In this episode, we sit down with Michael Vasquez - community leader, former wrestling coach, and current Vice-Chair of the Woodburn School Board (the views shared are his own, not the school board's).

Michael shares powerful stories from his days coaching wrestling, the lessons the sport teaches beyond the mat, and what it means to be proud of where you come from. We also have a real conversation about what Woodburn is facing right now - the fear in our community, how schools are protecting students, and why the light will come.

"We have bigger dreams."

🎙️ The Woodburn Podcast

Hosted by Gilbert Lopez

📸 Sonia Granados | IG: @soniagranadosphotography

FOLLOW US:
Instagram: @woodburnpodcast
YouTube: @woodburnpodcast

LISTEN:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/77Iyl9MbJDRaJypSwJWlGk

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/woodburn-podcast/id1850318151

#WoodburnPodcast #Woodburn #MichaelVasquez #BiggerDreams #Wrestling #Community #Oregon

In this episode, Jesus Arellano shares how growing up in South Central LA pushed him to seek a better life. Moving from apartment to apartment, he eventually found a new beginning in Oregon—where wrestling changed everything. The sport taught him discipline, respect, and perseverance, lessons that now drive his career in real estate. Today, Jesus helps others create stability and opportunity through homeownership.

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms.

In Episode 02 of the Woodburn Podcast, I sit down with my longtime friend Brenda Valentin-Bravo, a talented local artist whose work celebrates her Purépecha indigenous heritage from San Jerónimo, Michoacán.

Brenda shares her journey from growing up on Park Avenue in Woodburn to becoming the featured artist at the city's Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. We discuss the deep cultural symbolism in her Day of the Dead artwork—from cantaritos and monarch butterflies to anatomical hearts blooming with calla lilies.

In this heartfelt conversation, Brenda opens up about:

• Her family's Purépecha roots and connection to San Jerónimo, Michoacán
• The challenge of preserving Mexican heritage while pursuing the American Dream
• The meaning behind the butterflies, roses, and cantaritos in her paintings
• How her art honors everyday objects and traditions
• Her upcoming exhibition at the Bungalow Theater (through October 4th)
• An inspiring message about not giving up on your gifts

This is a celebration of hometown pride, cultural identity, and the power of art to bridge two worlds.

Follow Brenda: Instagram & Facebook @BrendaLaChingona