Episodes

  • Episode 119: Tariff Talk: What’s New and What It Means for Benicia
    Jun 10 2025

    🎙️ Benicia Voice Podcast – Tariff Talk: What’s New and What It Means for Benicia

    Welcome back to the Benicia Voice Podcast, where we explore the issues, stories, and people shaping our community.

    On today’s episode, host Ruben is joined by co-host Rick and producers Andy and Bart for an important update on tariffs — what’s changing, how it impacts local businesses, and what it all means for Benicia’s economic future.

    With Andy’s insights as a business owner who works directly with international imports and exports, we break down how policy shifts are affecting everything from small storefronts to supply chains.

    Whether you're a local entrepreneur, curious citizen, or just trying to make sense of the headlines, this episode will help connect the dots between global economics and Main Street Benicia.

    So grab your coffee and settle in — let’s talk tariffs.


    We would love to hear from you! You can contact us at: beniciavoice@yahoo.com

    🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

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    40 mins
  • Episode 118: Lucca Beer Garden - June update!
    May 30 2025

    Welcome to the Benicia Voice Podcast, where we shine a light on the people, stories, and events that make our town special.

    In this episode, your hosts Ruben and Rick, along with producer Bart, sit down with special guests Deb and Chris from Lucca Beer Garden to talk about the music scene at Lucca—past highlights, what’s coming up, and why it’s become such a beloved part of Benicia’s social life. 🎸🍻

    From summer lineups to supporting emerging artists, Deb and Chris share how Lucca is creating a welcoming space for music lovers of all kinds.

    📲 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

    Benicia Voice – Amplifying community, connection, and creativity.

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    27 mins
  • Episode 117: Jazz O'Clock at the Clock Tower!!
    May 29 2025

    We’re excited to bring you a brand-new episode of Benicia Voice, where we dive into the launch of an exciting new community event:


    Jazz O’Clock at the Clock Tower – a brand-new jazz series presented by the City of Benicia’s Community Services Department in partnership with the Benicia Performing Arts Foundation.

    In this episode, hosts Ruben and Rick, and special guest hosts Max,and Gretchen chat with local jazz musician Bob Joslin about what this event means for Benicia, how music builds community, and why this collaboration is so special!

    🎷 Event Details:
    📍 Where: Benicia Clock Tower
    📅 When: Monday, June 2 | 6:00 PM–8:30 PM (Doors open at 5:30)
    🎟 Tickets: $20 for adults | Free for under 18
    🍷 Bring your own food and drinks – the City encourages a picnic-style evening!

    🎶 Live Performances by:

    • 🎸 Bruce Forman Trio – Renowned jazz guitarist and headliner

    • 🎷 Benicia High School Jazz Band – Directed by Candice Crismond

    • 🌟 Special student sit-ins with Bruce Forman Trio – a mentorship moment that brings BPAF’s mission to life!

    🎧 Tune in to Benicia Voice to hear how this all came together and what’s in store for this exciting night of music and community connection.

    Let’s celebrate Benicia, the arts, and our youth — together!


    For more information and tickets:

    https://www.ci.benicia.ca.us/recspecialevents

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    21 mins
  • Episode 116: Voices, Vines, and the Heart of Benicia!
    May 9 2025

    This week, Host Rick is joined by Co-hosts Max and Rose, along with Producer Bart, for a heartfelt roundtable about what makes our community so special.

    From the power of music to unite us, to the incredible work of VOENA, and a look ahead at some of the exciting local events coming up—this episode is all about celebrating the spirit of Benicia.

    We shine a spotlight on VOENA’s upcoming Voices and Vines concert—an inspiring blend of global music and local wine, all in support of youth arts education.

    We’ll also raise a glass to the Mother’s Day celebration at Lucca Beer Garden where great food, local music, and community love come together.

    Whether you're a longtime resident or just discovering what our town has to offer, we’ve got stories, insights, and inspiration straight from the heart of the community.

    Tune in and be part of the conversation!

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    31 mins
  • Episode 115: What Community Means in Benicia!!
    May 7 2025

    Benicia Voice is back with another thoughtful conversation — this time diving into what “community” really means, and how our town of Benicia brings that word to life every day.

    In this episode, host Rick Watson is joined by producers Andy and Bart as they reflect on the spirit of connection that defines Benicia.

    From local city events, volunteer events, from neighborhood gatherings to public art — they explore the big and small ways we show up for one another and why it matters.

    Tune in for personal stories, local insights, and a conversation that reminds us why we’re proud to call Benicia home.

    🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform — just search Benicia Voice!


    This Episode is being sponsored by The Escape Yoga, Pilates, and music studio (https://theescape-benicia.com)

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    25 mins
  • Episode 114: The Power of Music with VOENA
    May 2 2025

    Welcome to the Benicia Voice Podcast — I’m your host today, Rick Watson. My co-host Ruben is on assignment!

    Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight one of Benicia’s most inspiring musical institutions: VOENA, the internationally acclaimed children’s choir that’s been lifting hearts and building community through the power of music.

    Joining me are two incredible guests — Gretchen and Max — to share the story behind voena.org, how the choir got started, what drives their mission, and what’s ahead for these talented young performers. From performances at the White House to stages around the world, VOENA is more than just a choir — it’s a movement that brings children together across cultures and languages.

    Let’s dive into this heartwarming conversation about youth, harmony, and the transformative magic of song!

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    25 mins
  • Episode 113: May Music Magic at Lucca Beer Garden!!
    Apr 30 2025

    Welcome back to the Benicia Voice Podcast with your host Ruben Brunt and co-host Rick Watson, along with producers Andy and Bart.

    In today’s episode, we’re joined by special guests Deb and Chris, the dynamic duo behind the music of Lucca Beer Garden—a favorite live music venue in the Bay Area located right here in Benicia.


    Chris and Deb join the crew to give the inside scoop on Lucca’s exciting May 2025 music lineup.

    Whether you’re looking for a chill evening under the lights or a full-on party, Lucca has you covered.

    So grab a cold drink, some great food settle in, and let’s find out what’s in store this May at Lucca Beer Garden!

    It's FREE to join inthe fun and all ages are welcome!


    🎶 Let the music (and the podcast) begin…


    https://www.luccabar.com/new-page


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    29 mins
  • Episode 112: Benicia Classic Car Show 2025!!
    Apr 24 2025

    Welcome to the Benicia Voice Podcast — the show where our town’s stories roll to life.

    Join host Ruben Brunt and co-host Rick Watson, along with producers Andy and Bart, as we cruise into a special episode spotlighting the Benicia Classic Car Show 2025!

    This year’s event revs up on Sunday, April 27th from 9 AM to 3 PM, set against the scenic backdrop of the Benicia Marina Green at the end of First Street.

    We’re thrilled to welcome Candice Crismond, Benicia High School Band Director, as our guest. She shares how the award-winning BHS Band is helping drive this beloved community tradition forward, and how music, motors, and community all come together for an unforgettable day.

    Tune in, gear up, and get ready for chrome, classics, and community spirit — only on Benicia Voice.


    https://www.classiccarshowbenicia.com/

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    20 mins
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