The Something Better Podcast

Latest Episodes:

H Street Improvements Project: Making safer for all Mar 24, 2026

Show notes

A major improvement project is coming to H Street in Downtown Bakersfield, so Public Works Director Zac Meyer and Assistant City Manager Gary Hallen stopped by to talk about what you can expect as things get underway.

New roundabouts, pedestrian crossing bulb-outs, lane reductions and more are on the way to the road. Learn why we're making these improvements and how they'll help everyone who uses the road, from vehicle drivers to walkers and joggers as well as bicyclists.

Breaking down Boards & Commissions Mar 10, 2026

Show notes

The City Clerk's Office is always looking to fill seats on our boards and commissions.

And on this episode of The Something Better Podcast, City Clerk Julie Drimakis and Assistant City Clerk Cari Cowling breakdown the importance of each, their roles within the City, recruitment and how you can apply.

Anyone interested in learning more and applying for a board or commission can visit the City Clerk's online portal.

Wastewater 2.0: Sewer Rates and more Feb 24, 2026

Show notes

Asst. Water Director Evette Roldan returns to talk more about the City's Wastewater Division, the proposed sewer rate changes and Prop 218 notices and more about the system we all use but never really think about.

And if you missed Evette's first visit, check it out here.

Journey Through Time on the Bakersfield Trail! Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

Looking for something fun to do around town... and maybe learn something while you're at it?

Visit Bakersfield has just what you're looking for with their new Bakersfield Historical Trail! The trail takes you on a journey through time in Bakersfield, checking out spots you might never have known about and telling you the history of our City along the way.

Visit Bakersfield manager Matt Billingsley joins the podcast to talk about what their office does plus how you can earn cool prizes and up your Bakersfield trivia game at the same time!

It's Condorstown! Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

We hope you had a great holiday break and are ready for more of The Something Better Podcast!

Adam Miller, General Manager for the Dignity Health Arena, Theater & Convention Center is back to talk about the Bakersfield Condors, back for season 27!

We talk about the team's connection with the community, why it's so important, and ways the community embraces the team like the annual Teddy Bear Toss. Not only do we discuss the club's history, but its future, too, touching on the youth program, the Mini Condors!

Holiday Safety Tips from the Bakersfield Fire Department Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

The Bakersfield Fire Department keeps us safe every day, responding to fires and medical emergencies and even car crashes.

But the holidays can bring their own safety concerns, too.

Fire Chief Kevin Albertson and Battalion Chief A.J. Clark join the podcast to talk about how to keep your family safe in the kitchen, decorating and in case of an emergency. Learn what you should have prepared before disaster strikes.

Bakersfield's entertainment center! Nov 04, 2025

Show notes

The man who runs the City of Bakersfield's entertainment center - the Dignity Health Arena, Theater & Convention Center and the Amphitheater at the Park at River Walk - stopped by to talk about all the big shows to check out this season!

Adam Miller is the General Manager of the City's venues and he talked to us about what you should be looking forward to, from the Harlem Globetrotters return, to the Offspring and Trans Siberian Orchestra and more!

Hal-LAW-een Spooktacular! Oct 21, 2025

Show notes

Things are getting spooky at the Bakersfield Police Department this month: It's almost time for Hal-LAW-een!

Carina Ortiz and Sgt. Eric Celedon from BPD's Community Outreach team stop by the podcast to talk about their signature annual event, how it came about and its growth over the years to become a huge gathering the community has embraced. Plus, find out what you need to know if you plan on coming!

Just about every City department will be involved in the fun on Thursday, Oct. 30 at BPD HQ on Truxtun Avenue, and we hope you and your kids can make it out and we can make this year's the biggest yet!

Wastewater 101 Sep 23, 2025

Show notes

Flush... OK, now what?

Ever wonder what happens after you flush? Or how water is treated after it goes down your sink or shower drains?

Wonder no more! Assistant Water Director Evette Roldan stops by to talk all things wastewater, from what it is to how it's treated and what happens to it after it's treated.

Learn about the City of Bakersfield's two Wastewater Treatment Plants, plants 2 and 3 and why there is no plant 1. Plus, what the future of wastewater looks like!

Economic Opportunities Sep 02, 2025

Show notes

The City of Bakersfield's Economic & Community Development Department offers a variety of support for local businesses and entrepreneurs, from grants to programs.

ECD Director Jenni Byers stops by to talk about some of those programs. We discuss what ECD does, why it exists, what type of support it offers, and we even talk about specific opportunities such as the Economic Opportunity Area grants available to local businesses to help them operate more efficiently and effectively, improving the City's economy overall.

So, if you've got a business in one of those seven EOA locations in Bakersfield, you could have some extra help available to make your business even more successful!

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