The Sunset Connection - Perspectives from SF's Sunset Neighborhood

Send us Fan MailSan Francisco voters are being asked to weigh in on earthquake preparedness, term limits, and two competing business tax measures that could shape the city’s economic future.In this episode, Jessica Ho is joined by Ryan Blake of Platinum Advisors to break down Propositions A through D in plain English, including the debate behind the so-called “CEO tax,” downtown recovery, city budget pressures, and how competing ballot measures actually work.Whether you already vote in every election or are just trying to make sense of the voter pamphlet, this episode aims to make the June 2 ballot easier to understand.The views expressed by the guest are his own and do not reflect those of Platinum Advisors or its clients.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailMost people in San Francisco think “affordable housing” is for someone else.But the reality is more complicated.In this episode, I sit down with Manson Leong from Self-Help for the Elderly to break down how the system actually works and who it really serves.We talk about: the difference between low-income and affordable housing  how federal and city programs work  Self-Help’s role in senior housing  and how difficult it can be for seniors, especially those who do not speak English, to navigate the system We also talk about what is available right now and why so many people still struggle to access it.If this is something you or your family are trying to figure out, there is a place to start.The Westside Housing Resource Fair is coming up next Saturday, April 18, from 10 AM to 2 PM at 1199 9th Avenue. It is free and open to the public, with housing counselors, legal help, and more.ResourcesWestside Housing Resource Fair Saturday, April 18, 2026 · 10 AM – 2 PM San Francisco County Fair Building (1199 9th Avenue) Free, walk-ins welcomeSelf-Help for the Elderly selfhelpelderly.orgManson Leong Contact: Email: [email protected] Phone: 415-677-7688DAHLIA Housing Portal housing.sfgov.orgMOHCD sfmohcd.orgMEDA medasf.orgHUD Income Limits (SF) huduser.govAbout the HostJessica J. Ho is a San Francisco realtor with Sequoia Real Estate and host of The Sunset Connection. She focuses on housing, neighborhood community, and the people who make San Francisco what it is.Email: [email protected] DRE #02251177Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailDisclosure: My husband, Christian Kropff, is Supervisor Alan Wong's campaign manager. Every candidate in this series was made aware of this connection before recording. The questions in this episode are the same ones asked of every candidate throughout the series.This is the final episode of The Sunset Connection's District 4 Candidate Series.Over the past several weeks, I've spoken with every candidate running for District 4 Supervisor - asking the same questions, in the same format, each time. The goal has always been the same: to give Sunset residents the chance to hear directly from the people asking for their vote, in their own words, before the race gets condensed into slogans and sound bites.In this final conversation, I'm joined by Alan Wong, the current appointed Supervisor for District 4. Alan is a lifelong Sunset resident who has served the community as a union organizer, District 4 legislative aide, National Guard officer, City College Trustee, and director of a children's nonprofit. He was appointed by Mayor Daniel Lurie to serve as District 4 Supervisor.We discuss his personal connection to the district, what motivated him to run, how his experiences have shaped his approach to leadership, and what success would look like in his first year - along with the same scenario question asked of every candidate in the series.Thank you to every candidate who participated in this series, and to every listener who took the time to hear them out. Local elections are decided by small margins, and informed voters make stronger communities.Previous episodes in this series:1. Albert Chow2. Natalie Gee3. David Lee4. Jeremy Julian Greco5. Alan Wong (this episode)About this series:This is a non-endorsement candidate interview series. All participating candidates were asked the same questions in the same format to give District 4 residents direct access to how candidates think, not to persuade or advocate for any outcome. Any personal political views or activities of the host are separate from the podcast and do not affect participation or coverage.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with Emma Hare, legislative aide to Supervisor Myrna Melgar, about the Inner Sunset and transportation policy in San Francisco. If you've ever wondered what a legislative aide actually does, what makes the Inner Sunset unique, and the so-called “war on cars," this episode is for you. We also talk about including two transit funding measures expected on the November 2026 ballot that could shape public transit funding.Whether you take transit, drive, bike, or walk, these upcoming measures will influence how the Bay Area moves and how we pay for it.For more information on the ballot measures discussed:San Francisco Muni parcel tax proposal: https://www.spur.org/news/2026-01-29/proposed-parcel-tax-would-help-sustain-muni-service-and-rider-approvalRegional transportation measure: https://transformca.org/regional-transportation-measure-2/Have questions or ideas for future episodes? Email me at [email protected] Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a home becomes more than real estate?Welcome to the home of Jim Kirk (yes, that’s really his name), who lives in a house that has become memory, identity, and community all at once.In this episode of The Sunset Connection, I record on location inside one of the most unusual homes in San Francisco’s Sunset District, known by neighbors as the “Starship House.”Jim grew up in the Sunset and never really left. Over decades, he transformed his family home into something layered and deeply personal: part art installation, part time capsule, part gathering space. Kids wander in. Neighbors stop by. Stories live in every corner.But now, the future of the house is uncertain.This conversation isn’t just about one property. It’s about legacy. It’s about neighborhood change. It’s about what happens when rising costs, shifting priorities, and time itself collide with the places that hold our history.What kind of Sunset are we building, and who gets to stay?I’m Jessica J. Ho, and this is The Sunset Connection.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailThis episode continues The Sunset Connection’s District 4 Candidate Series, where each candidate for Supervisor is asked the same questions in the same format.In this conversation, Jeremy Julian Greco - a longtime District 4 resident, educator, artist, and former worker-owner at Other Avenues Food Co-op -  shares his personal connection to the Sunset, what led him to run for Supervisor, and how his background shapes his approach to leadership.Topics include community care, support for working families and seniors, small businesses, and the role of art and culture in San Francisco neighborhoods.This is a non-endorsement interview. The goal of the series is to give District 4 residents the opportunity to hear directly from candidates in their own words before the race is reduced to slogans and sound bites.About this series:This is a non-endorsement candidate interview series. All participating candidates were asked the same questions in the same format to give District 4 residents direct access to how candidates think, not to persuade or advocate for any outcome. Any personal political views or activities of the host are separate from the podcast and do not affect participation or coverage. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailThis episode continues The Sunset Connection’s District 4 candidate interview series.I’m speaking with every candidate running for Supervisor and asking the same questions, in the same order, to give Sunset residents a clear look at how each candidate thinks and approaches decision-making - before campaigns get condensed into slogans.In this episode, I’m joined by David Lee, a Sunset homeowner, lifelong Westside San Franciscan, and educator. David previously served as a San Francisco Recreation and Park Commissioner, where he worked on neighborhood projects including Sava Pool, Sunset Rec Center, and McCoppin Square. He has also spent decades registering Asian American voters across the Bay Area through his work with the Chinese American Voter Education Committee.We discuss what motivated him to run, how his experiences shape his approach, how he prioritizes competing community voices, and what success would look like in his first year as supervisor.About this series:This is a non-endorsement candidate interview series. All participating candidates were asked the same questions in the same format to give District 4 residents direct access to how candidates think, not to persuade or advocate for any outcome. Any personal political views or activities of the host are separate from the podcast and do not affect participation or coverage. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailThis episode continues the District 4 candidate mini-series on The Sunset Connection.I’m speaking with every candidate who agrees to participate, using the same questions and the same format each time. The goal is simple: to give Sunset residents the opportunity to hear directly from the people asking for their vote.In this conversation, I’m joined by Natalie Gee, Chief of Staff to Supervisor Shamann Walton and a candidate for District 4 Supervisor. Natalie discusses her priorities, her approach to problem-solving, and what she hopes to accomplish for the district.  Each interview includes a shared scenario question designed to help listeners compare how candidates approach problem-solving Local elections are often decided by very small margins. Clear, direct information matters, and this series is intended to help voters make thoughtful decisions by hearing from candidates in their own words.About this series:This is a non-endorsement candidate interview series. All participating candidates were asked the same questions in the same format to give District 4 residents direct access to how candidates think, not to persuade or advocate for any outcome. Any personal political views or activities of the host are separate from the podcast and do not affect participation or coverage. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailThis episode marks the start of a District 4 candidate mini-series on The Sunset Connection.I’ll be speaking with every candidate who agrees to come on the podcast, using the same questions and the same format each time. The goal is simple: give Sunset residents the chance to hear directly from the people asking for their vote.To kick things off, I’m joined by Albert Chow, a San Francisco native, longtime Sunset resident, and small business owner. We talk about what led him to run, how his background has shaped his priorities, and how he approaches tradeoffs when community voices conflict.Local elections are often decided by very small margins. Clear, direct information matters. My hope is that this series helps voters make thoughtful decisions by hearing from candidates in their own words.About this series: This is a non-endorsement candidate interview series. All participating candidates were asked the same questions in the same format to give District 4 residents direct access to how candidates think, not to persuade or advocate for any outcome. Any personal political views or activities of the host are separate from the podcast and do not affect participation or coverage. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailAs we close out the year, I’m sharing a conversation that feels especially fitting for this moment.In this episode, I sit down with Alan Wong, the newly appointed Supervisor for San Francisco’s District 4, to talk about his roots in the Sunset, his family’s immigration story, and the experiences that shaped his path into public service.Before policy positions and headlines, this conversation focuses on the human side - growing up in the neighborhood, learning to serve through student government, protecting language access and education, and navigating leadership in a city that’s always in motion.This is a reflective, grounded listen to close out the year - about people, place, and how we move forward together, even when change feels uncomfortable.BONUS:  Earlier this month, I joined the Fun Police podcast with my friends, Ben Bleiman, Sharky Laguana, and Manny Yekutiel, for a candid conversation about District 4 and the Sunset. If you’re looking for more context, that episode is linked here. Photo credit: Gabrielle Lurie/S.F. ChronicleStay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Pat Maguire opens up about the moments that shaped his new book, All Things Beautiful. He talks about the night that changed everything for his family, what grief taught him, and the unexpected place where he rediscovered purpose. This is a vulnerable, grounded conversation about loss, love, sobriety, and the work of becoming whole again.We also touch on Conor’s unforgettable senior night - the 63-point game that sparked media attention and reminded Pat of the legacy Kevin left behind.Episode artwork photo credit: Courtesy of Joseph Wittlake / International School of San FranciscoFor more reading:SF Chronicle Article about Conor Maguire by Mitch Stephens: https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/high-school/article/s-f-senior-makes-record-14-3-pointers-scores-63-20160889.phpYou can find Pat’s book, All Things Beautiful, wherever books are sold.  Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Sunset Connection, I talk with Pat Maguire, who opened and runs Java Beach Café with his wife, Buffy Maguire. Both Pat and Buffy are San Francisco natives with deep ties in the Outer Sunset. We talk about what it was really like to grow up in an Irish-Catholic family in the Outer Sunset - when the neighborhood was close-knit, rough, and far from the calm place most people know today. Pat shares what it was like coming of age here in the ’80s and ’90s: why fights broke out between kids who all knew each other, how those rivalries turned into friendships, and what it means to look back without glorifying the past.It’s one man’s story that captures a raw, often overlooked piece of the Sunset’s identity. Check out Pat’s book, All Things Beautiful, for more of his reflections - and stay tuned for Part 2 of our conversation.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Joaquin shares how his upbringing inspired his work in public service and what the new SMART Property System means for homeowners, professionals, and the city’s future. Plus, a few of his favorite Sunset hangouts. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan Mail There’s a K-Pop store in the Sunset District. Yeah, you read that right. In a neighborhood better known for dimsum than fandom, SarangHello has become a magnet for teens, stans, and anyone chasing joy. Jessica talks with owner Kevin Roger Teng about how he and his business partners, Pip and Ches, built a community hub out of pure love for K-Pop, and what it means when new energy moves into old neighborhoods. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailWhat happened to the Sunset Night Market? What is Sunset Mercantile? And how did the Outer Sunset Farmers Market and Mercantile get started? Is there anything happening for the holidays in the Sunset?Tune in to The Sunset Connection, where Jessica Ho talks with Angie Pettit of Sunset Mercantile about upcoming community events - from Diwali (Oct 19) and the Halloween Farmers Market (Oct 26) to the Halloween Night Bazaar (Oct 31), Holiday Mercantile, Light Stroll, and more.✨ See the full calendar at sunsetmercantilesf.comStay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailA foggy square, a rolling library cart, and a neighborhood ready to gather, this is how a small idea became a 15‑year tradition that now brings 700 people together every Friday in October. We sit down with Albert to tell the full story of Movies in McCoppin, from a merchants association looking for fresh energy to a city‑loved series that unites families across the Sunset and beyond.We walk through the origin moment sparked by former Supervisor Carmen Chu’s suggestion, the early nights with a DVD player, and the steady evolution to bigger screens, better sound, and posters that have become part of the district’s visual history. Then we explore the secret sauce: playful pre‑show experiences tailored to each film, stormtroopers for Star Wars, hula lessons for Moana, NASA talks for Hidden Figures, a petting zoo for Zootopia, and a clever partnership model that buys food from Taraval restaurants and serves it for free, introducing neighbors to local favorites and keeping dollars nearby.This year brings a strong lineup: Moana 2, Inside Out 2, Monsters, Inc., The Wild Robot, and Coco. There will be free popcorn, free food from local merchants, arts and crafts, and more! For families looking to do something family-friendly for Halloween, which falls on a Friday this year, come join us for a Coco screening with trick‑or‑treat giveaways so families can bundle costumes, candy, and community in one stop. We also unpack how People of Parkside Sunset (POPS) evolved from a merchants association to a broader community advocate focused on safety, cleanliness, lighting, and bringing fresh attention to Taraval Street, even courting film shoots to boost local pride and foot traffic.What sticks most are the memories: the roar when the series returned after the pandemic pause, kids singing along in costume, neighbors meeting future classmates. If you care about community building, local restaurants, family‑friendly events, and the simple joy of a movie under the fog, you’ll feel right at home here. Follow, share with a friend, and leave a review, then grab a blanket and come say hi on Friday night.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Sunset Connection, Jessica Ho sits down with Parag Gupta - SF Board of Education commissioner, affordable housing leader, and proud SFUSD parent. Education is often called the “great equalizer,” but in San Francisco it collides with housing costs, politics, and questions of trust in public institutions. Parag shares his family’s immigration story, his career in social impact, and why “boring government” might be exactly what our schools need. A wide-ranging, personal, and surprisingly hopeful conversation about schools, homes, and the future of San Francisco.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailYes, Redfin and Zillow are great for browsing listings, but will they tell you about the home that hasn’t hit the market yet, the seller quietly desperate to move, or the problems hiding behind perfect staging?In this episode of The Sunset Connection, we go back to the basics: real estate is complicated, full of legal and financial pitfalls, and finding someone you trust to guide you through it isn’t easy. Host Jessica Ho sits down with Sequoia Real Estate’s Kelvin Kam and Ted Manahan to tackle the myths, the truths, and the messy reality of being a Realtor in 2025.A true professional doesn’t just shuffle paperwork. They help you reach your financial and personal goals, field hundreds of calls, juggle clashing personalities, and manage the liability that comes with high-stakes negotiations. Even in the age of AI, the best Realtors know how to find more information, create more leverage, and deliver better outcomes.And because no episode is complete without some fun, they close with a round of San Francisco real estate trivia. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at Realtors, wondered if you really need one, or just want a smarter take on how deals actually get done in 2025, this episode is for you.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jessica sits down with Carmen and Steven Lee, the creators of Sunset Commons, a brand-new arts and crafts café in San Francisco’s Inner Sunset. The two high school sweethearts turned small business owners talk about what it takes to launch a small business post-pandemic, the importance of third spaces, and why crocheting in public might just save your soul.The episode was recorded earlier this summer, but we’re launching it now because Sunset Commons officially opened its doors on August 2nd!You’ll also hear about their longtime peer learning group SPREAD (@spread_sf), their favorite DIY kits, and their vision for a Sunset where creativity, community, and curiosity collide.Follow them at:@sunset.commons – for cafe & event updates@spread_sf – for their peer-led learning groupLean into your hobbies. Find real connection. Join the Sunset Renaissance.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to be Chinese American in 2025, when a sweeping new federal law - HR 1, also known as the “Big Beautiful Bill” - fundamentally changes immigration, enforcement, and who feels like they belong?NEW! 📝 Transcript and Chinese translation now available on Substack: 🆕📝 訪談文字稿與中文翻譯現已上架 Substack：  https://substack.com/home/post/p-168431500---In this episode, we speak first with Jose Ng, Immigrant Rights Program Manager at Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA), who breaks down how the BBB impacts mixed-status families, raises application fees, and heightens fear, especially among San Francisco’s estimated 10,000 undocumented Chinese immigrants and their extended communities.If you or someone you know needs support, CAA offers free immigration consultations and legal referrals: 📞 Immigration Hotline: (415) 761-3222 🌐 www.caasf.org/immigrant-rights 📱 WeChat: CAASF1969Then we turn to Cliff Yee, Vice President of Programs and Leadership Development at Coro Northern California and a lifelong resident of San Francisco’s Richmond District. Cliff shares how his family’s story - from his grandfather’s arrival through Angel Island to the same house he grew up in - grounds his efforts to reclaim and reimagine Chinese American identity in a neighborhood too often overlooked, despite its deep immigrant roots.Together, we explore what it means to navigate belonging, memory, and resilience in real time - as the ground shifts beneath our feet.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIf you live in San Francisco, chances are you either went to public school, have a child in public school, or know someone who does. But even if you don’t, the health of our schools reflects the health of our neighborhoods, our tax dollars, and our shared future.In this episode, I sit down with Han Li from The San Francisco Standard to unpack SFUSD’s budget crisis, the recent push for stabilization, and why school closures might still be on the horizon.I hope that this episode will give you a clearer, human picture of what just happened and why it matters for all of us. Episode recorded: Friday, June 20, 2025Articles by Han Li:SF’s school district says it finally figured out a budget to avoid bankruptcy  - 6/13/2025State warns SF schools: We’re not going to bail you out of budget armageddon - 5/7/2025SFUSD proposes major cuts to central office, slashing student services, curriculum unit - 4/15/2025Early retirements could spare SF public schools hundreds of painful layoffs - 2/25/2025SFUSD prepares for ‘painful’ cuts across schools, central office – 2/7/2025Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailDr. Russell Jeung is a sociologist, Christian, and co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate. In this powerful conversation, Russell joins Jessica Ho to talk about what it means to be Asian American in a time of rising hate, surveillance, and silence. As a longtime professor at San Francisco State University, just steps from the Sunset District, Dr. Jeung shares how pandemic-era scapegoating evolved into broader anti-immigrant policies impacting researchers, families, and students.From ICE raids to the fear of being disappeared, this episode is a call to empathy, courage, and storytelling - and a reminder that even if it doesn't feel personal, it is.🔗 Learn more: • Dr. Russell Jeung @ SFSU  • Stop AAPI Hate: https://stopaapihate.org🎧 Listen + subscribe to The Sunset Connection wherever you get your podcasts.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when your kid’s school assignment isn’t tied to your address, but to a citywide lottery? In this episode of The Sunset Connection, host Jessica Ho sits down with four Sunset District parents to unpack the complexities of San Francisco’s public school system.You’ll hear from:Gabi Wu, a real estate agent and bilingual education advocate who started researching kindergarten options when her daughter was three.Alex Wong, chair of SF Parent Action, who walks us through the school assignment process, from values to waitlists.Lucy Wang, a PTA leader and longtime public servant, who shares what it really takes to stay in the system through high school.Patrick Wolff, former U.S. Chess Champion turned education advocate, who pushes for better funding and special ed support.Plus, we wrap up with a fun trivia round on San Francisco schools!Whether you’re planning to start a family, already navigating TK applications, or just trying to understand how education shapes our city, this episode is for you. 🎶 Original music for this episode was licensed via Soundstripe. Special thanks to the artists who bring these stories to life. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailThe aroma hits you first: smoky, rich, unmistakably Texan. But this isn’t Houston. You’re in San Francisco’s Sunset District, where Daniel Ramirez and his wife, Lareina, have built something special at Smoking D’s BBQ.Daniel, a Houston native, missed the Texas barbecue of his hometown, so he made it himself and his own. What began as casual taste tests for homesick friends turned into a farmers market hustle, and eventually, a brick-and-mortar hit on Irving Street that now sells out almost every weekend. But it wasn’t just the brisket that turned heads - it was the bao.Inspired by a trip to a night market in China, Daniel had the idea to merge his 18-hour smoked brisket with the pillowy softness of a Chinese pork bun. After several experiments (and a few delicious mistakes), the brisket bao was born - a cross-cultural creation that honors his Mexican roots and Lareina’s Chinese heritage. It’s now their breakout hit.🎙️ In this episode, we talk about:What makes Texas brisket so legendary - and so hard to masterHow Daniel and Lareina blend Mexican, Chinese, and Texan traditions in every biteWhy doing barbecue in San Francisco comes with unique challengesWhat it takes to grow from backyard cookouts to a full-time restaurantAnd how a bao changed everything📍 Smoking D’s BBQ is located at 2181 Irving Street in San Francisco. They’re open Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm - but go early. When it’s gone, it’s gone.🎧 Like the episode? Share it, hit follow, and leave a quick review. It helps more neighbors find the show.💬 Got a guest idea or feedback? Reach out on social media or email me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to grow up Chinese American? And how do the stories of Chinese families in the Sunset District resonate with communities everywhere?In this episode, Jessica sits down with Lily Wong, Director of Community Engagement at Wah Mei School and Director of the Sunset Chinese Cultural District, to explore the stories that don’t always make the headlines.Together, they dive into:How Wah Mei became a pioneering bilingual, bicultural preschool in the Sunset DistrictHow the Sunset Chinese Cultural District was born during a moment of crisis. Website: https://sfsccd.org/en/ What it means to find belonging across cultures, generations, and neighborhoodsHow murals, street festivals, and everyday victories are weaving new roots for the futureAlong the way, Lily shares personal memories of growing up in the Mission District, witnessing neighborhood change, and reconnecting with her heritage in powerful new ways.🌟 Plus: Stick around for a fun round of Sunset District trivia! (Spoiler: Lily wins… kind of.)Whether you grew up in San Francisco, are part of an immigrant family, or simply love stories about neighborhoods and community pride, this episode is for you.Come for the ideas and perspectives, and stay for the heart, history, and hope.Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailHi Folks! This week’s episode has a different format, released in response to recent national changes that could reshape healthcare access for millions of Americans. With funding cuts, layoffs, and political uncertainty at the federal level, I wanted to share a timely conversation that explores what else might be possible.My guest is Barry Hermanson, a longtime Sunset District resident, Green Party advocate, and former small business owner who has spent decades organizing around healthcare access and policy reform. Together, we unpack the real-world consequences of a profit-driven system and explore the promise - and obstacles - of single-payer healthcare in California.💬 Why this matters to me: Before I got into real estate and podcasting, I spent years working in healthcare policy and advocacy - including as Director of Government & Community Affairs at a local community health center. I’ve seen up close how hard it is for people to get care, even when they’re “covered.” This conversation is my attempt to unpack those experiences and ask better questions about how we move forward. ⚠️ Disclaimer: The guest’s appearance does not constitute an endorsement of any political party or candidate. Views expressed are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host.🏡 Local Updates from the Sunset District🌳 Sunset Dunes is now officially open - a new park celebrating the neighborhood’s natural history 🏘️ Big zoning changes are coming to San Francisco. Learn more at sfplanning.org 🧺 Outer Sunset Farmers Market: Sundays, 9 AM-3 PM | 37th Ave between Ortega & Quintara 🧠 Trivia Night at Harrington’s Bar & Grille - hosted monthly by Jessica. Email for upcoming dates!📬 Connect with Me📸 Instagram: @jessicaj.ho 🌐 Facebook: The Sunset Connection ✉️ Email: [email protected] 🎧 Subscribe & listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcastsIf you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review, sharing it with a friend, and tagging me on social media. It really helps more people discover the show.🎶 Music Credits“Spring Cleaning (Instrumental)” by Lunareh “Something Else (Instrumental)” by Nu Alkemi All tracks licensed via SoundstripeStay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to afford a life in San Francisco - and what happens when plans change?In this episode, I sit down with Dyanna and Dane Volek to talk about their journey through homeownership, affordable housing programs, and navigating major life transitions.Dyanna, a public servant and Sunset native, shares how the City’s housing programs helped her build a future in the place she grew up. Dane reflects on the closure of Anchor Brewing - where he rose from keg washer to brewmaster - and how he’s rebuilding through art, financial planning, and community connection.We reflect on the systems that hold up and the ones that fall short, the emotional weight of transformation, and the quiet strength it takes to stay rooted in hope - even when everything goes off course, but somehow ends up exactly where it should.Plus: - The second edition of the Realty Rundown: a 20-year lookback at the Sunset housing market - Anchor Brewing’s last brewmaster on the brewery’s closure - Big ideas on how public-private partnerships could support SF’s working class - And some good old trivia to bring it all home 🎉Have questions for Dyanna or Dane? Reach Dane at [email protected] and Dyanna on Instagram: @dyannaluna👉 Learn more about San Francisco's BMR (Below Market Rate) ownership programs here: https://www.sf.gov/reports--august-2024--below-market-rate-bmr-ownership-programs💬 Like the podcast? Share it with a friend! 📣 Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thesunsetconnection 📩 Email me: [email protected]🎧 See you in two weeks on The Sunset Connection!Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode of The Sunset Connection, host Jessica Ho introduces two exciting new segments: The Realty Rundown and Community Announcements!We start by exploring the latest real estate trends impacting San Francisco's Sunset District, highlighting key market insights, financial opportunities, and the city's beneficial DALP program for first-time homebuyers.Our special guest is Margaret Graf, a dedicated advocate for seniors, retired nurse and attorney, and accomplished author. Margaret shares rich stories from over six decades in the Sunset District, reflecting on San Francisco's transformation, her work with seniors through her nonprofit Senior Power, and her impactful roles with the Advisory Council on Aging and Disability Services (DAS). She also discusses her delightful children's book, "The Adventures of Rob Raven: Climate Change by Wing and Tail," and previews her upcoming book, "Senior Sharp," celebrating the art and joy of aging.Community Announcements:Join Vindy Chan and the Taraval Police Station’s Scam Awareness Project, meeting every other month, next in May 2025. Email Jessica or Vindy (info below) for more information!Attend the Never Better Elders Event by Community Living Campaign on May 15th, 1-4 pm, at the Hall of Flowers, featuring senior resources, entertainment, and appearances by Margaret Graf and Art with Elders.Key Resources Mentioned in the Episode:DALP (Downpayment Assistance Loan Program): SF Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community DevelopmentApplication Deadline: June 2nd, 2025Senior Power Newsletter & Community Living Campaign:Contact Margaret Graf: [email protected] Department of Aging and Disability (DAS):Aging & Disability Resource Line: (415) 355-6700SF Department of Disability and Aging ServicesVindy Chan (Safety Liaison, Taraval Police Station)Email: [email protected]"The Adventures of Rob Raven: Climate Change by Wing and Tail" by Margaret Graf:Purchase on AmazonUpcoming Book "Senior Sharp" by Margaret Graf:Stay tuned for release information in May 2025Never Better Elders Event:Date: May 15th, 2025, 1-4 pmLocation: Hall of Flowers, Golden Gate Park, San FranciscoCommunity Living Campaign EventsStay Connected:Host Jessica Ho:[email protected] you for tuning in to The Sunset Connection. Let’s stay connected and continue supporting our vibrant community!Until next time, that’s all folks!Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan Mail🍀 Happy Early St. Patrick's Day! 🍀In this third episode of The Sunset Connection, we sit down with Katy Tang, former San Francisco District 4 Supervisor and current Executive Director of the Office of Small Business. As a lifelong Sunset resident, Katy reflects on her journey in public service, the challenges and triumphs of her time in office, and her ongoing work advocating for small businesses across San Francisco.Come along as we dive into:How growing up in the Sunset shaped her leadership styleThe Discover Your District initiative and why community connections matterThe evolving small business landscape and how government can better support local entrepreneursHer work leading San Francisco’s Office of Small Business and her mission to simplify processes for business ownersWhat the future holds for the Sunset District’s economic growth and local businessesPlus, we wrap things up with some fun St. Patrick’s Day trivia. For example, did you know how SF brewers smuggled malt syrup during Prohibition?Resources Mentioned in the Episode:SF Office of Small Business: sfgov.org/smallbusiness – Your one-stop shop for permits, leasing support, and small business guidance.Shop Dine SF Initiative: sfgov.org/shopdinesf – Support local businesses and explore curated guides for neighborhoods like the Sunset.Business Registration Info: sftreasurer.org/business – Need to register a business in SF? Start here.Follow the SF Office of Small Business on Instagram: @shopdinesf📢 Want to hear more? Subscribe to The Sunset Connection, leave a review, and share your thoughts by emailing me at [email protected]! Let me know what topics and guests you’d love to hear from next. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailDive into the heart of the Sunset District with SFPD Taraval Police Captain Brien Hoo as he explores the intricacies of community safety and policing. Growing up in the area, Captain Hu shares his vibrant memories and insights into how the neighborhood has transformed over the decades. This episode not only highlights the pressing public safety issues facing the community, particularly the rise of scams targeting vulnerable residents, but also emphasizes the vital role of community policing in building trust and cooperation between law enforcement and citizens. Join us for an engaging conversation filled with valuable insights and a bit of fun with trivia that delves into the history of the Sunset District. Discover how each of us can contribute to making our community safer while celebrating its rich diversity. If you're curious about how to get involved in local initiatives or simply want to learn more about your neighborhood, this episode is packed with relevant and actionable information. Let’s work together to keep our Sunset District thriving! Tune in, engage with us, and take part in shaping the future of our community.Vimeo Link to SFPD Blessing Scam VideoPlease contact me at [email protected] if you have any ideas or feedback! Thanks, and see you again in two weeks. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

Send us Fan MailIn the inaugural episode of "The Sunset Connection," host Jessica Ho, a Sunset resident, sits down with Albert Chow, esteemed community leader and owner of the historic Great Wall Hardware store in San Francisco's Sunset District. Together, they embark on a journey through time, exploring the neighborhood's transformation from its origins as the "Outside Lands" to the vibrant community it is today.They reflect on Albert's personal stories, discuss how the neighborhood's changing demographics influence its rich cultural tapestry, and more.Join us for this enlightening conversation as we celebrate the Sunset District's rich history, its dynamic present, and the inspiring individuals who contribute to its enduring spirit.Have an idea for the podcast or want a chance to be featured in the next one? Please email me at [email protected]. Stay Connected📌 Listen on Buzzsprout 📷 Follow on Instagram 📘 Like us on Facebook ▶️ Watch on YouTube ✉️ Email: [email protected], share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.