In this episode of Discover Ramona, we sit down with Mike Bittinger, co-founder of Kahoots Feed & Pet, a homegrown company that has grown from selling hay out of the back of a pickup truck to becoming one of Southern California's most respected independent pet supply retailers.

Mike shares the story behind building Kahoots from the ground up, staying true to family values, supporting local communities, and creating a business centered around the health and happiness of pets. Alongside co-founder Ethan Tunnell, he's helped grow the company while maintaining its small-town roots and commitment to exceptional customer service.

Recognized as the San Diego SBA's Small Business Person of the Year, Mike's journey is one of perseverance, entrepreneurship, and giving back a story that perfectly reflects the spirit of Ramona.

In this episode of Discover Ramona, we sit down with Joel Anderson, San Diego County Supervisor for District 2, whose district includes Ramona and more than 40 communities throughout East County. Joel shares his commitment to representing unincorporated communities and ensuring local voices are heard at the county level.

A longtime public servant, Joel has served on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, in the California State Senate, and in the State Assembly. Throughout his career, he has focused on issues affecting local residents, including public safety, infrastructure, wildfire preparedness, economic development, and government transparency.

From supporting community organizations and small businesses to advocating for improvements throughout East County, Joel discusses the challenges and opportunities facing Ramona today and what he sees for its future.

Don’t miss Episode 67 of Discover Ramona.

In this episode of Discover Ramona, we sit down with Kimber Williams, Founder and President of Robin’s Nest Rescue, a nonprofit sanctuary in Ramona dedicated to rescuing animals and creating meaningful healing experiences for both animals and people.

What started as a lifelong passion for animal rescue has grown into a remarkable sanctuary home to horses, alpacas, pigs, tortoises, dogs, and more—each with their own story of survival and second chances. Kimber shares the heart behind Robin’s Nest Rescue and the mission that drives everything they do: “We rescue them. They save us.”

From large-scale alpaca rescue missions to creating a peaceful space focused on compassion, connection, and community, Kimber and her team have built something truly special in Ramona.

Don’t miss Episode 66 of Discover Ramona.

In this episode of Discover Ramona, we sit down with Thea The Band, Ramona’s own “Cosmic Americana” group blending country, blues, soul, and indie rock into a sound that’s completely their own. Fronted by songwriter Thea Tochihara alongside drummer and producer Jeff Litzman, the band brings raw storytelling, gritty vocals, and heartfelt energy to every performance.

From their SDMA-nominated music to songs inspired by life in Ramona including their track My Ramona Thea The Band shares their journey, creative process, and the passion behind their genre-bending sound.

With influences rooted in outlaw country, Americana, and indie rock, their music captures both the beauty and grit of the road less traveled.

Don’t miss Episode 65 of Discover Ramona.

In this episode of Discover Ramona, we meet Paula Stykel Wiessner, a historian with a deeply personal connection to the past.

Paula shares the remarkable story of her father’s red guitar—an instrument that carried far more than music during wartime. Hidden inside was a radio transmitter used to secretly send messages to the resistance, helping warn troops and ultimately save lives.

It’s a powerful story rooted in courage, ingenuity, and legacy—one that connects history to the present in a truly unforgettable way.

In this episode of Discover Ramona, we sit down with Sara Allen of Water Wise Well Service, a trusted local professional dedicated to keeping Ramona’s water systems running strong.

Sara shares how she got started in the well service industry and what it means to serve a community where water isn’t just a utility—it’s a lifeline. From maintaining wells to helping homeowners navigate challenges unique to rural living, her work plays a vital role in supporting the Ramona lifestyle.

With a focus on reliability, education, and customer care, Sara has built Water Wise Well Service into a go-to resource for residents who depend on their own water systems every day.

In Episode 62 of Discover Ramona, we sit down with Tammy Tabeek, owner of PacTab Enterprises and an extreme endurance cyclist taking on one of the toughest races in the world. 🚴‍♀️ Tammy shares her journey from growing up in East County to building a successful business with over 40 years of experience helping companies design and bring custom packaging to market.

Beyond business, Tammy opens up about her passion for mountain biking and the incredible challenge ahead—competing in the Cape Epic in South Africa, an 8-day race covering over 400 miles and 50,000 feet of climbing. Alongside her race partner Rhonda Geiszler, Tammy has spent nearly a year training for this demanding event, where teamwork is everything and partners must stay within minutes of each other throughout the race.

What makes this journey even more meaningful is their mission to support the Geanco Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing education, healthcare, and opportunities for women and girls in Nigeria. With thousands already raised toward their goal, Tammy’s ride is about more than endurance—it’s about making a real impact.

Don’t miss Episode 62 of Discover Ramona to hear Tammy’s inspiring story of business, grit, and giving back.

In Episode 61 of Discover Ramona, we sit down with Josh Lawson, local stand-up comedian and owner of San Diego Pools. Josh shares how he balances running a successful pool business while pursuing his passion for comedy, bringing laughter to stages throughout the region.

From the challenges of entrepreneurship to the art of stand-up, Josh talks about the creativity, resilience, and sense of humor it takes to juggle both worlds. Whether he’s helping homeowners create the perfect backyard oasis or making audiences laugh, Josh brings energy and personality to everything he does.

Tune in to Episode 61 of Discover Ramona to hear Josh’s story, his journey into comedy, and how he’s making a splash in both business and entertainment.