Hearts of Gold

💛 Episode 28 - What happens when a small-town movie theater projectionist grows up to become an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and successful marketing agency owner?In this episode of the Hearts of Gold Podcast, Erin and Jaymes sit down with longtime friend Stephen Chollet, founder of Chollet Agency, for a fun, nostalgic, and inspiring conversation filled with stories, laughter, and lessons learned along the way.Stephen takes us back to his earliest days working at Oroville's historic State Theatre, where he learned the art of running film projectors before the digital age transformed the industry. From threading actual film reels and working behind the scenes at the theater to discovering his passion for storytelling, Stephen shares the experiences that sparked a career in filmmaking, creative production, and marketing.The conversation also includes a few memorable trips down memory lane, including Stephen's legendary Millennium Bash during the Y2K era and highlights how those early creative endeavors helped shape the entrepreneur he is today.Along the way, we discuss:- Stephen's first job at the Oroville State Theatre- What it was like being a film projectionist before digital cinema- How a passion for storytelling led to Emmy Award-winning work- The evolution of film, media, and marketing over the years- Building and growing the Chollet Agency- How Stephen helps businesses and organizations throughout Butte County tell their stories and reach their audiences- Lessons learned from entrepreneurship, creativity, and community involvement- Plenty of laughs, old memories, and behind-the-scenes stories between longtime friendsWhether you're interested in filmmaking, marketing, entrepreneurship, or simply love hearing local success stories, this episode offers an entertaining look at how curiosity, creativity, and community can shape a remarkable career.Connect with Stephen Chollet🌐 Chollet Agency: https://www.chollet.agency🌐 Personal Website: https://www.stephenchollet.comJoin Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.This Episode is Sponsored ByErin Lackey Photography 📸 www.erinlackey.comCreating authentic portraits, branding imagery, and family photography throughout Northern California.

This week, it’s just us, Erin and Jaymes, and we’re sharing what we’re calling our Summer of Stewardship. As summer gets underway, we’ve been talking a lot about how to better care for the things that matter most in our lives. For us, that comes down to four areas: our space, ourselves, our spirit, and our social lives. In this episode, we share what we're working on, where we're growing, and a few places where we still have a lot to learn.We talk about the never-ending list of projects around the house, why creating a peaceful and functional space matters to us, and some of the goals we have for getting things done this summer. We also dive into taking care of ourselves - physically, mentally, and emotionally - and the small habits we're trying to build along the way.On the spiritual side, we share how we're making more room for prayer, reflection, and time with God. You'll even hear about our prayer closet (which, honestly, is a little strange) but has become a meaningful part of our journey. Jaymes also shares some thoughts on faith and theology that spark a deeper conversation about spiritual growth.We also spend some time talking about community, friendships, family, and why being intentional about relationships is something we're prioritizing this season.Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, a few rabbit trails, some honest reflections, and several book recommendations from Erin that have been helping her navigate life and personal growth.More than anything, this episode is a chance for listeners to get to know us a little better. It's a relaxed, fun conversation about where we are right now, what we're learning, and how we're trying to be better stewards of the lives we've been given.Plus, we give a sneak peek at three incredible guests we have coming up on the podcast that we're really excited to share with you.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.In This Episode:Why we're calling this season our "Summer of Stewardship"Home projects and creating a better living spaceHealth, wellness, and personal growth goalsPrayer, meditation, and our unusual prayer closetFriendship, family, and building communityBooks Erin has been reading and recommendingFaith, theology, and spiritual growth with JaymesA preview of three exciting upcoming guestsThanks for spending some time with us! We hope this conversation encourages you to think about what areas of your own life might need a little extra stewardship this summer. ☀️💛This episode is sponsored by: Erin Lackey Photography www.erinlackey.com

💛 Episode 26: From Global Adventures to Local Impact with Alexa Benson-ValavanisWhat happens when a Chico State basketball recruit follows a path that takes her from Northern California to Shanghai, China, and Guatemala - only to return and help transform one of the region's most influential nonprofit organizations?In this inspiring episode of Hearts of Gold, Erin and Jaymes sit down with Alexa Benson-Valavanis, President and CEO of the North Valley Community Foundation, to explore her remarkable journey of service, leadership, and community impact. Alexa shares how she first arrived in Butte County as a student-athlete at Chico State, the experiences around the world that shaped her worldview, and how she ultimately found her calling helping communities thrive through philanthropy. She opens up about rebuilding NVCF from the ground up, leading disaster recovery efforts following the Camp Fire, and mobilizing millions of dollars to support wildfire and pandemic relief throughout Northern California.Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alexa offers a candid look at her personal spiritual journey, the lessons she learned while reconciling faith and identity, and the role that compassion and unconditional love play in her life and leadership. She also reveals some of her favorite hidden gems around Butte County and shares wisdom for anyone looking to make a meaningful difference in their own community.Whether you're passionate about community service, leadership, personal growth, or simply love hearing stories of people making a difference, this conversation will leave you inspired and hopeful.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.This episode is sponsored by: Erin Lackey Photography. Head to www.erinlackey.com or seenagain.erinlackey.com to learn more about the upcoming project featuring amazing women in Butte County!

What does it mean to call yourself an artist?This week on the Hearts of Gold Podcast, Erin and Jaymes sit down with multidisciplinary artist and designer Jedrek Speer, better known as SEIZER-ONE, to explore a creative journey that spans decades, mediums, and personal growth. Since adopting his iconic moniker in 1996, Jedrek has left his mark on everything from the Los Angeles street art movement of the early 2000s to large-scale murals that now inspire communities throughout Northern California.After graduating from UC Santa Cruz, Jedrek moved to Los Angeles, where his work helped shape the street art scene and eventually led to appearances in Banksy's acclaimed documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop. Along the way, he created artwork and creative projects for major brands and artists, including the legendary Smashing Pumpkins, Audi, Spyder, Von Zipper, and Lulus.com.But behind the murals and high-profile collaborations is a story many creatives can relate to: the challenge of fully embracing the identity of being an artist. Jedrek opens up about the self-doubt, evolving perspective, and personal work that has helped him overcome those barriers and step more confidently into his calling.This conversation is about more than paint and walls, it's about creativity, courage, and giving yourself permission to bring your ideas into the world. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, maker, or someone with a dream you've been putting off, Jedrek's story is a powerful reminder that the things living in your imagination deserve a chance to exist!We hope you'll leave this episode feeling inspired to create, take action, and make your own mark on your community!Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.This episode is sponsored by Erin Lackey Photography. Currently accepting nominations for the Seen Again Portrait Experience: seenagain.erinlackey.com

💛 Episode 24: Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Mary Sakuma, Butte County Superintendent of Schools and a lifelong champion for public education. With more than 30 years of experience, Mary’s journey has taken her from the classroom to principal, to district superintendent, and now to leading the Butte County Office of Education.Mary shares how her passion for students and families has guided every step of her career, and how the motto “where students come first” continues to shape her leadership today. From expanding school-centered family services to supporting student achievement across the region, Mary offers a powerful look into what it means to lead with purpose and heart.✨ In this episode, you’ll hear:Mary’s “Golden Beginnings” and how she got started in educationHer journey through leadership roles across Butte CountyThe most fulfilling—and challenging—parts of her workLessons learned over three decades in public educationHer “Golden Nugget of Wisdom” for anyone looking to make a differenceWhether you’re an educator, parent, or community member, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and real-world impact.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support more stories of people making a difference in our community!Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.This episode is sponsored by Erin Lackey Photography: www.erinlackey.com

Join Erin and Jaymes as they sit down with Daniel Ballard, a passionate local historian who’s helping bring Oroville’s rich past to life, one story at a time. As the host of the Historic Oroville Walking Tours and a leader in several local organizations, Danny is deeply committed to preserving the people, places, and moments that have shaped the community.In this episode, Danny shares how his love for history began, what keeps him inspired, and why preserving local stories matters now more than ever. From hidden gems around town to the challenges of keeping history relevant in a modern world, this conversation is full of insight, heart, and hometown pride.Whether you're a lifelong local or new to the area, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Oroville, and maybe even a new favorite spot to explore.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

Episode 22 💛 Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.In this high-energy episode, we sit down with Sara Nolind—a true Oroville powerhouse who proves that drive isn’t just for the racetrack. From racing cars at high speeds to helping lead one of the area’s most beloved coffee spots, Sara shares how passion, grit, and community connection have shaped her journey.We dive into her role at her family’s business, Pioneer Collision Center, and how growing up in that environment instilled a strong work ethic and sense of pride - and got her into racing! Sara also gives us a look behind the scenes at Union Coffee Club, where she co-creates a welcoming space that brings people together.But what really makes Sara’s story stand out is her personal growth. She opens up about overcoming a speech impediment, something that once challenged her confidence - and how she’s transformed it into a strength, becoming an engaging and impactful speaker. Today, as President-Elect of the Oroville Rotary Club, she’s not just finding her voice - she’s using it to lead and inspire.This episode is all about resilience, reinvention, and going all-in on the things that matter most.Join us today on the Hearts of Gold Podcast!This episode is sponsored by Erin Lackey Photography: www.erinlackey.com

💛 Episode 21: Dr. Amber Englund of Englund Chiropractic joins Erin and Jaymes Lackey to share her inspiring journey of building a life rooted in service, family, and community. From her path through chiropractic school to running a successful practice alongside her husband, Dr. Englund opens up about what it’s really like to balance business ownership, motherhood, and leadership as President of the local school board. She shares the challenges, lessons, and rewarding moments that come with wearing so many hats, along with her passion for helping others live healthier lives. This episode highlights the power of dedication, partnership, and staying connected to your community while pursuing your purpose.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

💛 Episode 20: In this heartfelt and fun-filled episode, we sit down with Todd DeVoll, Erin's dad! Who is the director of Imaging at Oroville Hospital, lifelong musician, and all-around steady presence both at work and at home. From growing up in a music-filled family to keeping the rhythm alive as the drummer for the family band Feedbac, Todd shares how music has always been a constant thread in his life. Listeners will love hearing about his role on the worship team at his church and his latest creative venture, a one-man band called Entertainment 180, where passion and performance come full circle. Along the way, we dive into stories from his upbringing, lessons learned over the years, and yes… a few unforgettable (and slightly chaotic) waterbed mishaps that bring plenty of laughs. This episode is a beautiful blend of family, music, purpose, and staying grounded while pursuing what you love—no matter how many directions life pulls you. Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

💛 Episode 19: In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Isha, Shelter Manager and RVT at Northwest SPCA, to talk about what it really takes to care for animals in our community. With decades of experience and a deep commitment to compassionate care, Isha shares the challenges, victories, and everyday moments that make shelter work a true labor of love.We also spotlight the upcoming Pooch Playoffs, a fun and impactful fundraiser supporting NWSPCA’s mission to protect and care for vulnerable animals. If you want to make a difference (and have some fun doing it), you can sign up here:👉 www.erinlackey.com/poochplayoffsThis episode is all about community, compassion, and the hearts of gold that show up every day for the animals in our community! 🐾Join Erin and Jaymes every week on The Hearts of Gold Podcast!

💛Episode 18: Cedric Lee didn’t grow up feeling like he fit anywhere.Marked by adversity, trauma, and the label of “misfit,” his early years were shaped by survival more than certainty. But instead of allowing his past to define him, Cedric transformed it. Today, he’s both an educator and an AI specialist — helping students navigate a future powered by technology while never losing sight of the human heart behind it.In this episode, Cedric shares what it was like growing up on the margins, how trauma shaped his resilience, and why being a misfit became his greatest strength. We talk about education, artificial intelligence, identity, and how the very qualities that once made him feel different now make him indispensable.This is a conversation about redemption, reinvention, and the surprising gifts hidden inside adversity.Because sometimes the misfit becomes the one who shows the rest of us the way forward.

💛Episode 17: What does it mean to truly serve your hometown?In this episode, we sit down with a fourth-generation Oroville native whose family legacy spans real estate, development, and public service. A 1972 graduate of Oroville High School and Butte College alum, he dedicated 35 years to the Oroville Fire Department before serving three terms on the Oroville City Council — including time as Mayor.We talk about growing up in a family deeply rooted in Oroville, raising three children and now enjoying five grandchildren, and what it takes to lead through change. We also dive into important local topics like biomass energy, economic development, and the often-debated annexation of Thermalito.This conversation is about legacy, leadership, and loving your community enough to step up - even when the conversations get spicy.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.Hearts of Gold Podcast is sponsored by Erin Lackey Photography | www.erinlackey.com

💛 Episode 16: In this episode we sat down with Dan Nevers from the Rainforest Art Project to explore his journey as an artist and teacher. Dan shared how growing up between San Diego and Chico, California shaped his deep love for glass, mosaics, and crafts — especially the joy of working with his hands and turning small pieces into meaningful art. We talked about how his passion became a lifelong vocation, leading him into public art and the transformative work of the Rainforest Art Project, which creates hands-on educational art programs and large mosaic installations with students and communities. Dan offered insight into the power of mosaics not just as a craft, but as a way to build confidence, connection, and creative expression in people of all ages.At Hearts of Gold, we love highlighting people who are quietly and faithfully shaping their communities through vision, creativity, and service. Dan is a perfect example of someone using his gifts to build something lasting — one small piece at a time. Thanks for listening, sharing, and continuing to look for the gold in the people and stories all around us.

💛 Episode 15: In this episode, we talk with Patrick Piatt, Community Development Director for the City of Oroville, about the city’s new biomass energy project and what it means for Oroville and the future of Butte County.Patrick oversees planning, building, economic development, annexations, and citywide branding initiatives, and brings a unique blend of big-picture thinking and practical execution to his work. He shares how growing up in Southern California shaped his heart for the environment, and how that passion now fuels his commitment to creating resilient industries and fostering inclusive economic growth in Oroville.This conversation explores sustainability, leadership, and stewardship—what it looks like to plan not just for today, but for generations to come and why Patrick’s approach embodies the very heart of what this podcast is about. 💛Learn more at: https://www.orovilleca.govAt Hearts of Gold, we sit down with people whose hearts for their community, their work, and their neighbors are making a real difference. These are conversations with leaders and everyday community members who often work behind the scenes - people who pair care with commitment and vision with action.Each episode is about more than a job title or a project. It’s about the values, stories, and convictions that shape how people show up for the places they love. We believe those stories matter and that when we listen closely, we learn how to build stronger, more hopeful communities together.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support local stories that matter.This episode is sponsored in part by Miller Glass & Erin Lackey Photographyhttps://millerglass.comhttps://erinlackey.comFor more information on how to get involved with Hearts of Gold Podcast, visit us at our website: https://www.heartsofgoldmedia.com

💛 Episode 14: Painting the Future with a Heart of GoldIn this episode of Hearts of Gold, Erin and Jaymes sit down with a passionate local art educator and community leader, Misty Rayome, who is making a lasting impact across Oroville and beyond!As the new high school art and digital photography teacher at Oroville High School, Oroville Arts Commission member, board member of Brushstrokes Art Gallery, and proud Artist of Rivertown, Misty shares shares how art can shape young minds, strengthen communities, and bring people together in meaningful ways. We talk about how she came to Oroville from Concow and how several dreams she had on her 'bucket list' as a kid came true.From the classroom to the commission, this conversation is filled with inspiration, personal stories, and insight into how the arts continue to thrive in Northern California thanks to dedicated individuals who truly lead with a Heart of Gold.✨ Whether you’re an artist, educator, parent, or community advocate, this episode will remind you just how powerful creativity and service can be.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support local stories that matter.This episode is sponsored in part by Miller Class & Erin Lackey Photographyhttps://millerglass.comhttps://erinlackey.comFor more information on how to get involved with Hearts of Gold Podcast, visit us at our website: https://www.heartsofgoldmedia.comThank you for watching!

💛 Episode 13: A new year always invites a little reflection—and a lot of hope. In this special episode, Erin and Jaymes sit down together to talk all things New Year: the routines that ground them, the vision boards that spark excitement, and the words of the year guiding their intentions. They also look back on 2025—what worked, what surprised them, and what lessons they’re carrying forward. Whether you’re a goal-setter, a dreamer, or somewhere in between, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired and ready to turn the page with a whole lotta purpose.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

In this deeply personal episode, Erin opens up about losing her sister Shanin in 2017 and how grief has shaped her life in ways she never expected. Together, Erin and Jaymes explore what no one tells you about how your brain responds to loss, why grief isn’t linear, and the well-meaning things people say that can unintentionally cause more pain.This conversation isn’t about “fixing” grief—it’s about understanding it, sitting with it, and learning how to show up for ourselves and others with more compassion. Whether you’re navigating loss yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers honesty, empathy, and a reminder that you’re not alone.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.Link to Mel Robbin's episode: https://youtu.be/uSZy6Ww3e6A?si=RJYOPzmAI-ZTZApNLink to Kate Bowler's Book: https://katebowler.com/books/everything-happens-for-a-reason-and-other-lies-ive-loved/

Episode 11 💛Jaymes and Erin talk all things Christmas movies! We share what our favorites are, what we are watching this holiday season, and even discuss what we think the moral of A Christmas Carole is.... and it's not what you think!Join us today for a hyper-positive podcast that highlights individuals, businesses and organizations in Butte County!Check out our website: www.heartsofgoldmedia.comCheck out Erin's website: www.erinlackey.com

Grab your Santa hat, pour yourself way too much peppermint cocoa, and join Erin and Jaymes for a holiday episode that is… well… delightfully unhinged.In this episode, we launch into a heated-but-loving debate over real vs. fake Christmas trees (one smells amazing, the other doesn’t shed needles like a cat in July). We also talk about many of our holiday traditions including the best cinnamon roll we've ever eaten. And of course, no festive conversation would be complete without discussing the most controversial cinematic mystery of our time: the Polar Express humanoid animations that live somewhere between “holiday magic” and “please don’t blink at me like that.”If you’re craving festive chaos, local love, and enough laughter to shake like a bowl full of jelly—this episode is your holiday home.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

This week on the Hearts of Gold Podcast, Erin and Jaymes sit down with Greg Blake, Superintendent of Chico Unified School District and a 34-year educator whose career has spanned nearly every role in the field—teacher, coach, principal, director of maintenance, superintendent/principal, and now district superintendent. Greg shares his Golden Beginnings in education, the path that brought him along the Yellow Brick Road to the Chico community, and the moments that continue to inspire his service to students, families, and staff. He also opens up about the lessons learned over three decades in public schools, the joys and challenges of leadership, and how he keeps perspective by embracing one of his greatest passions: all things Disney.From favorite local Hidden Gems to rapid-fire fun in the Gold Rush Round, this episode is full of heart, wisdom, and a little bit of magic. Greg leaves listeners with a powerful Golden Nugget of Wisdom about investing in people and leading with purpose—on campus and beyond.Read more about Chico Unified School District: https://www.chicousd.orgJoin Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

💛 Episode 8: This week on Hearts of Gold, Erin and Jaymes sit down with artist, educator and small business owner Forest Wong, whose creative spirit and dedication to young musicians and artists have made a lasting impact in Butte County. Forest shares her journey as a visual artist, the path that led her to call Oroville home after going to college at Columbia University, and the inspiration behind co-founding the North Valley InTune Music Foundation—a nonprofit that brings music performance and music education opportunities to local youth as well as her most current project, Union Coffee Club.In this heartfelt conversation, Forest opens up about the joys and challenges of community-focused creative work, the local gems that keep her rooted, and the lessons she’s learned while nurturing both art and music in the region. As always, the Gold Rush Round brings out fun surprises, and Forest’s Golden Nugget of Wisdom offers encouragement for anyone looking to use their gifts to uplift others.Follow Forest’s artwork on Instagram at @forestwongart.Check out In-Tune Music Foundation: https://www.facebook.com/nvintune/Follow Union Coffee Club: https://unioncoffeeclub.comJoin Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

Episode 7 💛 This week’s episode is proudly sponsored by The Deming Initiative, helping leaders and organizations shine their brightest right here in Northern California.At The Deming Initiative, growth begins with people. Based in Chico, California, they specialize in organizational development, leadership training, conflict resolution, and mediation services, helping businesses, nonprofits, and community groups thrive.With more than 30 years of experience in leadership and organizational development, and as a 21-year veteran of the U.S. Army and U.S. Marines—owner Brian E. Deming brings unmatched dedication, discipline, and heart to every partnership.Whether you’re strengthening your team, resolving conflict, or preparing your next generation of leaders, The Deming Initiative is here to help you build clarity, trust, success and is an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau!Visit TheDemingInitiative.com to learn moreThis week on Hearts of Gold, Erin and Jaymes Lackey chat with Erica Schield, co-owner of Freeze-Ums LLC, a family-run business in Oroville that’s transforming everyday snacks into extraordinary freeze-dried creations. Alongside her husband Josh and daughter Heather, Erica has built a company rooted in creativity, community, and quality.As an accredited member and ambassador for the Better Business Bureau, Erica takes pride in running her business with integrity and heart—proving that doing good and doing well can go hand in hand. In this uplifting conversation, she shares the story behind Freeze-Ums, the science and fun of freeze-drying, and the golden lessons learned from entrepreneurship and family teamwork.From unexpected challenges to sweet successes, this episode is full of inspiration!🔗 www.freezeums.com📸 @FreezeUmsLLC (Facebook & Instagram)🤩 Accredited business with the Better Business Bureau🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your shows!✨ Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

In this trashy episode, Erin and Jaymes Lackey chat with Amy Jernigan, a wife, mom, Rotarian, and self-proclaimed “trashy friend” whose passion for people and the community shines through everything she does. As a long-time employee at Recology, Amy turns her love of service into action by helping communities across Northern California rethink waste, embrace sustainability, and build connections rooted in care.Amy shares her personal journey to Butte County and the meaningful lessons she’s learned along the way, from balancing family and community life to finding purpose in unexpected places. With her signature humor and humility, she reminds listeners that real change starts close to home and that there’s beauty and value in the things (and people) others might overlook.This heartfelt conversation is filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine inspiration — a perfect reminder that when we lead with compassion, we all leave the world a little brighter.Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

💛 Episode 5: This week on Hearts of Gold, Erin and Jaymes sit down with Bill Harrington, an inspiring educational leader from Northern California who serves as Principal of Poplar Avenue Elementary and Director of Climate, Communications, and Culture for the Thermalito Union Elementary School District.Bill shares his Golden Beginnings in education and the journey that led him down the Yellow Brick Road to leadership—where his passion for staff support, student growth, and cultivating positive school communities truly shines.From navigating challenges in the classroom to celebrating everyday victories, Bill opens up about what fuels his work, the lessons learned along the way, and his heartfelt advice for anyone striving to make a difference in their community.You’ll also catch a few fun local insights in our Gold Rush Round and hear Bill’s Golden Nugget of Wisdom for educators and leaders alike.✨ Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

From the classroom to the superintendent’s office, Cody Walker shares how his lifelong dedication to Butte County schools continues to shape young lives.Show Summary: In this uplifting episode of Hearts of Gold, Erin and Jaymes Lackey welcome Cody Walker, Superintendent of the Thermalito Union Elementary School District. A lifelong Butte County resident, Cody’s journey from high school English teacher to district leader reflects a deep passion for public education and community service.Cody talks about what inspired him to dedicate his career to local schools, the lessons he’s learned as both a teacher and administrator, and how he’s working to create opportunities for every student in the Thermalito district. Listeners will enjoy Cody’s reflections on the power of education, his favorite hidden gems in the community, and his thoughtful advice for those looking to lead with purpose.📧 Connect with Cody: [email protected]🌐 Visit: www.thermalito.orgJoin Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

💛 Episode 3: In this episode of Hearts of Gold, hosts Erin and Jaymes Lackey chat with Ashley, the Marketing Director for Explore Butte County, about her journey from teaching English and capturing local stories as a photographer to promoting the beauty and community of Butte County.Ashley shares how her diverse background shapes her creative approach to tourism marketing, what makes Butte County so special, and the hidden gems she thinks everyone should experience.✨ Topics covered:Ashley’s path from the classroom to community marketingWhy she fell in love with Butte CountyThe challenges and rewards of promoting local tourismHidden gems and must-visit spots in the regionHer “Golden Nugget of Wisdom” for aspiring creatives and community builders🌐 Connect with Explore Butte County:Website: www.explorebuttecounty.comInstagram: @explorebuttecountycaFacebook: Explore Butte CountyTikTok: @explorebuttecountyMore ways to connect: https://butte365.com💛 About Hearts of Gold PodcastJoin Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold. Each episode celebrates community, creativity, and the people who make Northern California shine.#ExploreButteCounty #HeartsOfGoldPodcast #NorthernCalifornia #CommunityStories #LocalBusiness #Tourism #Podcast

In this inspiring episode, Erin sits down with Cindy Daniluke, Executive Director of the State Theatre Arts Guild (STAGE), the nonprofit organization that preserves and programs the historic Oroville State Theatre. Cindy shares how her passion for the arts and community connection drives STAGE’s mission to make the performing arts more accessible — from restoring a cherished local landmark to ensuring “The Arts for Any Given Child” across Butte County.Join us as we explore Cindy’s journey, the joys and challenges of running a local arts nonprofit, and her vision for keeping creativity thriving in the Northern California region.🎭 Learn more or get involved at:www.stageoroville.orgwww.orovillestatetheater.comwww.stageoroville.org/any-given-childJoin Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Northern California who have a Heart of Gold.

💛 Episode 1: Lighting the Way: Dean Gurr’s Heart for OrovilleEpisode Summary: In this first episode of The Hearts of Gold Podcast, Erin chats with longtime Oroville resident Dean Gurr, a small business owner, community leader, and dedicated Rotarian. Dean shares his passion for strengthening Oroville through decades of service, including his work as past president of the Rotary Club of Oroville and current chair of the Oroville Lights Project- a transformative effort to illuminate the historic Table Mountain Bridge. From running Creative Imaging with his wife Monique to fostering civic pride and renewal, Dean’s story shines with the spirit of giving back to the community that has given him so much.Connect with Dean💡 Project: Oroville Lights Project: https://orovillelights.com🔗 Rotary Club of Oroville: https://www.facebook.com/Rotary.Oroville📸 Creative Imaging: https://www.creativeimagingcenter.comConnect with Hearts of Gold✨ Follow the show for new inspiring stories every week:YouTube:  ⁨@heartsofgoldmedia⁩  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartsofgold.media/Facebook: @heartsofgold.mediaWebsite: www.heartsofgoldmedia.com🌟 Join Erin and Jaymes Lackey for our hyper-positive regional podcast highlighting local individuals in Butte County who have a Heart of Gold.