A Nice Place to Podcast

Welcoming new Fountain Valley Mayor Ted Bui

In this special epilogue to the first season of A Nice Place to Podcast, Council Member Glenn Grandis welcomes new Fountain Valley Mayor and podcast host Ted Bui. They discuss the mayor’s goals for his term, among other topics like continuing to embrace cultural diversity, public safety, the continuation of the concierge customer service and implementing business friendly policies.  
Interested in having a guest or topic featured on the podcast? Let us know at fvproud@fountainvalley.gov! 

What it’s like to be a City Manager and a look into 2025 for Fountain Valley

In the final episode of this season of A Nice Place to Podcast, Mayor Grandis talks to City Manager Maggie Le on what it is like to be a City Manager, a.k.a. the CEO of the City. This podcast also covers how Maggie works with City Council and staff to keep everything moving forward in Fountain Valley, City accomplishments in 2024, and what to look forward to in 2025. 
Interested in having a guest or topic featured on the podcast? Let us know at fvproud@fountainvalley.gov! 

Taking a deep dive into the Fountain Valley School District

In this episode, Mayor Grandis welcomes President of the Fountain Valley School Board Steve Schultz to the podcast where they discuss the ins and outs of the Fountain Valley School District. This podcast covers a wide range of topics, from Steve’s 15 years of experience as an educator, to the importance of writing for students and the Lighthouse Leadership program that sets up students for leadership success. 
Interested in having a guest or topic featured on the podcast? Let us know at fvproud@fountainvalley.gov! 

Exploring the History of Fountain Valley

In this episode, Mayor Grandis welcomes historian Daniel Gibb to the podcast where they discuss Fountain Valley's rich history, from the significance of farming and the area’s abundant sugar beet crops to the history behind the nickname “Gospel Swamp.” They also explore the contributions of Mexican and Japanese settlers, how the first mayor of Fountain Valley made national history, and the importance of the Historical Society. 
Interested in having a guest or topic featured on the podcast? Let us know at fvpround@fountainvalley.org!  

Exploring city services and energy alternatives with Fountain Valley public works and Orange County Power Authority.

In this episode, Mayor Grandis sits down with Public Works Director Scott Smith and Orange County Power Authority’s (OCPA) External Affairs Manager, Andrew Di Giovanna. Scott Smith offers an inside look at the city's infrastructure, water management and upcoming plans for fiber-optic internet. Later in the episode, Andrew Di Giovanna joins the conversation to provide insights into OCPA’s cleaner energy alternatives, community partnerships and various aspects of energy sourcing and delivery. 
Interested in having a guest or topic featured on the podcast? Let us know at fvpround@fountainvalley.org! 

The intersection of purpose and passion when serving the community

Mayor Grandis welcomes City of Fountain Valley's Fire Chief Bill McQuaid to discuss a range of topics regarding the future Fire Station 1 upgrades, the unpredictability of being in the fire service, giving back to the community, and upcoming community events.
Interested in having a guest or topic featured on the podcast? Let us know at fvpround@fountainvalley.org!

Welcome to Summer!

Welcome Rob Frizzele to the Podcast! As Fountain Valley's very own recreation & community services director, and a tenured resident himself, Rob dives deep with Mayor Grandis into community activities and summer events around town. Check out what it's like to be part of the most fun department in the City!
 
Interested in having a guest or topic featured on the podcast? Let us know at fvpround@fountainvalley.org !

A Flourishing Community

Mayor Grandis welcomes Fountain Valley’s very own Matt Taylor, a tenured social advocate who runs the Fountain Valley Community Foundation, to talk about his non-profit & best ways to facilitate healthy communities within the city
 
www.fvcommunityfoundation.org
 
Episode Notes
Talked about Matt’s background and life in the region
Talked about Fountain Valley Community Foundation
Talked about how to partner with other non-profits for a wider impact
Talked about marketing and hosting events in Fountain Valley
Talked about the fundraising process and registration system
Talked about Grant Programs and Summerfest
Talked about the Honored Hero Banner program
Talked about how to get involved with non-profits
Talked about making a difference and volunteering

Keeping our Community Safe

Mayor Grandis welcomes City of Fountain Valley's Chief of Police Matt Sheppared to discuss a range of topics regarding homeless, crime, enforcement, and measures going forward to help keep our community safe!

The Importance of Giving Back

Welcome back to A Nice Place to Podcast! In episode 3, Mayor Grandis welcomes local realtor and community leader Susan Saurastri to share her perspective on all things Fountain Valley! We delve into the heart of the city, explore Fountain Valley's rich history, the current landscape of its housing market, and more.