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In this episode of Worth the Drive, we cruise through Long Beach with Vincent a hair and makeup artist, creative visionary, and the force behind his drag alter ego, ENVI. More than just glam and performance, this conversation dives into identity, artistry, confidence, and the courage it takes to fully express yourself in a world that often tells people to stay small.
Vincent opens up about his journey into beauty and entertainment, how ENVI became an extension of self-expression and empowerment, and the work that goes into transforming not just appearances, but energy and confidence. We talk about creativity, community, representation, and how art in all forms can give people permission to embrace who they truly are.
This episode is raw, inspiring, entertaining, and deeply human — a conversation about passion, transformation, and owning your space unapologetically. Trust us… this one’s worth the drive

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Sometimes the moments that change our lives don’t arrive as opportunity. They arrive as fear. A diagnosis. A close call. A realization that the people we love are fragile.

On this episode, Michael sits down with Angela — founder and owner of Salud Juice — for a conversation about health, culture, family, and the unexpected path that led her from studying history at California State University, Long Beach to building one of Long Beach’s most recognizable wellness brands.

What started as a daughter trying to help save her father’s life after a major heart scare became something much bigger: a business rooted in care, community, and intention. Angela shares how a $5 juicer, years of research, and a determination to make health accessible helped create a ripple effect that now reaches everyone from yoga moms to longshoremen at the Port of Long Beach.

This episode explores the intersection of food, identity, masculinity, wellness culture, and entrepreneurship — and how changing one person’s habits can quietly transform an entire community.

From growing up between Fresno, LA, and Long Beach… to roller skating at Frisco’s… to fighting state regulations while trying to stay true to her mission, Angela’s story is raw, funny, deeply human, and unmistakably Long Beach.

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In this episode, we take a drive through the 5th district of Long Beach with Megan Kerr — a lifelong resident, community advocate, former school board member, and public servant deeply rooted in the neighborhoods she represents.

From growing up in Bixby Highlands and volunteering to feed unhoused residents as a teenager, to raising four generations under one roof and eventually stepping into public office, Megan shares the personal experiences that shaped her approach to leadership, service, and community.

This conversation goes far beyond politics. It’s about the unseen work that keeps a city together — the people answering calls, fighting for safer streets, protecting parks, supporting small businesses, advocating for schools, and helping residents feel heard during uncertain times.

We talk about:
• What city council members actually do behind the scenes
• How infrastructure projects really happen
• School board politics and public education
• Supporting Long Beach small businesses after COVID
• Airport noise, aviation concerns, and federal limitations
• Protecting green spaces like Willow Springs Park
• Why local government matters more than most people realize
• The importance of values, community, and public trust

Most importantly, this episode explores what makes Long Beach different. Not LA. Not Orange County. But a city built by people who care enough to stay involved and fight for the neighborhoods they love.

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🎙️ Episode 2 – Worth the Drive
Featuring Tara Riggi – Real Estate Professional & Cal Heights Neighborhood Association
Buying a home isn’t just about property—it’s about people, neighborhoods, and the communities we build our lives in.
In this episode, we sit down with Tara Riggi, a Long Beach native, real estate professional, and President of the California Heights Neighborhood Association. From helping families navigate the housing market to working directly with residents to preserve and strengthen local neighborhoods, Tara shares what it really means to be involved in a community beyond just business.
We talk about what people often misunderstand about buying a home, what makes a neighborhood truly strong, and why being connected to your community matters more than ever.
This conversation is about more than real estate—it’s about the people and places that make a city feel like home.
🎧 Follow Worth the Drive for more conversations with the people behind the places shaping our communities

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🎙️ Episode 1 – Worth the Drive, A Lofty Dream

Featuring Jenelle Hutcherson – Lofty Dream Salon

A haircut can be more than just a change in appearance—it can be a moment of transformation. In our first episode, we sit down with Janelle Hutcherson, owner of Lofty Dream Salon in Long Beach, to talk about what it really means to create a space where people feel seen, safe, and confident in who they are. From her journey into the beauty industry to the impact of gender-affirming hair care, this conversation goes beyond style and into identity, community, and self-expression. This is a story about more than hair—it’s about what happens when people are finally able to feel like themselves.

🎧 Follow Worth the Drive for more conversations with the people behind the places shaping our communities.

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