Up + Adam with Adam Montiel

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Raising the Bar for 35 Flipping Years | SLO CAL is Head Over Heels for Central Coast Gymnastics | Up+Adam Jul 15, 2026

What does it take to turn ten students, a rented room, and a big idea into a SLO CAL institution?

Mimi Phene-McKellar joins Adam to celebrate 35 years of Central Coast Gymnastics and reflect on a journey built through persistence, community support, and a deep belief in what movement can unlock in a child. Mimi shares how she started the program in 1991 with almost no equipment, how it grew into a thriving 16,000-square-foot facility, and why the lessons learned inside a gym reach far beyond cartwheels, trampolines, and competition.

This conversation is also about motherhood, courage, inclusion, and possibility. Mimi tells the remarkable story of her daughter, Maddie, who was born with cerebral palsy and faced devastating medical predictions. Through years of therapy, determination, and time spent around the gym, Maddie learned to walk and eventually competed in trampoline alongside other athletes. It is a powerful reminder that progress does not always look the way we expect, and that the right environment can help a person discover abilities others may not yet see.

Adam and Mimi also discuss raising active kids in a screen-heavy world, why gymnastics can create a foundation for nearly every other sport, and how a local business becomes part of the family history of an entire community.

Central Coast Gymnastics will celebrate its 35th anniversary on Saturday, July 18, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at 21 Zaca Lane in San Luis Obispo. The free community event includes performances, giveaways, refreshments, and open gym for children ages 2 through 16. Families are encouraged to pre-register online. An enrollment promotion also offers $40 in savings when enrolling on or before July 18.

• Central Coast Gymnastics official website

• Pre-register and explore classes, camps, and programs

• Follow Central Coast Gymnastics on Instagram

• Address: 21 Zaca Lane, San Luis Obispo, California

• Phone: 805-549-8408

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Local Distillers, Big Statewide Fight: Who Decides Whether Customers Have the Freedom to Buy Direct? | Up+Adam Jul 14, 2026

Alex Villicana of RE:FIND Distillery and Aaron Bergh of Calwise Spirits join Adam for a local conversation with statewide consequences. California’s temporary direct-to-consumer shipping privileges for craft distillers are set to expire at the end of 2026, and both guests say losing them could be devastating for small, independent producers.

Alex explains that direct shipping represents roughly 30 percent of his revenue and that losing it overnight could be a backbreaker. Aaron says many distillers now depend on shipped club packages and online orders for at least a quarter of their business. For these local producers, shipping is not simply a convenience. It has become part of how they remain viable.

They break down California’s three-tier alcohol system, the power of major distributors, and the frustrating position small brands find themselves in. They can be too small to earn meaningful attention from the largest wholesalers, yet still be legally restricted from reaching customers on their own.

Alex shares his experience with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, including the unforgettable story of being so small within its enormous portfolio that the company apparently did not realize RE:FIND had already left. Aaron discusses industry consolidation, Reyes Beverage Group, and why he believes California’s distribution structure has created government-protected gatekeepers.

The conversation also exposes a larger contradiction. California promotes agriculture, tourism, entrepreneurship, and regional products, yet visitors who discover a local spirit in Paso Robles may soon be unable to reorder it once they return home.

Alex and Aaron explain why direct shipping is not an effort to eliminate distributors. It is a limited path that allows small producers to build customer relationships, grow their brands, and potentially become valuable distribution partners in the future.

And because this is Up+Adam, the bottles come out too.

Alex introduces RE:FIND Distillery’s limited watermelon spirit, made with 1,000 pounds of watermelon, and shares updates on the distillery’s limoncello, whiskey program, and upcoming locally grown single malt. Aaron pours Calwise’s Wild Blueberry Whiskey and explains how the bottle connects California creativity, Minnesota family history, and the moonshining legacy behind his Axe Hole Whiskey brand.

This is a conversation about spirits, but the real issue is ownership.

Who owns the relationship between a maker and a customer? The small business that earned it, the distributor controlling access, or the customer who simply wants another bottle?

Take Action

• Take ten seconds, click this link, and make a difference. It is super quick.

Learn more

• RE:FIND Distillery: refinddistillery.com

• RE:FIND Distillery on Instagram: @refinddistillery

• Calwise Spirits: calwisespirits.com

• Calwise Spirits on Instagram: @calwisespirits

• Aaron Bergh: aaronbergh.com

• American Craft Spirits Association: americancraftspirits.org

• California Craft Spirits Association: cadistillers.org

Article discussed (Read this)

• Out-of-State Billionaires vs. California Small Businesses: The Rigged System Blocking Local Craft Spirits

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Billy West: The Voice of Bugs Bunny, Futurama, Ren & Stimpy, Doug (Basically Your Childhood) is Up+Adam Jul 13, 2026

Billy West has spent decades hiding in plain sound. He is the voice behind Bugs Bunny in Space Jam, Doug Funnie, Ren and Stimpy, and a packed house of Futurama favorites, including Philip J. Fry, Dr. Zoidberg, Professor Farnsworth, and Zapp Brannigan. He also helped define one of the most unpredictable eras of The Howard Stern Show, where impressions, characters, and live-radio chaos could become comedy history before breakfast.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Billy joins Adam Montiel to talk about the strange road from Boston morning radio to Howard Stern, Nickelodeon, Space Jam, and the 31st century. They get into what Howard recognized in Billy, the chemistry that made the Stern studio so dangerous and electric, and how a mind that did not always fit traditional systems found its natural home behind a microphone.

Billy’s new memoir, Voice-A-Versa: Finding My Voice(s) Behind the Mic, goes far beyond the famous characters. It is a funny, candid, and deeply personal account of childhood trauma, neurodivergence, addiction, survival, reinvention, and the imagination that helped him endure. The voices made millions of people laugh, but this conversation introduces us to the human being who had to live before any of them could exist.

• Buy Voice-A-Versa from Abrams Books

• Buy Voice-A-Versa on Amazon

• Visit Billy West’s official website

• Follow Billy West on X

• Listen to the Billy West Podcast on Apple Podcasts

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Woods PSA: 100% of Kittens Will Turn Into Cats | Pink Drank | Up+Adam Jul 10, 2026

Pink Drank is back, and Adam catches up with Robin from Woods Humane Society to talk about why this poolside party has become one of the most fun ways to do good on the Central Coast. Happening this Saturday, July 11 from 2 to 6 PM at SLO Elks Lodge 322, Pink Drank brings together local wine, cocktails, beer, cider, bites, music, swimming, raffles, prizes, and plenty of pink for a summer event with serious purpose.

This year, proceeds support animals in need at Woods Humane Society, along with the Elks National Foundation, scholarships, and youth activities. Adam and Robin also talk Pet of the Week, featuring two adorable kittens looking for their forever home, because honestly, what pairs better with pink drinks than helping pets find people?

Use promo code PINK to save $10 on tickets.

• Pink Drank Tickets and Info: pinkdrank.org

• Pink Drank Instagram: @pinkdrank_poolsocial

• Woods Humane Society: woodshumanesociety.org

• Adoptable Pets at Woods: woodshumanesociety.org/adoptions

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Josh Baker & Jason Fullmer: Mercenary Premier Takes a Big Swing in Edna Valley at the Old DAOU Facility | Up+Adam Jul 09, 2026

Josh Baker and Jason Fullmer of Mercenary Premier join Adam for a bigger-than-wine conversation about where the beverage business is headed and how two Central Coast operators are building for what comes next. Mercenary Premier recently acquired the old DAOU facility in Edna Valley, the former Baileyana Winery facility you may have read about in the paper, and they’re turning it into a full production home for winemakers and beverage brands looking for custom crush, vinification, packaging, canning, bottling, storage, and support heading into Harvest 2026.

This episode gets into the real back-of-house world most wine drinkers never see: tanks, trucks, timing, packaging pressure, bottling day chaos, and the trust it takes to hand someone your vintage. Josh brings decades of winemaking and custom crush leadership, while Jason built Mercenary from a mobile canning operation into a serious packaging partner across California. Together, they talk about taking a big swing, the changing consumer, RTDs, wine cocktails, bag-in-box, smaller formats, lighter packaging, and why this moment in wine might be less about panic and more about reinvention.

For winemakers, beverage producers, entrepreneurs, or anyone with an idea that needs help getting from concept to shelf, Mercenary Premier is building a place for that conversation.

• Learn more about Mercenary Premier: mercenarypremier.com

• Connect with Mercenary Premier for production, packaging, custom crush, and Harvest 2026 services: mercenarypremier.com

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Great American Melodrama Cast: The Saga of Roaring Gulch Rides Into Up+Adam Jul 08, 2026

Up+Adam welcomes Hunter Oehlschlager, Ava Lovelace, and Annabelle “Annie” Oglesby into SLO CAL Studios for a rip-roaring conversation about The Great American Melodrama’s current production, The Saga of Roaring Gulch. Since 1975, The Great American Melodrama in Oceano has been a Central Coast treasure, serving up musicals, comedies, classic melodrama, vaudeville, audience participation, and the kind of live theater chaos you simply cannot fake. In this episode, Adam sits down with three performers who bring PCPA roots, local theater heart, and serious comedy chemistry to the stage.

This conversation goes beyond the show itself and into what makes Central Coast theater so special. The cast talks about finding their people through theater, what it feels like to be part of the Melodrama’s long history, the unsung hero pressure of being an understudy, why every performance can feel different, and how a great comedy cast learns to trust, listen, and play. If you love live theater, local talent, western mayhem, saloon-style laughs, and performers who are clearly having as much fun as the audience, saddle up for The Saga of Roaring Gulch at The Great American Melodrama.

Links:

• Tickets and show info: The Great American Melodrama

• Instagram: @tgamelodrama

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Drink Pink, Do Good | Pink Drank Pool Social at Elks Lodge 322 | Up+Adam Jul 07, 2026

WIN TICKETS TO PINK DRANK HERE

Pink Drank is back, and this one has become one of Adam’s favorite summer events in SLO CAL. Nancy Lewelling, Secretary of Elks Lodge 322, joins Up+Adam to talk about the fifth annual Pink Drank, happening this Saturday, July 11 from 2 to 6 PM. Think local wine, poolside DJ, grazing table greatness, pink outfits, raffle moments, a wine pull, silent auction goodness, and one of the best pool party settings around.

But Pink Drank is more than just a very good excuse to wear pink and sip something delicious by the pool. It is a party with a purpose, supporting community causes connected to the Elks, youth activities, local sports, the Elks National Foundation, Woods Humane Society, and the kind of local giveback that makes this event feel so good to be part of. Adam and Nancy also get into why Elks Lodge 322 is such a special gathering place, how this event has helped introduce new people to the Elks community, and why this newly remodeled Pink Drank website deserves a little love too.

Use promo code PINK to save $10 on tickets. Seriously, where else are you getting into a summer wine pool social like this for around $65?

• Pink Drank Website: pinkdrank.org

• Pink Drank Instagram: @pinkdrank_poolsocial

• Elks Lodge 322: elks322.org

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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********

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Molly Clark: Cal Poly Arts Dir on New Season, the Art of the Bet, and Bringing the World to SLO | Up+Adam Jul 06, 2026

Molly Clark, Director of Cal Poly Arts, joins Adam for a behind-the-curtain conversation about what it really takes to curate a season of live performance on the Central Coast. From Broadway crowd-pleasers like Beetlejuice, Six, and A Beautiful Noise, to global music, National Geographic Live, family programming, contemporary dance, and unforgettable nights at the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo, Molly shares how Cal Poly Arts builds a season that feels both world-class and deeply local.

This episode gets into the art of the bet. How do you know when to trust your gut on an artist? What happens when a show surprises everyone and sells out? What does it mean to bring the world to a community like San Luis Obispo, especially in a time when live, shared experiences feel more important than ever? Adam and Molly also talk about the magic of Kishi Bashi at Sensorio, why the PAC is such a gem for artists and audiences, and how Cal Poly Arts continues to invite people into rooms where something real can happen.

Whether you are a Broadway loyalist, a live music lover, a dance fan, a curious first-timer, a Cal Poly student, or someone who simply wants to feel connected to something bigger than your streaming queue, this conversation is your invitation to look at the Cal Poly Arts season and pick the show that just might change your night.

• Cal Poly Arts website: calpolyarts.org

• 2026/27 Cal Poly Arts Season: calpolyarts.org/20262027-season

• Tickets and Cal Poly Arts events at PACSLO: pacslo.org/calpolyarts

• Box Office info: calpolyarts.org/boxoffice

• Student tickets: calpolyarts.org/students

• Cal Poly Arts Instagram: instagram.com/calpolyarts

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Lee Greenwood on God Bless the U.S.A., the Fourth of July, and Singing Through History | Up+Adam Jul 02, 2026

Lee Greenwood joins Adam right before the Fourth of July, and the timing couldn’t be better. The Grammy-winning country icon behind “God Bless the U.S.A.” talks about the life of that song beyond the charts: writing it on the back of a tour bus in 1983, watching it become something much bigger than a single, and learning how to sing it differently depending on the room, the moment, and the meaning. From Yankee Stadium after 9/11 to a USO performance on the Nimitz in the Persian Gulf, Lee reflects on the places that still stay with him and why the song continues to evolve every time he steps up to the mic.

Adam and Lee also talk about “Start the World Over Again,” Lee’s song from REAGAN: Songs Inspired by the Film, and Lee clears up the story behind the writing of it, including how Ronald Reagan and Mike Curb factored into the track. They get into California roots, family history, and the line in “God Bless the U.S.A.” that traces back to his grandparents losing their farm in Sacramento. If you’ve ever wondered how a song becomes part anthem, part memory, part national soundtrack, this one’s worth your time.

Links

• Lee Greenwood official website

• “Start the World Over Again” on Apple Music

• Lee Greenwood on YouTube

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

MC Jin: Hip-Hop, Healing & Laugh But Not Least | Up+Adam Jul 01, 2026

What happens when the dream you've spent your whole life chasing doesn't turn out the way you imagined?

Actor, rapper, comedian, and podcast host MC Jin joins Adam for one of the most honest conversations we've had on Up+Adam. From making history on BET's Freestyle Fridays to navigating career setbacks, rebuilding his life, and discovering that some of our greatest disappointments can become our greatest teachers, this conversation is about far more than music.

Together, Adam and Jin explore identity, resilience, faith, family, and why the hardest chapters of our lives often become the stories we laugh about later. They also dive into Jin's new podcast, Laugh But Not Least, where humor, vulnerability, and unforgettable storytelling remind us that healing doesn't always happen in spite of our struggles. Sometimes it happens because of them.

Whether you're a fan of hip hop, comedy, great storytelling, or simply trying to make sense of your own journey, this episode is for you.

Learn more and connect with MC Jin:

• Laugh But Not Least podcast: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-laugh-but-not-least-335585055

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammcjin/

• Laugh But Not Least Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laughbutnotleastpod/

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Lou Diamond Phillips: Gangland, Indigenous Storytelling, and Four Decades of Craft | Up+Adam Jun 30, 2026

Lou Diamond Phillips joins Adam Montiel on Up+Adam to talk about his new film Gangland, a gritty crime thriller arriving in theaters and on digital July 10. Lou plays Teddy Sharp, a weathered tribal police officer trying to hold the line when a ruthless fugitive returns to a rural Indigenous reservation and exposes secrets that could ignite a violent gang war. In this conversation, Adam and Lou dig into the storm inside Teddy, the real tribal cop who wrote the script, the influence of Longmire advisor Marcus Red Thunder, and why Lou says this film is “artisanal” and something he is personally hand-carrying to audiences.

From La Bamba, Stand and Deliver, and Young Guns to Longmire, Broadway, directing, writing, and more than 150 credits, Lou Diamond Phillips has built one of the most enduring and versatile careers in Hollywood. But this conversation is not about nostalgia. It is about craft, legacy, Indigenous representation, mentorship, resilience, and a performance in Gangland that is already earning serious buzz. Lou brings heart, humor, honesty, and that unmistakable lived-in presence to a role that feels weathered, human, and deeply worth watching.

Links:

• Watch the Gangland trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCyY4DKq9dY

• Gangland on Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/gangland_2025

• Gangland on Fandango: https://www.fandango.com/gangland-2026-246205/movie-overview

• Gangland on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28263483/

• Lou Diamond Phillips on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallou_diamondphillips/

• Lou Diamond Phillips on X: https://x.com/LouDPhillips

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Ronnie Johnston: Allegretto, Set, Go! Paso Robles Hospitality with Heart | Up+Adam Jun 29, 2026

Ronnie Johnston, Food and Beverage Director at Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles, joins Adam for a warm check-in on one of the Central Coast’s most beautiful hospitality destinations. Allegretto is more than a resort. It is an art-filled, Tuscan-inspired Paso Robles escape with Cello Ristorante & Bar, Allegretto Wines, Spa Allegretto, social hour, staycation offerings, and a whole lot for both locals and visitors to enjoy. Ronnie shares what makes the food and beverage program feel true to the property, from seasonal menus and local farmer’s market finds to a wine list that celebrates the Central Coast while still making room for Italian inspiration. The conversation also touches on Allegretto’s growth, its community spirit, and why locals should feel just as welcome dropping in for lunch, a cocktail, a spa treatment, or happy hour as travelers do booking a full wine country getaway.

Adam also checks in with Robin Coleman from Woods, and meets Cider (our POTW) and recap the Woods Pet Gala with her.

• Learn more about Allegretto Vineyard Resort: https://www.allegrettovineyardresort.com/

• Follow Allegretto on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allegrettovr/

• Explore Cello Ristorante & Bar: https://www.allegrettovineyardresort.com/the-resort/cello-ristorante-bar

• Learn more about Spa Allegretto: https://www.allegrettovineyardresort.com/the-resort/spa

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Paul Solotaroff: What Happens When Everyone Looks the Other Way & Certainty Kills the Truth? | Up+Adam Jun 25, 2026

What happens when a community becomes so desperate for answers that it embraces the wrong ones?

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with veteran Rolling Stone investigative journalist Paul Solotaroff, host of the gripping true crime podcast The Devil's Quarry. What begins as the story of two teenagers wrongfully convicted in the murder of a 12-year-old girl unfolds into something far more disturbing. A predator hiding in plain sight. A justice system that may have failed the very people it was supposed to protect. And a decades-long search for truth that is still unfolding today.

Paul has spent more than 30 years exposing corruption, uncovering institutional failures, and helping free the wrongly convicted. In this conversation, he shares how The Devil's Quarry became more than an investigation. It became a mission. Adam and Paul explore the danger of certainty, why humans are often willing to accept the wrong answer in exchange for closure, and what happens when the official story turns out not to be the true story.

They also discuss the emotional toll of investigative journalism, the survivors who haunted Paul long after the reporting ended, and why, despite spending a career staring into some of humanity's darkest corners, he still considers himself an optimist.

If you're fascinated by true crime, wrongful convictions, investigative journalism, criminal justice reform, and the psychology of human behavior, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Links:

• The Devil's Quarry Podcast:

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/105-hit-man-45764628/episode/introducing-bone-valley-season-5-the-devils-quarry-336437918

• Paul Solotaroff at Rolling Stone:

https://www.rollingstone.com/author/paul-solotaroff/

• Lava for Good:

https://lavaforgood.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Maestro, the Cellist, & America's 250th Birthday | Stars, Stripes & Strings with Opera SLO | Up+Adam Jun 24, 2026

A world-class cellist plays a 175-year-old instrument on todays show.

No, seriously.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Opera SLO Artistic Director Brian Alhadeff and acclaimed cellist Megan Chartier ahead of Opera SLO's upcoming America Turns 250: Patriotic Pops & Veterans Tribute.

We talk about the power of live music, why the Central Coast continues to attract incredible artistic talent, and what happens when an orchestra becomes something bigger than the sum of its parts. Megan shares stories about performing on a cello built in the 1850s, raising a two-year-old future musician, and the fascinating way she sees colors while memorizing music.

Plus, she performs live in the studio.

It's a conversation about art, community, passion, and why some experiences can only happen when real people gather together to make something beautiful.

Learn more:

Opera SLO

Tickets, upcoming performances, educational programs, and everything happening with Opera San Luis Obispo.

https://operaslo.org

Clark Center for the Performing Arts

Venue information, event details, and tickets for America Turns 250: Patriotic Pops & Veterans Tribute.

https://clarkcenter.org/shows/america-turns-250/

Megan Chartier

Megan's official website featuring her performance career, recordings, teaching work, and professional biography.

https://www.meganchartier.com

Opera SLO on Instagram

Behind-the-scenes content, performance announcements, artist spotlights, and upcoming events.

https://www.instagram.com/operaslo

Megan Chartier on Instagram

Follow Megan's life as a professional cellist, performer, educator, and musician.

https://www.instagram.com/meganchartier.cellist/

Inkermezzo on Instagram

Megan's visual art account featuring her original illustrations inspired by classical music, musicians, and music education.

https://www.instagram.com/inkermezzo

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Jamison Firestone: A New York Kid, a Russian Mafia, and a Front Row Seat to History & Author of Rules of Lies | Up+Adam Jun 23, 2026

What happens when a kid raised around con men, mobsters, loan sharks, and chaos decides to start over... and accidentally lands in the middle of one of the most consequential stories of the last 35 years?

On this True Crime Tuesday episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Jamison Firestone, author of Rule of Lies: My Wild Ride Through Chaos, Corruption, and Murder in Putin's Russia. What begins as the story of a young American lawyer chasing opportunity in post-Soviet Russia quickly becomes something much bigger. Firestone shares how he built the first independent foreign-owned law firm in Russia, negotiated with mafia bosses, witnessed the rise of Vladimir Putin, and found himself at the center of some of Russia's most explosive corruption scandals.

Along the way, he reflects on the courage of Sergei Magnitsky, the dangers of a justice system turned into a weapon, the role humor played in surviving impossible circumstances, and what honesty looks like when everything is on the line. This conversation is part true crime, part history lesson, part political thriller, and entirely human.

In this episode:

• Growing up around criminals in New York

• Why he moved to Russia after law school

• Negotiating with Russian mafia groups

• The moment he realized Putin's Russia was changing

• The story of Sergei Magnitsky

• The difference between criminals and criminals with governments

• Why humor became a survival tool

Whether you're fascinated by true crime, geopolitics, history, human resilience, or stories that sound too wild to be true, this episode delivers.

Learn more about Jamison Firestone:

• Find Rule of Lies on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Rule-Lies-Through-Corruption-Murder-ebook/dp/B0FS7TDR19

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Chef Anna Francese Gass: Instant Italian Season 2 and the Recipes That Keep Family Close | Up+Adam Jun 22, 2026

Food has a funny way of keeping people close.

Chef Anna Francese Gass returns to Up+Adam to celebrate Season 2 of Instant Italian on FYI, but this conversation quickly becomes about much more than recipes. Adam and Anna explore the emotional power of food, the family recipes worth preserving, the memories hidden inside a plate of pasta, and why the kitchen might be the most vulnerable room in the house.

Along the way, Anna shares stories from her family's roots in Calabria, explains how she turned her love of storytelling into a culinary career, reveals the simple kitchen hacks every home cook should know, and offers a refreshingly honest perspective on success, gratitude, and learning to enjoy the mountain you're standing on instead of constantly chasing the next one.

Whether you're a passionate home cook, someone looking to feel more confident in the kitchen, or simply someone who understands how a meal can transport you back to a person or moment you miss, this episode is packed with heart, wisdom, and a few practical tricks you'll use tonight.

Learn more:

• Anna Francese Gass: https://annafgass.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annafgass

• Instant Italian on FYI: https://www.fyi.tv/shows/instant-italian

• New York Times Cooking: https://cooking.nytimes.com

Listen. Subscribe. Share.

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Personal Finance Advice for Real Life: Mandi Woodruff-Santos of Brown Ambition Is Up+Adam Jun 18, 2026

What does wealth actually look like?

For years, Mandi Woodruff-Santos thought the answer might be financial security, a bigger paycheck, or climbing the career ladder. After being laid off just three months into a dream job in New York City, she made a promise to herself: never again would she feel financially vulnerable. That promise launched a remarkable journey that led her from journalism to becoming one of the most respected voices in personal finance.

Today, Mandi is the co-host of Brown Ambition, the award-winning podcast helping people build wealth, navigate careers, negotiate better opportunities, and create financial freedom on their own terms. In this conversation, Adam and Mandi dive into money shame, career setbacks, financial planning, entrepreneurship, motherhood, mental health, and the surprising lessons that come from rebuilding after life throws a curveball.

They also explore why so many people tie their self-worth to their financial accomplishments, what those of us in our 30s and 40s should be doing right now to strengthen our financial futures, and the moment Mandi realized the financial decisions she'd made years earlier had given her something more valuable than money: options.

Learn more about Mandi Woodruff-Santos:

• Website: https://www.mandimoney.com

• Brown Ambition Podcast: https://brownambitionpodcast.com

• Listen on iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-brown-ambition-31122656/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandimoney/

Listen to Up+Adam wherever you get your podcasts and subscribe for more conversations that are inquisitive, clever, engaging, and thoughtful.

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Mighty Cap Mushrooms, The Groves on 41 & Leo Leo Talk Open Farm Days This Weekend | Up+Adam Jun 17, 2026

Open Farm Days 2026: Olive Oil, Mushrooms, Gelato & the Faces Behind SLO County Agriculture | Up+Adam

What happens when olive farmers, mushroom growers, and artisan gelato makers all sit down at the same table?

You get a conversation about much more than food.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam welcomes Jennifer Tallent of The Groves on 41, Chris Batlle of Mighty Cap Mushrooms, and Niccolo Lekai of Leo Leo Gelato ahead of the 6th Annual Open Farm Days Weekend presented by FARMstead ED and the SLO County Farm Trail.

The three share what visitors can expect during this year's event, how their businesses have evolved, and why more people than ever want to connect with the people growing, raising, crafting, and producing the food and products we enjoy every day.

From olive oil tastings and mushroom farm tours to watching gelato made in real time, Open Farm Days offers a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes and experience agriculture firsthand. Along the way, the conversation explores entrepreneurship, family businesses, agritourism, sustainability, community, and the passion required to build something meaningful from the ground up.

Whether you're a lifelong local, a curious visitor, a foodie, a farmer, or someone who simply enjoys learning how things are made, this episode is a celebration of the people helping make San Luis Obispo County one of the most vibrant agricultural communities in California.

Participating Open Farm Days locations include:

• 46 Ranch

• AmByth Estate

• Boccabella Farms

• Camp Funny Farm

• Cavalli Estates

• City Farm SLO

• DW Farms Native Plant Nursery

• Giving Tree Family Farm

• GreenLove

• Hambly Lavender Farm

• Harris Stage Lines

• Jack Creek Farm

• Kiler Ridge Olive Farm

• Leo Leo Gelato

• Margarita Adventures

• Mighty Cap Mushrooms

• Olea Farm

• Our Global Family Farm

• Sierra Honey Farm

• Talley Farms

• Templeton Olive Oil

• The Groves on 41

Learn more and register:

• https://farmsteaded.com

• https://www.instagram.com/farmsteaded/

Follow today's guests:

• The Groves on 41

https://thegroveson41.com/

https://www.instagram.com/thegroveson41/

• Mighty Cap Mushrooms

https://mightycapmushrooms.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mightycapmushrooms

• Leo Leo Gelato

https://www.leoleogelato.com/

https://www.instagram.com/leoleogelato/

No Farms. No Food. No Clothing. It's really that simple.

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Santino DeFranco: Discipline, Fear, and the Psychology of Performance #FightReady | Up+Adam Jun 16, 2026

What does it mean to be truly fight ready?

With the UFC back in the headlines and combat sports once again part of the national conversation, Adam sits down with one of the sport's most respected minds: Santino DeFranco. A former professional MMA fighter, Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, elite UFC coach, former college English teacher, and now author of Fight Ready, Santino has spent decades helping athletes prepare for the biggest moments of their lives. But as you'll hear in this conversation, his lessons extend far beyond the cage.

Together, Adam and Santino explore the difference between discipline and self-destruction, why fear is often misunderstood, how confidence changes the way we move through the world, and why recovery may be more important than hustle. They discuss the psychology of elite performers, the danger of burnout disguised as ambition, the power of habits, the importance of sleep, and why the toughest opponent many of us will ever face is staring back at us in the mirror.

Whether you're training for competition, building a business, navigating a setback, or simply trying to become a stronger version of yourself, this episode offers practical wisdom, hard-earned perspective, and a refreshing reminder that success isn't built on hacks, gimmicks, or overnight transformations. It's built one decision, one habit, and one day at a time.

As Santino says, being fight ready isn't really about fighting. It's about being prepared when life demands your very best.

In This Episode

• Why habits matter more than motivation

• The difference between discipline and self-destruction

• How learning to fight can teach you not to fight

• Why fear is necessary for growth and performance

• The hidden dangers of overtraining and burnout

• Sleep, recovery, and sustainable success

• The power of self-belief and "healthy delusion"

• What it means to be fight ready outside the gym

• Why the person in the mirror is often our toughest opponent

• Lessons from coaching UFC champions and elite athletes

Links & Resources

• Fight Ready by Santino DeFranco

• Santino DeFranco Official Website

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The People Behind Your Plate Are Closer Than You Think | Up+Adam Jun 12, 2026

Spring in Paso Robles means olive oil tastings, lavender in the air, and one of the most beloved traditions on the Central Coast returning to Downtown City Park. Adam sits down with Gina Hambly of Hambly Farms ahead of the annual Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival, happening Saturday, May 9, 2026. From the calming power of lavender to the artistry behind steam distillation, Gina shares how a single plant can create connection, community, and a full sensory experience.

The conversation explores Paso Robles agriculture beyond wine, the emotional pull people have toward lavender, and why events like this festival continue to capture the heart of the Central Coast. Plus: lavender honey gelato, copper still demonstrations, and a reminder that sometimes the simplest things in nature leave the biggest impression.

Whether you’re a longtime Paso local, a lavender lover, or planning your next Central Coast getaway, this episode is pure springtime Paso energy.

• Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival

Saturday, May 9, 2026

Downtown City Park

9 AM to 4 PM

Free Admission

• Learn more about Hambly Farms:

Hambly Farms

• Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival details:

Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival

• Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association:

Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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********

*********

Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Mayor Erica A. Stewart: State of SLO Is Stronger, But the Work Isn't Done | Up+Adam Jun 11, 2026

San Luis Obispo Mayor Erica A. Stewart is back on Up+Adam, and this conversation covers a lot more than an election announcement.

Fresh off announcing her re-election campaign, Erica joins Adam for a candid discussion about the state of San Luis Obispo, what she's proud of, what still keeps her up at night, and why she believes there's more work to be done. From housing and homelessness to downtown parking, local business support, public safety, bike lane debates, and the city's newest parking structure, this is a wide-ranging conversation about where SLO is today and where it's headed next.

Along the way, Adam and Erica talk about some of the little things that often tell the biggest stories. The graffiti that keeps reappearing at a major gateway into town. The businesses investing in free parking for customers. The Ask SLO app that empowers residents to help improve their neighborhoods. The growth of housing inventory. The challenge of balancing community character with future needs. And yes, they even spend a little time discussing the science of a good hair day.

Whether you're a longtime resident, a new arrival, a local business owner, or simply someone who loves San Luis Obispo, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at the opportunities and challenges shaping one of California's most beloved communities.

In this episode:

• Erica's decision to seek another term as mayor

• The future of housing and affordability in San Luis Obispo

• Progress and challenges surrounding homelessness

• Downtown parking, business support, and the new parking structure

• Public safety, e-bikes, and transportation conversations

• Why community participation matters more than ever

• The Ask SLO app and how residents can help improve the city

• The importance of listening, collaboration, and local leadership

Learn more:

• City of San Luis Obispo: https://www.slocity.org

• Ask SLO: https://www.slocity.org/services/how-do-i/report-an-issue

• Mayor Erica A. Stewart: https://www.slocity.org/government/mayor-and-city-council

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericaastewart

Listen. Subscribe. Share.

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

CITIZEN The Artist & Grace Bennett on Fame, Creativity, Relationships & Going Viral Again | Part 2 Up+Adam Jun 10, 2026

Independent artist. Viral filmmaker. Creative architect. But who actually is CITIZEN The Artist once the cameras stop rolling?

In Part Two of Adam’s conversation with CITIZEN The Artist, also known as Phineas Peters, alongside creative collaborator and partner Grace Bennett, the conversation shifts from strategy and social media into something much deeper: identity, recognition, artistry, relationships, and what happens after you “crack the code” online.

After spending Part One unpacking the mechanics behind the viral “TIME” phenomenon, this chapter explores the human side of building a massive independent creative brand in real time. From the meaning behind the name “Citizen,” to navigating fame as a couple, to deciding between New York, Los Angeles, or staying rooted on the Central Coast, this episode becomes a thoughtful look at ambition, creativity, and the emotional realities of visibility in the digital era.

Adam, Phineas, and Grace talk about:

• The deeper meaning behind the name “Citizen The Artist”

• Getting recognized in public for the first time

• Why intentional world-building matters

• The psychology of creating memorable visual identities

• Life as a creative couple online and offline

• East Coast vs West Coast creative culture

• Why weather and seasons inspire artistry

• Building an artistic future beyond social media

• Dreams of filmmaking, feature films, and larger storytelling

• Whether success changes the relationship with creativity itself

• What comes after virality

There’s also something really refreshing about hearing young creators openly discuss the balance between art, business, identity, and humanity in a world increasingly driven by algorithms.

This is Part Two of Adam’s conversation with CITIZEN The Artist and Grace Bennett.

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

• Follow CITIZEN The Artist on Instagram: @citizen_theartist

• Follow CITIZEN The Artist on TikTok: @citizen_theartist

• Follow Grace Bennett on Instagram: @grace.norah.bennett

• Listen to CITIZEN The Artist on Spotify: CITIZEN The Artist Spotify

• Watch on YouTube: CITIZEN The Artist YouTube

• More links and music: CITIZEN The Artist Beacons Page

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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********

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

CITIZEN The Artist: Rare Interview with Phineas Peters & Grace Bennett - Building a Viral Independent Music Empire (From SLO) | Up+Adam Jun 09, 2026

Independent artist. Viral filmmaker. Social media strategist. Modern-day storyteller.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with CITIZEN The Artist, also known as Phineas Peters, alongside creative collaborator and partner Grace Bennett, for a fascinating conversation about what it really takes to build a music career independently in 2026.

From the viral success of “TIME” and the now-iconic reverse-edit trend flooding social media, to the psychology behind audience engagement, visual storytelling, filmmaking, music production, and life without a label, this conversation goes deep into the creative machine behind one of the internet’s fastest-growing independent artist brands.

Adam and CITIZEN talk about:

• Building a loyal audience organically

• Why “No label, just me” became a philosophy

• The intentional rejection of AI-generated content

• The strategy behind creating trends fans actually WANT to recreate

• Balancing music, filmmaking, editing, touring, and branding

• The emotional reality of visibility and internet fame

• Why storytelling matters more than ever in music

• The relationship dynamic behind the videos millions of people watch online

• Whether radio still matters in the streaming, digital, and new media era

There’s also a full-circle moment as Grace Bennett, once an Up+Adam intern, shares what it’s like becoming part of one of social media’s most recognizable creative duos.

This is Part One of a two-part conversation.

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

• Follow CITIZEN The Artist on Instagram: @citizen_theartist

• Follow CITIZEN The Artist on TikTok: @citizen_theartist

• Follow Grace Bennett on Instagram: @grace.norah.bennett

• Listen to CITIZEN The Artist on Spotify: CITIZEN The Artist Spotify

• Watch on YouTube: CITIZEN The Artist YouTube

• More links and music: CITIZEN The Artist Beacons Page

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Jimmy Paulding, SLO Supervisor is Up+Adam Jun 02, 2026

As Adam has said, there are some family transitions that have kept Adam off the air a few days, but he wanted to get this pre recorded interview from late last week on the show.

Jimmy Paulding joins Adam for a candid conversation about leadership, growth, and the future of South San Luis Obispo County as he seeks reelection to the SLO County Board of Supervisors.

From the rapid growth of Nipomo and infrastructure improvements across District 4 to homelessness, public safety, Diablo Canyon, energy policy, and the realities of running in a highly contested race, Jimmy shares where he believes the county has made progress and where the work is far from finished. Adam also digs into some of the headlines surrounding the campaign, including political action committees, campaign finance questions, and the increasingly challenging balance between local government and national politics.

Whether you're a voter, a community advocate, or simply someone who cares about where San Luis Obispo County is headed, this is an insightful look at the issues affecting everyday life on the Central Coast. Based on Jimmy's conversation with Adam, topics include homelessness reduction efforts, the future of Diablo Canyon, public safety investments, Oceano improvements, Nipomo's growth plans, and the importance of maintaining a nonpartisan approach to local government.

Learn more:

• Jimmy Paulding Campaign: https://jimmypaulding.org/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmypaulding/

• SLO County Board of Supervisors: https://www.slocounty.ca.gov

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Slo County Supervisor Race | Michael Erin Woody on Public Trust & SLO CAL Issues | Up+Adam May 27, 2026

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with SLO County Supervisor candidate Michael Erin Woody for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about the future of the Central Coast.

Michael brings a unique perspective to the table as a civil engineer, Harvard graduate, tribal council member, former elected official, and longtime Central Coast local with deep family roots tied to Morro Bay and the Salinan tribe.

Together, Adam and Michael discuss:

• Offshore wind energy and the future of the coastline

• Battery storage projects and concerns after the Moss Landing fire

• Diablo Canyon and California’s energy future

• Homelessness, growth, and infrastructure challenges

• Public trust, community voice, and local government

• Protecting the character and identity of the Central Coast

But beyond policy, this episode becomes something more personal, a conversation about legacy, belonging, and what it means to protect a place you love while still preparing for the future.

This conversation is part of Up+Adam’s ongoing effort to invite SLO County Supervisor candidates into the studio for respectful, long-form conversations centered on ideas, perspective, and community.

Also coming soon, a conversation with supervisor candidate Jimmy Paulding.

For more on Michael Erin Woody, visit https://www.woodyforsupervisor.com/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Greek Festival SLO 2026: Inside the Bigger-Than-Ever Celebration in San Luis Obispo | Up+Adam May 26, 2026

The Greek Festival is back in San Luis Obispo and somehow bigger, louder, warmer, and even more soulful than before. On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Eric and Ninon Atwood, two of the passionate forces behind Greek Festival 2026, happening May 30 and 31 at the Madonna Expo Center. What starts as a conversation about gyros, baklava, lamb shanks, and dancing quickly turns into something deeper about culture, hospitality, family, and why Greek traditions still matter in a hyper-digital world starving for connection.

This episode is packed with stories about the emotional power of food, the meaning behind Greek dancing, the concept of “agape,” and why the Greeks may have mastered celebration thousands of years ago. Eric and Ninon talk about the completely revamped 2026 festival experience, live music, cultural storytelling, Cal Poly dance groups, vendors that recreate an old-world bazaar atmosphere, and the community partnerships helping make the event possible, including support for the Noor Foundation and the SLO Food Bank. There is laughter, there is history, there is ouzo, and yes, there is a serious discussion about the importance of cheese pie.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience Greece without leaving the Central Coast, this episode is your invitation. Come hungry. Come curious. Come ready to dance.

• Greek Festival SLO: Greek Festival SLO

• Tickets: Get Tickets Here

• Instagram: @greekfestslo

Event Details:

• May 30 and May 31, 2026

• Madonna Expo Center, San Luis Obispo

• Live Greek music and dancing

• Authentic Greek food and desserts

• Family-friendly

• Kids 12 and under free

• Free parking

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

SLOFreeParking | Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Pinot & Paella Returns to Templeton Park for Paso Robles Youth Arts | Up+Adam May 22, 2026

Pinot Noir, paella, live music, and one of those Central Coast afternoons that just feels right.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Barby Wunsch, Executive Director of Paso Robles Youth Arts, to talk about the return of Pinot & Paella happening June 7th at Templeton Park. They get into why this event has become such a staple over the last 21 years, the insane lineup of wineries and chefs this year, and how the festival directly supports arts education for local kids right here on the Central Coast.

But this conversation goes deeper than wine and food. Adam and Barby talk about why the arts matter so much for young people right now, especially in a post-COVID world where connection, confidence, and creative outlets are more important than ever. From music and theater to culinary arts and media programs, Paso Robles Youth Arts is giving kids a place to express themselves, build friendships, and discover what they’re capable of.

Also in this episode:

• Why Pinot Noir “opens a door” for wine lovers

• The chefs Adam is most excited about this year

• The new state-of-the-art culinary kitchen at PRYA

• Why nonprofits are feeling the squeeze more than ever

• Paella burritos… yes, really

• And why this event feels more like a community gathering than a fundraiser

Get tickets for Pinot & Paella:

• Pinot & Paella Festival Tickets

Learn more about Paso Robles Youth Arts:

• Paso Robles Youth Arts Center

Follow along:

• Paso Robles Youth Arts Instagram

• Pinot & Paella Instagram

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Molly Kern: Inside the SLO Food Bank’s Summer Hunger Fight | Open House 2026 | Up+Adam May 21, 2026

Summer break is supposed to feel carefree. But for a lot of families across San Luis Obispo County, it also means losing access to school breakfasts and lunches, stretching grocery budgets even thinner, and quietly trying to figure out how to make it all work. On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Molly Kern from SLO Food Bank for a conversation about what food insecurity really looks like on the Central Coast, and how the community continues to show up for one another in powerful ways.

Molly shares how the food bank is now serving more than 52,000 people every month, why summer creates extra pressure for working families, and how their upcoming Open House is designed to pull back the curtain on the incredible operation happening inside the warehouse every single day. Adam and Molly also get into the wildly competitive Summer Breakfast Bag Build-Off finals, volunteer culture in SLO County, raising kids with a spirit of service, and why food is about so much more than what’s on the plate. It’s community. It’s dignity. It’s connection. And yes, Adam will be out there emceeing the event too.

If you’ve ever wondered how the SLO Food Bank actually works, who it helps, or how to get involved, this episode gives you a real look inside one of the most important organizations on the Central Coast.

• Learn more about the SLO Food Bank:

SLO Food Bank Official Website

• RSVP for the Open House:

SLO Food Bank Open House RSVP

• Follow the SLO Food Bank on Instagram:

@slofoodbank

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Leonard Cohen: La Esquina, Free Parking & the Future of Downtown SLO | Up+Adam May 20, 2026

Downtown San Luis Obispo has its characters. Its storytellers. Its lifers. And then there’s Leonard Cohen.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with the longtime restaurateur behind La Esquina Taqueria, Cioppino’s, and the legendary Old Port Inn for one of those conversations that only happens when two people genuinely love where they live.

This episode starts with tacos and free parking… then spirals beautifully into the history of Port San Luis, the psychology of hospitality, modern tipping culture, World War II storytelling, hidden Central Coast history, and the surprisingly emotional origin story behind those iconic glass tables over the water at Old Port Inn.

Leonard opens up about the brutal impact downtown parking issues had on local businesses over the last few years and why he decided to offer free parking at La Esquina to help bring people back downtown. He also talks about the upcoming release of his new memoir and recipe collection, By The Glass, which blends family stories, restaurant history, recipes, local lore, and the experiences that shaped his life as a businessman, father, community advocate, and accidental historian.

You’ll also hear:

• Why Leonard believes hospitality should feel generous, not restrictive

• His brutally honest take on modern tipping culture

• The return of beloved Cioppino Nights

• How a childhood memory with his dad inspired a dining experience locals still talk about decades later

• The behind-the-scenes role he quietly played during the Unocal years in Avila Beach

• The unbelievable true story inspiring his next World War II-based novel

• What happened when the real Leonard Cohen called the restaurant from Australia

This is one of those deeply local conversations that somehow becomes universal. Funny, opinionated, nostalgic, thoughtful, and wildly SLO CAL.

• Check out Restaurant: La Esquina Taqueria

• Cioppino Nights return regularly at La Esquina (5/31 next one)

• Free parking available in the new downtown parking structure when dining at La Esquina

• Follow on Instagram: @laesquinaslo

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Actor Michael Chiklis (The Commish/The Shield) on Saving the Arts for Children | Up+Adam May 19, 2026

Michael Chiklis has played some of television’s most unforgettable characters, from Vic Mackey on The Shield to Tony Scali on The Commish and Ben Grimm in Fantastic Four. But this conversation with Adam Montiel goes somewhere deeper than Hollywood.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Michael Chiklis opens up about the very real moment that changed the course of his life: a regional theater in Massachusetts, a National Endowment for the Arts grant, and a 14-year-old kid discovering storytelling for the first time. What followed became a moving conversation about why arts funding matters, how creativity shapes young minds, and why Chiklis is now advocating alongside The Creative Coalition to protect artistic expression and opportunities for future generations.

There’s also a hilarious detour involving his dog “Tom Brady,” reflections on The Shield and The Commish, and one of those rare interview moments where a guest stops sounding like a celebrity and starts sounding deeply human.

This one’s about storytelling, advocacy, creativity, and the life-changing power of being given a chance.

• Learn more about The Creative Coalition: The Creative Coalition

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Adam Verdin: Political Newcomer Takes on an Incumbent in the SLO Supervisor District 4 Race | Up+Adam May 18, 2026

San Luis Obispo County politics gets personal on this episode of Up+Adam as Adam Montiel sits down with District 4 County Supervisor candidate Adam Verdin for a conversation that goes far beyond campaign mailers and party labels.

Verdin opens up about what pushed him into the race against incumbent Jimmy Paulding, the emotional reality of running for office for the first time, and why he believes local government should operate with more common sense and less political tribalism. From owning Old Juan’s Cantina and flying professionally as a pilot, to navigating campaign controversies, endorsements, and “dark money” headlines, this episode digs into the human side of public service.

Adam and Adam also tackle some of the biggest issues facing the Central Coast right now, including homelessness, affordable housing, Diablo Canyon, workforce struggles, economic pressure on middle-class families, and whether young people can realistically build a future in SLO County anymore. There’s humor, tension, vulnerability, and a few moments where the conversation feels more like neighbors talking than politicians debating.

Whether you’re deeply political, politically exhausted, or just trying to understand the future of the SLO CAL, this is one of those conversations built to make you think a little deeper.

Links:

• Campaign Website: VerdinForSupervisor.com

• SLO Chamber Candidate Profile: SLO Chamber Candidate Profile – Adam Verdin

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Próxima Parada with SLO Symphony at Cal Poly PAC 5/21 | T-Minus 7 Days with Nick Larson | Up+Adam May 14, 2026

Próxima Parada is days away from one of the most ambitious performances in Central Coast music history. Lead singer Nick Larson returns to Up+Adam as the band prepares for their one-night-only collaboration with the San Luis Obispo Symphony at the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center. What started as a bold idea is now fully in motion. The music has been written, every orchestral part has been handed off, and rehearsals are about to begin with a full symphony bringing SLO-born songs to life on stage.

This conversation goes beyond the performance. Adam and Nick dive into what it feels like when the pressure becomes real, the community rallies behind you, and something bigger than the band starts to take shape. From local organizations stepping up to support the show, to fans traveling across the country, to a live stream and full film production capturing it all, this is more than a concert. It is a moment for San Luis Obispo, for the arts, and for anyone who believes in building something meaningful from the ground up.

• Get tickets for Próxima Parada with the SLO Symphony

https://www.pacslo.org/events/detail/proximaparada

• Watch the livestream and learn more

https://www.proximaparadamusic.com/

• Follow Próxima Parada

https://www.instagram.com/proximaparada_music/

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Jake Steinfeld: Body By Jake Radio, Rebuilding After the Palisades Fire & the Power of “Don’t Quit” | Up+Adam May 13, 2026

Fitness icon. Motivational force. Fire survivor. Reinvention architect.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Jake Steinfeld, better known to generations as “Body By Jake,” for a conversation that goes far beyond workouts and weight loss. From creating the modern personal training industry and pioneering fitness television, to launching the brand-new Body By Jake Radio with iHeartMedia and Universal Music Group, Jake opens up about purpose, perseverance, and why movement may be the most underutilized antidepressant we have.

But this conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Jake reflects on losing his home in the Palisades fire after 31 years, the emotional toll of rebuilding, and what happens when the man behind the iconic “Don’t Quit!” mantra is forced to live those words in real time.

Adam and Jake also dive into:

• Why Body By Jake Radio was created during Mental Health Awareness Month

• The connection between music, mindset, and motivation

• The first small steps people can take when they feel overwhelmed physically or emotionally

• Why exercise should never feel like punishment

• The recent passing of Ted Turner and his role in Jake’s media journey

• The poem that changed Jake’s life forever

• How routine and movement helped Jake survive grief and shock after the fire

• Why hope is a muscle too

This one’s about resilience. About momentum. About getting back up when life knocks you sideways.

And yes… it’s 72 and sunny every day at Body By Jake Radio.

Listen to Body By Jake Radio on the iHeartRadio app:

iHeartRadio

Learn more about Body By Jake:

Body By Jake Official Website

Follow Jake Steinfeld on Instagram:

@officialbodybyjake

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Ben Arona Part 2: More Than a Pizza Place | Benny’s & Community | Up+Adam May 12, 2026

Part 2 of Adam’s conversation with Ben Arona moves beyond the pizza and into something deeper: how a restaurant becomes a gathering place.

This chapter of the conversation gets into the identity behind Benny’s Pizza Palace & Social Club and the intentionality behind building a space people actually want to stay in. Ben talks about preserving pieces of the old Pepe Delgado’s building, creating a patio that feels lived in instead of overdesigned, and why he wanted Benny’s to feel welcoming to everybody. Construction workers, elected officials, families, first dates, grad parties, random Tuesday night hangs. The goal was never just food. It was connection.

Adam and Ben also get into the entrepreneurial side most people do not think about once a place becomes successful. Systems versus personality. Building a business that can operate without being fully dependent on one person. The pressure of growth. Hiring. Scaling. And the quiet mental routines that keep everything moving when nobody’s watching.

There is also a great stretch about what Ben actually eats at his own restaurant, the menu items people overlook, and the morning walks through the Mission that help him process business, relationships, stress, and life. It is thoughtful, grounded, and surprisingly reflective for a conversation that starts with Detroit-style pizza.

This is the human side of entrepreneurship. The side after the opening hype wears off. The part where a business starts becoming part of the fabric of a town.

• Website: https://bennysppsc.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bennyspizzaslo/

• Happy Hour: Monday through Friday • 4:30PM–6:30PM

• Detroit-style pizza • Patio space • Grad parties • Corporate events

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

This Weekend’s Olive & Lavender Festival in Paso Robles with Gina Hambly of Hambly Farms May 08, 2026

Spring in Paso Robles means olive oil tastings, lavender in the air, and one of the most beloved traditions on the Central Coast returning to Downtown City Park. Adam sits down with Gina Hambly of Hambly Farms ahead of the annual Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival, happening Saturday, May 9, 2026. From the calming power of lavender to the artistry behind steam distillation, Gina shares how a single plant can create connection, community, and a full sensory experience.

The conversation explores Paso Robles agriculture beyond wine, the emotional pull people have toward lavender, and why events like this festival continue to capture the heart of the Central Coast. Plus: lavender honey gelato, copper still demonstrations, and a reminder that sometimes the simplest things in nature leave the biggest impression.

Whether you’re a longtime Paso local, a lavender lover, or planning your next Central Coast getaway, this episode is pure springtime Paso energy.

• Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival

Saturday, May 9, 2026

Downtown City Park

9 AM to 4 PM

Free Admission

• Learn more about Hambly Farms:

Hambly Farms

• Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival details:

Paso Robles Olive and Lavender Festival

• Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association:

Downtown Paso Robles Main Street Association

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Why Up+Adam was Mentioned in Very First Question of Sheriff's Kristin Smart Press Conference - Adam's Complete Coverage from Presser May 08, 2026

Up+Adam had correspondent Alex Farrington at the Kristin Smart Presser today, and we were surprised that the VERY FIRST QUESTION WAS ABOUT OUR show!

Here is the Q&A from the presser with commentary from Adamm then a conversation with Alex Farrington after presser concludes.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking.com

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Exclusive: Sheriff Ian Parkinson Speaks As New Kristin Smart Search Warrant Unfolds in Real Time only to Up+Adam May 07, 2026

A case that has lived in the heart of the Central Coast for nearly three decades took another step forward and Up+Adam is bringing you inside it in real time, exclusively.

In this exclusive Up+Adam conversation, Sheriff Ian Parkinson joins Adam Montiel as a new search warrant is actively being served in the case of Kristin Smart. At the time of this interview, Up+Adam was the only platform speaking directly with the Sheriff as the search unfolded.

Even after the 2022 conviction of Paul Flores, one truth remains: this case is not over until Kristin is brought home.

Sheriff Parkinson speaks candidly about what led investigators back to the Arroyo Grande property belonging to convicted killer Paul Flores’ mother, Susan Flores, how evolving technology like ground penetrating radar and advancements in science are shaping the search, and why his team continues to pursue every lead no matter the time or cost. This is not just about evidence. It is about persistence, patience, and a promise to a family that has waited far too long.

As the search unfolds, the Sheriff makes it clear: this work continues until there are answers.

• This episode is for anyone who has followed the Kristin Smart case

• For listeners interested in real time law enforcement insight

• For a community still holding its breath

Listen in for a grounded, thoughtful, powerful, and exclusive conversation that reminds us this is not just a case. This is a person. And a family waiting.

• Official statement from San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office

• LA Times Coverage

• KSBY Coverage

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

BREAKING: Search Warrant on Susan Flores House in Kristin Smart Case May 06, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Adam opens this episode with something real and personal. After being off the mic for a couple of days, he shares why. His dad, they call him Opa, was unexpectedly hospitalized, and what initially seemed like back pain turned into something far more serious. In true Up+Adam fashion, Adam brings listeners into that moment with honesty, gratitude, and heart, reflecting on family, community, and the overwhelming support that shows up when life shifts without warning.

From there, the show turns toward something equally powerful in a different way. From San Luis Obispo to the national spotlight, this is one of those stories that feels bigger than the moment itself. Florencia Breda, co-owner of Breda in downtown SLO, joins Up+Adam on the day of the finale of Food Network’s The Ultimate Baking Championship. After competing against 16 of the country’s top pastry chefs, she’s now one of the final three, navigating high-stakes challenges that demand precision, creativity, and endurance at the highest level.

In this conversation, Florencia opens up about the surreal nature of seeing herself on a show she grew up watching, the emotional weight of keeping the outcome a secret for weeks, and the powerful role community has played in her journey. From hosting watch parties at her shop to hearing from world-renowned pastry chef Antonio Bachour, this moment is about more than competition. It is about growth, gratitude, and the realization that years of hard work are paying off in real time.

Whether you are a foodie, an aspiring chef, or someone chasing a dream, this episode captures what it feels like to be in the arena when everything is on the line.

• Learn more about Breda: https://www.breda-slo.com/

• Follow Florencia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breda_slo/

• Watch The Ultimate Baking Championship on Food Network: https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/the-ultimate-baking-championship

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

From Underground Pizza to Local Staple | The Benny’s Pizza Story w/ Ben Arona | Up+Adam Apr 29, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

In Part 1 of this conversation, Adam sits down with Ben Arona, the mind behind Benny’s Pizza Palace & Social Club, and gets into the version of the story most people never see. Before the packed patio, before the social club energy, before it became a go-to spot in San Luis Obispo, this was one guy making dough in the morning, selling pizzas through Facebook, and trying to figure out if the whole thing would even work.

They talk about the underground days, building a business out of a former chain pizza space, and what it actually looks like to scale something from nothing. There is a raw honesty here about the grind. Early mornings, long days, doing everything yourself, and slowly building systems that can hold the weight of growth. Ben breaks down how he went from making a couple pizzas at a time to running a full operation, and why structure and process became just as important as the product itself.

Why Detroit style pizza? How he developed the sauce over years without changing it once it clicked.

There is a moment in this episode where the conversation shifts from passion to pressure. Break-ins, unexpected costs, and the real numbers behind running a restaurant. What it actually takes to keep the doors open, and why entrepreneurship is a lot less glamorous than it looks from the outside. It is honest, it is unfiltered, and it is something anyone thinking about starting a business needs to hear.

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation. Part 2 picks up with the space, the community, the vibe, and the human side of what Benny’s has become.

• Website: https://bennysppsc.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bennyspizzaslo/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Terrie Bannish on Atascadero’s Flavor Run | Tamale Fest Turns 10 in a Town That Refuses to Sit Still | Up+Adam Apr 28, 2026

• https://www.atascaderotamalefest.com/

Atascadero is having a moment and if you’ve been paying attention, you can feel it. On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Terrie Bannish from the City of Atascadero to talk about the 10th annual Tamale Fest and how it’s grown from a local event into one of the Central Coast’s biggest, most talked-about weekends. We’re talking tens of thousands of tamales sold in a single day, vendors coming in from all over California, and a community that continues to show up in a big way year after year.

This conversation goes beyond the event itself. Adam and Terrie get into what’s really happening in Atascadero right now. The growth, the energy, the restaurants, the events calendar that just keeps rolling. From Fiesta Friday, which gives locals a chance to actually enjoy the vendors without the massive crowds, to Saturday’s full-scale takeover with live music, folklórico dancers, tamale competitions, and yes, the pet costume contest that Adam will be right in the middle of. There’s something for everyone here whether you’re coming for the food, the culture, or just a great day out on the Central Coast.

• 10th Annual Tamale Fest in Atascadero

• Fiesta Friday 5pm to 9pm with live music and early vendor access

• Main event Saturday with 20 plus tamale vendors and 40,000 to 50,000 tamales expected to be sold

• Pet costume contest hosted by Adam Montiel

• Live performances including mariachi, folklórico dancers, and Brass Mash

• Family friendly activities including bounce houses, rock climbing wall, and more

• Proceeds from beverages support the Central Coast Zoo

Want to go? Here’s everything you need:

• https://www.visitatascadero.com/

Follow along and stay connected:

• https://www.instagram.com/visitatascadero/

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Eve Plumb: Life After Jan Brady | The Brady Bunch & Happiness Included | Up+Adam Apr 27, 2026

https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/9780806545035/happiness-included/

Eve Plumb joins Up+Adam for a conversation that goes far beyond the nostalgia of The Brady Bunch. Best known as Jan Brady, Eve reflects on what it really meant to grow up on camera, and how that experience shaped her understanding of identity, work, and fulfillment. Her new memoir, Happiness Included: Jan Brady & Beyond, pulls back the curtain on a life that looked picture-perfect from the outside but was, in reality, built on discipline, strong parenting, and a commitment to craft over celebrity.

In this episode, Eve opens up about the surprising truth behind fame, why she believes being good at what you do matters more than being recognized for it, and what it took to finally share more of her private world. From soundstages and windowless classrooms to a six-decade career across television, film, theater, and painting, this is a conversation about longevity, perspective, and redefining what happiness actually looks like.

• Happiness Included: Jan Brady & Beyond (Book)

• Eve Plumb Official Website

https://eveplumb.tv

• Follow Eve Plumb

https://www.instagram.com/theeveplumb

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Sarah Tomasetti: Wine 4 Paws Founder on 18 Years of Giving Back | Woods Humane Society | Up+Adam Apr 24, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

What happens when you mix a passion for wine, a love for animals, and a community that shows up year after year? You get something like Wine 4 Paws, a Central Coast tradition that’s been quietly (and now loudly) changing lives for 18 years. Founder Sarah Tomasetti joins Adam to share how a simple idea at 21 years old turned into a full-scale movement with more than 80 participating wineries, restaurants, and local businesses. The concept is beautifully simple: go out, enjoy the best of the region, and a portion of what you spend goes directly to helping homeless animals.

This conversation taps into the heart of what makes the Central Coast special, the collaboration, the generosity, and the shared purpose. Sarah walks us through the evolution of the event, the energy behind this year’s weekend, and why Woods Humane Society continues to be the perfect partner, placing thousands of animals into loving homes each year while expanding services like microchipping and spay and neuter clinics. Whether you're mapping out your tasting route, bringing your dog along for the ride, or just looking for a meaningful way to spend your weekend, this episode is your invitation to be part of something bigger.

• Learn more: https://www.wine4paws.com

• Follow along: https://www.instagram.com/wine4paws

• Support Woods Humane Society: https://woodshumanesociety.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Tommy Dorfman: One Promoter vs The Monopoly | Live Nation, Ticketmaster, Power & Price of Music | Up+Adam Apr 23, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Tommy Dorfman’s story hits differently when you place it next to what’s happening right now in live music.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with promoter and entrepreneur Tommy Dorfman, who went from building a nightlife empire to taking on Live Nation Entertainment and Ticketmaster in a legal fight that’s stretched over a decade. What started as a collapsed festival deal turned into something much bigger. Dorfman claims he was pushed out of the industry and has spent years trying to bring what he believes is a broken system into the light.

This conversation lands at a moment when Live Nation and Ticketmaster are facing intense national scrutiny. Recent reporting and legal action have raised major questions about monopoly power, ticket pricing, and control of the live entertainment pipeline. From federal and state challenges to public debate around whether meaningful change is actually coming, the conversation is no longer theoretical. It is happening now.

• Rolling Stone perspective on the Live Nation verdict and what it means for fans and the industry

Read here

• Good News Network coverage of the antitrust ruling calling Live Nation and Ticketmaster an exploitative monopoly

Read here

• The New Yorker on whether the Ticketmaster monopoly verdict is real change or a mirage

Read here

Whether you follow the business of music or just wonder why concert tickets feel out of reach, this episode connects one man’s story to a much larger question about power, access, and the future of live events.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Robert “Kool” Bell: Kool & The Gang, Celebration, and Music Legacy | Kool Kids Foundation | Up+Adam Apr 22, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Robert “Kool” Bell doesn’t just make music. He’s part of the rhythm of our lives. In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel chats with the co-founder of Kool & The Gang to go beyond the hits and into the heart behind them. From the unexpected rise of “Celebration” to the legacy of a sound that’s been sampled across generations, Kool reflects on a career that has shaped weddings, dance floors, and defining life moments around the world.

But this conversation hits deeper. Kool opens up about the songs he wishes he had recorded, shouting out legends like Marvin Gaye and Prince, and shares the origin story of the Kool Kids Foundation, inspired by his late wife and built to bring music education back to young people. There’s even a wild, full-circle moment involving the group Color Me Badd that started with a chance encounter and turned into music history.

Follow and learn more

• Kool & The Gang: https://www.koolandthegang.com

• Kool Kids Foundation: https://koolkidsfoundation.org

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koolandthegang

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Alexia Jayy: 'The Voice' Season 29 Winner on Finding Herself | Rent Free | Up+Adam Apr 21, 2026

https://www.instagram.com/alexiajayy__/

Alexia Jayy didn’t just win The Voice Battle of Champions. She found herself in the process.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Alexia sits down with Adam Montiel for a conversation that goes beyond the stage and into the shift that changed everything. From earning that triple-chair turn to delivering a finale performance of One and Only that moved coaches to tears, Alexia opens up about the moment she stopped chasing perfection and finally chose presence. And here’s the twist. She held onto that life-changing win without even telling her son, all while quietly processing a new version of herself that had just arrived.

Now with her new single Rent Free out and a future that feels wide open, Alexia shares what she is protecting most in this next chapter, how she stays grounded, and why she is no longer going back to perfection.

follow alexia jayy

listen on spotify

https://open.spotify.com/artist/ (search “Alexia Jayy” and follow her official artist page)

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Alexia Jayy: The Voice Season 29 Winner on Finding Herself | Rent Free | Up+Adam Apr 21, 2026

https://www.instagram.com/alexiajayy__/

Alexia Jayy didn’t just win The Voice Battle of Champions. She found herself in the process.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Alexia sits down with Adam Montiel for a conversation that goes beyond the stage and into the shift that changed everything. From earning that triple-chair turn to delivering a finale performance of One and Only that moved coaches to tears, Alexia opens up about the moment she stopped chasing perfection and finally chose presence. And here’s the twist. She held onto that life-changing win without even telling her son, all while quietly processing a new version of herself that had just arrived.

Now with her new single Rent Free out and a future that feels wide open, Alexia shares what she is protecting most in this next chapter, how she stays grounded, and why she is no longer going back to perfection.

follow alexia jayy

listen on spotify

https://open.spotify.com/artist/ (search “Alexia Jayy” and follow her official artist page)

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

#1 NYT Bestselling Author Mark Greaney Talks The Hard Line and Writing the Gray Man Apr 16, 2026

What happens when the hunter becomes the hunted?

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with #1 New York Times bestselling author Mark Greaney, the mastermind behind the wildly popular Gray Man series, to talk about his latest release, The Hard Line. Whether you're a longtime thriller fan or someone just looking for your next page turner, this conversation opens the door to the power of fiction to reflect the real world in ways that feel urgent, intense, and deeply human.

Mark shares how he flipped the script on his iconic character Court Gentry, turning an apex predator into prey and introducing one of his most personal and complex villains yet, a man driven by loss, legacy, and revenge. The conversation dives into the psychology behind great antagonists, the emotional weight of writing about family and generational cycles, and how today’s chaotic world influences the stories he tells. As heard in the interview, Greaney leans into the tension between fiction and reality, drawing from a world where “Americans don’t trust Americans” and building narratives that feel eerily close to home.

Adam and Mark also get into the craft, what it takes to write 15 books in a series without losing originality, the chaos behind the creative process, and how something like “maladaptive daydreaming” can evolve from a childhood challenge into a storytelling superpower. It’s a conversation about discipline, imagination, and the responsibility of writing characters that live in moral gray areas but still earn our loyalty.

• Learn more about Mark Greaney: https://markgreaneybooks.com

• Buy The Hard Line: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593954815

• Follow Mark on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markgreaneybooks/

• Listen, subscribe, and stay curious, more conversations like this at Up+Adam

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Emmanuelle Chriqui: From 'Entourage' to Her Latest Film, 'A Love Like This' | Candid Chat | Up+Adam Apr 15, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Some guests make you feel something the moment they start talking. Emmanuelle Chriqui (pronounced eh-MAN-yoo-EL Shree-Kee) is exactly that kind of guest. You know her as Sloan from HBO's Entourage, the role that introduced her to the world and never really let go. You know her as Lana Lang from the CW's Superman and Lois. But this conversation goes somewhere deeper than a highlight reel. Adam and Emmanuelle talk about what it really means to love someone in the gray space, what producing her new film unlocked in her creatively, and what happens when the script disappears on set and something completely real takes over. She also opens up about standing up as a proud Jewish woman in the loudest, most divided moment of recent memory, and why she had no choice but to speak. Her new film A Love Like This, in which she stars alongside Hayes MacArthur and also produces, releases April 24th.

Emmanuelle is incredibly disarming, and the chemistry in this conversation is immediate. Like, by the end of it Adam is already pitching her and her boyfriend on a trip to Paso Robles wine country and she is saying yes. That kind of rapport. Do not sleep on this one.

Watch the A Love Like This trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3Vv5WiLdDA
Follow Emmanuelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmanuellechriqui

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

Check out Adam on People Pints & Possibilities

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Corey Jordan: Inside Paso Robles Jazz Fest, Libretto’s Intimate Music Culture & AMSTRDM Breaking News | Up+Adam Apr 14, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Paso Robles is evolving and this conversation proves it. Adam sits down with Corey Jordan, founder of Libretto, to talk about the inaugural Paso Robles Jazz Fest and how a 50-seat listening room turned into a full-scale cultural movement. What started as intimate, unamplified performances inside a historic 1919 space has grown into a three-day experience that blends world-class jazz, Paso wine country, and human connection in a way that feels both elevated and deeply local.

They get into the real origin story of the fest, how a visiting New York artist sparked the idea, and why Corey believes Paso is ready for a “culture injection” at exactly the right moment. There’s something powerful happening here, where jazz, wine, and community all intersect, and this festival is designed to showcase that harmony in a way that feels intentional, immersive, and a little bit magical.

Adam and Corey also go deep on what makes Libretto different, from its no-amplification philosophy to the rare Steinway “unicorn” piano that’s played by some of the best musicians in the world. Plus, they break news on major expansion plans with Amsterdam Coffee House, including a full kitchen takeover and new partnerships that are about to level things up in a big way.

And then there’s the finale. A nine-foot concert grand piano brought out to Sensorio, overlooking the Field of Light, with Grammy-level talent performing as the sun sets. It’s not just a show, it’s a moment.

If you care about music, Paso, or just being part of something special before everyone else catches on, this is the episode.

• Paso Robles Jazz Fest official site: https://www.pasoroblesjazzfest.com/

• Libretto Paso: https://www.librettopaso.com/

• Libretto Jazz Fest page: https://www.librettopaso.com/pasoroblesjazzfest

• Libretto Conservatory: https://www.librettopaso.com/conservatory

• Amsterdam Coffee House: https://www.amstrdmpaso.com/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Andy Stumpf: Former Navy SEAL on Failure, Fear, and Bing 'Drownproof' | Up+Adam Apr 13, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

What if the hardest battle you ever fight isn’t out there… but in here?

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with former Navy SEAL Team 6 operator Andy Stumpf, author of Drownproof: Eight Life Lessons to Keep Your Head Above Water. But this conversation goes far beyond the battlefield. Andy opens up about the moments that nearly broke him, including a divorce that tested him more than combat ever did, and the internal fight that comes when your own mind turns against you.

This is a conversation about ownership, identity, and learning how to move forward when life feels insurmountable. Andy shares how he reframed failure as “tuition,” why integrity cannot be outsourced, and how breaking life into the smallest possible steps can help you survive even the darkest days. It is not about being a Navy SEAL. It is about being human, and learning how to stay afloat when everything feels like it is pulling you under.

• How to break overwhelming moments into manageable steps

• Why failure might be the most valuable investment you ever make

• The difference between thrashing and floating in life

• What it really means to take ownership of your actions

• How to build resilience before life forces you to

Whether you are navigating a tough season, chasing a goal, or just trying to keep your head above water, this episode delivers real tools and perspective you can actually use.

Listen in. Lean in. And maybe… breathe a little easier.

• Buy the book: HERE → https://www.amazon.com/Drownproof-Eight-Lessons-Above-Water/dp/125037961X

• Andy Stumpf Podcast Cleared Hot: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cleared-hot/id1241768787

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andystumpf212/

• Website: https://andystumpf.com/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

I Will Be Fine Filmmakers | Filmmaking Under Pressure but with Purpose and Local Heart Apr 11, 2026

Up+Adam for April 11 2026 Sponsored by The Mountain Air

What happens when you only have five days to create something meaningful and everything is on the line? In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Central Coast filmmakers Bettina Someros-Ching, lead actor and producer Steven Charles Ching, and actress and associate producer Angela Alarcon to talk about their powerful short film I Will Be Fine, created for the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge.

Shot right here on the Central Coast and led by Atascadero local Bettina Someros-Ching, this project is more than just a film. It is a community effort built with heart, trust, and an all-in creative sprint. From last-minute edits under pressure to deeply personal moments behind the story, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to create something honest. Angela brings a global perspective to a deeply local production, while Bettina and Steven reflect on telling a story rooted in real people, real relationships, and real purpose.

• Created in just five days for the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge

• Shot on the Central Coast with a local and regional team

• A story centered on resilience, community, and asking for help

• A behind-the-scenes look at the emotional and creative process

• Why “I will be fine” means more than we think

If you have ever pushed through something, leaned on others, or needed a reminder that you are not alone, this one is for you.

WATCH + FOLLOW + SUPPORT THE FILM:

• Watch on YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Wfd7RZ_MAV0&ra=m

• Watch on Facebook: https://fb.watch/Gh0nCvHMLB/?mibextid=wwXIfr

• Angela Alarcon: https://www.instagram.com/angelaalarcon

• Steven Charles Ching: https://www.instagram.com/zhatdude

• Bettina Someros-Ching: https://www.instagram.com/je_suis_bettina

• Film Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iwillbefine.mp4/

• Easterseals Disability Film Challenge: https://disabilityfilmchallenge.com/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Jack’s Helping Hand Turns 20: Bridget Ready | Soup n’ Syrah Paso Robles Event | Up+Adam Apr 09, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

This one’s about heart, community, and what happens when people decide to show up for each other.

Adam sits down with Bridget Ready, co-founder of Jack’s Helping Hand, Leslie Orradre, Executive Director and CEO, and Alex Raissipour, organizer of the inaugural Soup n’ Syrah event. What starts as a conversation about a local fundraiser quickly turns into something much deeper. A story of loss that turned into purpose. A nonprofit that began with helping one child and now supports over 600 families across the Central Coast. And a reminder that even in the hardest moments, there’s a path forward and sometimes it starts by helping someone else.

Bridget shares how returning to the classroom helped heal her after losing her son, and how that same spirit of service became the foundation for Jack’s Helping Hand. Leslie reflects on growing the organization from a grassroots effort into one of the most respected nonprofits in the county, built on trust, transparency, and showing up for families when they need it most. And Alex brings it all together with Soup n’ Syrah, a brand-new event blending Paso wine culture with community impact, all benefiting local children and families.

• 20 years of Jack’s Helping Hand and how it all began

• The moment the mission became bigger than anyone imagined

• What families actually need when facing medical hardship

• Why community support matters more than ever right now

• Soup n’ Syrah: wine, food, and giving back this Sunday

• How you can get involved, donate, or simply show up

If you’re local, this is an easy yes. Great wine, incredible food, and a chance to support one of the most impactful organizations on the Central Coast. Use promo code VTR to save 35% on tickets.

• Soup n’ Syrah Event Info & Tickets: https://castorocellars.com/events/club/soup-n-syrah

• Event Site: https://soupnsyrah.wixsite.com/soup

• Jack’s Helping Hand: http://jackshelpinghand.org/

As always, thanks for being here.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Joe from Meta: Inside Instagram on a Real Consultation Call | Growth, Reels, Algorithm | Up+Adam Apr 08, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

What happens when you get real, unfiltered access to someone inside Instagram? Not a headline. Not a hack. A real conversation.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam brings you along for a recorded call with Joe from Meta, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the platform actually works right now. This isn’t theory. This is straight from the source.

They break down what truly drives growth on Instagram today, including why consistency matters more than perfection, how posting three reels a week can signal the algorithm, and why short-form video continues to dominate. Joe also shares how creators can use the Professional Dashboard and Inspiration tools to spot trends, why “trial reels” are one of the most underused features for testing content, and how captions, hashtags, and watch time all work together to help the system understand who you are and who should see your content.

For businesses and creators alike, one of the biggest takeaways is this: Instagram is still one of the most powerful free tools available. But it rewards clarity, consistency, and curiosity. From using open-ended questions to drive engagement, to creating content that sparks curiosity instead of giving everything away, this episode is packed with practical insights you can actually use.

Whether you are running a winery, building a brand, hosting a podcast, or just trying to figure out why your posts are not landing, this conversation gives you a clearer path forward.

• Follow Instagram’s Creator Account for trends: https://www.instagram.com/creators/

• Learn more about Instagram tools and features: https://about.instagram.com/

• Explore your Professional Dashboard inside the Instagram app

Listen. Learn. Then go try something.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Mountain Air on Life, Love, and Not Selling Out | Josh and Lindsey Haring are Up+Adam Apr 06, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Some love stories start over candlelit dinners. Josh and Lindsey Haring's started over a rack of Patagonia sports bras and a sales pitch that Lindsey never saw coming. And somehow, that moment on Marsh Street in September 2005 led to the two of them becoming the owners of one of San Luis Obispo's most beloved institutions: The Mountain Air.

Founded in 1975 by Wayne Patterson, The Mountain Air has been outfitting Central Coast adventurers for more than 50 years. Josh came up through the store, working alongside Wayne for nearly two decades before taking the keys in January 2020. Lindsey brought seven years at the Chamber of Commerce and a run at Cal Poly to the table, and together they've built something that goes way beyond retail. They're raising three sons here. They're running PEAK, a 501c3 that has raised nearly $94,000 in six years to fund extracurricular activities for local kids. They do custom embroidery for wineries and businesses across the county. They install car racks better than anyone from LA to San Francisco, by their own humble estimation. And Brandon Ammerman, their lead ski tech with 28 years in the shop, will make your beat-up skis look like they just came off the factory floor.

Then there's The Switchback, their sister shop just two doors down, where used outdoor gear finds its next chapter. Skis, snowboards, backpacks, boots, apparel, kids gear that still has three seasons left in it. You can sell your stuff for cash or store credit and use it at either shop. Josh put it best: they give gear the life it deserves.

This is what local advertising is supposed to feel like. Real people. Real community. Real dollars staying right here at home.

The Mountain Air: themountainair.com
The Switchback: theswitchback.com
The Mountain Air on Instagram: @themountainair
Up+Adam with Adam Montiel on Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/up-adam-with-adam-montiel/id1508232984
Up+Adam on Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/4Gnkhv5b8EQFIQ9X3guf7n

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Happy Friday | Pet of the Week with Woods Humane Society Apr 03, 2026

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Are You Daughtering? The Invisible Work of Adult Daughters with Dr. Allison Alford | Up+Adam Apr 02, 2026

Dr. Allison Alford is a communication researcher, keynote speaker, and the founder of Daughtering 101 and her debut book Good Daughtering gives a name to something millions of women have been doing their entire lives without ever getting credit for it. Daughtering is the invisible labor, the emotional heavy lifting, the crisis management, the deep breath before you answer the phone and the even deeper one after you hang up. It's the planning, the worrying, the checking in, the smoothing over. It's just Tuesday. But Tuesday has a cost.

In this episode, Adam and Dr. Alford get into the messy middle, the space where you love your family deeply and it's still complicated. They talk about the internal "enoughness" meter that never quite shuts off, why daughters protect their parents' feelings at the expense of their own needs, how siblings can hold completely different memories of the same parent and both be right, and what it actually looks like to reclaim your role without blowing up your relationships. If you have ever felt stretched thin, unseen, or quietly exhausted by the weight of being the one who holds it all together, this episode was made for you.

Buy Good Daughtering: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/good-daughtering-allison-m-alford
Dr. Allison Alford's website: https://www.daughtering101.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daughtering101
Substack: https://www.substack.com/@daughtering101

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https://surfingforhope.org/

Some guests come on to promote something. KB came on to confess something. Kahonukai Boro, lead singer of IMVA, has been living inside the world of Michael Jackson since before he could explain it. Fedora to elementary school. Gold compilation CDs on repeat in the Honda CRV. A 12-minute mock rock performance at the Paso Fairgrounds that ended in cardiac arrest. And then, on the table at Children's Hospital LA, waiting for surgery, he looked up and saw Michael Jackson's signature on artwork donated to the very walls around him. That is not a coincidence. That is a calling.

In this conversation, KB and Adam dig into what it actually takes to build a living as a musician on the Central Coast, how IMVA learned the power of saying no, and what it means to dedicate an entire night of music to one artist with zero originals, zero safety nets, and everything on the line. KB also performed "Butterflies" live in the studio, and honestly, clear your schedule because you are going to want to rewind it. Michael: A Night of Tribute happens Friday, April 24th at Libertine in San Luis Obispo. Tickets are just $5 in advance and $10 at the door. This is the kind of night the Central Coast was made for.

Grab your tickets here: Michael: A Night of Tribute at Libertine
Follow IMVA on Instagram: @imvamusic
Follow KB on Instagram: @kboro143
Win tickets + more at: adammontiel.com

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Sponsored by Portabidet

Bob Voglin is one of those Central Coast characters whose story feels bigger than the waves he rides. Known to many locals as “Helmet Bob,” he is a longtime surfer, cancer survivor, and the heart behind Surfing for Hope, a San Luis Obispo–based nonprofit that uses the healing power of the ocean to support individuals and families affected by cancer.

What began as an idea sparked in the water has grown into a community movement. Since its early days, Surfing for Hope has raised more than $200,000 for the Hearst Cancer Resource Center and other local programs helping cancer patients and their families. Through surf contests, community gatherings, and programs like the Pure Stoke youth surf clinics, the organization creates moments of connection, healing, and joy for people navigating some of life’s hardest challenges.

Bob recently captured his journey in a new memoir, Riding the Wave of Hope. In the book, he reflects on his life in the surf, his battle with cancer, the lessons learned along the way, and the powerful role positivity, spirituality, and the ocean have played in helping him keep moving forward.

This conversation dives into Bob’s story, the origin of Surfing for Hope, the impact it continues to have on the Central Coast, and why sharing what you love can sometimes be the most powerful way to help others.

• Surfing for Hope

• Buy the book: Riding the Wave of Hope

https://www.amazon.com/Riding-Wave-Hope-Surviving-challenges/dp/B0FXN3R92Y

• Follow Bob Voglin on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/bobvoglin2019/

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://dombenavidez.com/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Redemption, Recipes, and the Kitchen That Saved Her: Central Coast Chef Dominique Benavidez | Up+Adam Mar 10, 2026

Up+Adam March 10, 2026 Sponsored by Portabidet

Chef Dominique Benavidez joins Adam for one of the most honest and revealing conversations we’ve had on Up+Adam. What begins as a conversation about food quickly becomes something deeper. Dominique shares the story behind her culinary journey. From leaving school at a young age to care for her father, to navigating loss, addiction, and ultimately finding healing and purpose through cooking. It’s a powerful reminder that the people creating the meals we love often carry stories far beyond the plate.

She’s now bringing that philosophy to a special Domingo Mexican-inspired brunch pop-up happening in downtown San Luis Obispo. Guests can expect a three-course experience with two menu options, fresh juices, and a relaxed Sunday morning vibe. Seating is limited, making it an intimate way to experience Chef Dominique’s cooking and the story behind it.

• Learn more about Chef Dominique Benavidez

• Reserve tickets for Domingo Brunch

• Follow along for upcoming pop-ups, private dinners, and events

Website

Domingo Brunch Tickets

https://dombenavidez.com/events

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/chef.benavidez/

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.nikkimammano.com

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

From Waikiki Underworld to PTA Mom | Breaking Good with Nikki Mammano | Up+Adam Mar 09, 2026

Up+Adam March 9, 2026 Sponsored by Portabidet

What does rock bottom really look like? And more importantly, what does it take to climb back from it?

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Nikki Mammano, author of Breaking Good: A Memoir, for a conversation that is as raw as it is hopeful. Nikki’s life story reads like something straight out of a crime drama. She arrived in Hawaii at twenty years old hoping for a fresh start and college life at the University of Hawaii. Within just a few years, addiction and survival pulled her into Waikiki’s drug underworld where she went from a struggling young woman to someone people called “boss” in a dangerous scene fueled by meth, money, and power.

In this conversation with Adam, Nikki reflects on the version of herself who once stared into a motel mirror wondering how her life had unraveled, the unexpected leadership instincts that helped her survive in a dangerous world, and what it means to live a completely different life today raising two daughters and telling her story publicly for the first time.

• Learn more about Nikki Mammano

• Buy Breaking Good: A Memoir

https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Good-Memoir-Nikki-Mammano/dp/B0FP5JX13F

• Follow Nikki Mammano on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/nikki_mammano/

• Support RYSE Hawaii, the nonprofit Nikki mentions helping youth experiencing homelessness

https://www.rysehawaii.org

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Sign of the Times: Rob Rossi on the Fremont Theatre and Whether the Iconic Sign Has to Come Down Mar 06, 2026

March 6, 2026 Rob Rossi is Up+Adam Sponsored by Portabidet

The Fremont Theatre is more than a building in downtown San Luis Obispo. It is a landmark layered with memories. First dates. Film Festival nights. Legendary concerts under glowing neon. And lately it has been the subject of one big question echoing across town: what is going on with the Fremont?

After a powerful winter storm knocked a portion of the historic sign loose, the iconic 1940 art deco theater was temporarily closed while engineers evaluate the structure and determine the safest path forward. The moment immediately sparked concern across the community, and according to longtime owner Rob Rossi, he could not go anywhere in town without someone asking about it.

So he reached out.

In this episode of Up+Adam, developer, architect, and visionary Rob Rossi joins Adam Montiel to talk openly about the current state of the Fremont Theatre. Rossi explains what actually fell during the storm, what engineers are discovering inside the 80+ year old structure, what restoration might look like, and why preserving the historic character of the building matters so much to him and the community.

They also talk about the Fremont’s history, why the building has been such an important cultural anchor for downtown San Luis Obispo, and what reopening night might feel like when the marquee lights up again.

For Rossi, the goal is simple: make it safe, restore what makes it special, and make sure the Fremont Theatre continues to serve the community for the next hundred years.

• Learn more about the Fremont Theatre: https://www.fremontslo.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Rob Morrow: From Northern Exposure to Creative Disclosure | The Gray House | Up+Adam Mar 05, 2026

Up+Adam March 5, 2026 Sponsored by Portabidet

Actor Rob Morrow joins Adam Montiel on Up+Adam for a conversation that moves from television history to American history. Many listeners know Morrow as Dr. Joel Fleischman from the beloved series Northern Exposure, the role that turned a young working actor into a household name almost overnight. In this conversation, Rob reflects on that moment. He talks about landing the role without realizing it would become a cultural landmark, the complicated reality of sudden fame, and how success in Hollywood can be both a gift and a double-edged sword.

The conversation also turns to his latest project, The Gray House, a sweeping limited series that tells the true story of four women who built a secret espionage network inside the Confederacy during the Civil War. The show uncovers a chapter of American history that rarely made it into the history books and, as Rob explains, its themes of division, courage, and humanity feel strikingly relevant today. Adam and Rob also discuss the challenge of portraying real historical figures, the creative discipline required to stay relevant in Hollywood, and why Rob continues to write, make music, develop projects, and chase creative ideas even decades into his career.

• Rob also shares what he learned from directing television, and how sitting in the director’s chair made him a more generous actor on set

• The surprising connection fans keep pointing out between Rob Morrow and Bruce Springsteen

• The creative hustle that keeps him writing music, developing projects, and even working on a novel

If you grew up with Northern Exposure, love great storytelling, or enjoy hearing how artists sustain long creative careers, this conversation delivers.

Learn more and watch The Gray House:

• Official series page: https://www.thegrayhouse.tv

• Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebU0IQkcAiY

Follow Rob Morrow:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialrobmorrow

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.805coastalkitchen.com

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

A Menu Like an Album: Building Sunday's Untamed Dinner with At Her Table Mar 04, 2026

March 4, 2026 Sponsored by Portabidet

Food, wine, creativity, and a little bit of magic. That is exactly what the Untamed Dinner is bringing to the Central Coast this weekend.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Chef Candace Custodio, executive director of At Her Table, and Chef Katie Prescott, the culinary mind behind this year’s Untamed Dinner happening Sunday at Ella’s Vineyard in Creston. The dinner is part of the monthlong At Her Table celebration, a Central Coast movement dedicated to elevating and celebrating the women shaping the region’s food, wine, and hospitality industries.

This year’s Untamed Dinner takes a slightly different approach. Instead of multiple chefs contributing individual courses, Chef Candace handed the entire culinary story to one chef. Enter Chef Katie Prescott, a self taught chef whose path to the kitchen includes 14 years in dentistry before discovering her creative home in the wine and culinary world of the Central Coast. Her menu will unfold like an album, with each course designed to be interactive and sensory driven, paired with wines from some of the region’s standout producers.

During the conversation, the chefs also share some exciting news. Chef Candace Custodio has officially stepped into a major new role as Executive Chef at Cass Winery, bringing her culinary voice to one of Paso Robles’ most beloved winery kitchens.

From dumplings and miso broth to playful takes on trending desserts, the Untamed Dinner promises an evening of storytelling through food, wine, and experience.

• Tickets and event details for Untamed Dinner

https://athertable.com

• Chef Candace Custodio

https://chefcandice.com

• Chef Katie Prescott | 805 Coastal Kitchen

• Cass Winery

https://www.casswines.com

If you love the Central Coast food and wine scene, this conversation is a must listen.

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://my805tix.com/e/mcalbumrelease?fbclid=IwdGRjcAP42CVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeHRUoCEe5LTnlPeCEnOwNlBcduBP2SsSosqKenSEDFcjkcTh7yHHBUex2iO0_aem_pkzg_kuj3PQ7mOfdQemHIg

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

High Tide, Higher Intentions: Moonshiner Collective Brings New Music to Up+Adam Mar 03, 2026

Up+Adam with Adam Montiel - March 3, 2026 - Sponsored by Portabidet

Local Americana rock with heart, history, and just the right amount of swagger.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Dan Curcio of Moonshiner Collective to talk about the band’s brand-new EP, Power of Now, and what it means to revisit songs written 20 years ago with a little more life lived and a little more space between the notes.

From recording in Los Angeles during the chaos of the fires to mixing at Sonic Milk in Cambria, Dan shares how this six-song project became both a creative reset and a full-circle moment. They dig into what it’s like to rework Still Time favorites like “High Tide,” how intentionality changes with age, why leaving space in music matters, and how collaboration with Nick Larson of Proxima Parada and local favorite Kate Armstrong helped shape the new sound.

Dan also performs two brand-new songs live in studio, “End of the Sunset” and “Falling,” and gives us a preview of what to expect March 20 at SLO Brew Rock. Carbon City Lights open the night, Visit SLO CAL will be filming across the Central Coast, and every ticket purchase includes a free download of the EP before its official release.

This is more than an album release. It is a celebration of community, growth, and the power of being present.

• Moonshiner Collective Album Release Show

March 20

SLO Brew Rock

All Ages

Doors 6:00 PM

Show 7:00 PM

Tickets $20 advance / $25 at the door

Free EP download with ticket purchase

Get tickets here:

While you are planning your Central Coast calendar, here is another one to circle:

Learn more about Moonshiner Collective:

https://www.moonshinercollective.com/

Follow Moonshiner Collective on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/moonshinercollective/

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*PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

• Wine You Want to Listen To: Find Your Genre

Presented by Timbre Winery and Libretto Studios

Happening Sunday

Timbre Event with Cal Poly EIM Students Info HERE

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Actress Gina Gershon is Up+Adam Talking Grit, Glitter, and Gut Instinct Mar 02, 2026

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Gina Gershon has spent over four decades navigating Hollywood, Broadway, music stages, and cultural mythmaking without ever fitting neatly into a box. You know her from Showgirls, Bound, The Insider, Face/Off, and a long list of roles that challenged power, sexuality, and perception. But in this episode of Up+Adam, we go deeper than film credits.

Her new memoir, AlphaPussy: How I Survived the Valley and Learned to Love My Boobs, is funny, wild, self-aware, and unexpectedly profound. It is not a gossip book. It is a survival manual. Gina opens up about growing up in the porn-saturated San Fernando Valley, navigating predators and power dynamics, trusting her gut over career advice, and what it truly costs to hold your autonomy in rooms that expect you to give it away.

This conversation moves beyond the “sex symbol” narrative and into something far more interesting. Identity. Instinct. Self-trust. And the discipline of not blinking first.

If you care about women owning their narrative, Hollywood behind the curtain, or what it means to survive without becoming bitter, this one is for you.

What we cover:

• Growing up in a hypersexualized culture and finding agency

• The real story behind Showgirls and the male gaze

• Why trusting your gut can cost you work but save your soul

• The misconception about Gina she never bothered correcting

• What becoming an “AlphaPussy” actually requires

• And the question that stopped her cold at the end

Buy the book:

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/AlphaPussy-Survived-Valley-Learned-Boobs/dp/1636142818/

Publisher

https://www.akashicbooks.com/catalog/alphapussy/

Follow Gina Gershon:

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/ginagershon

IMDb

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000153/

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PORTABIDET: UP+ADAM IS AN OFFICIAL SPOKESPERSON FOR PORTABIDET - USE THIS LINK FOR UP+ADAM LISTENERS TO LEARN MORE AND GET YOURS!

Timbre Event with Cal Poly EIM Students Info HERE

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

• https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-welcome-to-the-family-wit-303353348/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Family Matters: TV Icons Telma Hopkins & Kellie Williams (Aunt Rachel & Laura Winslow) Are Up+Adam Feb 26, 2026

For years, Friday night meant TGIF, pizza on the table, and the Winslows in the living room. On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Telma Hopkins, who played Aunt Rachel Crawford, and Kellie Shanygne Williams, who played Laura Winslow, on the iconic sitcom Family Matters. Together, they revisit the legacy of a show that became more than television. It became part of America’s family ritual.

Now reunited for their iHeartPodcast, Welcome to the Family, Telma and Kellie are rewatching every episode in order and inviting listeners behind the curtain. In this conversation, they reflect on the 35-year legacy of Family Matters, the lightning-in-a-bottle magic of Steve Urkel, what it was like being part of TGIF at its cultural peak, and the very real awkwardness of growing up under studio lights. Telma shares how her grandmother once told her no one would ever pay her to “act silly” and the full-circle moment when that prediction flipped. Kellie opens up about navigating adolescence on national television and the joy of seeing generations still connect to the same loving feeling the writers intended.

This is nostalgia with depth. It is about representation, humor, growing up in public, and the kind of cast chemistry that still feels like family decades later.

Listen to Welcome to the Family with Telma and Kellie

Follow Telma Hopkins

• https://www.instagram.com/telma_hopkins

Follow Kellie Shanygne Williams

• https://www.instagram.com/kellieswilliams

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

SLO Funny or Die Trying: 40 Legit Comics, 20 Shows, 4 Wild Days – SLO Comedy Fest Feb 25, 2026

Forty comics. Nearly twenty shows. Four days of straight-up laughter on the Central Coast. The SLO Comedy Festival is back and it is taking over SLO Cal in a big way. On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with festival creator Eric Shantz along with comics Kris Rubio and Mark Fry to talk about how this thing went from a bold idea to a full-scale comedy movement. We get into what it really takes to wrangle 40 stand-up comedians, how you build a comedy community in a wine country town, and why live stand-up still hits different in a world that lives online.

If you love comedy, live events, or just need a reason to get out and laugh with other humans, this one is for you. Whether you are a longtime fan of the festival or hearing about it for the first time, this conversation gives you the inside look at the hustle, heart, and humor behind one of the Central Coast’s most entertaining four-day takeovers.

• Official Website: https://www.slocomedyfest.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slofest

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wine-you-want-to-listen-to-find-your-genre-tickets-1982032005082

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Learn by Doing… and Sipping: Timbre Winery Collabs with Cal Poly EIM Feb 24, 2026

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Cal Poly Experience Industry Management (EIM) students Rylee Rust, Collette Madden, and Delaney Grau to talk about “Wine You Want to Listen To” happening Sunday, March 8 from 2 pm to 4 pm at Timbre Winery’s winemaking facility inside The Lobro Studios in San Luis Obispo.

This is not just a class project. It is a fully produced, professionally executed wine tasting experience built from the ground up by the next generation of event leaders. From marketing strategy and brand alignment to production logistics and immersive experience design, these students are applying Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy in real time. The result is a complimentary wine tasting event featuring live music from Cal Poly band Penny Jar, light bites, intentional ambiance, and a seamless guest journey from RSVP to final pour.

We talk about what really goes into producing an event like this, how post COVID audiences crave connection, and why word of mouth still beats every algorithm in the room. If you care about wine, live music, hospitality, tourism, or the future of experiential marketing, this conversation will leave you inspired.

Event Details

• Sunday, March 8

• 2 pm to 4 pm

• Timbre Winery Winemaking Facility at The Lowbro Studios

• 770 Capitolio Way, San Luis Obispo

• Complimentary event

• RSVP required

Reserve your spot here

Learn more about Timbre Winery

https://timbrewinery.com

Follow along on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/timbrewinery/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.aetv.com/shows/storage-wars

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Lights, Camera, Auction! Laura & Dan Dotson from A&E’s Storage Wars Are Up+Adam Feb 23, 2026

Dan and Laura Dotson have been calling the shots on Storage Wars since day one, but this conversation goes far beyond what you see on television. On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam connects with the fast-talking, faith-led duo behind American Auctioneers for a conversation about grit, integrity, California roots, and what really happens when the locker door rolls up.

From Laura’s Thousand Oaks upbringing and that wild Agoura Hills connection, to the now-legendary $500 storage unit that reportedly contained $7.5 million in cash, Dan and Laura pull back the curtain on risk, ethics, and the human side of the auction world. They talk about why auctioneers cannot buy units themselves, how Storage Wars changed the industry, why most newcomers are not built for the dust and sweat, and the quiet work they do helping reunite families with personal items after a loss. This is about more than bidding. It is about belief, rhythm, and reading a room.

Storage Wars returns February 28 with back-to-back one-hour episodes on A&E. If you have ever wondered what it really takes to command a crowd and move money with integrity, this episode is your front-row seat.

• Watch Storage Wars on A&E

• Dan and Laura Dotson official site

https://www.americanauctioneers.com/

• Storage auctions nationwide

https://www.storageauctions.net/

• Follow Dan and Laura on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/DanAndLauraDotson/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.libertinebrewing.com

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Sound Check at City Hall: The Libertine Movement to Keep Downtown SLO’s Music Alive Feb 20, 2026

Downtown San Luis Obispo is having a moment. And right at the center of it is Libertine Brewing Company on the corner of Broad and Pacific.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with John Pranjaic, Events Manager at Libertine, to unpack the noise complaint controversy that has made headlines in local media. But this is not just a recap. This is a deeper conversation about permits, enforcement, small business realities, and what kind of downtown SLO we actually want to build.

Libertine has evolved into a 200 to 300 person live music venue that many see as filling the void left by the Garden Street era. In 2025 alone, the venue paid out more than $125,000 to local musicians and entertainers. It hosts weekly jazz jams, open mic comedy, line dancing, salsa nights, touring bands, and community fundraisers including Adam’s Breaking and Entering Christmas Jingle Jam.

Now, after a year of complaints from a nearby resident and multiple reviews with the city, Libertine’s use permit is under administrative review.

Public Hearing Details:

• February 23 at 2:30 pm

City Hall

990 Palm Street

San Luis Obispo, CA

Community members may attend and speak. You can also submit written comments to Assistant Planner Mallory Patino:

• mpatino@slocity.org

If you choose to participate, please be respectful. City staff, neighbors, and business owners are all part of the same community. Thoughtful, constructive input carries far more weight than outrage.

Learn more and support Libertine:

• Libertine Brewing Company Website

• Libertine Brewing Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/libertinebrew/

• Libertine Coffee Bar Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/libertinecoffeebar/

If you care about local music, small business, and the future of downtown San Luis Obispo, this conversation matters.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/Departments/Board-of-Supervisors.aspx

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Hard Work, Hard Questions: SLO Supervisor Candidate Jim Dantona Steps Into the LoBro Studios Feb 19, 2026

What happens when the President and CEO of the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce decides to step out from behind the advocacy desk and run for County Supervisor?

In Part One of this two-part conversation, Adam sits down with Jim Dantona, candidate for San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors District 2, for a wide-ranging and surprisingly candid discussion about local leadership, energy policy, housing, homelessness, and what it actually means to serve the Central Coast.

They dive into:

• What it was like leading the SLO Chamber through COVID, inflation, and labor shortages

• The Bruce Gibson endorsement and what that signals to voters

• The reality of campaign fundraising and whether money creates pressure

• Offshore wind and its impact on fishing and marine life

• Battery storage after the Moss Landing fire and the Morro Bay debate

• Keeping Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant open

• The 'Homelessness is a housing issue' tale versus a mental health and addiction crisis

• Affordable housing in SLO County and who it is really for

• Balancing growth with preserving the coastline and open space

• Why this race is nonpartisan and how the June 2026 primary works

This is not a surface-level political interview. It is a thoughtful, go-a-mile-deep-but-fun conversation about responsibility, common sense, and the future of San Luis Obispo County.

Part Two drops next week.

Learn more about Jim Dantona and his campaign:

https://jimdantona.com/

San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors information:

Register to vote or check your voter status in San Luis Obispo County:

https://www.slocounty.ca.gov/Departments/Clerk-Recorder/Elections-and-Voting.aspx

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Love Story on FX: Actor Noah Fearnley on Playing the Man Before JFK Jr. | Up+Adam Feb 18, 2026

Noah Fearnley joins Adam for a layered, honest conversation about stepping into one of the most complicated roles in modern pop culture. In the new FX series Love Story, executive produced by Ryan Murphy, Noah portrays Michael Bergin, the model turned actor who dated Carolyn Bessette before her whirlwind romance with John F. Kennedy Jr. became American mythology. But this episode goes far beyond headlines. Noah opens up about the responsibility of portraying a real person with respect, what it meant to read Bergin’s memoir The Other Man, and how eerily parallel their Connecticut to New York modeling journeys really were.

The conversation also dives into Noah’s grind in the micro drama world with more than 50 films shot in relentless 12 to 14 hour days, his transition into prestige television, and his theatrical debut in Mercy alongside Chris Pratt. Most powerfully, Noah speaks candidly about mental health, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and why he believes soul matters more than surface. This one moves from Hollywood to human fast, and it is exactly the kind of ICET conversation Up+Adam was built for.

Watch Love Story beginning February 12 on FX and streaming on Hulu.

Follow Noah Fearnley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noahfearnley

Watch the official trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gw2RakWShdE

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Meathead Movers in the Headlines: Aaron Steed Unfiltered on The Fight You Didn’t See Feb 17, 2026

What does it feel like when your life’s work is on the line?

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Aaron Steed, co-founder of Meathead Movers, for a candid conversation about the federal investigation that began in 2017, the lawsuit filed in 2023 by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the settlement that could total up to $6 million.

But this episode goes far beyond the headline.

Aaron opens up about the emotional weight of years under scrutiny, flying to Washington, D.C. to meet directly with EEOC leadership, fighting to protect the company he started at 17 years old, and what it cost him personally and professionally. He talks about sleepless nights, the impact on his family, the role of jiu jitsu in keeping him grounded, and why he says this was the fight of his life.

Learn more:

• Meathead Movers https://www.meatheadmovers.com

• Meathead Storage https://www.meatheadmovers.com/storage

• Lumina Alliance https://luminaalliance.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

From Amadeus to The White Lotus: Oscar Winner F. Murray Abraham Is Up+Adam Feb 13, 2026

Academy Award winner F. Murray Abraham joins Adam Montiel on Up+Adam for a short but powerful conversation about legacy, memory, and the emotional heartbeat behind his latest film, Bookends. From his iconic performance in Amadeus to his recent work in The White Lotus, Abraham has built a career exploring the deepest corners of the human condition. In Bookends, he portrays Saul, a Holocaust survivor facing early dementia, in a story that examines generational love, role reversal, and the fragile beauty of memory.

In just six and a half minutes, this intimate conversation touches on aging, artistry, and what it means to be remembered. We also note there were minor audio difficulties during the recording, but the heart of the exchange shines through. Sometimes short and sweet carries the most weight.

Whether you are a film lover, a theater devotee, or someone navigating the shifting roles within your own family, this episode invites you to slow down and reflect on the time we share with the people who shaped us.

Learn more about F. Murray Abraham and Bookends:

• Official Bookends website: https://bookendsthemovie.com/

• F. Murray Abraham on IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000719/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Don’t Bring Donuts to Buckingham: What Really Happens Behind the Palace Curtains with Omid Scobie & Robin Benway Feb 12, 2026

In this episode of Up+Adam, broadcaster Adam Montiel sits down with Omid Scobie and Robin Benway, two powerhouse authors who’ve teamed up to deliver Royal Spin, a sharply funny, satirical, and wildly entertaining look at life behind palace walls.

Scobie, known for his fearless royal reporting (Finding Freedom, Endgame), brings over a decade of frontline journalism into his first work of fiction. Benway, a National Book Award winner and beloved voice in YA literature, joins forces with Scobie to tell the story of Lauren Morgan, a young American politico dropped into the chaos of Buckingham Palace PR just as the monarchy is mid-scandal.

Together, they reveal the real-life inspirations behind the fiction, the chemistry of co-writing, and how the press-palace dance is messier and more human than you think. Whether you're a royal watcher, a fiction lover, or just into juicy behind-the-scenes intel, this convo hits.

• Grab Royal Spin here: https://www.amazon.com/Royal-Spin-Novel-Omid-Scobie/dp/0063424800

• Follow Omid on Instagram: @scobiesnaps

• Follow Robin on Instagram: @robinbenway

Rate, review, and share the show with someone who needs this episode in their life, and don’t forget to subscribe to stay Up+Adam.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Sip Happens for Locals Only: Act Now #PasoWineFest Feb 11, 2026

Paso Wine Fest is back May 15 through 17, and if you live in San Luis Obispo County, your moment is now.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Krista Smith, Marketing and Communications Director for Paso Wine, to talk about the return of Paso Wine Fest and the limited-time Locals Only ticket pricing that’s turning heads. SLO County residents can purchase $99 General Admission tickets for the Grand Tasting before prices climb to $165 and eventually $175. It is Paso Wine’s way of saying thank you to the community that lives and works here.

But this weekend is more than just a tasting. We are talking about 100 plus wineries pouring under one roof at the Paso Robles Event Center, interactive brand activations, chef-driven culinary bites, winery-hosted dinners, Paired Paso’s food and wine competition, and Sparkling Paso brunch to close it all out. It is a full transformation of the space and a celebration of what makes Paso Wine Country one of the most exciting regions in California right now.

Krista also shares insight into the evolution of the festival, the culture of collaboration among Paso wineries, and the growing national attention the region continues to attract. If you love wine, community, or simply watching a region rise together, this conversation is for you.

• Locals Only tickets must be purchased in person with proof of SLO County residency

• Available at the Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce and San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce

• Offer valid through February 28

Learn more and view the full schedule at:

https://pasowine.com

Follow Paso Wine for updates:

https://www.instagram.com/pasowine

https://www.facebook.com/PasoWine

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

• Sign up for Casey’s FREE singles database here

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

No Swipes, Just Sparks: Off the Apps and Into a Local Match w/ Casey Galli Feb 10, 2026

If dating apps feel like a desert, you’re not alone. In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with professional matchmaker Casey Galli, founder of Found Matchmaking, to talk about why modern dating feels broken and what can actually help fix it.

From dating app burnout to why even attractive, successful singles are struggling to get matches, Casey brings real talk and real solutions. She shares who’s using her service, who’s struggling the most to connect, and how her process is helping people of all ages find real chemistry again, no swiping required.

We also dig into what’s different about love on the Central Coast, how regional matchmaking works, and why people are craving in-person connections now more than ever.

Whether you're single, dating, or just fascinated by the wild world of modern romance, this episode is packed with insights, “aha” moments, and even a little hope.

• Learn more at: foundmatchmaking.com

• Follow Casey on Instagram: @foundmatchmaking

• Use promo code ADAM50 for 50 percent off her next singles event (THIS THUR) at Region SLO

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

How to Think Like a Champion, Even If You’re Not in the NFL #DRIVE Feb 09, 2026

When was the last time a seminar actually changed your life?

On today’s episode of Up+Adam, I sit down with Amanda Wittstrom Higgins, Central Coast leader, community builder, and the creator of DRIVE, a half-day professional development experience that doesn’t just hype you up. It hands you the tools to execute. No fluff. No filler. Just a proven roadmap to clarity, accountability, and real results.

We talk about why so many "rah-rah" events fall flat, how DRIVE flips the script with tactical action and a 90 percent success rate, and why this isn’t just for wine industry folks. From NFL speakers like Bear Pascoe to college rodeo coaches and nonprofit execs, if you're ready to stop spinning your wheels and finally move the needle, this one is for you.

Whether you’re in wine, education, entrepreneurship, or just trying to find your next gear, this episode will make you want to get out of your own way and start showing up with purpose.

• Learn more and register for DRIVE 2026: https://www.fullcupsolutions.com/fullcupsolutionscom/drive

• Follow Amanda’s nonprofit: https://www.dreambigdarling.org

• Explore Full Cup Solutions: https://www.fullcupsolutions.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.instagram.com/zootoyouanimals/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Rescue Zoo That Rescued Us #ZooToYou Feb 05, 2026

In Part 1, we met the animals. In Part 2, we meet the why.

David and Lisa Jackson of Zoo to You are back for the second half of this unforgettable conversation, recorded live at the LoBro Studio in San Luis Obispo. If you thought holding a baby kangaroo was cool, wait until you hear what it means to actually connect with one. This episode takes us beyond the surface into the instincts, body language, and unspoken trust that make human and animal relationships truly powerful.

Whether you are a parent looking to spark curiosity in your kids or just someone craving more awe in your life, this episode offers deep perspective, surprising stories, and one powerful truth. Animals can feel your energy, so what are you putting out into the world?

To learn more, book your own encounter, or stay overnight inside their rescue zoo:

https://www.zootoyou.org

This conversation was recorded at LoBro Studio in San Luis Obispo. If you enjoyed it, leave a review, follow the show, and share this with someone who needs a little wild in their life.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.instagram.com/zootoyouanimals/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Monkey Business and Kangaroo Calm with Zoo to You! Feb 04, 2026

What happens when a spider monkey, an armadillo, and a baby kangaroo walk into the LoBro Studio? You get one of the wildest, most heartfelt conversations ever to hit Up+Adam.

In this special two part episode, Adam welcomes David and Lisa Jackson, the powerhouse duo behind Zoo to You, a nonprofit rescue zoo based in Paso Robles that has been connecting humans with animals for over 36 years. From training marine mammals for the Navy to working alongside Jack Hanna and even bringing animals to The Tonight Show, these two have stories that will floor you. More than that, they have built something deeply meaningful. An animal experience that is as much about the heart as it is about the habitat.

Whether you are an animal lover, a parent, an educator, or just someone who believes in connection, this episode will move you.

• Want to meet a capybara

• Pet a porcupine

• Sip wine under the stars while kangaroos graze nearby

Book your own private encounter or overnight stay here:

https://www.zootoyou.org

This episode of Up+Adam was recorded live at the LoBro Studio in Paso Robles.

If you loved this conversation, leave a review, share the episode, and send it to the animal lover in your life.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Stick With It: Hwy 101 Smoke Signals from Shekamoo Grill Feb 03, 2026

Guest: Sina Shakerian | Owner, Head Chef & Grill Master, Shekamoo Grill

From Cal Poly engineering student to Central Coast kabob king, Sina Shakerian’s journey is what the American dream tastes like: char-grilled, saffron-slicked, and straight from the soul. In this episode, Adam sits down with the man behind Shekamoo Grill, the Persian food sensation that’s lighting up San Luis Obispo with flame-grilled tradition, family-rooted recipes, and an unwavering love for community.

Sina shares how a promise made at the SLO Farmers Market in 2009 became a thriving culinary vision, fueled by faith, sweat, and a little something called shallot yogurt. He opens up about what it means to honor his father’s cooking, collaborate with his powerhouse wife Lindsey, and carry the spirit of Iran on every skewer, all while navigating the emotion of watching his home country in turmoil from thousands of miles away.

This conversation is delicious, human, and quietly revolutionary, just like Shekamoo itself.

Visit Shekamoo Grill:

• In-person at SLO Ranch Farms & Marketplace — 811 Froom Ranch Way, Suite 140, San Luis Obispo, CA

• Every Thursday night at the Downtown SLO Farmers Market

• Private events, weddings, and catering available

Connect with Shekamoo Grill:

• Website: shekamoogrill.com

• Instagram: @shekamoogrill

Hungry yet? Yeah, us too. Press play.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Secrets in the Sand With the Real Indiana Jones, Dr. Zahi Hawass Feb 02, 2026

He’s been called the real-life Indiana Jones, and after this conversation, you’ll understand why.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with world-renowned Egyptologist Dr. Zahi Hawass ahead of the global release of his new documentary, The Man with the Hat. From crawling 60 feet underground to uncover a sealed tomb just days ago, to the mystery chambers still hidden inside the Great Pyramid, Dr. Hawass shares discoveries that sound too wild to be real. And yet, they are.

Adam and Dr. Hawass explore what it feels like to be alone with the Sphinx, the emotional toll of protecting a civilization’s legacy, and why, despite everything he’s already uncovered, he believes Egypt is still hiding its greatest secrets. This is more than an interview. It is a journey through time, passion, and purpose.

Whether you're a history buff, a documentary lover, or someone who’s just always been captivated by the pyramids, this conversation is for you.

• Learn more about Dr. Hawass and his work: www.hawasszahi.com

• Watch the documentary The Man with the Hat: www.zahifilm.com

• Follow Dr. Hawass on Instagram: @zahi_hawass

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Music Is Therapy: Acclaimed DJ & Therapist Shares What Your Favorite Song Says About Who You’re Becoming Jan 29, 2026

What if the song you can’t stop playing isn’t just a banger... but a breadcrumb?

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with DJ Hesta Prynn - internationally acclaimed DJ, licensed therapist, and host of the iHeart podcast Music is Therapy. This is not just a conversation about music. It’s about identity, nostalgia, grief, healing, reinvention - and how the songs we return to are often pointing us toward something deeper.

Hesta opens up about how music from her teen years shaped her identity, what losing her entire CD collection in college taught her about personal transformation, and how playlists can help us move through grief and joy alike. From Tori Amos and Beastie Boys to the healing power of a perfect transition, this one is packed with insight, energy, and soul.

If you’ve ever used a mixtape to get over someone... or found yourself looping one track on repeat for days... you’re going to love this chat.

Listen to Music is Therapy on

iHeart

Spotify

or wherever you get your podcasts

Follow Hesta Prynn on Instagram: @hestaprynnmusic

Explore the podcast directly at: hestaprynn.com/musicistherapy

Learn more about Hesta, her work, and upcoming projects: hestaprynn.com

Music is Therapy. Your session starts now.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

• https://www.visitslo.com/restaurantmonth

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

H

Born to Schnitzel: The Magic of Beda’s Biergarten #SLORestaurantMonth Jan 28, 2026

HURRY — RESTAURANT MONTH ENDS THIS WEEK

Savor exclusive menus and special offers at your favorite local spots, including Beda’s Biergarten, during SLO Restaurant Month. It runs through the end of January, so now is the time to taste something unforgettable.

In this episode of Up + Adam, broadcaster Adam Montiel sits down with Beda Schmidthues, founder of Beda’s Biergarten in San Luis Obispo and one of the most beloved local figures on the Central Coast.

After losing his art publishing business during the Great Recession, Beda didn’t rebuild with bitterness. He rebuilt with bratwurst. What started as backyard dinners with friends turned into a full-blown German biergarten where the schnitzel is homemade, the beer is imported, and the sense of belonging is absolutely real.

In this heart-filled and often hilarious conversation, Beda shares how starting over led him to his true calling, why a raised German flag once signaled the best dinner party in town, and how community, not capital, built everything he has today. From stories of his childhood in Duisburg to the birth of BedaFest, this is the kind of conversation that sticks to your ribs in the best way.

Learn more about Beda’s Biergarten, check out their events, or rent the iconic beer bike at:

• https://bedasbiergarten.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bedas_biergarten/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

• prekindle.com/event/53994-brass-mash-san-luis-obispo

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Brass to the Future: The Band That's a Mash Made in SLO Jan 27, 2026

If you know, you know. And if you don’t…welcome to Brass Mash.

This week on Up+Adam, Adam sits down with three members of the Central Coast’s most electrifying live band: founder and fearless leader Colin Dean, saxophone slayer Anna Wilson, and trumpet powerhouse Ben Kerr. Together, they break down the method behind the musical madness. How mashups become dance floor anthems. How they craft shows that cross generations. And why their upcoming March 6 show at the Fremont Theater is their most important gig yet.

More than a band, Brass Mash is an experience. Think Britney Spears meets Black Sabbath. Lorde with Dre. Daft Punk colliding with ZZ Top. This is a group that should be playing to 20,000 people a night, and for the first time, they’re stepping into a major venue to prove it.

If you’ve ever seen them live, or even just heard the buzz, this is your chance to support something homegrown, one-of-a-kind, and on the verge of something massive.

Grab tickets now for their Fremont show on March 6:

Learn more about the band and upcoming shows:

• brassmash.com

• Follow on Instagram: @brassmashband

This is the band your favorite band wishes it could be. Tap and play and get ready to mash it up.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Seasoned with Soul: Phil Lang Passes the Bon Temps Baton Jan 23, 2026

What happens when one of SLO’s most iconic restaurants changes hands quietly, without fanfare, but with deep emotion and mutual respect? On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Phil Lang, the founder and original owner of Bon Temps, and George Parsons, the new owner stepping into some very seasoned shoes alongside his wife.

In this candid, heartfelt conversation, Phil opens up about what it really felt like to let go of the restaurant he built from scratch, what made him say yes to George, and what it meant to feel so seen and celebrated by the community during the handoff. George shares what it’s like to take on a beloved legacy, the delicate dance of honoring what came before while evolving into what’s next, and how he and his wife are bringing new heart into the kitchen.

This is not just a story about food. It’s about trust, timing, stewardship, and two people connected by something bigger than business.

• Follow Bon Temps on Instagram

• Visit Bon Temps online

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Kiko Restaurant’s 2026 Restaurant Month Specials:

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Pisco, Passion, and a Peruvian Dream: Kiko’s Flavor Story #SLORestaurantMonth Jan 22, 2026

Up+Adam is proud to partner with the City of San Luis Obispo for Restaurant Month 2026, highlighting the chefs, storytellers, and flavor-makers who are feeding the Central Coast in more ways than one. Today, we sit down with one of the most passionate, purpose-driven restaurateurs in town: Kiko Pomalaza, owner of Kiko Peruvian Restaurant & Pisco Bar.

What started as a dream in a rundown café space at the Mission Mall has become one of the most soulful, unforgettable dining experiences in San Luis Obispo. Kiko shares how his childhood in Peru, years in luxury hospitality, and love for human connection all come together in every plate, every cocktail, and every conversation inside his restaurant.

• Three appetizers from a special menu – $35

• Two appetizers and two Pisco drinks – $45

• A three-course dinner experience – $50

Whether you're a longtime fan or have never tried Peruvian food, this episode will make you hungry, inspired, and maybe even rethink what hospitality really means.

Visit the restaurant:

• Website: https://kikorestaurantslo.com

• Location: Mission Mall, San Luis Obispo

• Instagram: @kikorestaurantslo

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Shedding Light & Finding Home Again : The Next Chapter for Ebony SLO Jan 21, 2026

When a local business you love is suddenly in transition, the headlines don’t always tell the whole story. In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Feben Teffera, co-owner of Ebony, the beloved Ethiopian restaurant in downtown San Luis Obispo that’s been a cultural and culinary anchor for the community.

With Ebony now looking for a new home, Feben joins the show to talk about what’s really happening behind the scenes. She opens up about the emotions of this moment, what she wants the community to understand, and how she’s thinking about the future of Ebony. This is the conversation that brings clarity with empathy, honesty, and heart.

• Visit Ebony online: https://www.ebony-slo.com

• Follow Ebony on Instagram

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Humanity Over Headlines: Reporting War at 25 Without Pretending to Understand It Jan 20, 2026

What happens when a 25-year-old journalist says yes to a war zone... before he even knows where it is on the map?

In this gripping episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with NewsNation correspondent Robert Sherman, author of Lessons From the Front, a raw, unflinching book that takes us inside the emotional realities of covering war in Ukraine and the Middle East. But this isn’t your typical war reporter memoir. Robert doesn’t pretend to have the answers. He invites you into his questions. And in doing so, he offers something rare: perspective born from humility.

Together, they talk about the first rocket, the mother who called Russian soldiers "goblins" to protect her daughter’s mind, and the deep, complicated meaning of the word “home” after witnessing a world torn apart. This conversation isn’t about headlines. It’s about heartlines. It's about what war teaches you when you stop reporting and start listening.

Whether you’re a fellow journalist, a student of storytelling, or just someone trying to understand the world a little better, this one’s going to stay with you.

• Grab Robert’s book: Lessons From the Front

• Explore more of Robert’s work: robertshermantv.com

• Follow Robert on Instagram: @robertshermantv

• Watch his dispatches and reports via NewsNation: newsnationnow.com/author/robert-sherman

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

How Far Is Too Far? Comedy, Cancel Culture, and Lenny Bruce at the Clark Center Jan 16, 2026

Adam Montiel connects with actor, playwright, and director Ronnie Marmo, the powerhouse behind the critically acclaimed one-man show I’m Not a Comedian... I’m Lenny Bruce. Touring the country and now coming to the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande, the show brings the infamous comic and cultural disruptor Lenny Bruce back to life with sharpness, heart, and unflinching honesty.

Directed by Tony Award winner Joe Mantegna, Ronnie’s performance dives deep into Lenny’s court battles, his biting satire, and his unapologetic push for freedom of speech. In this episode, Adam and Ronnie explore what it means to portray someone who was once arrested for language and how that conversation still echoes today in an era of cancel culture and cultural overcorrection.

They talk legacy, language, vulnerability, and the risks artists take when they decide to tell the truth on stage, in comedy, and in life.

• Tickets to I’m Not a Comedian... I’m Lenny Bruce at the Clark Center: https://clarkcenter.org/shows/lenny-bruce/

Socials and Links for the Guest + Show Team:

I’m Not A Comedian... I’m Lenny Bruce

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamlennybruce/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IAmLennyBruce/

Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/iamlennybruce

Ronnie Marmo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronniemarmo/

Facebook (Actor Page): https://www.facebook.com/RonnieMarmo.Actor

Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/ronnie.marmo

Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/realronniemarmo

Joe Mantegna

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joemantegna/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joemantegna

Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/joemantegna

Janelle Gaeta Marmo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janellegaeta/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janellegaeta

Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/janellegaeta

#IAmLennyBruce

#GeneralHospital

#CriminalMinds

#FreeSpeech

#TheMarvelousMrsMaisel

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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https://www.visitslo.com/restaurantmonth

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

In Crust We Trust: Mike from My Friend Mike’s is Up+Adam! #SLORestaurantMonth Jan 15, 2026

In a town like San Luis Obispo, where pizza spots are on every block and every menu claims to be the best, one name keeps rising to the top: My Friend Mike’s. In this episode, Adam sits down with owner Mike Radakovich, the low-key craftsman behind one of SLO’s most beloved wood-fired pizza joints. They talk about how My Friend Mike’s got its name, why his menu reads more like a love letter than a checklist, and what it takes to stand out in a town already full of great pies.

Mike opens up about his creative process, how he balances technique with instinct, and what it feels like when a customer tells you your pizza changed their night. He’s also one of the standout participants in SLO Restaurant Month, and he’s offering a deal you don’t want to miss.

Whether you're a pizza fan, a small business dreamer, or just someone who appreciates food with soul, this episode is for you.

learn more about slo restaurant month and see all participating restaurants:

explore my friend mike’s menu, story, and hours:

https://www.myfriendmikes.com

follow my friend mike on instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/myfriendmikes

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

How to Deal With - and Quit - a Toxic Boss (From an Organizational Psychologist) Jan 14, 2026

What if the biggest threat to your well-being at work isn’t the workload but your boss?

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Dr. Laura Hambley Lovett — an award-winning organizational psychologist, author, and workplace culture expert — for a raw and revealing conversation on how to identify, survive, and escape toxic leadership. Dr. Laura’s latest book, I Wish I’d Quit Sooner: Practical Strategies for Navigating and Escaping a Toxic Boss, isn’t just eye-opening. It’s a lifeline.

Together, they unpack the eight toxic boss personas (yes, you’ve met one), how to protect your sanity when you can’t walk away, what to say in the moment without risking your job, and how to heal from years of verbal abuse and manipulation. Whether you’re still stuck, just got out, or leading a team yourself and wondering if you might be the problem — this one’s for you.

• Learn more about Dr. Laura: drlaura.live

• Listen to her podcast Where Work Meets Life: drlaura.live/podcast

• Get the book on Amazon: I Wish I’d Quit Sooner (Paperback & Audiobook)

• Follow her on Instagram: @drlaura.live

If this episode hit home, share it with someone who’s been quietly surviving at work when they deserve to be thriving.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Stargazing & Starships: Actor Casey Biggs Beams Back to Paso for a New Moon at CASS Jan 13, 2026

On today’s episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with actor and performer Casey Biggs for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and filled with stardust. Known for his iconic role as Damar on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Casey shares stories from the set, the stage, and his life off the screen. From acting alongside legends to living part-time in Europe with his wife, author and chef Bridget Binns, Casey brings depth and insight to every story.

The two talk about the fragility of life, what it means to live like there’s “an inch left,” and how a single line on a sheet of paper changed Casey’s entire approach to time. They also dive into Cass After Dark, a new winter event at Cass Winery in Paso Robles happening Saturday, January 17. With live Americana and folk music, fire pits, mulled wine, and stargazing with Cal Poly’s Astronomical Society, this is not your average night in wine country.

Casey shares behind-the-scenes stories about Star Trek, Shameless, Criminal Minds, and even his time on seven Star Trek cruises. A little wine talk, a little Hollywood talk, this episode has it all.

Links:

• Cass After Dark Tickets

• Event Info from Paso Wine

• Paso Daily News Article

• Casey Biggs on Wikipedia

• Startrek.com Interview

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

SLO RESTAURANT MONTH IS HERE

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Some Say This Local Tri-Tip Smashburger Beats In-N-Out! #SLORestaurantMonth Jan 12, 2026

If you’ve ever had that smoky crispy melt-in-your-mouth tri-tip from Old San Luis BBQ, you know exactly why Matt Pearce is in a league of his own. On this episode of Up+Adam, Matt joins Adam Montiel to talk about how he traded civil engineering for fire and flavor, building one of the Central Coast’s most beloved barbecue brands from the ground up.

From his catering roots to a growing BBQ empire with three locations, Matt shares the origin story behind Old SLO, the family recipes that fuel it (yes, including that granny cake), and what it means to honor the traditions of Santa Maria-style barbecue while still innovating the menu with local love.

This month, as part of SLO Restaurant Month, Old San Luis BBQ is rolling out an absolutely stacked special: a Tri-Tip Smash Burger featuring double the ground tri-tip, double cheese, fries, and a drink for just $15. Matt puts it like this: “I put it up against In-N-Out any day.” Come hungry.

Expect sizzling stories, local flavor, and a behind-the-grill look at what it takes to turn smoke and oak into something unforgettable.

• Learn more about Old San Luis BBQ: oldsanluisbbq.com

• See all the SLO Restaurant Month specials and participating spots: visitslo.com/restaurantmonth

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Buy The Last 15 on Amazon

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Losing Weight Without Losing Yourself: NYT Best Selling Dr. Ian K. Smith is Up+Adam Jan 09, 2026

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Dr. Ian K. Smith, number one New York Times bestselling author, physician, and nationally recognized health expert, to talk about what it really takes to lose the most stubborn weight... and more importantly, what you gain in the process.

Dr. Ian’s new book, The Last 15: Say Goodbye to Those Most Stubborn Pounds, is not just another quick-fix diet. It is a seven-week metabolic reset rooted in science, strategy, and sustainability. And even though it is written for the last 15 pounds, this episode is especially for you if you are still staring down your first. Whether you are feeling stuck, plateaued, or just plain overwhelmed, this conversation is your permission slip to start again with less shame and more strategy.

We talk metabolism myths, emotional weight, why the final stretch is often the most revealing, and what it really means to build an identity rooted in discipline, not deprivation. Adam asks the questions no one else is asking, and Dr. Ian responds with the kind of wisdom that does not just change bodies, it changes minds.

•••

GET THE BOOK:

LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. IAN:

Website: www.doctoriansmith.com

Instagram: @doctoriansmith

Facebook: Dr. Ian K. Smith

Twitter/X: @DrIanSmith

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Why Does Everyone Suddenly Care About Greenland? Someone Who's Been There Chimes In Jan 08, 2026

Greenland is in the headlines—military talks, rare earth minerals, foreign influence—and on today’s episode of up+adam, we’re going way beyond the headlines.

Adam sits down with award-winning journalist Kenneth R. Rosen, whose new book polar war: submarines, spies, and the struggle for power in a melting arctic is already being called one of the most urgent reads of the year. rosen spent years reporting from the frontlines of the arctic—embedded with coast guards, scientists, navy seals, and even inside the shadowy corners of espionage in the far north.

together, they explore why Greenland and the arctic are now center stage in a new cold war. We talk radar bases, Russian incursions, rare earth elements, and why this once-frozen frontier could determine the balance of global power for decades to come.

This conversation is cinematic, real, and chilling in the best way.

• buy the book: Polar War by Kenneth R. Rosen

• learn more: kennethrrosen.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

LA Fires 1 Year Ago Today: $100 Million Raised, Victims Still Waiting — Anyone Accountable? Jan 07, 2026

On the one-year anniversary of the Palisades Fire, Up+Adam marks the moment with a conversation that burns deep.

Jacob Soboroff is a New York Times bestselling author, an award-winning journalist, and a familiar face on MSNBC and NBC News. But when the deadliest wildfire in LA history came for his childhood neighborhood, he didn’t just report the story. He lived it. His new book, Firestorm: The Great Los Angeles Fires & America's New Age of Disaster, is part memoir, part frontline reporting, and part reckoning with the world we’re heading into if we don’t change course.

Adam and Jacob go ICET-deep on the failures that led to the fire, the silence after the smoke cleared, and why this fire wasn’t an act of God but a symptom of something we’re still not ready to face. They talk hometown heartbreak, political accountability, the psychology of disaster, and what it means to raise kids in a place you’ve watched burn.

A must-listen for anyone who loves Los Angeles or lives somewhere that could be next.

• Get the book: Firestorm on Amazon

• Follow Jacob on Instagram: @jacobsoboroff

• Follow Jacob on X: @jacobsoboroff

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

See all SLO Restaurant Month participants

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Crust Funded: How Benny’s Pizza Rose from the Underground Up #SLORestaurantMonth Jan 06, 2026

What do you get when you mix Detroit-style deep dish, a scholar with an Oxford mind, and a passion for community? You get Ben Arona, owner of Benny’s Pizza Social Club in downtown San Luis Obispo. In this episode, Adam sits down with Ben to talk about how Benny’s evolved from a one-man underground kitchen hustle to one of the most beloved pizza joints on the Central Coast.

We dig into the vibe, the dough, and the deep love Ben has for the old-school soul of his space, formerly Pepe Delgado’s. He shares the genius behind his famous frozen lasagna (the ultimate gift hack), why sauce placement matters more than you think, and how he’s celebrating SLO Restaurant Month with a $49.99 dinner-for-two deal. Ben is not just serving pizza, he’s serving history, heart, and heaping portions of gratitude to the community that helped build him.

Check out Benny’s, and don’t miss the other restaurants participating in SLO Restaurant Month at the link below.

Links from this episode:

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

January is SLO Restaurant Month! Novo & Luna Red are Up+Adam! Jan 05, 2026

On today’s episode of Up+Adam, we sit down with Samantha Payette, the powerhouse Director of Operations for the Blue Mango Restaurant Group, the team behind SLO favorites like Novo, Luna Red, and Robin’s in Cambria. But Sam isn’t just keeping restaurants humming. She’s also helping lead the charge on civic culture and community engagement through her role on the City of San Luis Obispo’s Promotions Coordinating Committee, where she’s been instrumental in bringing SLO Restaurant Month to life.

Adam and Sam go deep on what really happens behind the scenes of a big restaurant initiative, what January means for the people working in hospitality, and what it takes to keep both diners and city leaders excited about local food. They also talk shop on leadership, local love, and why vibe is something you can’t train... but you can absolutely cultivate.

Support local. Eat well. Tip good.

• Check out SLO Restaurant Month (menus, deals, and full list of participating restaurants): https://www.visitslo.com/restaurantmonth

• Learn more about the Blue Mango Restaurant Group: https://www.bluemangorestaurants.com-=[

• Novo: https://www.novorestaurant.com

• Luna Red: https://www.lunaredslo.com

• Robin’s Restaurant (Cambria): https://www.robinsrestaurant.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

SLO-Cal’s Big 4 NYE Options: Where to Ring in 2026 Tonight! Dec 31, 2025

Ready to send 2025 out in style? On this episode of Up+Adam, we’re counting down the most exciting ways to ring in the New Year right here on the Central Coast. From family-friendly fireworks to funk-fueled dance floors and intimate live shows, there’s something for every vibe—and we’ve got the inside scoop.

Adam welcomes Ryan Orr, Entertainment Director for SLO Brew Rock, and Dan Curcio of Moonshiner Collective for a high-energy conversation on what makes a great NYE party, how their teams are leveling up this year’s experiences, and why live music just hits different when the clock strikes midnight. We also surprise the winner of our Up+Adam NYE Paso Staycation, live on air.

Whether you're eyeing a classy night at the Opera or ready to raise a glass in the heart of downtown Paso Robles, this episode gives you four unforgettable ways to celebrate. Let’s pop the cork, set the vibe, and get your plans locked in.

New Year’s Eve Events Featured in this Episode:

• Paso Robles City Park Celebration (Hosted by Adam!)
➤ prcity.com/New-Years-Eve-2025

• SLO Brew Rock: Funk Bizarre ft. Pimps of Joytime
➤ slobrew.com/NYE-2026

• Moonshiner Collective Live at Club Car Bar, Templeton
➤ Get Tickets

• OperaSLO Super Gala at PAC SLO (Family-Friendly!)
➤ pacslo.org

Follow Our Guests:

• SLO Brew Rock – slobrew.com | @slobrew
• Moonshiner Collective – moonshinercollective.com | @moonshinercollective

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://www.pacslo.org/events/detail/nye25

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Broadway, Baritones, and the Best Kind of New Year’s Eve with Opera SLO Dec 26, 2025

Ringing in the New Year does not have to mean staying out late or forgetting the night entirely. In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with the creative team behind the Opera SLO New Year’s Eve Super Gala to talk about a different kind of celebration. One rooted in live music, community, and that feeling you only get when a full orchestra hits the room and you realize you are part of something shared.

At the center of it all is conductor and Opera San Luis Obispo General Director Brian Asher Alhadeff, whose vision for the Super Gala is simple and bold. Make it welcoming. Make it joyful. Make it unforgettable. Brian describes the night as “dessert music,” a sampler of Broadway favorites, classical showstoppers, iconic movie moments, and large ensemble pieces that feel familiar even if you have never been to an opera before.

Joining the conversation is Grammy Award winning baritone Gabriel Manro, whose career spans opera, Broadway, film, television, and major international stages. Gabriel talks about growing up on the Central Coast, finding his voice, and why live, unamplified music still matters in an age dominated by screens and algorithms. You also hear from stage director Justine Prado Manro and Children’s Chorus Manager Luana Gerardis, who share how Opera SLO’s youth programs and citywide collaborations keep the arts alive and accessible for families.

The Opera SLO New Year’s Eve Super Gala takes place December 31 at 7 pm at the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo. The show is family friendly, features children on stage, and wraps up early enough to be home for the ball drop. It is a true Central Coast collaboration with multiple local arts organizations sharing one stage for one night only.

If you are looking for a meaningful, memorable way to close out the year and start the next one feeling connected and inspired, this conversation explains why this night is different.

• Opera SLO New Year’s Eve Super Gala

• Tickets and information

https://www.pacslo.org/events/detail/nye25

805-756-4849

• Opera San Luis Obispo

https://www.operaslo.org

• Brian Asher Alhadeff

https://www.operaslo.org/about/artistic-director.php

https://www.instagram.com/maestroalhadeff

• Gabriel Manro

https://www.gabrielmanro.com

https://www.instagram.com/gabriel_manro

• Justine Prado Manro

https://www.justineprado.com

https://www.instagram.com/nymphatic

• Luana Gerardis and Opera SLO Children’s Chorus

https://www.operaslo.org/about/staff.php

https://www.instagram.com/luanagerardis/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Up+Adam's 12th Breaking & Entering Christmas is Here! Dec 23, 2025

Today’s Up+Adam is one of the most meaningful episodes we do all year.

This is Breaking & Entering Christmas.

Each holiday season, we quietly and anonymously select one local family who has been carrying more than their share, and we show up. Not with pity. With people. With dignity. With a community that decides to say yes.

This episode centers on the family selected this year, chosen from weeks of heartfelt nominations. The letter that nominated them is shared exactly as it was written, with names changed to protect the family. Their story reflects the reality many families face quietly every day. Three generations living in low-income field-worker housing. Grandparents sleeping on the floor so the kids can have a room. A father working long shifts, even on Christmas. A grandmother recovering from breast cancer and collecting recyclables each morning to help the family get by.

What happens next is the heart of this episode.

More than 25 people walk through the door. Movers. Volunteers. Local businesses. Media partners. Listeners. A sleeper sofa replaces the floor. A Christmas tree arrives. Presents are stacked. A broken garbage disposal gets fixed. The house breathes again.

This episode captures the sounds, moments, and emotion of a community showing up in real time. It is not about charity. It is about dignity. It is about service. It is about a Christmas this family never saw coming and the one they deserve.

With Gratitude to Our Community Partners and Supporters

Meathead Movers

Libertine Brewing Company

Sinor-LaVallee Wine

North County Copy & Parcel

General Store Paso Robles

Mr Putters Mino Golf

Author Rob Vold and his wife Jenny of Uncle Banana book series

Red Oak Security

Andy’s Awesome Arcade

Spark’l Bands

Salinas River Ranch

Perfetto Cafe

SLO Town Studios

WiLD 106.1 FM

KSBY

95.3 The Beach

KPIG Radio

The Grade Country

Dimes Media Corporation

And to the listeners of Up+Adam who continue to show what community really looks like.

Thank you for being part of the 12th Annual Breaking & Entering Christmas.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Showing Up When It Matters Most: The Salvation Army SLO's Christmas Story Dec 22, 2025

Up+Adam’s Breaking & Entering will air tomorrow 12/23!

In this episode of Up+Adam, we sit down with Pastor Juan and Major Nancy from The Salvation Army San Luis Obispo Corps, a ministry rooted in faith and service dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals and families across the Central Coast through programs like food distribution, utility assistance, shelter support, and year-round community care. With a mission “heart to God, hand to man,” the Salvation Army brings hope and practical help to those facing hardship and works tirelessly to uplift our neighbors in Jesus’ name. Learn how their work intersects with the spirit of Breaking & Entering Christmas and how you can connect or get involved. For more information or to reach the San Luis Obispo Corps, visit them at 815 Islay Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, call (805) 544-2401, or email Juan.Argumedo@usw.salvationarmy.org to connect directly with their team this season.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Reality Checked: Tommy Habeeb on His Show 'Cheaters' & 'To the Rescue' Dec 16, 2025

In this heart-opening holiday episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with veteran television host and producer Tommy Habeeb, the creator and star of the nationally syndicated series To the Rescue. Airing on over 200 stations across the country, the show follows real-life animal rescues and the incredible people behind them—first responders, shelter workers, and families who open their hearts and homes to animals in need.

But Tommy’s journey is more than just puppies and happy endings. He opens up about his time as the original host of Cheaters, what that chapter taught him about human behavior, and how it shaped the deeply empathetic lens he brings to his work today. Together, Adam and Tommy explore the emotional terrain of second chances, what animals can teach us about healing, and why "adopt, don't shop" is more urgent now than ever.

Whether you’re an animal lover, a fan of Tommy’s past work, or someone looking for some unexpected inspiration this season, this is a conversation that will stay with you.

• Watch To the Rescue: https://totherescue.tv

• Follow Tommy Habeeb on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tommyhabeeb

• Subscribe to To the Rescue on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVucVLlcH4vCUwadflUeIyw

• Find a shelter near you: https://theshelterpetproject.org/shelters

• Support Woods Humane Society: https://www.woodshumanesociety.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Hollywood, Hyde, and Healing with Actor Hunter Doohan Dec 15, 2025

Today’s Guest: Hollywood star Hunter Doohan!

Hunter Doohan is on fire. From his breakout role in Netflix’s Wednesday to haunting performances in Your Honor and Daredevil: Born Again, Hunter is proving he’s not just rising. He’s redefining what it means to show up in this industry with depth, drive, and zero fear of the dark.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Hunter to talk about his newest project, The Wilderness. It’s a chilling new indie film based on the real-life trauma of “wilderness therapy” programs. As both actor and producer, Hunter opens up about what it was like to be on a set where the director was reliving his own story, and how telling it changed the way Hunter thinks about power, control, and survival.

But this convo goes deeper. Hunter gets real about losing his dad to ALS, the private grief behind public success, and the moments in his career that felt less like big breaks and more like emotional reckonings. He also shares what it's like moving between monsters and mentors, playing Hyde, working with Bryan Cranston, teaming up with Aaron Paul, and why being behind the camera might just be where his truth lives next.

This one’s raw, real, and packed with perspective. If you want to see what happens when a guest doesn’t just show up, they show out, this is it.

Watch Hunter in The Wilderness – now in select theaters and available on digital and on demand December 16

Watch the trailer

Follow Hunter on Instagram

instagram.com/hunterdoohan

Learn more or donate to Project ALS

projectals.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS FAMILY HERE

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Learn About Our Breaking & Entering Christmas Family & How You Can Help Dec 09, 2025

JINGLE JAM TICKETS HERE - DOZEN LOCAL ARTISTS PLAY XMAS MUSIC FOR A GREAT CAUSE, OUR BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

JINGLE JAM TICKETS HERE - DOZEN LOCAL ARTISTS PLAY XMAS MUSIC FOR A GREAT CAUSE, OUR BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Family land, Disney Trains, Santa, and the real story of Christmas at the Ranch with Steve Rossi Up+Adam & We Meet Our Breaking & Entering Family Dec 08, 2025

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Steve Rossi | Christmas at the Ranch, Family Legacy, and Making Holiday Magic in Wine Country

DESCRIPTION:

What happens when you mix 14,000 acres of ranchland, a few snow machines, and a guy with big holiday vision? You get Christmas at the Ranch. Today’s guest is the man behind it.

Steve Rossi grew up surrounded by story and legacy. Son of Central Coast developer, architect, and visionary Rob Rossi, Steve has stepped into his own lane with purpose, heart, and some seriously cool ideas. In this episode, Adam sits down with Steve to talk about growing up on the ranch, carving out his own voice in the Rossi family legacy, and building one of the most magical holiday events on the Central Coast.

They get into the real behind-the-scenes of what it takes to create Christmas at the Ranch. From the family dynamics (Let’s be real, its all his wife Shelly!), to the new additions this year, to why they said yes to something this bold in the first place.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to bring joy to thousands of strangers and still make it feel personal, this one’s for you.

• Christmas at the Margarita

• Visit the event page on Travel Paso

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

JINGLE JAM TICKETS HERE - DOZEN LOCAL ARTISTS PLAY XMAS MUSIC FOR A GREAT CAUSE, OUR BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Pop-Up With Purpose: SLOCALLY MADE is Crafting a Community - One Maker at a Time Dec 05, 2025

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

It’s more than a pop-up. It’s a handcrafted movement rooted in the heart of San Luis Obispo.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Sadie Moss and Kerry Long, the creative forces behind SLOcally Made, a seasonal artisan collective and holiday marketplace that has become a downtown SLO tradition. Born from a simple idea and a shared love of craft, Sadie and Kerry built something truly special: a collaborative space that showcases over 80 local makers, from potters and jewelers to painters and leatherworkers.

Also joining us is Gina Hambly, core member of this year’s pop-up and the heart behind Hambly Farms, where she and her husband grow, harvest, and bottle small-batch lavender products that bring beauty and calm to homes across the Central Coast.

We talk about how SLOcally Made began, what it takes to curate 85 vendors into a seamless shopping experience, and how handmade goods carry intention, story, and soul. It’s a conversation full of laughter, inspiration, and the kind of community spirit that reminds you why shopping local matters.

Visit SLOcally Made in person this season at

877 Monterey Street in Downtown San Luis Obispo

Explore more or shop online

• slocally-made.com

Support Gina and Hambly Farms

• hamblyfarms.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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********

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

JINGLE JAM TICKETS HERE - DOZEN LOCAL ARTISTS PLAY XMAS MUSIC FOR A GREAT CAUSE, OUR BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Up+Adam Breaking & Entering Wine-Country Christmas Market Dec 04, 2025

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

This holiday season, a brand-new event is bringing that signature SLO CAL spirit to Paso in a way only the Central Coast can.

In this episode, Adam is joined by Meghan Ball of Vinlumia and Rob Tredway of McPrice Myers, who also co-founded Unhinged Craft Candles with his husband. Together, they share the story behind the Wine Country Christmas Market, a holiday event born from a studio brainstorm and brought to life in less than two weeks.

Hosted at the stunning new McPrice Myers tasting room, the market is free, family-friendly, and full of local soul. With more than a dozen artisans, boutique wineries, small-batch food vendors, and even adoptable pets on site, this is more than a place to check off your gift list. It's a celebration of community, connection, and contagious generosity.

All proceeds and donations support Breaking & Entering Christmas, Adam’s beloved tradition where one local family gets the full magic of the holiday season after a year of hardship. This event makes it possible. You sipping wine and grabbing a handmade candle or bar of artisan soap? That’s part of the magic too.

Event Info

• Sunday, December 7, 2025

• 1 PM to 4 PM

• McPrice Myers, 3525 Adelaida Road, Paso Robles, CA

• Free to attend

• Family and dog friendly

Guests and Links

• Meghan Ball – @vinlumia

• Rob Tredway – @unhinged.cc | unhingedcc.com

• McPrice Myers Winery – mcpricemyers.com

To RSVP or donate to Breaking & Entering Christmas:

• adammontiel.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

JINGLE JAM TICKETS HERE - DOZEN LOCAL ARTISTS PLAY XMAS MUSIC FOR A GREAT CAUSE, OUR BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Western Charm, Italian Soul, SLO-Cal Swagger: Nathan Long of Nate’s on Marsh Builds Food & Vibes from Scratch Dec 03, 2025

UNCLE BANANA CHILDREN'S BOOK - CHRISTMAS LESSONS - PROCEEDS BENEFITTING BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

Nathan Long, Owner of Nate’s on Marsh

What happens when you take a San Luis Obispo native, run him through the fires of San Francisco’s culinary scene, hand him a blank canvas on Marsh Street, and tell him, “Build something unforgettable”? You get Nate’s on Marsh. It’s a restaurant that feels like your grandma’s house if she had a decorator with excellent taste, a thing for cowboys, and maybe just a splash of chaos.

In this episode, Adam sits down with Nathan Long, owner, operator, and low-key vibe architect, to talk about how Nate’s became more than a restaurant. It’s a neighborhood anchor. A local love letter. A place where the pasta’s local, the playlist’s curated, and the bar’s always stocked with conversation.

They dive into the real behind-the-scenes. What it takes to build a team that moves like a band. How to create a space that feels like home but looks like a Western art film. And why Nathan refuses to sell out to frozen-food culture or Sysco-style shortcuts. This conversation explores what makes a restaurant matter, not just to your stomach, but to your soul.

Also, Adam asks the question nobody’s asking about the state of food right now. Why does everything taste the same? Nathan’s answer is personal, passionate, and sharply on point.

Pull up a seat. This one’s layered. Soulful, surprising, and just the right amount of spicy.

Links from the show:

• See the space and book your table: natesonmarsh.com

• Follow for the food, the vibe, and the chaos: @natesonmarsh

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

GET YOUR TICKETS TO JINGLE JAM

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Glow Big or Go Home: Behind the 3 Million Lights of Cambria Christmas Market with its General Manager Mike Arnold! Dec 01, 2025

LEARN ABOUT OUR B&E WINE COUNTRY XMAS MARKET

Welcome to a holiday edition of Up+Adam that glows a little brighter. Adam sits down with Mike Arnold, General Manager of the Cambria Christmas Market, to take you behind the scenes of one of the most magical events in SLO CAL. What started as a modest stroll for hotel guests has exploded into a nationally recognized winter wonderland with over 3 million lights, more than 30 local vendors, live music, wood-fired pizza, mulled wine, and selfie spots for days.

In this episode, Mike opens up about what it takes to pull off an event of this scale. From year-round planning and tree-trimming in August to coordinating 16 shuttles and keeping hotel guests happy, the operation is both massive and deeply thoughtful. We also dive into the German roots of the market, the evolution of the event, the challenges of logistics in a mountain neighborhood, and yes, the spicy little controversy of being named one of the most overcrowded Christmas markets in North America.

Plus, Adam gets the scoop on the secret to wrapping Christmas lights like a pro (seriously, life-changing), the story behind their crowd-favorite Glühwein, and why the Cambria Christmas Market is so much more than just lights. It is a love letter to the holidays, community, and the wonder of SLO CAL in December.

Want to go? Better act fast. Tickets sell out and rooms go quick.

• cambriachristmasmarket.com

• @cambriachristmasmarket on Instagram

Bring your jacket, your camera, and your sense of wonder. This one is worth the drive.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

GET TICKETS TO THIS YEARS JINGLE JAM 12/11 LIBERTINE DT SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Black Friday Shop to This: Jingle Jam 2024 (The Live Performances) Nov 28, 2025

Enjoy last year's Breaking & Entering Christmas Jingle Jam live performances and,

A Night of Music, Magic, and Local Holiday Heart

Join broadcaster Adam Montiel and an all-star lineup of SLO CAL artists for a holiday concert that makes a real difference. Jingle Jam is the live benefit show that fuels Up+Adam’s Breaking & Entering Christmas, a 12-year tradition where Adam and his crew quietly deliver a full Christmas for a local family who has faced an impossible year. It is 100 percent local and handled with total dignity.

This Year’s Lineup:

Confirmed artists (in order of confirmation):

DAMON CASTILLO BAND
KB OF IMVA
DAN CURCIO OF MOONSHINER COLLECTIVE
JOSH ROSENBLUM
JON MILLSAP
MICHAEL VENIA OF CARBON CITY LIGHTS
BRIANNA LEE AND JOSH BARRETT FROM B AND THE HIVE
KENNY TAYLOR

(Additional artists will be announced soon as more confirmations roll in.)

Last year’s Jingle Jam was called “the Avengers of local musicians” by KSBY and featured a dozen local favorites. The energy was incredible, and the generosity was contagious.

GET TICKETS TO THIS YEARS JINGLE JAM 12/11 LIBERTINE DT SLO

Deck the Plaza: Inside Downtown’s Holiday Glow-Up & Christmas Parade Nov 27, 2025

GET TICKETS TO JINGLE JAM HERE!!

COME TO OUR FREE WINE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS MARKET HERE

Downtown SLO is more than just a charming slice of San Luis Obispo. It’s a living, breathing experience. In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with LaBren Harris, CEO of Downtown SLO, and Events Manager Maggie Kovach. They are two of the visionary minds responsible for making downtown feel like a true community stage. From the Thursday night Farmers’ Market that draws over 10,000 people each week to the concerts that soundtrack our summer to the legendary Holiday Parade that lights up the season, they are behind it all.

Together, they pull back the curtain on what it takes to activate culture in real time. They talk about the passion, the partnerships, and yes, even the parking, as they continue to evolve downtown with fresh energy and big heart. You'll hear about the Buy Local Bonus, how Santa’s House opens the holidays in Mission Plaza, and why this year’s Christmas Parade (Candy Cane Lane edition) is not to be missed.

• Learn more about all things Downtown SLO: https://downtownslo.com

• Volunteer or check out holiday events: HERE

• Details on the Buy Local Bonus: https://slocity.org

• Follow Downtown SLO on Instagram: https://instagram.com/downtownslo

• Santa’s House info and photos HERE

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

GET TICKETS TO JINGLE JAM!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Last Chance to Nominate a Family for Breaking & Entering Christmas | Get Jingle Jam Tickets | B&E Wine-Country Christmas Market Nov 24, 2025

LEARN MORE ABOUT BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS

NOMINATE A FAMILY

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

********

********

********

*********

Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Truth Is Out — and So Is Dan Farah: The Age of Disclosure Hits Up+Adam Nov 21, 2025

Is humanity ready to hear the truth? In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel welcomes Dan Farah, the director and producer of the groundbreaking new documentary The Age of Disclosure. This isn’t your average UFO conversation. This is testimony from 34 insiders across the U.S. Government, military, intelligence community, and even the Senate floor - names like Rubio, Gillibrand, Clapper, Mellon, and Fravor, speaking on the record about what they know, what they’ve seen, and why the time for secrecy is over.

Dan shares what it was like to make this film in complete secrecy for over three years, the shocking truths uncovered, and what disclosure really means for the future of humanity. With high-level access, bipartisan voices, and verified government witnesses, The Age of Disclosure reframes the UAP conversation from fringe speculation to urgent public awareness. This episode goes deep into the cultural, scientific, and spiritual implications of what it means to finally admit… we are not alone.

The Age of Disclosure is now streaming worldwide on Prime Video and playing in select theaters in New York City, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C.

• Official site: www.theageofdisclosure.com

• Follow on Instagram: @ageofdisclosure

• Follow on TikTok: @ageofdisclosure

• Watch trailers on YouTube: The Age of Disclosure on YouTube

• Facebook: facebook.com/ageofdisclosure

This conversation is one for the books. Listen in. Think big. And maybe… look up.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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********

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

LEARN MORE AND GET YOUR TICKETS TO JINGLE JAM HERE!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Meet the Cast: Celebrating the 50-Year Tradition at The Great American Melodrama Nov 20, 2025

Today on Up+Adam, we’re stepping behind the curtain and straight into the holiday magic.

In celebration of The Great American Melodrama’s 50th anniversary, Adam sits down with four of the vibrant performers lighting up the stage this season: Joshua Kenebrew, Anjewel Lenoir, Rollins Mosley, and Kelly Brown. From backstage bloopers to standing ovations, this episode dives into what makes TGAM’s Holiday Extravaganza so iconic, so heartfelt, and so hilariously human.

You’ll hear what it’s like performing for packed holiday crowds, what goes wrong behind the scenes and how they save it, and why the Melodrama continues to be a beloved Central Coast tradition after half a century. Whether you’re a theater kid, a comedy fan, or just someone who needs a dose of joy this season, you’ll find it here.

• Catch The Holiday Extravaganza now playing at The Great American Melodrama in Oceano

• Showtimes, tickets, and info: https://americanmelodrama.com

• Follow TGAM on Instagram: @tgamelodrama

Want more behind-the-scenes stories like this? Follow and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Thanks for listening, and happy holidays from all of us at Up+Adam.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

• Rocky Horror: Behind the Scenes of a Cult Classic (HarperCollins)

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Fifty Years of Rocky Horror, Told by the Woman Who Was There Nov 19, 2025

Even if you've never seen a frame of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

Adam sits down with Pati Rock, the wife, creative partner, and now legacy-keeper of the legendary rock photographer Mick Rock. Mick captured some of the most iconic images in music history — Bowie, Queen, Iggy, Lou Reed — and was the only photographer given full access during the filming of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025.

In this intimate and unforgettable conversation, Pati shares what it was like to walk beside a man whose lens defined an era, how the new book Rocky Horror: Behind the Scenes of a Cult Classic came to life, and the powerful, creative ways she stays connected to Mick through her own art.

This isn’t just a look back. It’s a living, breathing love story wrapped in art, music, and the magic of cultural history.

Preorder the book

Follow and learn more

• MickRock.com

• @MickRock on Instagram

Make sure to follow, rate, and share the show. Every listen helps us tell more stories that matter.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://thanksgivingforpasorobles.com

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

From Shiftin’ Gears to Shifting Lives & Sharing Meals: How Paso Serves Its Community for Thanksgiving Nov 18, 2025

Every Thanksgiving in Paso Robles, something extraordinary happens long before most people sit down to eat. Centennial Park transforms into a full-service restaurant complete with hosts, servers, menus, and real plates for anyone who needs a warm, dignified meal. No judgment. No questions. Just hospitality, humanity, and a whole lot of turkey.

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel welcomes two community pillars: David Kudija, who has been carving turkeys and leading the steering committee for decades, and Jimmy Purdy, local business owner and host of Gearhead Radio on KPRL. Together, they help anchor an effort that now serves over 1,500 meals every year. What started with one woman, Mildred Wilkins, her pots and pans, and a simple belief that "The Lord will provide", has grown into one of the most beautiful grassroots traditions on the Central Coast.

We talk about legacy, leadership, service, and the deeper meaning of Thanksgiving. Plus, Jimmy shares what it is like running an auto repair shop that puts values first and why showing up for your team and your town matters more than ever.

Want to support, volunteer, or order delivery if immobile for Thanksgiving for Paso Robles?

Learn more about Jimmy and his business:

https://www.shiftngears805.com

Listen to Jimmy on Gearhead Radio:

KPRL AM 1230 | Saturdays

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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LEARN MORE ABOUT BREAKING & ENTERING CHRISTMAS HERE!

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Jingle Jam, Surf and Storms and Saving Thanksgiving Nov 17, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam:

Breaking & Entering Jingle Jam lineup and details for December 11 in downtown SLO

A deeper look at LA’s Palisades Fire and the questions still hanging over it

Pismo Beach’s Surfing for Hope Longboard Classic and how it supports local cancer patients

Nipomo’s new bronze memorial honoring the real "Migrant Mother" and her story

Central Coast rain outlook to start the week

Thanksgiving timing tips, stomach saves, and how not to be the problem at dinner

This one is a full holiday plate. Adam kicks things off with breaking news on this year’s Breaking & Entering Jingle Jam, happening Thursday, December 11 at Libertine Brewing in downtown San Luis Obispo. He walks through the lineup so far - Damon Castillo Band, KB of IMVA, Dan Curcio of Moonshiner Collective, Josh Rosenblum, Jon Millsap, Michael Venia of Carbon City Lights, and Brianna Lee and Josh Barrett from B and the Hive - and how the night ties into making Christmas magical for a local family who really needs it.

From there, we hit a run of Lofi Headlines that start heavy and land right here at home. Adam breaks down new scrutiny over how the most destructive fire in Los Angeles history really started and whether it could have been stopped days earlier. Then it is straight to the pier as top longboard surfers roll into Pismo for the Surfing for Hope Longboard Classic, chasing World Surf League spots and raising money for local families fighting cancer, with Adam talking about why this crew is so close to his heart. We wrap that block in Nipomo, where the community just unveiled a bronze memorial to Florence Owens Thompson, the woman in Dorothea Lange’s famous "Migrant Mother" photo, and what it means to literally anchor that story in local soil.

Because it is that kind of week on the Central Coast, Adam also runs through your rain pattern for the next few days so you know when you are dodging showers and when you might actually see the sun. Then we get into Thanksgiving damage control: when to actually serve the meal if you want to sleep that night, why skipping breakfast backfires, and a rapid fire list of "do not be that person" moves at dinner. From showing up empty handed and hovering in the kitchen to serving lukewarm sides and running out of wine, this episode gives you a cheat sheet for keeping the food hot, the vibes warm, and the group text calm.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Breaking & Entering Jingle Jam Announced | Woods Humane Pet of the Week Nov 14, 2025

Jingle Jam Announced

Thursday December 11, 2025 at Libertine Brewing, Downtown SLO

Listen to the show for the first wave of artists announced.

Tickets on sale soon!

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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********

********

*********

Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Ain’t Trying to Be Tim McGraw’s Nepo-Nephew: Timothy Wayne on Breaking Out Without Breaking the Bloodline Nov 13, 2025

This episode of Up+Adam features rising country artist Timothy Wayne, whose new single “Good Ole Boys Girl” is already gaining traction. He carries a famous last name and a powerful connection. His uncle is country icon Tim McGraw, but the conversation goes beyond music and into what it means to build a career under the weight of legacy.

More than just a country story, this episode explores what it’s like to have an "in" that can open doors but also raise questions. When someone comes from a high-profile family, the assumption is often that success was handed to them. This conversation dives into what happens when the pressure isn't less, it's more. It is about proving yourself, showing up with soul, and earning every step. Country fan or not, this is a story anyone can connect with.

• Listen to “Good Ole Boys Girl” on Spotify, Apple Music, or any streaming platform

• Watch the official music video: YouTube Link

• Website: www.timothywaynemusic.com

• Follow on Instagram & TikTok: @timothywayne

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Rob Rossi on How a Trashed Frat House Turned Into Dreams, Deeds, and Disney Trains

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Rob Rossi | Part Two: Regrets, Ranches, and the Realest He’s Ever Been Nov 12, 2025

In this special follow-up episode of Up+Adam, Rob Rossi is back, and this time, we go deeper.

If you thought Part One showed you who Rob Rossi is, Part Two shows you why.

This is not just real estate. It is personal, reflective, and unfiltered.

ICYMI:

Listen to Part One first — the origin story, from frat houses to Disney trains:

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Veterans Day: The Last Watch - Dick Grantham’s Final Story Nov 11, 2025

Happy Veterans Day!

Met Richard “Dick” Grantham in 2021 when I hosted a Veterans dinner at the Elks. He stood up, shared his WWII story, and left the whole room in awe. He served in the Navy, survived some of the fiercest battles in the Pacific, and was awarded a Purple Heart after a kamikaze strike hit his ship.

Nearly a year later, his daughter reached out. Dick was home, frail, and in hospice care, but wanted to sit down with me and tell his story in full. I spent over an hour with him at his kitchen table. His voice was weak, but his memory was sharp. We talked, we laughed, we cried.

A few hours after I left, I got a text:

“My dad went to heaven to be with my mom. He loved you.”

I’ll never forget it. On his final day, he chose to share that time with me, and I’m forever honored.

Today on Up+Adam, I’m sharing that interview again with new reflections so his story, his bravery, and his voice can continue to be heard.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Rewatch You Didn’t Know You Needed — Ugly Betty Stars are Up+Adam #VivaBetty Nov 10, 2025

What happens when two of the most unforgettable characters from Ugly Betty sit down to relive the show that made being different feel like a superpower? You get Viva Betty, a rewatch podcast that is heartfelt, hilarious, and loaded with behind-the-scenes gold.

In this episode of Up+Adam, Ana Ortiz and Mark Indelicato, aka Hilda and Justin Suarez, join Adam for a conversation that goes far beyond nostalgia. From representing communities and culture on primetime to the moments on set that changed them forever, this one pulls back the curtain on the impact Ugly Betty had and why it still matters.

Stream the Viva Betty podcast now on:

• iHeart Radio

• Spotify

• Apple Podcasts

Follow the show and the hosts:

• Viva Betty on Instagram → @vivabettypodcast

• Ana Ortiz → @therealanaortiz

• Mark Indelicato → @markindelicato

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Tapped In and Turned Up in AG - The Arroyo Grande Beer & Wine Fest This Weekend! Nov 07, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam shines a spotlight on the heart and soul of Arroyo Grande with three local legends making waves in wine, beer, and hospitality. He’s joined by Josh Klapper, the winemaker behind Timbre Winery and owner of LoBro Studios (where this very show is recorded), Laura Beth Amy of Humdinger Brewing, a dual-threat in AG and SLO, and Mindy Calmenson, general manager of Rooster Creek Tavern and a pillar of the Village scene.

Together, they preview the 4th annual Arroyo Grande Beer and Wine Festival, happening this Saturday, November 8, at Heritage Square Park. Expect 30+ craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries, food trucks, live music, and that unmatchable AG energy. Whether you're in it for the pours or the people, this episode serves up all the flavor of the fest and the Village with a whole lot of heart.

Tickets and event info:

my805tix.com

Follow the guests:

• Timbre Winery → timbrewinery.com

• Humdinger Brewing → humdingerbrewing.com

• Rooster Creek Tavern → roostercreektavern.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Rob Rossi On How a Trashed Frat House Turned Into Dreams, Deeds, and Disney Trains! | Up+Adam Exclusive Nov 06, 2025

Rob Rossi isn’t just a developer - he’s a straight-up architect of identity on the Central Coast. In Part One of this two-part interview, Adam sits down in the Timbre LoBro Studios with the man behind some of San Luis Obispo’s most iconic buildings, boldest bets, and most emotional preservation projects.

From buying a trashed frat house out of college to rescuing original Disneyland train cars... from shaping downtown SLO to reviving the world’s first motel - this is a rare, real conversation with one of the most quietly influential people this area might have ever seen.

And you better believe we’re just getting started.

He talks about the $5,000 loan that launched it all, what it was like to bring four original Disneyland coaches to Santa Margarita Ranch, and what the real vision is for places like the Motel Inn and Avila Golf Resort, and a LOT more.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The New Face (and Publisher) of SLO Life Magazine: Meghan Burkhardt is Up+Adam Nov 05, 2025

What does it take to step into the spotlight of a legacy brand while holding a toddler’s hand and carrying new life inside you? In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Meghan Burkhardt, the new publisher of SLO Life Magazine, for a conversation about bold pivots, personal purpose, and the stories that make this Central Coast community so rich.

Meghan shares the moment she knew she had to own the magazine, what keeps her up at night (besides a toddler), and how she is redefining what makes a story cover-worthy. You will also hear the hilarious behind-the-scenes tale of the time Adam pitched himself to the old publisher to get on the cover. Yes, that happened. And how the new energy Meghan is bringing might just change the game for local storytelling.

This is a conversation about vision, reinvention, and what happens when someone says, “I’ll do it. I’ll be the one.” Whether you are a local, a creative, a parent, or someone just waiting for a sign to go for it, this one is for you.

Connect with Meghan and SLO Life Magazine:

• SLO Life Magazine Website

• Instagram @slolifemagazine

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Conviction & Convictions: Local Activist Zoe Rosenberg on Her Felony Conspiracy Sentencing, and Oh Yea, Meat #TrueCrimeTuesday Nov 04, 2025

On this True Crime Tuesday, Adam sits down with Zoe Rosenberg, an animal rights activist from San Luis Obispo who’s no stranger to headlines. From being tackled on an NBA court to getting arrested at Cal Poly at just 15, Zoe’s activism has been bold, controversial, and now convicted.

In her first exclusive local interview, Zoe talks about the felony charges she just caught for taking chickens from a Petaluma poultry facility. She calls it a rescue. Prosecutors called it theft. Either way, the jury found her guilty. But Zoe doesn’t flinch, not even when Adam asks her straight up, “Do you think people should have the right to eat meat?” Her answer: “I don’t.”

No matter where you stand, this is a fair and honest conversation. Zoe answers every question, and Adam doesn’t hold back. They talk about DxE’s tactics, the blurred lines between civil disobedience and criminal conduct, and the real-life consequences of activism taken to the edge.

Hit play. You’re not going to want to miss this one.

• Zoe Rosenberg's sanctuary: Happy Hen Animal Sanctuary

• Follow Zoe on Instagram: @zoe.rosenberg

• Learn more about Direct Action Everywhere: directactioneverywhere.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Confessions of a Catholic School Survivor: Actress/Author Marianne Leone Has Range From The Sopranos to the Saints Nov 03, 2025

Today on Up+Adam, we’re joined by powerhouse actress and author Marianne Leone. You may know her as Joanne Moltisanti on The Sopranos, or from working with legendary directors like Martin Scorsese, John Sayles, and Nancy Savoca. But today, she’s with us as the author of one of the most irreverent, heartfelt, and hilarious novels to come my way in a long time.

In this episode, Marianne opens up about her new book, Christina the Astonishing, a coming-of-age tale set in 1960s Boston where sainthood, sarcasm, immigrant grit, and Catholic guilt all collide. It’s fiction, yes, but it’s rooted in real truth, real grief, and real girlhood. Adam and Marianne go deep on what it means to write through pain, the sacred power of humor, and why rebellion can be holy when it comes from the heart.

This one’s for the readers and the rebels, the mothers and the misfits, and for anyone who’s ever tried to be “good” in a world that made them feel wrong.

• Get Christina the Astonishing: Buy on Amazon

• Read Marianne’s memoir Knowing Jesse: Buy on Amazon

• Visit Marianne Leone’s website: marianneleonecooper.com

• Follow her on Instagram: @strega54

• Learn more about the Jesse Cooper Foundation: jessecooperfoundation.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Halloween Therapy: Guidance vs. Gaslighting - Amy Hargreaves & Landry Bender, Stars of 'SELF-HELP' (In Theatres Today) are Up+Adam Oct 31, 2025

On this Halloween episode of Up+Adam, Amy Hargreaves and Landry Bender drop in with a thriller built for tonight. Self-Help follows a young woman who goes undercover inside a self-actualization community to pull her mother away from its dangerously charismatic leader. We talk about power, persuasion, and the thin line between guidance and gaslighting. Amy and Landry open up about the scenes that rattled them, what they protected as co-creators, and why this story sticks to you on the ride home. Self-Help is only in theaters today, October 31, 2025.

• Official trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMADDlO0Utg

• Showtimes and tickets: https://www.fandango.com/self-help-2025-242828/movie-overview

• Rotten Tomatoes page: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/self_help

• Amy Hargreaves on Instagram

• Landry Bender on Instagram

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Toes, Tutus, and Telling Stories (Without Words): Ballet Theatre SLO is Up+Adam for #Artober Oct 30, 2025

What does it mean to tell a powerful story with no words? In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Theresa Slobodnik and Blair London, the powerhouse duo behind Ballet Theatre San Luis Obispo (BT-SLO). Theresa, a lifelong choreographer and artistic director, and Blair, a retired engineering professor turned ballet teacher, are proving that ballet isn't just an art form. It’s a soulful, emotional experience that can move audiences of all ages.

From honoring mentors and pushing creative boundaries to empowering dancers young and old, Theresa and Blair open up about how their studio and performances create connection, beauty, and real human moments. Whether you're a ballet lover or a total newcomer, this episode will have you seeing dance in a whole new light.

Catch BT-SLO’s Upcoming 2026 Season

All shows take place at the BlackBox Theatre at Ballet Theatre San Luis Obispo

• Feb 21 and 22 – Romantic Moments

• Mar 14 and 15 – Youth Showcase: La Boutique Fantasque and The Joy of Musical Theatre

• May 23 and 24 – Gems of the Classics

• Oct 10 and 11 – Autumn Dances

• Dec 12 and 13 – Holiday Delights

To learn more, get tickets, or sign up for a class, visit

• bt-slo.org

• 3566 S Higuera St #207, San Luis Obispo

• 805-440-1439

• info@bt-slo.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

https://centralcoastbride.com/san-luis-obispo-fall-wedding-expo/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Vows and Wows: Inside Central Coast Bride & the SLO Fall Wedding Expo (This Sun | Madonna Expo) Oct 29, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel welcomes Karla Langner, owner of Central Coast Bride and the creative powerhouse behind the San Luis Obispo Fall Wedding Expo. Whether you're newly engaged or just deep in the Pinterest-scroll phase, this conversation is your permission slip to breathe. Karla breaks down why this isn't just a wedding expo. It’s an experience.

From VIP swag bags to signature cocktails, from meeting the region’s top florists and DJs to scoring exclusive deals you won’t find anywhere else, this event brings all your “big day” dreams under one roof. Karla shares how this year’s expo on Sunday, November 2 at the Madonna Expo Center is shaping up to be their most curated, inspiring, and helpful yet.

We talk trends, tips, and the real secret to planning a wedding without losing your mind (or your bank account). It’s wedding planning made simple and stylish.

• Get tickets and info:

Use promo code MONTIEL at checkout to get 25% off your tickets.

• Follow Central Coast Bride:

Instagram: @centralcoastbride

Facebook: Central Coast Bride

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Be Water, Be Human: From Immigrant to Icon, What This Well Known Actor Taught Us About Power & Pride Oct 27, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, we welcome award-winning author and cultural historian Jeff Chang for a powerful conversation about his upcoming book, Water Mirror Echo: Bruce Lee and the Making of Asian America.

This isn’t just about Bruce Lee the legend, it’s about the human behind the icon. The immigrant. The artist. The man navigating masculinity, identity, and expectation in a world that demanded he be a symbol before he could even be himself. Drawing from never-before-seen letters, intimate interviews, and rare archives, Jeff’s new book paints a bold, deeply emotional portrait of Bruce Lee, and the rise of Asian America alongside him.

Adam and Jeff talk about what Bruce Lee still teaches us about power, softness, representation, and why his legacy feels even more relevant today than it did in 1973. If you’ve ever felt the tension between who you are and what the world wants you to be, this conversation’s for you.

• Get the book: Water Mirror Echo: Bruce Lee and the Making of Asian America (HarperCollins)

• Follow Jeff on Instagram: @zentronix

• Learn more about Jeff’s work: https://www.jeffchang.net

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

• Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Education of an Artist - Buy it on Bookshop.org

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Genius Is a Team Sport (Just Ask Lin-Manuel Miranda) or his Biographer | Pet of the Week Oct 24, 2025

What do you get when you think you're interviewing Lin-Manuel Miranda… but instead end up with the scholar who might know him even better?

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Daniel Pollack-Pelzner - New Yorker contributor, Shakespeare scholar, and author of Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Education of an Artist. Daniel spent years talking with over 150 people from Lin’s world, his family, mentors, collaborators, and Lin himself - to unpack how a sweet, curious kid from Washington Heights became the most transformative voice in modern musical theater.

This conversation isn’t just about Lin, it’s about genius as a slow build, creativity as collaboration, and what it really takes to find your artistic voice. Whether you're a theater geek, a Miranda superfan, or just someone trying to turn inspiration into something real, this one hits deep.

Check out Daniel’s book, available now:

Follow Daniel:

• Twitter/X: @dpppollack

• Instagram: @danielpollackpelzner

• More about Daniel’s work: danielpollackpelzner.com

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

What Rocket Science Taught Me About Making People Laugh: Artober, Improv, and the Central Coast Comedy Theater Oct 23, 2025

What do you get when you combine aerospace engineering with live comedy? You get Dane Larkin. As Director and founding board member of the Central Coast Comedy Theater, Dane is helping to shape a community where laughter isn’t just entertainment, it’s healing. From designing rocket thrust-vectoring systems in college to now teaching improv two nights a week, Dane brings left-brain brilliance and right-brain heart to the local arts scene.

In this special Artober edition of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel dives deep with Dane about how the Theater is using comedy to support mental health, what it takes to build a nonprofit from the ground up, and yes, we even get into his Cal Poly engineering days for a surprising, nerdy, and fun moment.

• Learn more about Central Coast Comedy Theater: https://centralcoastcomedytheater.com

• Support or donate to the nonprofit: https://centralcoastcomedytheater.com/support-us

• Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centralcoastcomedytheater

• Explore Artober with the City of SLO: https://www.slocity.org/government/department-directory/parks-and-recreation/artober

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Creston Effect: Small Town, Big Pours - Grenache Takes Over the Loading Chute Oct 22, 2025

Grenache Giddy-Up at The Loading Chute Barn

Creston is calling. One grape in three colors - Paso powerhouses pouring in Creston. One grape in three colors inside the Loading Chute Barn. Meghan Ball and Kristen Parker join Adam to talk why Grenache hits in white, rosé, and red, who is pouring, what to pair with a Chute bite, and how that barn turns into a Sunday afternoon party.

Event details

Sunday, October 26, 2:00 to 4:30 p.m.

The Loading Chute Barn, 6350 Webster Rd, Creston, CA 93432

Tickets: Grenache Passport $45, General Admission $20, Kids $10, under 3 free

Sample pour list

Adelaida, Alta Colina, Booker, Caliza, Dilecta, End of the Day, Hawks Hill Ranch, Justin, Shale Oak, Site, Zanoli, Zobèto, Ruakh, and more.

Make it a night

Pick up bottles at the event, then head into The Loading Chute for dinner after.

Links

Event info and tickets: Loading Chute Events (Select PICK UP) - (they are using their to go order platform to sell tickets)

Venue Instagram: @loadingchute

Meghan Ball Instagram: @vinlumia

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Delta Force to Bestseller: The Gray Zone Is Real. Brad Taylor’s Been There. #TrueCrimeTuesday Oct 21, 2025

Delta Force to Bestseller: The Brad Taylor Debrief

In this episode of Up+Adam, we step into the shadows with Brad Taylor, former Delta Force commander and New York Times bestselling author whose thrillers hit harder because they come from real-world experience. With 21 years in the Army, including eight inside the elite and secretive 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment–Delta, Brad knows exactly how modern conflict moves… quietly, strategically, and often without headlines.

His newest novel Into the Gray Zone drops us into modern-day India (pretty damn timely if you ask me), where a lavish wedding turns into a targeted massacre and where terrorism might actually be a high-level play for economic dominance. Through Pike Logan, the relentless Taskforce operator at the heart of the series, we’re pulled through cyber sabotage, rare earth conflicts, and the dark politics of separatism. This is where war lives now…in the space between diplomacy and disaster.

We talk about the origin of Pike, the real stories behind Brad’s fiction, and how close we really are to the chaos his novels predict. Spoiler: closer than you think.

Into the Gray Zone is out now:

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Unfinished Business and Other Beautiful Wrecks with Jonathan Goldstein of Heavyweight! Oct 20, 2025

On today's episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Jonathan Goldstein, the creator and host of the acclaimed podcast Heavyweight. Known for helping real people revisit the moments that still weigh on them—lost friendships, family fallouts, the apology that never happened—Jonathan brings his signature mix of humor, depth, and emotional precision to a conversation that’s part storytelling masterclass, part human excavation.

They talk about the origins of Heavyweight, the ethics of revisiting pain, the stories that still haunt him, and how silence can sometimes say more than any scripted line. This episode is for anyone who’s ever stayed up late thinking, What if I had just said something back then...?

If you’re new to Heavyweight, consider this your sign to dive in. And if you’re already a fan, you’re going to love hearing the man behind the mic get a little reflective himself.

• Listen to Heavyweight: https://www.pushkin.fm/podcasts/heavyweight

• Follow Jonathan on Instagram

• More about Jonathan’s work: https://www.pushkin.fm/hosts/jonathan-goldstein

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-made-for-this-mountain-po-273843630/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

You Were Made for This Mountain - Encouragement for the Weekend & Beyond! Oct 17, 2025

What if the mountain in front of you wasn’t meant to break you, but to build you?

On today’s episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Joshua Rosa, a nationally recognized speaker, author, and the voice behind the powerful podcast Made For This Mountain. Joshua shares his journey through trauma, redemption, and obedience, inviting listeners into a deeper understanding of faith, failure, and healing.

Raised in New Jersey by a proud Dominican mother, Joshua has become a force in the space where authenticity meets ministry. With nearly a million followers across platforms, his message is clear and raw: your scars don’t disqualify you, they qualify you. This conversation dives into manhood, generational cycles, self-betrayal, the spiritual weight of healing, and the cost of choosing purpose over comfort.

If you’ve ever felt stuck at the bottom of your own mountain, this episode will remind you—you were made to climb.

Connect with Joshua Rosa:

• Made For This Mountain Podcast:

• Book – Choosing to Do Wrong, Failing to Do Good:

https://www.amazon.com/Choosing-wrong-Failing-good-Joshua/dp/B0D4B15QS8

• Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/_joshuarosa/?hl=en

• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmnIP09gWXqdvB6CX8lRUNg

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the current supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Life Elements

City of SLO

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Through the Lens of Chaos: Jill Furmanovsky on Oasis and the Art of Mayhem Oct 16, 2025

She’s photographed the gods of rock, from Pink Floyd and Bob Dylan to Amy Winehouse and Leonard Cohen, and somehow, in the eye of Britpop’s loudest storm, she captured the rise and fall of Oasis like no one else ever could.

In this episode of Up+Adam, award-winning music photographer Jill Furmanovsky joins Adam to talk about her stunning new book, Oasis: Trying to Find a Way Out of Nowhere, created in collaboration with Noel Gallagher. Featuring over 500 never-before-seen images and raw backstage commentary, this is more than a photography book. It’s a visual memoir of chaos, brotherhood, ego, and art.

Even if you weren’t a die-hard Oasis fan, this conversation opens up a world of creative tension, trust, and the magic that happens when a camera becomes a passport into cultural history.

Whether you’re a music lover, a photography nerd, or just someone who remembers what “Wonderwall” felt like in the ‘90s, this one’s for you.

GET THE BOOK

• Oasis: Trying to Find a Way Out of Nowhere: Buy on Amazon

Follow Jill Furmanovsky

• Instagram: @jillfurmanovsky

• Official Archive: rockarchive.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

One-Legged Trainers, Drunk QBs, and Civil Rights: The Team the NFL Tried to Erase Oct 15, 2025

What happens when a football team becomes a time capsule for a country on the edge of change? In this episode, Adam sits down with award-winning journalist and author David Fleming to unpack A Big Mess in Texas, the jaw-dropping, hilarious, and deeply human true story of the 1952 Dallas Texans.

You don’t have to know a first down from a fumble to love this story. Whether you're a sports fan or not, this one grabs you with its chaos, characters, and cultural crossroads.

From drunken halftime quarterbacks and elephant-dung-covered fields to civil rights standoffs and Klan bombings, this isn’t just the most dysfunctional season in NFL history, it’s a forgotten American epic. David takes us behind the scenes of his years-long research journey, the characters too wild for fiction, and why this story had to be told now.

This episode is for the football fan, the history buff, the curious soul, and anyone who knows that sometimes the biggest messes leave the deepest marks.

Guest: David Fleming

• Book: A Big Mess in Texas: The Incredible True Story of the Dallas Texans

• Learn more: https://www.abigmessintexas.com

• Order the book: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Mess-Texas-Incredible-Dysfunctional/dp/1250374305

• Follow David: https://twitter.com/FlemFile

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Inside the Cartel: The Double Life of Martin Suarez - who’s been called the greatest undercover agent in FBI history Oct 14, 2025

In this #TrueCrimeTuesday episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel goes deep Inside the Cartel with former FBI Special Agent Martin Suarez, the man known inside the Bureau as its most prolific undercover operative in FBI history, and Ian Frisch, the acclaimed journalist who helped him bring his untold story to life.

For 23 years, Suarez lived as “Manny,” infiltrating a Colombian narco empire, smuggling $1 billion in cocaine, and laundering $50 million, all in the name of justice. Now, living with ALS, he’s breaking his silence about the double life that cost him almost everything.

Together, Martin and Ian pull back the curtain on the high-stakes world of undercover espionage, the failures of the War on Drugs, and the emotional toll of a life lived in shadows. This is not just a true-crime story; it’s a human one: about identity, faith, family, and the courage it takes to keep telling the truth, even when your voice is fading.

Buy the book: Inside the Cartel on HarperCollins
Follow Ian Frisch: @ian_frisch

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

UP+ADAM LISTENERS — FOR THE NEXT 48 HOURS, GET SLO OPERA TICKETS FOR JUST $25!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Artober Gets Operatic with Opera SLO: Not Your Grandma’s Hansel and Gretel Oct 13, 2025

USE PROMO CODE: HANSEL25

THIS IS MAJOR SAVINGS — SOME TICKETS ARE USUALLY $50, OTHERS UPWARDS OF $100 DEPENDING ON SEATING.

DON’T MISS THIS LIMITED-TIME DEAL TO EXPERIENCE WORLD-CLASS OPERA FOR A FRACTION OF THE PRICE.

Continuing with Artober coverage on Up+Adam, we’re diving into the whimsical and slightly wicked world of Hansel and Gretel, but not the bedtime story version. Opera San Luis Obispo is pulling out all the stops for their grand production of Engelbert Humperdinck’s beloved opera, featuring a full 60-piece orchestra, massive two-story woodland sets, vivid costumes, and a talented cast of international stars and local youth.

Adam sits down with mezzo-soprano Mandi Barrus (Hansel), soprano Amy Goymerac (Gretel), Children’s Chorus Manager Luana Gerardis, and County Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Brescia, who also serves on the OperaSLO board. Together, they talk about the magic of bringing opera to families, why it’s perfect for October and Artober in SLO, and the role of arts in education. Oh, and yes, Adam definitely tries his hand at opera himself in an improvised mini-opera you won’t want to miss.

This episode is full of laughs, love for the arts, and a whole lot of talent. Whether you’re an opera lover or totally new to it, Hansel and Gretel is your gateway into something unforgettable.

And remember - for the next 48 hours only, Up+Adam listeners can grab tickets for just $25 when you use the promo code HANSEL25 at checkout. Regular ticket prices range from $50 to upwards of $100 depending on your seat, so this is a rare and major opportunity to experience live opera with huge savings.

• Get your tickets:

https://www.pacslo.org/events/detail/hanselandgretel25

• Learn more about Opera San Luis Obispo:

https://www.operaslo.org

• Show dates:

October 18 & 19 at the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Curse of: America’s Next Top Model on iHeartRadio

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Reality Check: The True Cost of America’s Next Top Model | Woods Pet of the Week Oct 10, 2025

What happens when the dream of reality TV becomes a nightmare? In this episode of Up+Adam, broadcaster Adam Montiel sits down with award-winning journalist and podcast host Bridget Armstrong to talk about her hit investigative series, Curse of: America’s Next Top Model.

Bridget takes us behind the scenes of one of the most iconic and controversial shows of the early 2000s, peeling back the glamorous facade to reveal a world of contracts, control, body-shaming, and emotional manipulation. From interviews with former contestants and producers to questions about Tyra Banks’ role in the show’s legacy, this conversation doesn’t hold back. If you grew up watching ANTM, or just want to understand how entertainment shapes culture, this episode is a must-listen.

• Listen to the podcast:

• Learn more about Bridget Armstrong:

Muck Rack Bio

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

downtownslo.com/events/artober

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Conduct Unbecomingly Brilliant: SLO Symphony’s Andrew Sewell on Music, Memory, and Mastery Oct 09, 2025

Part of our month-long ARTober on Up+Adam series

This week on Up+Adam, Adam welcomes Andrew Sewell, the visionary conductor and Music Director of the San Luis Obispo Symphony, for a rich and revealing conversation about the power of music, the art of conducting, and the emotional undercurrent of performance. From the magic of the baton to the subtle skill of knowing when to disappear into the music, Andrew shares what it really takes to lead an orchestra, not with ego, but with empathy.

You’ll hear why the best conductors don’t just keep time, they make moments. Adam also gets a surprise conducting lesson, a front-row breakdown of what musicians actually watch for, and a thoughtful dive into how music carries memory, legacy, and even grief. As part of our ARTober series celebrating arts and culture in San Luis Obispo, this episode offers a backstage pass into a world where timing, trust, and truth come together in sound.

• San Luis Obispo Symphony

slosymphony.org

Explore concerts, events, education programs, and ticket info.

• ARTober in SLO

slocity.org/ARTober

Find live performances, public art installations, studio tours, music, theater, and more.

• Experience ARTober Downtown

Incentives, pop-ups, and everything happening in the heart of downtown SLO.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Soap Royalty: Days of Our Lives Legend Deidre Hall Comes Clean Oct 08, 2025

She’s been possessed, kidnapped, cloned, and married more times than we can count, and we’ve loved her for every second of it. On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with the incomparable Deidre Hall, the woman behind one of television’s most iconic characters: Dr. Marlena Evans of Days of Our Lives.

As Days celebrates its upcoming induction into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame, Deidre reflects on her nearly 50-year journey on the show, how it shaped her, and how she’s shaped it in return. We talk legacy, vulnerability, real-life motherhood through surrogacy, and the emotional moment that made even her stop in her tracks. This isn’t just a conversation. It’s a love letter to daytime, to presence, and to a woman who helped redefine what it means to be a TV legend.

Support Deidre’s causes:

All proceeds from her Days of Our Lives merchandise benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

• deidrehall.com

You can also shop her hand-painted greeting cards, with proceeds going to Wounded Warriors, on the same site.

Follow Deidre Hall on Instagram

• @deidrehall_official

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

When DNA Doesn’t Lie: Elin Lantz Lesser on America’s Crime Lab #TrueCrimeTue Oct 07, 2025

In this #TrueCrimeTuesday episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Elin Lantz Lesser, award-winning producer, former clinical psychologist, and host of the powerful new podcast America’s Crime Lab.

Together, they explore the heartbreak and humanity behind unsolved crimes, and the revolutionary forensic science giving victims and families a voice—sometimes decades after the fact. From the gut-wrenching case of 9-year-old K Rogers to the surprising role of genealogy websites in solving murders, Elin opens up about the emotional toll of telling these stories, how her psychology background shapes her work, and the quiet moments that still echo long after the mic is off.

They also dig into:

LEARN MORE

Listen to America’s Crime Lab: iHeart Podcast Page

Elin’s Website: ElinLantzLesser.com

Minimalism & Simple Living YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElinLesser

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

@LindseyEats is Up+Adam on Cooking by Feel, Nose, & Gut Oct 06, 2025

Adam chatted with Lindsey Baruch of Lindsey Eats, a creator with over 1 million followers across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and her blog, about her debut cookbook Something Delicious: 100 Recipes for Everyday Cooking (Ten Speed Press, releases September 30, 2025). They dive into cooking with all five senses, how to build confidence fast with low-fuss techniques, and why “delicious beats pretty” every time. Expect crunchy-creamy eggplant, a legit 30-minute chicken move, wedge salad theater, a pepper mill splurge Adam can’t stop raving about, and easy entertaining pairings that make weeknights feel like an invitation. If you’re cooking today, you’ll walk away with quick wins, pantry power ups, and a couple of sauces you’ll steal immediately.

Links & resources:

Website: https://lindseyeatsla.com/

Cookbook hub (all retailers): https://lindseyeatsla.com/cookbook/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindseyeats/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/lindseyeats

Buy the book, Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/059383545X

Buy the book, Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/p/books/something-delicious-100-recipes-for-everyday-cooking-lindsey-baruch/22174598

Publisher page, Ten Speed Press / PRH: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/743700/something-delicious-by-lindsey-baruch/

Target listing: https://www.target.com/p/something-delicious-by-lindsey-baruch-hardcover/-/A-94491961

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Connection, Culture & Community — It's ARTober in SLO | Pet of the Week with Woods! Oct 03, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Robin Wolff, committee member of the City of San Luis Obispo’s Promotional Coordinating Committee, to talk about ARTober, SLO’s month-long celebration of arts and humanities held every October. Robin breaks down what ARTober is, how the city activates public art and performances (think: Piano in the Plaza, gallery openings, theater, open studios, public art displays), and how local residents and visitors can get involved. We discuss how the city partners with nonprofits, how the program has evolved, and where she hopes ARTober will go next.

Key resources & links:

City of SLO — ARTober page: slocity.org/ARTober slocity.org

Experience ARTober Guide (how-to, events listing) Visit SLO

Downtown SLO “Experience ARTober” info (participation & incentives) downtownslo.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Raised by Rickles: Don Rickle's Daughter, Mindy Shares Stories Like Never Before, is Up+Adam Oct 01, 2025

She’s not just the daughter of comedy legend Don Rickles. Mindy Rickles is a sharp, hilarious, and deeply human storyteller who’s carving out a voice all her own. In this episode, Mindy joins Adam for a one-of-a-kind conversation about growing up in the house that comedy built, the moments Don Rickles did (and didn’t) turn it off, and why her new podcast “Mindy, Ed & Don Rickles” is more than a tribute. It’s a time capsule of family, fame, and fearless funny.

This one’s got laughs, heart, and stories you haven’t heard anywhere else.

Listen to Mindy’s new podcast:

Mindy, Ed & Don Rickles on Apple Podcasts

Mindy, Ed & Don Rickles on Spotify

Follow Mindy Rickles:

Instagram: @mindyrickles

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Beyond the Dong-Dong: The Law & Order podcast is real, and it’s raw as hell #TrueCrimeTuesday Sep 30, 2025

On this True Crime Tuesday, former Brooklyn homicide prosecutor Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi (pretty positive you’ve seen one of her many shows on TV too!) joins Up+Adam for a gripping conversation that pulls back the curtain on the real-life cases that shaped America’s approach to terrorism. As the host of Law & Order: Criminal Justice System, Anna-Sigga shares stories that go beyond the headlines and into the hearts of survivors, investigators, and communities forever changed.

To learn more:

• Listen to Law & Order: Criminal Justice System → iHeart Podcast

• Subscribe to Anatomy of Murder → Official Site

• Watch True Conviction on ID → Show Page

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Learn by Brewin’: Nick Firestone on Craft, Campus, and Cal Poly Gold Sep 29, 2025

Today on Up+Adam, we’re sitting down with Nick Firestone, CEO of Firestone Walker Brewing Company and one of the most respected names in craft beer. With the brewery just announcing a multi-year extension of its partnership with Cal Poly, we dive deep into what this collaboration means not just for beer, but for the community, for student-athletes, and for the future of brewing talent coming out of San Luis Obispo.

Nick shares what the past year has brought, rom new beers and behind-the-scenes pivots to the legacy milestones brewing ahead of Firestone Walker’s 30th anniversary. We talk about the resurrection of cult-favorite beers, the emotional weight of retiring a label, and how Cal Poly Gold became more than just a beer. It became a symbol. Oh, and yes, there may or may not have been a beer pong challenge thrown down on-air.

LINKS FROM THE SHOW:

Firestone Walker Official Site

Learn more about Cal Poly Gold

Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing Approach

Find Firestone Walker Beers Near You

Follow Firestone Walker on Instagram

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

• YES Cocktail Co. 10-Year Event Info + Tickets

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Zero-Proof, All Passion: The Power of Yes! Happy 10 Years to Yes! Cocktail Co. | Pet of the Week with Woods Sep 26, 2025

What happens when two theater kids say "yes" to flavor, passion, and building a cocktail empire from the ground up?

In this episode, Adam welcomes Lauren Butler into the Timbre LoBro Studios, the co-founder of Yes Cocktail Co., as she pours out the story behind one of Paso Robles' most exciting and nationally celebrated brands. From their early days slinging small-batch syrups at Farmers’ Market to landing features in Oprah Daily, USA Today, and the Good Food Awards, Lauren and her husband Brandon have turned their love of mixology into a movement. This is a great local story about a great local business.

Now celebrating their 10th anniversary, Yes Cocktail Co. is inviting fans to join them for a special mixology class and celebration on Saturday, October 4th at their Paso tasting room, complete with exclusive cocktails, zero-proof mocktails, bites, stories, and a whole lot of YES energy.

Plus, we dive into motherhood, small business ownership, the art of showing up every damn day, and the future of alcohol-free spirits on the Central Coast.

Want to celebrate with them?

• 2915 Union Road Suite A, Paso Robles, CA 93446

• October 4, 2025 | 3PM (Mixology Class) | 5PM (Anniversary Bash)

Learn More:

• Website: yescocktailco.com

• Instagram: @yescocktailco

• Join the “Drink At Home” Club: yescocktailco.com/club

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Princesses, Frogs, and Fresh Princes: The Stories of Screenwriting Icon Rob Edwards & Him Coming to SLO CAL Sep 24, 2025

What do Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, Marvel’s Captain America: Brave New World, and TV classics like Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, In Living Color, Full House, and A Different World all have in common? Writer Rob Edwards. For more than 40 years, Rob has been shaping the way we laugh, cry, and see ourselves on screen. In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Rob to talk about surviving Hollywood with “Detroit hustle,” why Disney and Marvel story rooms are more alike than you’d think, and what it means to close out this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference with what he calls “a full tank of chicken soup for the writer’s soul.”

Don’t miss the special screening of The Princess and the Frog + Live Q&A with Rob Edwards, happening tomorrow, September 25th, at the Palm Theatre in San Luis Obispo. The evening begins with a 5pm reception, the family-friendly screening at 6pm, followed by a conversation with Rob himself. Tickets are just $10–$12.

Rob will also be delivering the keynote address at the 41st Annual Central Coast Writers Conference, September 26–27 at Cuesta College.

Learn more and grab tickets:

Central Coast Writers Conference: centralcoastwritersconference.com

The Princess and the Frog Screening + Q&A Tickets: Palm Theatre Event Info

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

• https://www.pacslo.org/events/detail/renevaca25

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Disney Adults & Dirty Truths with Comic René Vaca who's Coming to the PAC in SLO! Sep 22, 2025

Comic René Vaca Is Up+Adam

Comedian René Vaca joins Adam Montiel ahead of his upcoming show at the Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo on Wednesday, September 25. From growing up in Van Nuys to winning StandUp NBC and performing with the likes of Bill Burr and Ken Jeong, René shares how comedy became his therapy, his hustle, and his way through it all.

In this candid conversation, the two talk about growing up just outside of LA, collecting rare Disney art, calling out Hollywood in a meeting that actually led to traction, and what it’s like to jump into stand-up the same way Adam Lockwood jumps off the Eiffel Tower. No net. Just guts.

Note: This was a virtual interview, and the last few minutes were lost due to a cloud upload glitch after René exited the call. But what we did capture is absolutely worth the listen.

Follow René Vaca

• Website: https://renevaca.net

• Instagram: @renevacacomedy

Tickets to the PAC Show

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Happy Friday and More + Pet of the Week with Woods Humane Society Sep 19, 2025

Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

https://www.moonshinercollective.com/under-the-moon-concert-series

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Under the Moon and Into the Moment: Moonshiner Collective Ready for a Full Send Performance Under the Stars Sep 18, 2025

In this episode, Adam sits down with the always soulful and ever-authentic Dan Curcio, frontman of Moonshiner Collective, to talk about the final Under the Moon concert of the season, happening Saturday, September 20th at Marcerro at Dairy Creek Golf Course in San Luis Obispo. These shows have become iconic on the Central Coast, blending music, memory, and the kind of open-air, magic-hour energy that just hits different.

Dan opens up about what makes this setting so special, how the band curates not just a setlist but a vibe, and why sharing the stage with The Silent Comedy this year brings things full circle. From parenting to presence, performance to purpose, this isn’t just another show. It’s a season finale under the stars.

• Get Tickets & Info:

• Follow Dan + Moonshiner Collective:

Instagram: @moonshinercollective

Website: https://www.moonshinercollective.com

Bring a blanket, a friend, and a little glow-in-the-dark magic. This one's gonna be special.

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vM7rt_0-VoQ

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Shame, Screenshots, and Justice: Inside the Mind of Bully Hunter Dr. James McGibney Sep 17, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam chats with Dr. James McGibney, the former U.S. Marine turned digital justice warrior, to talk about what it takes to take down cyberbullies, online predators, and the shadow networks that traffic in shame.

You’ve seen him in the Netflix doc The Most Hated Man on the Internet. You’ve seen his work on VICE, Dr. Phil, and now on A&E’s brand-new special Bully Hunter, premiering Tuesday, September 23rd at 10pm. But this conversation isn’t just about the mission. It’s about the man behind it. From the day he tricked Hunter Moore into handing over a revenge porn empire, to the stories of survivors that still haunt him, McGibney opens up about the emotional toll, the wins no one sees, and what it really means to reclaim power online.

Whether you’re a parent, a victim, or just someone who wants to believe in digital justice, this one is required listening.

Watch the trailer for Bully Hunter:

Learn more about James’ work:

• Bullyville.com

• Instagram: @bullyville

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Local #TrueCrimeTuesday: When the System Fails, Parents Don’t Quit Sep 16, 2025

On this episode of Up+Adam, broadcaster Adam Montiel sits down with William and Mary Jane Jodry, the parents of Thomas “Tommy” Jodry, a 21-year-old man who died after falling from a San Luis Obispo parking structure under deeply suspicious circumstances. While officials quickly closed the case, the Jodrys have spent nearly six years piecing together what really happened that night, facing roadblocks, redacted timelines, and a man of interest whose presence raises more questions than answers.

Also joining the conversation is clinical and forensic psychologist Dr. Leslie Dobson, whose trauma-informed lens brings clarity and conviction to the emotional fog surrounding this story. First, we listen in on a powerful one-on-one between Dr. Dobson and the Jodrys, an excerpt from a longer conversation featured on her podcast, Intentionally Disturbing. Then, Adam steps in to ask what’s next — legally, emotionally, and publicly.

LINKS & RESOURCES:

Justice for Thomas Jodry: justiceforthomas.com
Dr. Leslie Dobson’s Podcast: Intentionally Disturbing
Listen: [link to podcast feed or Spotify/Apple if available]
Dr. Leslie Dobson on Instagram: @drlesliedobson

Media Coverage:

• Mustang News
• Atascadero News

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

thesefistsbreakbricks.com

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

These Fists Break Stereotypes: How Martial Arts Films Changed Pop Culture, Hip Hip, Film, and Who Kids Saw as Heroes Sep 15, 2025

What do Bruce Lee, Saturday morning cartoons, bootleg VHS tapes, and the birth of hip hop all have in common?

Today on Up+Adam, we go full roundhouse into the cultural explosion that was the kung fu movie craze, and the two men who’ve written the definitive, illustrated, and absolutely jaw-dropping story behind it. Adam is joined by Grady Hendrix, bestselling author and co-founder of the New York Asian Film Festival, and Chris Poggiali, film historian and editor of the legendary Temple of Schlock, to talk about their new book: These Fists Break Bricks.

From CIA-funded karate flicks to 10th-grade Black belts starring in Hong Kong films, from Enter the Dragon to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this convo is equal parts history lesson and nostalgic joyride. Even if martial arts movies weren’t your thing growing up, trust us, this one will hit you somewhere surprising. We talk pop culture, identity, myth-making, and the hidden heroes who helped build an entire genre, one flying kick at a time.

• Grab the Book:

These Fists Break Bricks – Revised & Expanded Hardcover Edition (2025)

• Follow the Authors:

Grady Hendrix: @gradyhendrix

Chris Poggiali: Temple of Schlock Blog

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

TV Inside-Out: Career TV Announcer Randy West Exposes Showbiz Dysfunction From Inside the Studio Sep 12, 2025

You’ve heard his voice for decades on The Price is Right, Deal or No Deal, Supermarket Sweep, and so many more. But Randy West has seen more than just the shiny side of television. In his new book TV Inside-Out, this 30-year TV veteran takes us deep backstage into the chaos, feuds, and unforgettable moments that shaped the medium we thought we knew. From Johnny Carson’s dark family drama to wild nights at The Price is Right, Randy has been there, and now he is telling it all.

In this conversation with Adam, Randy shares the stories that shocked even him, the lessons that still stick with him, and why success in Hollywood often comes with a steep price. It is funny, it is raw, it is human, and it is a side of television you have never seen before.

• Learn more about Randy at randy-west.ueniweb.com

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WE ALSO TALK TO ROBIN COLEMAN FROM WOODS SO CHECK OUT OUR WOODS HUMANE PET OF THE WEEK!

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

No Rope. No Permission. No Fear: Just the Eiffel Tower and our Friend Adam Lockwood Sep 10, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, broadcaster Adam Montiel chats with urban free climber Adam Lockwood, known around the world as Nuisance. You’ve probably seen one of his videos without even realizing it was him: scaling towers, cranes, and high-rises barefoot, no ropes, no permission, and somehow, no fear. But behind every climb is something deeper.

Recorded before his jaw-dropping jump off the Eiffel Tower (yes, that one), this conversation captures the raw heart of why Adam climbs, what it feels like to be alone hundreds of meters above a sleeping city, and how one Polaroid at a time, he’s turning risk into art and adrenaline into awareness.

They talk about what it means to flirt with death, to move through trauma, and to make peace with silence at altitude. And just wait until you hear the story behind the Shard climb, the train surfing in Paris, and why fear isn't his fuel, focus is.

Follow & Support Adam Lockwood

Instagram: @nuisance69_
YouTube: youtube.com/@Nuisance69

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Is It True Crime? Is It Comedy? Yes. Wisecrack Debuts at #1 - The Creators Join Up+Adam Sep 09, 2025

What do you get when a stand-up comedy set crashes headfirst into a real-life murder? On this True Crime Tuesday, we sit down with comedian Edd Hedges and Emmy-nominated producer Jodi Tovay, the duo behind Wisecrack, a genre-bending true crime podcast that’s part comedy, part nightmare, and completely real.

Edd returned to his hometown for a charity show, only to find himself at the center of a horrifying true crime story involving a childhood bully turned killer, a terrified woman at the foot of his bed, and a moment that would change everything.

Jodi was on vacation in Scotland when she ducked into Edd’s set to avoid the rain and walked out knowing she’d just found her next big story. Together, they created Wisecrack, a 6-part series that’s already being called the next Baby Reindeer, but this time, it’s not fiction.

• Listen to Wisecrack: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-wisecrack-288632921/

• Follow Edd Hedges on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eddhedges

• More on Tenderfoot TV: https://www.tenderfoot.tv

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Men… Explained? Finally? Tom Sturges Cracks the Code on the Male Mind Sep 08, 2025

Why are men the way they are? Why do they forget birthdays but remember every detail of their first crush? Why do they seem stuck at 14... even when they’re 54? Legendary music executive Tom Sturges has worked with icons like Foo Fighters, Outkast, and 50 Cent, but his newest project may be his most revealing yet. His book Men Explained, Finally is a laugh-out-loud, startlingly wise, and surprisingly tender collection of essays that crack open the male mind and help us all make a little more sense of it.

In this conversation, Tom joins Adam for a heartfelt, funny, and thought-provoking look at why men do what they do, how to love them without trying to fix them, and why understanding the "14-year-old boy" inside every man might just be the key to better relationships. Whether you’re a man, love a man, or gave up on one, this episode is for you.

• Buy the Book: Men Explained, Finally

Amazon – Available Now

• Follow Tom on Instagram: @TomSturgesIdeas

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Looking Through Water – Trailer (YouTube)

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Born Into Fame, Built for Redemption: Actors Cameron Douglas & David Morse are Up+Adam Sep 05, 2025

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with two powerhouse talents, Cameron Douglas and David Morse, to talk about their new film Looking Through Water, a stirring new drama about estranged fathers and sons reconnecting during a fishing competition in Belize.

Cameron Douglas, actor, author, and the son of Michael Douglas and grandson of screen legend Kirk Douglas, shares how his deeply personal journey from addiction and incarceration to clarity and purpose prepared him for this role. His bestselling memoir Long Way Home revealed the truth behind the tabloid headlines, and now, in Looking Through Water, he steps fully into his own as a performer and storyteller.

David Morse, known for unforgettable work in The Green Mile, The Hurt Locker, World War Z, House, and Escape at Dannemora, joins the conversation to reflect on the quiet power of restraint, the characters who have stayed with him, and what continues to draw him toward projects about pain, repair, and redemption.

Together, they explore the layers of legacy, the weight of silence, and the unspoken beauty of second chances.

Watch the Official Trailer:

Cameron Douglas

Memoir: Long Way Home → Buy on Amazon
Instagram @CameronDouglas

It’s Time to Write the Damn Thing - Central Coast Writers Conference is Here to Help! Sep 03, 2025

If you’ve ever told yourself, “One day I’ll write that thing…” this is that day. Adam chats with Meagan Friberg, writer, journalist, and director of the Central Coast Writers Conference, now celebrating its 41st year. This year’s theme? “It’s Time.” And it is.

After a few years of pandemic pivots and Zoom fatigue, the conference is back live and in person at Cuesta College. Two full days of keynotes, workshops, master classes, and creative electricity. Meagan shares how this isn’t just an event for writers. It’s a space for courage, for belonging, and for finally hitting “go” on that thing you’ve been putting off.

Adam will be there too, hosting a live session on the art of the interview. Come for the craft, stay for the community.

Wanna go? Here’s everything you need:

• Website and registration: centralcoastwritersconference.com

• Dates: September 26 and 27, 2025 at Cuesta College

• Special event: The Princess and the Frog screening with screenwriter Rob Edwards

• Keynotes, master classes, teen program, and more

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-betrayal-weekly-95632727/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Gaslight, Ghost, Repeat: The Psychology of Betrayal with Best Crime Podcast Winner Andrea Gunning Sep 02, 2025

On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with Andrea Gunning, the voice behind the hit true crime podcast Betrayal Weekly. From fake cancer scams to shocking double lives, Andrea isn’t just telling wild stories, she’s exploring what happens when trust breaks so badly, it redefines reality.

A Best Crime Podcast Winner, she will dig into some of the most jaw-dropping cases from the show, how betrayal hits differently than true-crime, and what it really takes for someone to tell the truth after living a lie. Andrea also opens up about the emotional cost of producing stories like these, how the show’s affected her personal life, and why betrayal is the most intimate kind of devastation.

Betrayal Weekly drops new episodes every Thursday

Listen to Betrayal Weekly:

Watch the Stacey & Tyler limited-run series now streaming on Hulu, from ABC News Studios:

https://abcnews.go.com/US/discovery-hidden-camera-revealed-doctors-dark-secrets/story?id=124846612

Follow Andrea Gunning:

Instagram: @itsandreagunning

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Gen Z Puts Ice in their Beer | Labor Day Weekend Ahead | Pet of the Week Aug 29, 2025

Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Pier Pressure: How Pismo Beach Zoned Out, Now Closing the Pier Eatery That's Been There for Years Aug 28, 2025

Few restaurants capture the SLO CAL vibe like Sunsets at Pismo. For six years, Brian Appiano’s shiny silver Airstream on the Pismo Pier has been serving up tacos, fish and chips, and margaritas with one of the best views you’ll find anywhere. But now, because of a decades-old zoning technicality, the City of Pismo Beach has voted to phase out commercial food vendors on the pier, and Sunsets will close in October 2025.

In this conversation, Adam talks with Brian about what this decision means for his family, his staff, and the community that rallied around Sunsets from day one. Brian also shares what’s next, from his work at Rib Line and The Switch in San Luis Obispo, to the catering business that’s feeding everything from weddings to major concerts. It is a story about resilience, community, and what it means to keep moving forward when the rules suddenly change.

Support Brian and his restaurants:

Follow along on Instagram:

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Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Obstacles Are Just Training: NBC's ANW Champion Kai Beckstrand on Recent Win, Firefighting, & T1D Aug 27, 2025

On this episode of Up + Adam, we’re joined by Kai Beckstrand, the 18-year-old champion of NBC’s American Ninja Warrior Season 17. Known as the fastest ninja on the planet, Kai has broken records with his speed and precision, hitting buzzers and making history alongside his brother and father. But his story runs deeper than the highlight reel. Kai is also a certified EMT and firefighter, dedicating his life to running into danger when others can’t, and he does it all while managing Type 1 diabetes.

In this conversation, Adam digs into the love of competition that drives Kai, the invisible math and strategy of balancing blood sugars mid-run, and the discipline it takes to live a life defined by grit and resilience. With insights shared from Wendy Theis Sell, a passionate advocate for T1D awareness, this episode explores not just the obstacles on the course but the ones we don’t always see.

Kai Beckstrand is more than a champion. He is a role model for every kid with Type 1 diabetes, and for anyone who has ever been told they “can’t.”

Follow Kai online:

• Instagram: @kai_beckstrand

• Watch his runs on American Ninja Warrior: nbc.com/american-ninja-warrior

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

This Podcast Could Free Her Mother: Maggie Robinson Katz | Hands Tied Podcast is Up+Adam Aug 26, 2025

What happens when true crime gets personal? When the mystery isn’t something you binge in your earbuds, but something you’re suddenly living inside? On this True Crime Tuesday, Adam sits down with award-winning journalist Maggie Robinson Katz, the host of the gripping new podcast Hands Tied, an original series from BBC Studios and iHeartPodcasts.

The show follows Lizz Melgar Rose, whose mother was found bound in a closet and whose father, Jim Melgar, was murdered. The tragedy shocked their Houston community. But it’s what happened after the crime that makes this story unforgettable. With her mother now serving time, Lizz believes the wrong person was convicted. Maggie, known for her deeply human approach to storytelling, takes listeners inside a case where the pursuit of justice is anything but straightforward.

In this conversation, Adam and Maggie dive into the emotional weight of telling someone else’s story, the unique challenge of reporting on an ongoing case, and why Hands Tied goes beyond true crime to become something much more powerful.

• Listen to Hands Tied

• Apple Podcasts

• iHeart Podcasts

• Follow Maggie Robinson Katz

• Instagram: @maggierobinsonkatz

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• Adam will be leading a live workshop on The Art of the Interview at this year’s Central Coast Writers Conference, happening September 26–27, 2025 at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. For details and registration, visit cuesta.edu/writers-conference

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

• https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-you-vs-you-w-lex-borrero-278703875/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

You vs You: Lex Borrero on Winning the Inner War Aug 25, 2025

What happens when the man behind some of the biggest names in music, like Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Justin Bieber, starts asking the real questions of himself?

In this powerful episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Lex Borrero, the visionary co-founder of NEON16 and host of the podcast You vs You. Together, they dive deep into the mindset behind meaningful success, the internal battles that continue even at the top, and why redefining hustle might just be the secret to true peace. Lex opens up about imposter syndrome, building a legacy in Latin music and culture, managing Will Smith during a comeback like no other, and how facing his own fears became the most important project of his life.

We also talk about the creative discipline it takes to be vulnerable, how AI is reshaping the future of entertainment, and why every artist and every person has a version of themselves they’re still trying to outrun.

Listen, share, and get inspired to face the person in the mirror.

LISTEN TO "YOU VS YOU"

FOLLOW LEX BORRERO

• Instagram: @0260lifestyle_

LEARN MORE ABOUT NEON16

• https://www.neon16.com/

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Happy Friday! Creston Bloody Mary Battle Tomorrow | Woods Pet of the Week Aug 22, 2025

We talk to Robin Coleman from the Woods Humane Society about our Pet of the Week

Today’s episode runs a little shorter than usual — Adam got rear-ended (he’s okay!), and he’s got to take care of the necessary things.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

• Such Great Heights: The Complete Cultural History of the Indie Rock Explosion – Amazon

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Such Great Bytes: How Indie Music Got Cool Before It Counted Aug 21, 2025

This morning on Up+Adam, we take it all the way back to when “indie” wasn’t a playlist category—it was a movement. Adam sits down with Chris DeVille, longtime music journalist and Managing Editor at Stereogum, to talk about his incredible new book, Such Great Heights.

From blog rock to Bon Iver, from Phoebe Bridgers to the almighty O.C. soundtrack, this is a nostalgic, clever, and heartfelt conversation about how indie rock didn’t just soundtrack a generation, it defined it. Adam and Chris dive into the hunger of indie artists, the weird brilliance of the LimeWire years, what makes pop music feel so empty now, and why indie rock still offers something real in a world full of filters.

Whether you were burning mix CDs in the early 2000s or just discovered Pavement last week, this episode hits.

Buy the Book:

Follow Chris DeVille:

• Stereogum – Managing Editor

• Twitter / X

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Through the Static: Glam Ham on Fire, Frequencies, and Finding Truth Aug 20, 2025

In this episode, Adam Montiel chats with Glam Ham (callsign: NW6S), the truth-seeking ham radio operator and content creator whose viral dive into the San Luis Obispo blackout during the Gifford Fire turned heads across the Central Coast and beyond. From decoding strange signals and fire maps to asking the questions most news outlets won’t, Glam Ham has built a following of nearly 100,000 (Used to have 300K until she got banana’d and had to start over), by turning static into story.

But that’s just one frequency in her life. Before she was on the dial, she was on the stage and screen — an actress, comedian, artist, and even a shoe designer for the movie studios. Today, she’s mixing art with inquiry, humor with hard questions, and even designing Italian-made sneakers like Trust The Media and Bouvet Strong. This is a conversation that jumps from wildfires to waveforms, but never loses its signal.

Connect with Glam Ham:

TikTok (@glamhamr2.0)

Instagram (@glamhamradio)

YouTube (Glam Ham Radio)

Check out her custom shoe designs:

Trust The Media

Bouvet Strong

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-american-history-hotline-273590600/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Bass Lines to Battle Lines: The Avett Brother Who Fell in Love With the Founders Aug 19, 2025

What happens when a rockstar trades the stage for the archives? Bob Crawford, bassist for the Grammy-nominated Avett Brothers and now host of American History Hotline, joins Adam Montiel for a conversation that hits harder than any history class you’ve ever taken. From tales of Founding Fathers dying on the same day to asking if the Constitution can really stop a dictator, Bob’s new podcast is flipping the script on how we connect with America’s past.

In this episode, Bob talks candidly about what studying history for 25 years has taught him, not just about the country, but about us. He shares how he finds rhythm in both music and research, why mythologizing history can be dangerous, and the moment inside the Library of Congress that made him feel more patriotic than ever before. This is a beautiful, thoughtful dive into history, identity, storytelling, and how asking better questions might be the most American thing we can do.

• Listen to American History Hotline

• Submit a Question for the Show

Email: americanhistoryhotline@gmail.com

• Follow Bob Crawford and The Avett Brothers

Website: https://www.theavettbrothers.com/

Instagram: @bobcrawfordbass

Twitter/X: @BobCrawfordBass

• Catch The Avett Brothers on Tour

Tour Dates: https://www.theavettbrothers.com/tour

• Bob’s Upcoming Book

Stay tuned for updates. We'll let you know when it's ready to hit your shelf.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

www.CrestonBloodyMaryBattle.com

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Bloodies, Burritos, and Bovine Bingo: We in Creston, Baby Aug 18, 2025

This episode is served spicy, with a splash of community spirit. Adam welcomes Maegen Loring, General Manager of the Long Branch in Creston, and Lisa Miller, President of the Creston Women’s Club, to talk all about the Creston Bloody Mary Battle, a 21+ event that mixes local flavor, homemade Bloody Marys, live music, burritos, beer, wine, and even bovine bingo (yes, cow plop for a cause).

Recorded live from the Timbre LoBro Studios, this conversation dives into how two powerhouse women are bringing their town together for a good time and an even better cause. Proceeds go to scholarships and events that support the community, and trust us, this isn’t your average Sunday brunch.

Whether you’re entering your signature Bloody Mary or just coming to sip, snack, and support, this is the kind of Central Coast event that reminds us why we love where we live.

• Get tickets or sign up to compete:

• Event Details:

Saturday, August 23rd

10 AM – 2 PM

Creston Rodeo Grounds

21+ Event

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Curveball: Don from Los Osos Throws Friday's Show into a Spiral Aug 15, 2025

Today we have a curve ball in Don from Los Osos called in as Adam was preparing the show OUT OF NOWHERE - So mix in a little adhd, and you got a Don from Loso Osos (IYKYK) flashback with Robin from Woods along for the ride as well

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Buds, Business, and Breaking Stereotypes: Golden Apple is Cultivating Understanding Aug 14, 2025

Today on Up+Adam, we sit down in the Timbre LoBro Studios with Shawn Sherman, owner of Golden Apple Cannabis Company, for a conversation that cuts through the clichés and digs into the real cannabis industry, past, present, and future. Shawn’s been in the game since before legalization, navigating one of California’s most overtaxed and overregulated markets while staying true to his mission: educate the consumer. We talk about why “sativa” and “indica” don’t actually mean what you think, how terpenes are the true drivers of your experience, and why bridging the gap between science, policy, and public perception matters more than ever.

Listeners can score 50% off their delivery with promo code ADAM at goldenapplecannabis.com. Find Golden Apple on Instagram at @goldenapplecannabis.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Yes, And… Colin Mochrie of Whose Line Is It Anyway? on Up+Adam Aug 13, 2025

In today’s episode of Up+Adam, comedy icon Colin Mochrie, whose lightning-fast improv on Whose Line Is It Anyway? has kept us laughing for decades, joins Adam for a conversation that’s as hilarious as it is heartfelt. We talk about his decades-long run on television, his two hit live tours (Asking for Trouble with Brad Sherwood, and HYPROV: Improv Under Hypnosis with Asad Mecci), and his new film Magnetosphere, a moving story about embracing the quirks that make us unique.

See Colin Live:

• Asking for Trouble Tour – Official Site: https://www.colinandbradshow.com

• HYPROV: Improv Under Hypnosis: https://hyprov.com

Watch Magnetosphere:

• Official Film Site: https://www.magnetospheremovie.com

Follow Colin:

• Official Website: https://www.colinmochrie.com

• Instagram – @colinmochrie7591: https://www.instagram.com/colinmochrie7591

• Facebook – Colin & Brad Show: https://www.facebook.com/colinandbradshow

All links above are also available in the episode description so you can click through while listening.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

TikTok Video I mentioned talking about solar flare, and HAARP research located to Gifford Fire

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Drip Bros: Stringing Together Style, Sports, and Philanthropy Aug 12, 2025

Today on Up+Adam, we meet two young entrepreneurs who are redefining what it means to “start early.” Fourth-grade best friends and baseball teammates Jackson Houser and Jackson Judge turned a simple school “mini mall” project into The Drip Bros, a real business making custom, team-colored “drip” necklaces that blend sports style with community spirit. Their first run sold out in 15 minutes, raised hundreds for charity, and set them on a path to keep creating and keep giving back.

They design the necklaces themselves, pack orders after homework, and even donate a % of each sale to Keen USA, a nonprofit empowering youth with disabilities. I’ve got my own custom drip from these guys, and when I wore it to Pink Drank, the compliments didn’t stop. These two have hustle, creativity, and heart, and they’re just getting started.

Shop their full collection: dripbrothers.com
Follow them on Instagram: @thedripbros15
Learn more about Keen USA: keenusa.org

Gifford Fire Updates (KSBY) - HERE

Same Video on Instagram

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Adam Back from Vacay: Hollywood's Lou Diamond Phillips is Up+Adam | Gifford Fire Update Aug 11, 2025

Adam’s back from a long vacation and hitting the ground running with a Hollywood heavyweight, Lou Diamond Phillips. From La Bamba to Longmire, Lou’s career has been a masterclass in range, resilience, and reinvention. In this episode, Lou talks about stepping into the role of Brent in his new film ET TU, a darkly funny dramedy about love, betrayal, and the beautiful chaos of live theater. He opens up about imposter syndrome, the mentorship of young actors, and what still connects him to Richie Valens after all these years.

It’s Adam’s first day back, and this conversation is everything you want it to be: smart, funny, and deeply human. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories from the set of ET TU, the joy (and madness) of working with Malcolm McDowell, and how Lou’s roots have shaped his life’s worK

Watch the ET TU trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocqgNCIOkHs
See ET TU in theaters now
Follow Lou Diamond Phillips on Instagram: @loudphillips

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Happy Friday - Robin from Woods is back! Jul 25, 2025

Adam is on Vacation - Please excuse the scrappy editing - . Robin Coleman returns to the show after many weeks off after she lost her dog. We talk to Woods Humane each week, so if you love dogs, this will touch you. We love Robin, her work, and glad shes back.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Breaking News, Breaking Patterns: A Journalist who Stopped Reporting and Started Revealing Jul 23, 2025

Today on Up+Adam, Adam sits down with Emmy-nominated journalist and host of The Bright Side, Simone Boyce. From breaking news to breaking cycles, Simone opens up about her transition from the hard edges of national news to the warmer, deeper spaces of cultural storytelling and soul-level joy.

They get into it all. What it's like leaving legacy media for something more personal. How motherhood rewired her approach to journalism. And why “choosing the bright side” isn’t just optimism. It’s a practice. Simone shares a vulnerable turning point at a trauma retreat, her favorite guest moments, and what it’s taught her about listening, leading, and letting go.

This one’s for the storytellers, the seekers, and anyone who needs a reminder that softness isn’t weakness. It’s power.

Listen to The Bright Side:
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-the-bright-side-149753542/
Follow Simone Boyce on Instagram:
@simoneboyce

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Not Just Long Songs: What the Jam Band Scene Taught the Music Industry by Accident While Speaking to Anyone Feeling Lost in a Crowd Jul 21, 2025

What’s the deal with jam bands?

Are they cults? Are they concerts? Are they just… long songs with extra sweat? Turns out, they were something bigger—a full-blown movement with its own rules, rituals, drug codes, and DIY economy that quietly rewired the way we experience music today.

In this episode, Adam sits down with Mike Ayers, veteran music journalist and author of Sharing in the Groove: The Untold Story of the '90s Jam Band Explosion and the Scene That Followed. From Phish to Panic, Spin Doctors to secret acid etiquette, Mike unpacks how a grassroots subculture went from dirt-floor clubs to influencing everything from Bonnaroo to Bandcamp.

Even if you’ve never followed a band cross-country or smelled like patchouli by accident, this conversation will make you feel like you missed out on something... and maybe inspire you to find your own version of it.

Come for the bands • Stay for the philosophy • Leave with your head a little more expanded

LINKS

• Sharing in the Groove (Buy the Book): Amazon Link to Book

• Mike Ayers Website: https://mike-ayers.com/

• Mike on X/Twiter: https://twitter.com/mikeayers

• Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themikeayers/

Not Just Long Songs: What the Jam Band Scene Taught the Music Industry by Accident While Speaking to Anyone Feeling Lost in a Crowd

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Smells Like Local Spirit: Where Wellness Meets Her Maker Jul 17, 2025

They’ve shipped over a million handcrafted wellness products around the world, but still fly under the radar in their own hometown.

In this episode of Up+Adam, we sit down with the magnetic duo behind Life Elements, Martha and Curt. Based in Atascadero, these two have been quietly redefining wellness with small-batch, plant-based products that actually work. Their CBD relief sticks are legendary, their deodorants are changing the game, and their magnesium lotion? Let’s just say it’s giving people their sleep and their sanity back.

But this isn’t just about formulas and oils. It’s about grit, generosity, and a whole lot of love. We talk about why their products start as personal solutions, how they develop new ideas with community testers, and what it's like being known worldwide while still earning recognition just down the street. You’ll hear how Martha hand-makes everything herself, often wearing a headnet and a lab smock like a wellness wizard, and why walking into their shop feels more like a warm hug than a retail experience.

This is a conversation about care. About local magic. About two people who truly want to help you feel better, and aren’t afraid to whip something up on the spot to make that happen.

• Visit them in person:

7425 El Camino Real, Suite O, Atascadero, CA

(Fridays 1 to 4pm, back-right corner of the plaza)

• Online: www.lifeelements.com

• Use code ADAM at checkout for 15 percent off

• Instagram: @lifeelements

Support local. Feel better.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Riffs, Regrets, and Redemption: Don Felder of The Eagles Tells All While Up+Adam Jul 16, 2025

In this very special episode, Adam sits down with Don Felder, guitar legend, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, and the man behind one of the most iconic solos in rock history: Hotel California. But there’s a whole lot more to Felder’s story than one song.

We talk about his brand new album The Vault: Fifty Years of Music, a stunning collection of unreleased tracks, reimagined demos, and personal time capsules from a half-century of playing, touring, and living the rock and roll life. Felder opens up about the tracks that almost never saw the light of day, the magic of collaboration, and what it feels like to still fall in love with the guitar after all this time.

Plus: the real story behind Move On, the poetry in Free at Last, and how a treadmill moment turned into a love song. If you're going to the California Mid-State Fair on July 25, this will get you primed for an unforgettable night in Paso.

It’s legacy, it’s storytelling, it’s Felder … unplugged.

Links from the Episode:

Tickets to Don Felder at the Mid-State Fair: MidStateFair.com

New Album – The Vault: Fifty Years of Music: donfelder.com/music

Official Website: www.donfelder.com

Book – Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles (1974–2001): Amazon

Instagram: @donfeldermusic

Catch Don Felder live Friday, July 25 at 7:30 PM at the California Mid-State Fair, Paso Robles.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-absolute-275471765/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Tased and Confused: The Truth Behind the Shock & The Taser #TrueCrimeTuesday Jul 15, 2025

When you hear the word Taser, what comes to mind... safety, control, compliance? But what if behind that word lies a story of unchecked ambition, corporate influence over public safety, and a device that has contributed to the deaths of over 1,000 people in the U.S. alone?

On this episode of Up + Adam, Adam Montiel welcomes award-winning journalist and filmmaker Nick Berardini, the voice and mind behind the powerful new podcast Absolute: Taser Incorporated. From the boardrooms of Axon Enterprises to the streets of America’s most policed neighborhoods, this series pulls back the curtain on a billion-dollar empire born from a brotherhood and fractured by it.

We talk about the Smith brothers who built the Taser business, the whistleblowers who risked everything to speak out, and the questions we should all be asking about the tools we’ve handed to law enforcement. This isn’t just a story about tech. It’s a story about power, accountability, and the blurred line between protection and profit.

If you're into true crime, deep reporting, or journalism that truly holds power to the fire, this conversation will leave you thinking long after it ends.

• Listen to Absolute: Taser Incorporated:

• Watch Nick’s documentary Killing Them Safely (available on multiple streaming platforms)

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

In Pain in the Membrane: The Science & Research of Headaches w/ Science Journalist Tom Zeller Jr. Jul 14, 2025

Headaches are universal, but for millions, they’re more than a nuisance. They’re life-altering, misunderstood, and often misdiagnosed. In this episode, Adam sits down with award-winning science journalist and former New York Times reporter Tom Zeller Jr., whose powerful new book, The Headache: The Science of a Most Confounding Affliction, dives deep into the mysterious world of chronic head pain, especially the brutal beast known as cluster headaches.

From the ER to experimental drug trials, to the emotional weight of invisible pain, this conversation blends science, soul, and storytelling in a way only Up+Adam can. If you’ve ever said “I’ve got a headache,” you might want to listen twice.

The Headache is available now! • Buy it here on Amazon

Learn more about Tom’s work and his award-winning science magazine:

Visit: https://undark.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Pink Drank Winning and Pet of the Week from Woods Humane Society Jul 11, 2025

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

You Wanna Be On Top? - Penguin Random House

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

America’s Next Top Memoir: The First Model to Write a Book on Top Model is Up+Adam Jul 10, 2025

What really happened on America’s Next Top Model? Sarah Hartshorne joins Adam Montiel with the kind of honesty that flips the script on everything you thought you knew about reality TV. A contestant on Cycle 9 and the author of You Wanna Be On Top?, Sarah unpacks the contracts, the calorie limits, the casting manipulation, and the emotional aftermath of living inside a show that was built for drama, not truth.

They talk about how the show shaped her body image, what it was like to be the only plus-size contestant, how the producers crafted characters from real people, and why the model house didn’t even have a microwave. This conversation isn’t about spilling tea. It’s about reclaiming the story from inside the machine.

• Buy the Book:

• Follow Sarah on Instagram and TikTok:

@sarahbhartshorne

• Learn More:

https://www.sarahbhartshorne.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

• Pregnancy and Parenting Support of San Luis Obispo County (PPS)

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Diapers, Dignity, and the Real Cost of Parenting: The Sweetest Nonprofit You’ve Never Heard Of Jul 09, 2025

Today’s episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the smallest items make the biggest impact. Adam sits down with Cami Statler, Executive Director, and Lydia Gong, Bilingual Operations Manager and Lactation Educator at Pregnancy and Parenting Support of San Luis Obispo County (PPS), a nonprofit many are calling “the sweetest on the Central Coast.”

They talk openly about the emotional realities of parenthood, the transformative power of early support, and why something as basic as a diaper can be the difference between a parent staying in school or having to drop out. PPS isn’t just handing out baby gear, they’re nurturing dignity, mental health, and generational impact.

Right now, they’re teaming up with Meathead Movers for the #FillThoseTrucks Diaper Drive to restock the county’s only diaper bank after federal funding was cut. That truck you’re seeing at Target in SLO? That’s the one. And it’s filling up with hope, one diaper at a time.

LIVE TODAY (July 9th):

• Target in San Luis Obispo

• 11990 Los Osos Valley Rd

• 9 AM to 5 PM (OR LATER)

• Stop by, grab some diapers or unscented baby wipes, and help fill the truck for SLO families in need!

Want to help? Here's how:

• Donate diapers (sizes 3–6) and unscented baby wipes through July 10th at Meathead Movers HQ:

3600 S. Higuera St, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

• Make a monetary donation (just $25 covers a week’s worth of diapers and wipes for a family): ppsslo.org, click the pink “Donate” button

• Venmo: @PPS-SLO

• Spread the word on social using #FillThoseTrucks

Want to donate gently used baby items?

• PPS accepts high-quality gear, clothing, cribs, car seats, and more, all tax-deductible.

This is more than a diaper drive, it’s about investing in futures. Let’s show up, Central Coast.

Learn More:

• cami@ppsslo.org | lydia@ppsslo.org

• 805-541-3367 (Call or Text Line)

• Baby Boutique Location: 1807 Santa Barbara Ave., SLO

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

High on History: The Truth They Didn’t Teach You #TrueCrimeTuesday Jul 08, 2025

What do Shakespeare, Steve Jobs, Queen Victoria, and a pope with a taste for cocaine wine have in common? According to historian and viral storyteller Sam Kelly, more than you’d think. In this episode, Adam chats with the author of Human History on Drugs: An Utterly Scandalous but Entirely Truthful Look at History Under the Influence to uncover the hilariously human, shockingly drug-laced past of some of the world’s most iconic figures.

Adam talks psychedelic breakthroughs, presidential dependencies, the birth of AA, mushrooms in power, modern meds like Ozempic, and how history might just be one long, strange trip.

Buy the book: Human History on Drugs on Amazon

Follow Sam on social media: @human_history_on_durgs on TikTok

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

From Mental Roasts to Mental Remedy: Comic Icon Lisa Lampanelli Shrinks the BS and is Up+Adam! Jul 07, 2025

From comedy royalty to soul-stirring truth-teller, Lisa Lampanelli is back, but not like you remember her. In this episode, Adam sits down with the iconic “Queen of Mean” turned self-help sage to talk about her powerful (and hilarious) new podcast, Shrink This! Alongside co-host Nick Scopoletti, Lisa tackles listener-submitted problems with the kind of tough love and hard laughs only she can deliver.

In this candid conversation, Lisa opens up about walking away from insult comedy, embracing reinvention, and why authenticity is the new punchline. We talk therapy, self-sabotage, letting go of what hurts us, and the surprising joy of dying alone (yes, really). It’s funny, raw, and full of takeaways that hit harder than any roast.

• Listen to Lisa’s podcast: Shrink This! with Lisa Lampanelli

• Follow Lisa on Instagram: @lisalampanelli

• More from Lisa: https://lisalampanelli.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

The Plea. The Fallout. EXCLUSIVE: NYT Best Selling Author Howard Blum on the Kohberger Confession Jul 03, 2025

In this gripping follow-up conversation, Adam welcomes back investigative journalist and bestselling author Howard Blum, just one day after Bryan Kohberger, accused in the shocking 2022 Idaho college murders, pled guilty to four counts of first-degree murder. Blum, author of When The Night Comes Falling: A Requiem for the Idaho Student Murders, breaks down what this plea really means for justice, the unanswered questions that still linger, and the emotional fallout for the victims' families.

With Howard’s signature blend of old-school reporting and narrative mastery, this conversation goes beyond headlines, from courtroom strategy to the lingering shadows of the white Hyundai Elantra, this episode is essential listening for anyone following the case or anyone who wants to understand what justice sounds like when it’s unfinished.

• Grab the Book: When The Night Comes Falling on Amazon

• Learn More About Howard Blum: www.howardblum.com

• Follow on Instagram: @howard_blum_author

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Louder Than History: The Wall of Sound and the Freaks Who Engineered Perfection Jul 02, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, we crank the dial all the way up with journalist and author Brian Anderson, whose debut book Loud & Clear tells the jaw-dropping story of the Grateful Dead’s legendary Wall of Sound. Even if you’ve never spun a Dead record in your life, this conversation is for you. Because it’s not just about the music, it’s about ambition, obsession, and the kind of wild, world-changing creativity that rewrites the rules.

Brian walks us through the rise and wild fall of the Wall. A live sound system so massive and ahead of its time, it bent physics, maxed out bank accounts, and still echoes in everything from concerts to your AirPods. He’s got stories, he’s got heart, and yes, he’s even got a piece of the original Wall in his living room.

• Whether you're an audiophile, a Deadhead, or just curious how the loudest, clearest sound in rock came to be, this one’s got you.

• Grab the book: Loud & Clear: Grateful Dead's Wall of Sound & the Quest for Audio Perfection

• Follow Brian on Instagram: @brandersonian

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

What We See When We Don’t Die: Filmmaker and Host of Alive Again, Dan Bush is Up+Adam Jul 01, 2025

What really happens when we die? Or... what if we don't?

On this episode of Up+Adam, I chat with filmmaker and podcast host Dan Bush, the creator of Alive Again, a gripping series that explores near-death experiences and the people who live to talk about them. These aren’t just brushes with death; they’re deep dives into the stories, sensations, and transformations that follow. We talk about the patterns that show up again and again, regardless of culture, gender, or age, and ask the big questions: Where does skepticism fit in? What happens 10 or 25 years later? Are these visions a trick of the brain or something more?

This one will stop you in your tracks in the best way. Hit play and prepare to feel something.

Listen to Alive Again: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-alive-again-274161390/
Follow Dan Bush on Instagram: @aliveagainproject
Have your own story to share? Email: aliveagainproject@gmail.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Soul Food That Speaks Every Language - TV Chef & Best Selling Author Deborah Vantrece is Up+Adam Jun 30, 2025

On today’s Up+Adam, best-selling author and TV chef Deborah VanTrece joins Adam for a rich and flavorful conversation about the universal language of food, the roots of soul cooking, and how she’s blending global influence with deep Southern tradition. From serving up creative twists like Jamaican beef pot pie and adobo ribs on FYI’s Global Soul Kitchen, to redefining airport dining as Executive Chef of the Centurion Lounge at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson, Chef VanTrece is a culinary storyteller. She shares the emotional heartbeat behind her dishes, the cultures that inspire her palate, and the one recipe she’s still keeping to herself. Spoiler: it involves sweet potatoes.

Watch Global Soul Kitchen on FYI: fyi.tv/shows/global-soul-kitchen
Grab her best-selling cookbook: The Twisted Soul Cookbook: Modern Soul Food with Global Flavors
Learn more at: www.vantrecehospitality.com
Follow her on Instagram: @chefdeborahvantrece and @twistedsoulcookhouse

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Hollywood Vampires: Johnny Depp, Amber Heard, and the Celebrity Exploitation Machine

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Hollywood Vampires: Feeding the Celebrity Exploitation Machine Jun 27, 2025

What happens when justice goes viral? When the courtroom becomes content? And when the story isn't just about two celebrities, but about us?

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel welcomes journalist and documentarian Makiko Wholey, co-author of Hollywood Vampires: Johnny Depp, Amber Heard, and the Celebrity Exploitation Machine. Makiko takes us behind the scenes of one of the most chaotic, consequential trials in modern celebrity history, revealing what most of us missed while we were scrolling. From overnight fan campouts in Fairfax to the quiet conversations that never made it to YouTube, Makiko unpacks the cultural spectacle, the flaws in our fandom, and why Amber Heard became the symbol of a movement turned inside out.

We explore the power of performance, the danger of viral storytelling, and what this story teaches us about truth in the digital age. Buckle up — it’s raw, real, and unmissable.

• Buy the book:

• Follow Makiko Wholey:

Instagram: @markeck0

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Benevolence with a Buzz: Pink Drank 2025 and the Importance of the Elk's Lodge to our Community Jun 26, 2025

Get ready to dive deep with one of the Elks Lodge’s most dedicated leaders, Nancy Lewelling, as she joins Adam Montiel to talk about Pink Drank, a vibrant summer event that’s become one of San Luis Obispo’s most anticipated gatherings. Poolside, dressed in pink, with over 30 of the hottest producers in wine, beer, spirits, and craft cocktails. Add in a live DJ, curated bites, a grazing table, a wine pull, and you've got a celebration that’s as playful as it is purposeful.

Nancy shares what makes this event so uniquely Central Coast, how Elks Lodge 322 continues to serve the community in creative and meaningful ways, and why this isn’t just a party; it’s a purpose-driven celebration benefiting Woods Humane Society and the Elks National Foundation.

We also talk about what it really means to be an Elk today, how the organization has evolved, and why this 130-year-old institution is seeing a new wave of energized members stepping up to serve, support, and build community.

Pink Drank 2025 takes place Saturday, July 12 at the Elks Lodge in San Luis Obispo
General admission is only $65 through July 5, with VIP tickets offering early entry and bonus perks
Come dressed in pink, dive into the poolside scene, and party with purpose

Tickets & Info

Pink Drank: pinkdrank.org

DIRECT LINK TO TICKETS: HERE

Elks Lodge 322: elks322.org

National Elks Foundation: elks.org

Woods Humane Society: woodshumanesociety.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Ziggy Marley is Up+Adam Talking Pajamas, Peace, and Papa Marley Jun 25, 2025

In this soulful episode, Adam chats with the incomparable Ziggy Marley: eight-time Grammy winner, Emmy winner, musician, humanitarian, and now, bedtime book wizard. Ziggy opens up about Pajammin’, his newest children’s book inspired by his father Bob Marley’s iconic song “Jamming.” But this conversation goes way deeper than pajamas.

Together, they unpack family rituals, the evolution of legacy, and what it means to create joy that outlives you. Ziggy shares the heart behind the pages, how music still guides his fatherhood, and why stories matter more than ever. If you’re looking for a conversation that grooves, glows, and grounds you, this is it.

Get the book: Pajammin’ by Ziggy Marley (HarperCollins)
Ziggy’s official site: ziggymarley.com
Follow Ziggy: Instagram @ziggymarley

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

From Prosecutor to Whistleblower: Why Tanenbaum Walked Away from JFK! #TrueCrimeTuesday Jun 24, 2025

What if the story we’ve been told for 60 years… was never meant to hold up? Legendary prosecutor and former Deputy Chief Counsel of the U.S. Congressional JFK assassination probe, Robert K. Tanenbaum, joins Up+Adam for a truth-bomb of a conversation that challenges the official narrative of Dealey Plaza. His new book, That Day in Dallas: Lee Harvey Oswald Did NOT Kill JFK, makes the case—with evidence, not theory—that the assassination was not the act of a lone gunman, but a multilayered cover-up by forces inside our own government.

In this episode:

The five shots fired—not three
The fatal front-shot that destroys the “lone gunman” myth
Why Lee Harvey Oswald was a CIA/FBI contract employee
The HSCA’s sealed, fabricated forensic report
What makes this moment—post-COVID, UAPs, institutional distrust—the right time to finally tell the truth

Tanenbaum has never lost a felony trial—and he’s not about to lose this one. Don’t miss this rare, fearless interview.

HOTLINKS & RESOURCES

Buy the Book

That Day in Dallas: Lee Harvey Oswald Did NOT Kill JFK (Amazon)

Official Website

RobertKTanenbaumBooks.com

More on the State of Texas v. Lee Harvey Oswald Video Series

Watch on YouTube

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

The Sailing of the Intrepid by Montel Williams & David Fisher

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

More Than a Talk Show: Montel Williams Rewrites History and is Up+Adam Jun 23, 2025

Montel Williams is Up+Adam! What happens when a 36,000-ton aircraft carrier gets torpedoed in WWII, its rudder jammed, and it starts spinning helplessly in enemy waters? In most timelines, it’s the end of the story. But in Montel Williams’ new book The Sailing of the Intrepid, it’s just the beginning.

On today’s episode, Adam welcomes Montel…yes, that Montel for a conversation that’s part history, part masterclass in resilience. They dive into the wild true tale of the USS Intrepid, the crew that refused to surrender, and the 3,000-square-foot sail that steered her 3,000 miles home.

Along the way, Montel opens up about his own “rudder jam” moments, from surviving a stroke to reimagining what heroism really means after decades in uniform and under the lights.

Whether you’re a history buff, a military mind, or someone just trying to sail through chaos, this one’s for you.

• Buy the Book

• Follow Montel

Instagram

Twitter/X

Website

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

instagram.com/woodshumanesociety

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Happy Friday! Woods and Pink Drank! First 10 in at AdamMontiel.com Wins Tix to Pink Drank! Jun 20, 2025

In this episode, Adam chats with Robin from Woods Humane Society with our Pet(s) of the Week. We say pets, cause…we…got…KITTENS! They are also on the heels of their big Tails gala event this weekend!

Also, rosé all day? Adam is giving away a pair of tickets to Pink Drank, the Central Coast’s ultimate rosé bash. First ten listeners to hit up adammontiel.com get in. No code words. No nonsense. Just go. Buy tickets at pinkdrank.org - But win them from Adam.

Learn more:

woodshumanesociety.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Healing Out Loud: Answering the Advocacy Call From Crisis to Courage Jun 19, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, Adam sits down in the LoBro Studios with Jatzibe Sandoval, Community Impact and Volunteer Director at Lumina Alliance, for a conversation that’s as moving as it is essential. From her own personal journey through challenge and transformation to now leading community advocacy efforts, Jatzibe shares how lived experience becomes powerful leadership.

We talk about the delicate art of trauma-informed care, what real allyship looks like outside of Pride month, and why showing up for survivors takes more than good intentions, it takes commitment. If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to serve, support, and stand beside someone in crisis, this conversation will open your eyes and your heart.

Learn more about Lumina Alliance and get involved: www.luminaalliance.org

Follow Lumina on Instagram: @luminaalliance

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Welcome Life Elements to the Up+Adam family!

Based in Atascadero, Life Elements is a woman and minority owned company making small batch bath, body, and wellness products. Their CBD relief sticks and eco smart deodorants are next level—from luxurious bath bombs to healing creams, tinctures, and oils. Check them out at LifeElements.com or visit their shop Fridays from 1 to 4 at 7425 El Camino Real, Suite O.

Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Second Floor Flavor, Ground-Level Soul: John MacKinnon of Todo Bueno (All Good Grill) is Up+Adam Jun 18, 2025

Today in the LoBro Studios at Timbre, we’re joined by longtime restaurateur and hospitality ninja John MacKinnon, the mind and soul behind two very different but equally beloved spots on the Central Coast: Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill in Cambria and Todo Bueno at the SLO Public Market.

We talk about what it means to build something with intention. From the grind of surviving the pandemic as a restaurant owner, to the obsessive joy of layering a perfect taco or burger. John shares why quesadillas earn respect, what makes a sauce unforgettable, and why hospitality is less about service and more about heart. Plus, we dive into his “upscale fast-casual” approach at Todo Bueno, what it’s like running a second-story kitchen, and how he’s still dreaming big, one tortilla at a time.

Whether you're a foodie, a SLO local, or just someone who appreciates a great story, this one’s for you.

Visit Todo Bueno

Location: SLO Public Market – Upstairs
Website: todobuenoslo.com
Instagram: @todobuenoslo

Visit Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill

Location: 6550 Moonstone Beach Dr, Cambria, CA
Website: moonstonebeach.com
Instagram: @moonstonebeachbarandgrill

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

She Solved a Murder Online. Then Went to Work. The Ladies Behind True Crime Tonight (and Don't F**k with Cats) #TrueCrimeTuesday Jun 17, 2025

Today on Up+Adam, Adam chats with Courtney Armstrong and Baudi Moovan, co-hosts of the nightly iHeartRadio podcast True Crime Tonight. Courtney has spent years inside the darkest corners of America’s most haunting cases, from the Piketon massacre to justice with Nancy Grace.

Baudi became a household name after helping crack a murder case online, her story told in Netflix’s Don’t F**k With Cats. Together, they navigate the chaos of true crime headlines, digital manhunts, and human heartbreak five nights a week. In this episode, they talk about the cases that keep them up, the rituals that bring them back to themselves, and the line they refuse to cross when telling someone’s worst day. It’s fast, fearless, and unforgettable.

• Listen to True Crime Tonight HERE

• Watch Don’t F**k With Cats on Netflix HERE

• Follow Baudi Moovan on X HERE

• Follow KT Studios on Instagram HERE

• Learn more about KT Studios HERE

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

We Got the Dirt: Ag Stories You Can’t Make Up - Part 2 with SLO Farm Trail Jun 16, 2025

We’re kicking off a part 2 of our Farm Days series that takes you straight into the heart of the SLO County Farm Trail this weekend!. In this first episode, Adam sits down with some of his favorite ag fam to talk about food, farming, friendship, and how passion and product collide right here on the Central Coast.

Joining Adam in Timbre LoBro studio:

Lynette Sonne, the powerhouse behind Farmstead Ed and the SLO County Farm Trail, who’s connecting farmers to farmers and farms to YOU.
Gina Hambly from Hambly Farms, where lavender isn’t just a plant—it’s a lifestyle.
Jennifer Talent of Groves on 41, who’s crafting world-class olive oil and sharing a little piece of heaven on the farm.
Chris Battile of Mighty Cap Mushrooms, who turned a garage-side hustle into a mushroom mecca in Tin City.

They talk shop, they talk skin care, they talk goats, collaborations, and counterfeit olive oil (for real). This isn’t just ag talk, it’s about local love, making things with your hands, and putting faces to the food we eat and the products we use.

And mark your calendars: Open Farm Days 2025 is happening June 20–22, with over two dozen farms opening their gates for one of the most delicious, educational, and hands-on weekends in the county.

LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE

• Farmstead Ed & SLO County Farm Trail: https://www.farmsteaded.com

• Hambly Farms (Lavender): https://www.hamblyfarms.com

• Groves on 41 (Olive Oil & Vacation Stay): https://thegroveson41.com

• Mighty Cap Mushrooms (Tours, Retail & Grow Kits): https://mightycapmushrooms.com

Support local. Eat real. Know your farmer. See you Friday, and this weekend for Open Farm Days!

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

https://davidfoster.com/shows/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Boop! There It Is: A Legend in the Booth, David Foster is Up+Adam Jun 13, 2025

This is one of those Up+Adam episodes you remember. When a guest like David Foster joins the show, you know you're in for something special. Sixteen Grammys. A career that’s defined the sound of entire generations. And now? He’s scoring Broadway. This is more than a cool conversation. It’s a front-row seat to one of music’s greatest living legends.

What happens when a hitmaker steps into the world of Broadway? You get BOOP! The Musical, a lush, cinematic journey through the world of the iconic Betty Boop, composed by Foster himself. In this episode, Adam connects with the icon over the phone to talk about what made BOOP! one of the most personally satisfying projects of his career, how he approached crafting timeless music you can’t pin to an era, and the magic of working with a full Broadway cast.

They also dive into Foster’s enduring love for R&B, shouting out All-4-One and the unforgettable harmonies of the 90s, and what still keeps “The Hitman” hungry after decades at the top. Plus, a preview of his genre-blending summer tour with trumpet phenom Chris Botti, featuring Katharine McPhee.

BOOP! The Musical Cast Album – Now streaming on:
Spotify
Apple Music

David Foster Summer Tour Dates + Tickets:

Follow David Foster:
Website: https://davidfoster.com
Instagram: @davidfoster
Twitter/X: @officialdfoster

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Batter Up: The Rise of Breadin' Bros and its Local 16 Year Old CEO! Jun 12, 2025

In this episode, Adam reunites with a very special guest: Aiden Ponti, the 16-year-old founder of Breadin Bros, a Central Coast culinary brand built from scratch... literally. Two years after their first conversation at the Mid-State Fair, Aiden returns to talk about how his fried chicken obsession turned into a fast-growing business, now in local stores.

We talk product innovation, personal growth, and the wild story behind launching his very own Breadin Bros Racing team in the 24 Hours of Lemons. From meatballs to marketing, boosters to burnout, this is one of those rare interviews that reminds you: entrepreneurship isn’t about age, it’s about energy, intention, and hustle.

Learn more about Breadin Bros:

Website: breadinbros.com
Instagram: @breadinbros
Find Breadin Bros in local stores: Paso General Store, Creston House, J Dusi Wines, Avila Valley Barn
Check out the Breadin Bros gift box collab with: Paso Robles Gifts

If this episode made you crave greatness or crave crispy chicken, share it with a friend and leave us a review. You’re part of what makes this show fly.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

ARTICLE ADAM MENTIONS ABOUT SINGLES USING AI IN DATING UP 300%

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

One Chair, One Chance, One Comeback: NBC's Winner of The Voice Adam David is Up+Adam Jun 11, 2025

What does it sound like when a man sings from the middle of his comeback? On this episode of Up+Adam, Adam Montiel sits down with The Voice Season 27 winner Adam David, a soulful rocker whose voice is as textured as his story. From a single-chair turn to an Instant Save that felt more like a divine pause button, Adam’s journey through addiction, recovery, and redemption is nothing short of cinematic.

We talk about the moment music stopped being a dream and started being a lifeline.

This is more than a victory lap. This is what it sounds like when someone finds their purpose… and then wires it into a melody.

Follow Adam David

Website
Instagram
Watch his performances on The Voice YouTube Channel

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

• What Happened to Talina Zar on iHeart

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Sleuths, Secrets, and the Silence of Talina Zar #TrueCrimeTuesday Jun 10, 2025

In this episode, Adam chats with award-winning journalist and podcast host Melissa Jeltsen, whose latest true-crime series What Happened to Talina Zar dives deep into one of the most unsettling disappearances in recent memory.

During the early days of COVID lockdown, 50-year-old Talina Zar posted an eerie message online and then vanished. What followed was a search unlike anything we’ve seen: led not by detectives, but by relentless internet sleuths. Melissa walks us through the bizarre twists, the murky ethics of amateur investigation, and the deeply human story at the center of it all.

Adam and Melissa unpack the emotional weight of telling stories about violence against women, the toll of carrying other people’s trauma, and the power of narrative to both honor and expose.

It’s a gripping conversation about journalism, justice, and the gray space in between.

Listen to the podcast:

Follow Melissa Jeltsen:

• X: @quasimado

• Melissa’s wesbite: melissajeltsen.com

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Man of Steel, Heart of Gold: Cain't Knock the Hustle - Actor Dean Cain is Up+Adam Jun 09, 2025

What happens when Superman trades his cape for a clipboard… and ends up coaching a girls’ soccer team full of chaos and heart? In this episode of Up+Adam, Dean Cain joins the show to talk about his brand-new film Little Angels, in theaters now. But this conversation goes well beyond the movie.

They dive into legacy, left turns, writing from the heart, and the real behind-the-scenes grit it takes to create something the whole family can watch...and actually enjoy. Dean shares stories from his Hollywood journey, the projects that still stick with him, and throws out a perfectly unexpected moment by saying Adam looks like him. He said it. It happened. Adam won't shut up about it now.

This isn’t your typical press stop. This is Up+Adam, and this is Dean Cain, unscripted, unexpected, and just plain fun.

• Watch the trailer & find theaters: LittleAngelsMovie.com

• Follow Dean Cain on Instagram: @deuces1966

• Film info & more at: IMDb – Little Angels (2025)

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Where There’s Smoke, There’s 'Meathead': The NYT Best Selling Grillmaster General & Food Scientist is Up+Adam Jun 06, 2025

Where There’s Smoke, There’s Meathead:

Adam chats with one of the most trusted voices in barbecue…Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer and the mind behind the wildly popular AmazingRibs.com. His latest book, The Meathead Method, isn’t just a cookbook, it’s a myth-busting, flavor-unlocking, science-soaked manual that turns your grill into an instrument of delicious truth.

From the Central Coast to the science lab, Meathead talks about busting BBQ myths, cooking with our own Brigit Binns, and how flavor isn’t just taste, it’s memory, place, and soul. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or just fire-curious, this convo is for anyone who wants to cook with more confidence, curiosity, and damn good taste.

LINKS:

Pre-order The Meathead Method (HarperCollins 2025) HERE
Visit his site: AmazingRibs.com
Join the Pitmaster Club: AmazingRibs.com/pitmaster
Follow Meathead:

X/Twitter: @meathead
Facebook: facebook.com/AmazingRibs

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Locker Room Talk: Kenny Crossley of Storage Wars is Up+Adam Jun 05, 2025

In this episode of Up+Adam, we sit down with the ever-charismatic Kenny Crossley, a standout personality from A&E's hit series Storage Wars. From his early days in New Orleans law enforcement to managing storage facilities in Los Angeles, Kenny's journey to television stardom is anything but ordinary. He shares insights into the upcoming season of Storage Wars, premiering Saturday, June 7th at 9PM ET/PT on A&E, promising more auctions, action, and unexpected treasures.

Kenny opens up about his unique approach to bidding, the lessons he's learned from his mentor Barry Weiss, and the stories behind some of his most memorable locker finds, including what to look for if you ever wanted to get into the game!

Connect with Kenny Crossley:

Instagram: @kenny_crossley Storage Wars - Wikipedia
Official Website: kennycrossley.com
Watch Storage Wars: A&E's Storage War

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

https://www.allegrettovineyardresort.com/

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Where Wine Meets Wow: Cuisine & Hospitality at a Higher Vibration w/ Allegretto Vineyard Resort's Chef Kenny Seliger Jun 04, 2025

Chef Kenny Seliger is no stranger to fine dining. After helping In Bloom earn a mention in the Michelin Guide, he’s now stepping into a whole new chapter as Executive Chef of Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles. This property is as soulful and intentional as the cuisine he’s now creating. In this episode, Adam sits down with Kenny after a weekend on-site to talk about what it’s like running a kitchen inside a luxury resort, how his mindset has evolved, and why sometimes the perfect omelet matters just as much as a tasting menu.

They dig into the spiritual design of Allegretto, from the sacred geometry to the curated art and global relics collected by resort visionary Doug Ayers, and talk about what it means to create culinary experiences that match that kind of energy. From team culture shifts to food-and-wine synergy (especially now that Paso legend Don Burns of Turtle Rock is making the wines for Allegretto), this is a conversation that hits on food, philosophy, and all the in-between.

Special thanks to GM Rich Verruni, Linda Sanpei, Rory from the Allegretto tasting room, and of course Doug Ayers for their hospitality.

Learn more about Allegretto Vineyard Resort:

Follow on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/allegrettovr/?hl=en

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

How to Bring Down Big Pharma as a Secret Agent for the DOJ Without Losing Your Mind (or Your Kid) #TrueCrimeTue Jun 03, 2025

Today on Up+Adam, on a #TrueCrimeTuesday we’re pulling back the curtain on Big Pharma with someone who lived the story from the inside. Lisa Pratta spent over 30 years as a pharmaceutical sales rep, climbing the ranks, crushing quotas, and doing what she thought was helping people. But when she saw her company pushing a powerful drug off-label, jacking up the price from $40 to nearly $30,000 per vial, and putting patients at risk, she couldn’t stay quiet. What followed was a nearly decade-long undercover operation with the Department of Justice, all while raising a special-needs son as a single mom.

Her new book, False Claims: One Insider’s Impossible Battle Against Big Pharma Corruption, is a jaw-dropping, deeply personal account of industry greed, moral reckoning, and what it really means to do the right thing, even when no one’s watching. If you think you know how the healthcare system works, think again.

Buy the Book on Amazon: False Claims by Lisa Pratta
Official Publisher Page: False Claims from HarperCollins
Official Website: www.lisapratta.com
Follow Lisa on Instagram: @lisapratta_official
Follow on Twitter/X: @LisaPratta

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Check Out Our Woods Humane Pet Of The Week!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

A QUIET CAFETERIA: HOW THE SLO FOOD BANK WORKS TO SILENCE THE SOUNDS OF SUMMER HUNGER Jun 02, 2025

On Today’s Episode Of Up + Adam, We Sit Down With Molly Kern, Ceo Of The Slo Food Bank, For A Real And Inspiring Conversation About What Food Insecurity Looks Like Right Here On The Central Coast. While Many Of Us Are Easing Into Summer, There’s A Silence Happening In School Cafeterias Across The County That Speaks Volumes, Because When School’s Out, For Thousands Of Local Kids, So Is Their Most Reliable Meal Of The Day.

We Talk About The Power Of A Single Breakfast Bag, What A $1 Donation Can Actually Do, And The Surprising Face Of Hunger In San Luis Obispo County. Molly Shares Stories From The Field, How The Food Bank Went From A Repurposed Ice Cream Truck To Serving Over 46,000 People A Month, And What’s Going Down At This Year’s Hunger Awareness Day…including A Fast-Paced, Flair-Filled Breakfast Bag Build-Off That I Get To Emcee And You’re Invited Too!

Tune In For An Episode That’s Full Of Perspective, Purpose, And A Reminder Of What We Can Do When We Show Up For Our Neighbors.

Learn More, Get Involved, Or Rsvp For The Event At: Slofoodbank.Org

Hunger Awareness Day: Friday, June 6 | 3:30–6 Pm | 1180 Kendall Rd, San Luis Obispo
Sponsor Teams, Warehouse Tours, Breakfast Bag Competition, And More

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Listen To Up+Adam With Adam Montiel:

Official Website: Adammontiel.Com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam On Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam On Spotify
Iheartradio: Up+Adam On Iheartradio
Youtube Music: Up+Adam On Youtube Music

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Adam’s Tedx Video Is Here!

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Sincere Thanks To The Supporters Of Up + Adam. Please Take A Moment And Visit Them And Thank Them For Supporting Local Broadcasting, And Valuing What We Do Here. Thank You For Supporting Them!

Woodshumanesociety

Original Music By Dan Curcio And Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner On Spotify Here

Please Rate, Review, And Subscribe To The Podcast, And Learn More At Adammontiel.Com

Pet Me, Pour Me, Plate Me: A Weekend of Greek Eats, Craft Beer, and Cat Naps May 30, 2025

This episode of Up+Adam is a full-on celebration of community, culture, and connection on the Central Coast.

We kick things off with Ashley White from Firestone Walker Brewing Company, who gives us the inside scoop on the sold-out Firestone Walker Invitational Beer Fest and the growing list of community events surrounding it. From Friday’s all-day Block Party to Sunday’s “Beers & Brekkie” brunch, it’s more than just a beer fest. It’s a full weekend experience designed to celebrate Paso and its people.

Then we yell a little “OPA!” with Dr. Paul Georghiou, longtime emcee and cultural torchbearer for the SLO Greek Festival. Happening this Saturday and Sunday at the Madonna Expo Center, it’s wall-to-wall Greek food, live music, dancing, wine, and all the ouzo you can handle. For just five bucks, you’re transported to Greece without leaving SLO.

Finally, our favorite feline whisperer Robin Coleman from Woods Humane Society is back with a streetwise sweetheart named Belfast, a black cat ready to trade alley life for a windowsill nap. We also get the scoop on this weekend’s Wine & Whiskers fundraiser and next week’s California Adopt-a-Pet Day, with free adoptions happening Saturday, June 7.

Helpful Links:

Firestone Walker Invitational Beer Fest

Firestone Walker Brewing Co.

SLO Greek Festival Info & Schedule

Adopt Belfast at Woods Humane Society

Wine & Whiskers at San Antonio Winery – June 1

California Adopt-a-Pet Day – June 7

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

SLO Grown, Soul Grown: Know Your Farmer – Down the SLO Farm Trail We Go! May 29, 2025

We’re kicking off a two-part Farm Days series that takes you straight into the heart of the SLO County Farm Trail. In this first episode, Adam sits down with some of his favorite ag fam to talk about food, farming, friendship, and how passion and product collide right here in SLO CAL.

Joining Adam in Timbre LoBro studio:

Lynette Sonne, the powerhouse behind Farmstead Ed and the SLO County Farm Trail, who’s connecting farmers to farmers and farms to YOU.
Gina Hambly from Hambly Farms, where lavender isn’t just a plant—it’s a lifestyle.
Jennifer Talent of Groves on 41, who’s crafting world-class olive oil and sharing a little piece of heaven on the farm.
Chris Battile of Mighty Cap Mushrooms, who turned a garage-side hustle into a mushroom mecca in Tin City.

And mark your calendars: Open Farm Days 2025 is happening June 20–22, with over two dozen farms opening their gates for one of the most delicious, educational, and hands-on weekends in the county.

LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE

• Farmstead Ed & SLO County Farm Trail: https://www.farmsteaded.com

• Hambly Farms (Lavender): https://www.hamblyfarms.com

• Groves on 41 (Olive Oil & Vacation Stay): https://thegroveson41.com

• Mighty Cap Mushrooms (Tours, Retail & Grow Kits): https://mightycapmushrooms.com

Support local.

Eat real.

Know your farmer.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our farmer chat, dropping next week.

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!

https://www.littletroublemakerbook.com

Original Music by Dan Curcio and Moonshiner Collective

Moonshiner on Spotify HERE

Please Rate, Review, and Subscribe to the podcast, and learn more at AdamMontiel.com

Your Name Deserves a Keychain: NYT Bestseller Luvvie Ajayi Jones on Owning Identity and Telling Your Story May 28, 2025

In this episode, Adam chats with the iconic Luvvie Ajayi Jones, four-time New York Times bestselling author, cultural critic, TED Talk powerhouse, and now the author of Little Troublemaker Defends Her Name, a children's book that hits home for anyone who's ever been told their name was "too much."

They talk about what it means to be a “professional troublemaker,” the power of defending your identity, and how our childhood gifts, the ones we often got in trouble for, are usually our true superpowers. Luvvie also shares what it really takes to write and publish your own book, the question she asks all aspiring authors, and why urgency is the secret ingredient to unlocking your story. If you've ever wanted to write a book, this conversation is full of the honesty, encouragement, and practical wisdom you didn’t even know you needed.

Whether you're raising a little truth-teller or trying to become one yourself, this episode is full of bold heart, real humor, and powerful insight on voice, value, and visibility.

Highlights in this episode:

Why your name is a legacy, not a mistake

How to turn a hard school day into a lifelong lesson

The moment Luvvie claimed the title “author” and why you should too

The one question that tells her if someone is ready to write their book

Where to Buy the Book:

Little Troublemaker Defends Her Name by Luvvie Ajayi Jones

Learn More:

The Book Academy, a writing and publishing platform created by Luvvie

https://www.thebookacademy.com

Follow Luvvie:

Instagram and TikTok: @Luvvie

Website: https://www.luvvie.org

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Listen to Up+Adam with Adam Montiel:

Official Website: adammontiel.com
Apple Podcasts: Up+Adam on Apple Podcasts
Spotify: Up+Adam on Spotify
iHeartRadio: Up+Adam on iHeartRadio
YouTube Music: Up+Adam on YouTube Music

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Sincere Thanks to the supporters of Up + Adam. Please take a moment and visit them and thank them for supporting local broadcasting, and valuing what we do here. Thank you for supporting them!