Medan, Indonesia, Shelly grew up surrounded by rich culinary traditions and a family that instilled in her a deep sense of discipline, independence, and compassion. She co-founded Coconut & Co. alongside her best friend Carmen, bringing those same values into everything they create and serve. In this episode, Shelly shares the story behind Coconut & Co., from its roots in Indonesian culture to the philosophy driving every ingredient choice they make. She talks about growing up with a father who taught her self-reliance and a mother who modeled quiet resilience, and how both shaped her approach to business and community. She and Carmen built Coconut & Co. on a simple but firm belief: that food and drinks should be real, honest, and accessible to all, with no shortcuts and no compromises. For SGV viewers, this is a story about a neighbor who turned a lifetime of values into a local business worth knowing. For anyone searching for inclusive, natural dessert and drink options in the area, Coconut & Co. is exactly the kind of place this episode will make you want to visit. And for anyone building something from scratch with a best friend, Shelly's story is both grounding and genuinely inspiring. If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to the MySGV Podcast and share it with someone who loves discovering local SGV businesses rooted in culture and community. _______________ Music Credits Intro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG Stinger Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library Outro Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG __________________ My SGV Podcast: Website: www.mysgv.net Newsletter: Beyond the Mic Patreon: MySGV Podcast info@sgvmasterkey.com

    1h 11m
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4.9
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

Welcome to the My SGV Podcast. A show where you will hear personal stories of triumph over failures, and how others successfully navigated the unique landscape that is the San Gabriel Valley. What makes us different? Well, just like you, we have chosen the San Gabriel Valley for our home or businesses, or both. We believe it is the people and small businesses that make this community great and we love to share their stories with you. We always encourage your questions and feedback and you can find all of our contact information at sgvmasterkey.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Kind Monster Productions
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    262
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 My SGV Podcast
  • Show Website
    My SGV Podcast

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