Napa’s Hidden Story | Jeri Hansen | Barrels and Roots

In this episode of Barrels and Roots, I sit down with Jeri Hansen, President and CEO of the Napa Chamber of Commerce, to explore the community that exists beyond Napa Valley’s world-famous wine. We talk about the farmers, winemakers, cellar teams, hospitality workers, entrepreneurs, and small-business owners whose hard work has shaped Napa into something far greater than a travel destination.Jeri explains how Napa’s agricultural preserve protected the valley from overdevelopment, why collaboration remains one of the region’s greatest strengths, and how wine and agriculture continue to support tourism, restaurants, wellness, recreation, and local businesses. We also discuss the challenges facing the wine industry, the importance of economic diversification, and the new technology, healthcare, transportation, and entrepreneurial projects creating hope for Napa’s future.This conversation is ultimately about honoring Napa’s roots without freezing the community in time. As Jeri says, evolution is not the enemy of preservation, it may be the only way to protect what makes Napa special.What should Napa preserve at all costs as it enters its next chapter?