SoCo Chat

Episode 95 – Taking the lead: New County Executive David Guhin on leading the largest workforce in Sonoma County

The County of Sonoma has a new top administrator, and he’s hitting the ground running. In this episode of SoCo Chat, County Executive David Guhin discusses the County’s budget challenges and looks ahead to major initiatives on the horizon. Drawing on his background as an engineer and systems thinker, Guhin shares his approach to leadership – and why collaboration with community partners will be key to navigating the uncertainty ahead.

Episode 94 – Taking County Services on the Road: Inside Open Doors Mobile Services

Getting to a County office isn’t always easy. But what if services came to you? Sonoma County has launched Open Doors Mobile Services, a new program delivering food assistance, health resources, and family support directly into local communities. In this episode, Human Services Director Angela Struckmann explains how the program works, who it’s designed to reach, and why bringing services on the road could make a real difference for residents across the county.

Episode 93 – Building Strong Starts: How Sonoma County Is Investing in Early Childhood — with Angie Dillon-Shore, Executive Director of First 5 Sonoma County

The first five years can shape a lifetime. Angie Dillon-Shore, executive director of First 5 Sonoma County, examines the impact of early childhood investment and explains how Measure I, the 2024 voter-approved sales tax, is helping families and young children across the county. Learn how these programs work, who they serve, and how you can connect to resources that help Sonoma County kids thrive.

Episode 92 – In conversation with Rebecca Hermosillo, chair of the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors

In January, Rebecca Hermosillo wrapped up her first year on the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors and stepped into a new role as Chair of the Board. In this episode of SoCo Chat, Hermosillo reflects on lessons from her first year in office and outlines her priorities for the year ahead. Join us as we explore her views on some of the big decisions facing the County, from budget challenges and road repairs to expanding support for mental health services and local immigrants.

Episode 91 – Vista Academy: An Alternative to Juvenile Hall in Sonoma County

When a young person enters the juvenile justice system, what happens next can shape their future. Vista Academy, a partnership between Circuit Rider Community Services and Sonoma County Probation, provides a structured alternative to juvenile hall. Rob Izzo, CEO of the Santa Rosa nonprofit, explains how the program works to reduce re-arrest rates, prevent gang involvement, and help young people build skills, confidence, and stronger decision-making habits. The conversation also explores Circuit Rider’s broader work, from Aggression Replacement Training to college-readiness and outdoor leadership programs that support underserved youth across Sonoma County.