Episodes
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From the Pentagon to LA Recruiting: Lt. Col. Jay De Jesus on Army Opportunity | Talking Downey
In this episode of Talking Downey, Mayor Mario sits down with Lieutenant Colonel Steven Jay De Jesus, the newly arrived commander of the U.S. Army's Los Angeles Recruiting Battalion — five companies and 28 stations spanning Southern California. Lt. Col. De Jesus enlisted in the Nevada Army…
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John McKinney on 28 Years in the DA's Office and Running for LA City Attorney | Talking Downey
In this episode of Talking Downey, Mario Guerra sits down with John McKinney — a 28-year Los Angeles Deputy District Attorney, veteran of over 100 jury trials, and candidate for Los Angeles City Attorney. John shares his story: growing up in Passaic, New Jersey, losing both parents by age five,...
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He Helped Fire Victims for Free. Now He's Running for Judge. | David DeJute on Talking Downey
Most people don't vote in judicial elections — but judges affect your life more than almost any elected official. On this episode of Talking Downey, former Mayor Mario Guerra sits down with David DeJute, candidate for Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, Seat #87. DeJute is a former Assistant U.S....
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Donna Tryfman on Public Defense, Jury Trials, and Running for Judge | Talking Downey
In this episode of Talking Downey, Mario Guerra sits down with Donna Tryfman for a deep conversation on justice, courtroom experience, and public service. Donna shares her path as a senior public defender, her work in death penalty litigation, and what people often misunderstand about criminal...
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Is the Army Worth It in 2026? | From Downey High to the Army (Tracy Duran)
In this episode of Talking Downey, Mario Guerra sits down with Staff Sergeant Tracy Duran, a proud Downey native serving at the Norwalk Recruiting Station. Tracy shares her journey from local student to Army leader, why she chose to serve, and what she has learned in 13 years of military...
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He Ran Downey's Most Iconic Restaurant for 30 Years — Then Helped Rebuild the Whole Block
Paul Granata — longtime Downey business owner and co-founder of the Downtown Improvement Association — sits down with Mayor Mario to talk Granada's Italian Villa, a 25-year-old letter that started a movement, and what downtown Downey looks like now vs. then. 0:00 Pre-show 0:59 Show intro – "Hi…
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Downey's Most Talked-About Council Race | Carrie Uva Interview
Carrie Uva is a lifelong Downey resident, Planning Commission Chair, and real estate attorney — and she just announced she's running for City Council. Mario Guerra sits down with Carrie to find out why she's running, who's backing her, and what she plans to actually change in Downey. Topics: •…
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Setting the Record Straight: I Was Forced to Respond
After being publicly mentioned multiple times during recent meetings and political discussions involving Downey Councilmember Mario Trujillo, former Mayor Mario Guerra says enough is enough. In this special commentary episode, Mario responds to recent criticisms, addresses comments made publicly,...
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Building the Future: Columbia Space Center's Vision with CEO Nader Moghaddam
Downey’s legacy in space exploration is bigger than most people realize—and it’s about to get even bigger. In this episode, Mayor Mario and his guest dive into the incredible story behind the Columbia Memorial Space Center and the ambitious new “Inspiration” expansion. From a historic NASA mockup...
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Leading with Purpose: Financial Partners Credit Union CEO Nader Moghaddam
What does it take to grow a small cooperative into a multi-billion dollar financial institution? In this episode of Talking Downey, Mayor Mario sits down with the CEO of Financial Partners Credit Union to unpack a remarkable journey of leadership, resilience, and community impact. From its humble...
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Real Stories from Powerful Women | Downey Chamber of Commerce Event
We spent the day at a Women’s Empowerment Event hosted by the Downey Chamber of Commerce, connecting with inspiring women across industries, from business owners to community leaders. Each woman shared her journey - what it takes to build something from the ground up, how to stay resilient…
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Inside One 12 Caffe: The Story of Two Entrepreneurs in Downey
Natalie from Talking Downey visits One 12 Caffe to sit down with Sarah and Sam, the young entrepreneurs behind one of Downey’s most talked-about coffee spots. From fresh pastries and creative matcha drinks to a robot barista named Tom, this café blends innovation, family values, and community...
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Downey’s Past, Present, and Future - The Hidden Meaning Behind Downey’s New Mural
A new mural now stands in the heart of Downtown Downey, celebrating the city’s rich history from orange groves to aerospace innovation. In this episode, Mario Guerra breaks down every detail of the artwork, explaining the meaning behind each symbol, from North American Aviation and the Apollo...
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Responding to Your Comments Here's What I Think
This episode of Talking Downey takes a different turn. Former Mayor Mario Guerra reads and responds to real comments from viewers — both supportive and critical — following recent discussions about ICE activity, racial profiling, empty storefronts, police relations, and local leadership. From...
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Prayer, Presence, and Purpose: A Deacon’s Perspective on Lent and Holy Week
As Lent begins, former Downey Mayor and Catholic Deacon Mario Guerra and his wife Ann offer a deeply personal look into faith, service, and reflection. From explaining the meaning of Ash Wednesday and Holy Week to sharing emotional moments as a police chaplain and mentor to incarcerated youth…
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NASA's Next Moon Mission (Artemis 2)
From the Space Race to the Moon’s next chapter, Downey has played a critical role in America’s space story and it is still happening today. In this special clip of Talking Downey, former Mayor Mario reflects on Downey’s rich aerospace legacy, the importance of the Columbia and Challenger Learning...
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The Downey Patriot and the Stories That Define Our City
In this episode of Talking Downey, Mario reflects on what makes the city of Downey unique, from the value of local journalism to the importance of preserving community history. He shares appreciation for Downey’s hometown newspaper, discusses recent stories impacting residents, and offers insight...
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ICE Racial Profiling Or Just Doing Their Job?
A tense incident involving ICE agents and two local gardeners sparks outrage, protests, and heated accusations in Downey. Former Mayor Mario A. Guerra breaks down what really happened, why the city cannot intervene in federal immigration actions, and how misinformation fueled division at City…
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The Side of Public Service Most People Never See
Downey City Council Member Horacio Ortiz shares a real look at leadership, balance, and mental health both in public service and personal life. Sponsored by Financial Partners Credit Union – thank you for supporting Talking Downey and our community conversations.
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Leadership Under Pressure: Mental Health in Local Government
Serving the community comes with pressure most people never see. Downey Mayor Claudia Frometa opens up about burnout, mental health, public expectations, and why self-care is essential for strong leadership. A real and honest conversation about what it means to serve.
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Why the Holidays Are About Faith, Family & Being There for One Person at a Time
As the holiday season begins, former Downey Mayor Mario Guerra reflects on Advent, anticipation with hope, and the importance of kindness, faith, and community. From family holiday traditions to a powerful story about Mother Teresa, this episode is a reminder to slow down, reflect, and be there…
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Downey Just Broke Ground on Something HUGE. A New In-N-Out? A Bowling Alley? And More.
Downey has been busy! In this episode, Former Mayor Mario recaps a full month of community events, city updates, exciting new developments, and a few missed opportunities worth talking about. From honoring local veterans to breaking ground on a major expansion at the Columbia Memorial Space…
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What's New at Stonewood Mall with GM Vito Bello: Round1, Shiekh Shoe & More
Mario interviews Stonewood mall GM Vito Bello about the evolution of retail, how malls integrate online and in-store shopping, and why Stonewood remains a vital part of Downey. They also touch on community ties, local shopping habits, and the mall’s upcoming upgrades. Sponsored by Financial...
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State of the City: Major Updates with Downey Mayor Hector Sosa
This episode dives into Downey’s biggest updates as Mayor Sosa highlights new businesses, important city investments, local programs, and the major projects underway. A great overview of everything moving our city forward.
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My Son Was Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at 12 | A Father's' Story of Faith & Strength
When Ryan Guerra was just 12 years old, his life — and his family’s — changed forever. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, Ryan’s journey became one of courage, discipline, and hope. In this powerful Talking Downey episode, Mario Guerra sits down with his youngest son, Ryan, now 26 and finishing his...
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Downey YMCA: A First Look at What's Coming
Discover what’s being built at the old Downey Family YMCA site! The brand-new Kohler Family YMCA is transforming into a state-of-the-art center for community wellness — complete with modern design, expanded parking, new pools, and family-friendly programs. Hear from Dan Powell and Mauricio Nunes…
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No on Prop 50 Good Governance or Power Grab? California Politics Unpacked
Former Downey Mayor Mario A. Guerra and Cerritos College Trustee Zurich Lewis unpack LA County’s ICE “state of emergency,” eviction moratorium talk, Katie Porter controversy, the brewing LA mayoral field, Gov. Newsom’s latest bill signings, a youth-sports blue-ribbon commission, and why Prop 50...
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California in Crisis: Prop 50 Exposed, Housing, and Local Politics with Roxanne Hodge
Former Downey Mayor Mario Guerra sits down with Roxanne Hodge, Chairwoman of the Los Angeles Republican Party, for an eye-opening discussion on Prop 50, LA County’s emergency declaration, property rights, and California’s political future. From redistricting controversies to small landlords…
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No on Prop 50: Gerrymandering, Power Grab & California’s Future
Why are political lines being redrawn — again? Mario Guerra and guest LAGOP Chair Roxanne Hodge dive deep into Proposition 50, discussing how it changes who controls district maps, who really benefits, and what’s at stake for California’s democracy. ✅ Understand before you vote. #Gerrymandering...
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Johana Hernandez: From Downey High to Global Runways
Meet Johana Hernandez, the powerhouse Latina designer behind GLAUDI. In this episode, she opens up about building her brand, honoring her heritage, and empowering women through fashion. Sponsored by Financial Partners Credit Union – thank you for supporting Talking Downey and our community...
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JROTC Visits the Columbia Memorial Space Center in Downey
This inspiring day brought together over 100 Warren High School JROTC cadets to explore the history of the Space Shuttle Columbia, learn about STEM and leadership, and get an exclusive look at the upcoming Inspiration Building — a $40 million project that will showcase Downey’s aerospace legacy....
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No On Prop 50 - Protect Fair Elections & Independent Redistricting
Prop 50 takes redistricting away from voters and gives it back to politicians. Mario Guerra explains how this move threatens fair elections and silences voters. Don’t be fooled—vote NO on Prop 50.
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Downey’s Police Chief Scott Loughner on Safety, Recruitment & Community Trust
Mayor Mario sits down with Downey Police Chief Scott Loughner (26 years with DPD; 13th Chief) to talk public safety, recruiting and retaining quality officers, body-worn cameras, drones, school resource officers, and how Measure D is strengthening the department. The Chief also addresses the…
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How Downtown Downey’s Nightlife Was Born
On Talking Downey: Business Edition, Natalie Tursios sits down with Simon Simolian, the entrepreneur who reimagined Downtown Downey’s nightlife. From buying an empty restaurant to building Joseph’s Bar and Grill, to creating Bella Lounge’s unique vibe, Simon reveals the hard work, resilience, and...
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Revitalizing the Downey Chamber of Commerce: A Conversation with President David Kantar
In this episode of Talking Downey, former Mayor Mario A. Guerra sits down with David Kantar, the new President of the Downey Chamber of Commerce and VP of Government Affairs at Financial Partners Credit Union. They dive into the Chamber’s revitalization, updating bylaws, boosting membership,...
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Unpacking Men's Mental Health With Downey Mayor Hector Sosa and Therapist Ronnie Fernandez
In this episode of Talking Downey, Mayor Hector Sosa sits down with therapist Ronnie Fernandez to dive deep into men’s mental health. They explore the stigma around therapy, how men experience depression differently, the importance of friendships and hobbies, and why seeking help isn’t a...
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Downey Schools Spotlight | Dr. Roger Brossmer Joins Talking Downey
Join Mario A. Guerra as he talks with Dr. Roger Brossmer, the new Superintendent of Downey Unified School District. They discuss the district’s rich history, innovative programs, challenges with enrollment, and how strong teachers, staff, and facilities are shaping the next generation of leaders…
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Business Edition: Downey's Role In Electric Innovation
What happens when business and sustainability meet? Travis King and XPO Auto Sales in Downey are showing us. Their work converting vehicles into EVs is more than a business—it’s a mission to help communities and drive Downey into a cleaner future.
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Warren High's JROTC: Discipline, Drive & A Vision for More
Mayor Mario highlights how Warren High's JROTC went from a classroom closet to one of Downey's most impactful youth programs. Featuring the inspiring stories of L.t Colonel Gardner and top cadet Iris Ramirez.
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Steve Hilton running for Governor of California Breaks It Down/$3 Gas, Lower Taxes, & Real Change?
What would it take to bring real relief to working Californians? Governor candidate Steve Hilton joins Talking Downey to explain how we got to this point—and what he plans to do about it. From crushing fuel prices to an over regulated business climate, Hilton outlines his plan to reset…
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From Intern to Interviewer Tori Gomez Talks w/ Eric Pierce
Join host Tori Gomez as she interviews Downey Patriot editor Eric Pierce in a candid episode of Talking Downey. They explore how journalism has changed, why elected officials need to be transparent, and how becoming a dad gave Eric a new view of the city. Plus, favorite local spots, park ideas…
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She Took Over Talking Downey, Introducing Victoria "Tori" Gomez
In this special episode of Talking Downey, Mario Guerra passes the mic to guest host Victoria “Tori” Gomez for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation. They discuss Downey’s growth, the power of public service, and Mario’s journey from refugee to community leader. Tori also shares her passion for...
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‘Silence is Complicity’—Claudia Frometa Disagrees and Explains Why
Downey Councilwoman Claudia Frometa joins former Mayor Mario A. Guerra on Talking Downey to discuss the city’s response to immigration enforcement, the challenges of balancing empathy with law enforcement, and how local governments are navigating a highly charged political climate. Claudia also...
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Know Your Rights: What to Do If Ice Shows Up
Councilman Horacio Ortiz and immigration attorney Cynthia Santiago provide a powerful, clear-eyed conversation about what immigrant communities can do to stay informed and protected. With real-life examples and urgent legal insights, this video outlines the rights individuals have at home, at…
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Only 3 in 10 Qualify to Join The U.S. Army.. She was One of Them
In this heartfelt episode of Talking Downey, former Mayor Mario Guerra honors the 250th birthday of the United States Army. As a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, he shares personal stories, celebrates Downey students taking the oath to serve, and highlights the life-changing power of...
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Downey Memorial Day Tribute
Description: In this heartfelt Memorial Day episode, former Downey Mayor Mario A. Guerra honors the memory of fallen U.S. service members, reflects on the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, and recounts powerful personal stories of sacrifice and service—including a tribute to Lance Corporal Josh...
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Downey Says It's Business-Friendly...But Is It?
In this episode of Talking Downey, Mario A. Guerra dives into the frustrations local businesses face with Downey's city processes. From permitting delays to excessive costs, Guerra shares real examples, personal insights, and practical suggestions to make Downey more welcoming to entrepreneurs.…
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Downey Voters losing their voices forever.. Terrible decision by Council!
In this passionate episode of Talking Downey, former Mayor Mario Guerra exposes what he calls one of the biggest mistakes in Downey's history: the City Council’s push to change the city's districting system. He breaks down the questionable legal threats, the lack of public awareness, and why this...
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Cuba Made Me Thankful to Be American
In this special episode, host Mario Guerra shares powerful reflections on his trip to Cuba, revealing the heartbreaking realities of daily life under communist rule. From electricity blackouts to food shortages and crumbling infrastructure, Mario contrasts the resilience of the Cuban people with...
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Reflecting on the Life, Legacy, and Recent Passing of Pope Francis
In this heartfelt episode of Talking Downey, former Mayor Mario A. Guerra reflects on the life, legacy, and recent passing of Pope Francis. From his historic leadership and compassion for the poor to his environmental advocacy and groundbreaking humility, Guerra shares personal insights and the...