Welcome to another riveting episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar! This week, hosts Patrick Evans and Randy Florence sit down with entrepreneur and movie producer Jim Valdez, the dynamic force behind the Cowboy Cantina and La Copa Sports Bar. In this lively and engaging conversation, Jim shares his incredible journey from a small-town dreamer in Colorado to a successful restaurateur and film producer in the entertainment industry. Discover how a passion for unique dining experiences and indie films drove Jim to create venues that resonate with authenticity and bold flavors. Whether it’s the allure of New Mexican cuisine or the thrill of producing thought-provoking films, Jim’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and the belief that there's always more to explore. Tune in for insights on the challenges of running a restaurant, the film industry's complexities, and the exciting future of Cowboy Cantina as it expands nationwide.

Takeaway Points:

• Jim Valdez’s journey from Colorado to Hollywood highlight perseverance and passion.

• Cowboy Cantina’s unique blend of New Mexican cuisine resonates with the desert audience.

• Expansion plans include Cowboy Cantina locations in San Diego, Sunset Strip, and more.

• The challenges of launching and maintaining restaurants in seasonal markets.

• Importance of consistent quality and customer service in restaurant success.

• Breaking into film production and key distinctions between producer roles.

• Leveraging film industry lessons to overcome adversity in the restaurant business.

• Jim’s commitment to community through philanthropy and employee support initiatives.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #JimValdez #CowboyCantina #MovieProducerInterview #SkipsLittleBar #McCallumTheatre #RanchoMirage #MutualBroadcastingSystem #FilmIndustry #RestaurantOwner #Entrepreneur #SouthwestCuisine #MovieProduction #FoodiePodcast #LocalDining #DesertFoodScene #CommunityEngagement #ExpansionPlans #LiveEntertainment #BusinessSuccess #MarketingChallenges #CustomerService #CreativeProcess #Perseverance

In this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar, Patrick Evans and Randy Florence sit down with Kim McNulty, Co-Founder and Vice President of One Future Coachella Valley. Kim shares her firsthand experiences growing up in the valley and participating in its transformative growth over the decades. A strong advocate for education as a vital component of workforce development, Kim discusses the mission of One Future Coachella Valley to align industry and educational resources. The initiative fosters collaboration among educators, businesses, and government entities to ensure local students receive the education and career opportunities needed to thrive in the valley. She details the challenges faced, such as the need for improved technological access for students and overcoming economic disparities. The conversation highlights Kim’s commitment to creating pathways for young talent and sustaining the region. It all happens from the famed corner booth at Skip Paige’s Little Bar and is presented by the McCallum Theatre.

• Collaborating with local leaders across sectors strengthens workforce development.

• Scholarships and support systems play critical roles in encouraging higher education.

• Career exposure for students in specialized fields is essential in bridging job needs.

• Public and private collaborations can fuel educational innovations.

• Access to technology remains a barrier for low-income students.

• Expanding local educational opportunities reduces 'brain drain.'

• Economic sustainability involves preparing students for diverse local careers.

• The pandemic emphasized the need for effective digital learning infrastructure.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #RandyFlorence #PatrickEvans #SkipsLittleBar #McCallumTheatre #KimMcNulty #OneFutureCoachellaValley #WorkforceDevelopment #Education #CoachellaValley #YouthOpportunities #LocalCareers #Collaboration #StudentSuccess #CommunityEngagement #HealthCareers #TechnologyAccess #HigherEducation #EconomicGrowth #ValleyLeadership #BroadbandAccess #Scholarships #InnovativeEducation #CareerPathways #MutualBroadcastingSystem

Join hosts Patrick Evans and Randy Florence for an engaging hour with the legendary music producer Ronnie King. Recorded at Skip Paige’s Little Bar in Palm Desert, this episode explores Ronnie’s illustrious career, from his musical roots in the Valley to working with iconic artists like Tupac, Snoop Dogg, and Mariah Carey. Ronnie shares stories of his adventures in the music industry, the evolution of technology, and the importance of owning one's artistry. Discover how this multifaceted musician navigated the worlds of punk rock and hip-hop, and why he believes vinyl is making a powerful comeback. This episode is presented by the McCallum Theatre.

• Ronnie King shares his journey from a musical family in the valley to a renowned music producer in L.A.

• Insights into collaborating with legends like Tupac, Snoop Dogg, and Mariah Carey.

• Discussion on the challenges and evolution of music sampling and producing.

• A look at how piano and classical training influenced his style.

• The rediscovery and resurgence of vinyl records in a streaming-dominated era.

• Importance of intellectual property and owning your music in the industry.

• Reflections on global musical collaborations, including Ronnie’s experiences in Buenos Aires.

• Inspiring advice for aspiring musicians navigating today’s music business.

#BigConversationsLittleBar #Podcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #MusicLegend #RonnieKing #Tupac #SnoopDogg #MariahCarey #VinylRevival #MusicIndustry #Podcast #MusicalHeritage #PalmDesert #HipHopHistory #PunkRock #MusicProducer #IconicInterviews #InspiringStories #RecordProduction #MusicBusiness

Join Patrick Evans and Randy Florence on this week's episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar as they sit down with Lisa May, former iconic voice from the Kevin & Bean Show and now a successful private weight-training coach in Palm Desert. Podcasting from the cozy corner booth at Skip Paige's Little Bar, they delve into Lisa's fascinating journey from radio stardom to fitness entrepreneurship. Discover how Lisa's slow-motion, high-intensity strength training method at The Strength Code can transform your workout experience. Lisa shares behind-the-scenes insights from her radio days, including memorable (and infamous) moments with celebrity guests. Don’t miss this engaging conversation that is both humorous and heartfelt, brought to you by the McCallum Theatre on the Mutual Broadcasting System.

Takeaways:

• Transition from Radio to Fitness: Lisa May, a former radio personality from the Kevin & Bean Show, successfully transitioned to a career in fitness by founding The Strength Code, a private strength training business in Palm Desert.

• Slow-Motion, High-Intensity Training: The Strength Code utilizes a unique workout approach focusing on slow-motion, high-intensity strength training to maximize muscle stimulation while minimizing injury risk.

• Personal Motivation: Lisa found her passion for this type of training during her time in radio, appreciating its effectiveness and efficiency, which fit into her busy schedule.

• Adaptability and Change: After a long career in radio, Lisa embraced change and turned a passion into a business, showcasing her adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit.

• Memorable Radio Career: Lisa shared stories of her time in radio, highlighting the unpredictable and entertaining nature of live broadcasting, including infamous celebrity encounters.

• Community Engagement: Lisa's training studio attracts a diverse clientele, ranging in age and fitness level, emphasizing a personalized approach to strength training.

• The End of an Era: The interview touches on the changing landscape of radio, with Lisa recounting how industry shifts and services like Waze impacted the need for radio traffic reports.

• Public Reception and Legacy: Despite the challenges she faced, including her eventual departure from radio, Lisa’s legacy continues through her loyal fanbase and her vibrant career in fitness.

#BigConversationsLittleBar #PodcastEpisode #LisaMay #RadioToFitness #KevinAndBean #StrengthCode #PalmDesert #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #McCallumTheatre #MutualBroadcastingSystem #CelebrityInterview #FitnessJourney #Entrepreneurship #RadioStories #HighIntensityTraining #SlowMotionWorkout #PodcastFun #SkipsLittleBar

Join hosts Patrick Evans and Randy Florence at Skip Paige's Little Bar for a delightful episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar featuring special guest John Ratzenberger. Known for his iconic role as Cliff Clavin on Cheers and an impressive array of Pixar voices, Ratzenberger shares stories from his fascinating career. From his serendipitous audition for Cheers to voicing beloved Pixar characters like Hamm in Toy Story, John reveals the creativity, humor, and experiences that have shaped his work. He recounts his early improvisational comedy days in Europe, reflects on the evolving entertainment landscape, and offers insights into his passion for historical events and hands-on learning. This conversation is not just a trip down memory lane; it’s an exploration of an actor who continues to reinvent himself in delightful and entertaining ways.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #McCallumTheatre #SkipsLittleBar #RandyFlorence #PatrickEvans #JohnRatzenberger #Cheers #PixarVoiceActor #CliffClavinCheers #Improvisation #VoiceActing #ComedyLegend #HollywoodHistory #IconicRoles #PodcastInterview #AnimationVoices #RetroTV #CelebrityInsights #HistoryBuffVoice

Takeaways:

• John Ratzenberger improvised the iconic role of Cliff Clavin on Cheers.

• Voice acting for Pixar spanned over 26 years, starting post-Cheers.

• Ratzenberger was involved in various creative endeavors, including a late-night comedy and historical TV projects.

• His improv comedy roots began in Europe with the troupe Sal's Meat Market.

• Comedy greats like Jacques Tati and Stan Laurel influenced his professional career.

• He actively promotes apprenticeships and hands-on learning as vital educational components.

• Ratzenberger shares historical insights, revealing his passion for history.

• His impact as a cultural icon and advocate continues to resonate.

Patrick Evans and Randy Florence bring us a nostalgic encore episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar, featuring an insightful interview with Garry Kief, the newly appointed Chairman of the Board at the McCallum Theatre and President & CEO of Stiletto Entertainment. This special episode, originally aired in 2023, dives into Kief's dynamic career in the entertainment industry, his remarkable journey with Barry Manilow, and the transformative vision he has for the McCallum Theatre. Kief shares anecdotes from his extensive experience, from managing high-profile artists to innovating merchandising strategies that shaped the landscape of concert merchandise. As a leader in the arts, he discusses the importance of expanding the theatre's programming and ensuring it resonates with the growing Coachella Valley community, which has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. The conversation highlights Kief's commitment to education in the arts, as he reflects on initiatives like the Manilow Music Project, which aims to provide musical instruments to local schools, ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to appreciate and engage with the arts. This episode not only celebrates Kief's achievements but also emphasizes the significance of community involvement in the cultural landscape of the Coachella Valley and beyond.

Takeaways:

• Garry Kief discusses his journey from being the youngest GM at ABC Television to becoming the CEO of Stiletto Entertainment, highlighting the importance of innovation in entertainment.
• He reveals the fascinating story behind the first musical made for television, which was based on Barry Manilow's famous song Copacabana.
• Kief shared his experiences managing high-profile artists like Donna Summer and Fleetwood Mac, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of talent management.
• The conversation touched on the significance of community involvement in the McCallum Theater's success and its role in the Coachella Valley.
• Garry emphasizes the need for educational outreach in the arts to inspire future generations and foster a love for theater.
• He also mentions the importance of expanding the theater's programming to serve a growing and diverse population in the Coachella Valley.

Chapters:

• 00:14 - The Birth of Copa
• 03:35 - The Rise of Stiletto Entertainment
• 13:02 - Early Life and Family Background
• 31:05 - The Evolution of Arts Education
• 40:53 - The Journey of Copacabana
• 48:13 - The Evolution of Entertainment at McCallum Theatre

Companies and Artists mentioned in this episode:

• Barry Manilow
• CBS
• McCallum Theater
• Palm Springs International Film Festival
• Bank of America
• Kaiser
• ABC
• Smithfield
• Holland America Cruise Lines
• Yamaha Music
• Seabourn
• Disney on Ice
• Caesars
• Fleetwood Mac
• American Music Awards
• Rod Stewart
• Diana Ross
• Stevie Wonder
• Donna Summer
• Juice Newton
• John Mellencamp
• New York Pops

#Copa #CopacabanaMusical #GarryKief #StilettoEntertainment #McCallumTheatre #BarryManilow #PalmDesertEvents #CoachellaValleyArts #MusicalTheater #EntertainmentIndustry #BroadwayShows #LivePerformances #PalmSpringsFilmFestival #ArtsEducation #CruiseShipEntertainment #DickClark #AmericanMusicAwards #MusicManagement #PerformingArts #TheaterLeadership #SkipsLittleBar #MutualBroadcastingSystem #RandyFlorence #PatrickEvans #JohnMcMullen #BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast

In this captivating episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar, co-hosts Patrick Evans and Randy Florence delve into the fascinating legacy of Liberace with guests Bruce Fessier, a longtime culture editor and columnist at The Desert Sun, and Jere Ring, an entertainer who knew Liberace personally. Together, they explore the dazzling yet complex life of Liberace, highlighting his immense influence in entertainment and his deep ties to the Coachella Valley. The discussion touches on Liberace's overshadowed status compared to contemporaries like Frank Sinatra, his concealed sexuality, and his impact on LGBTQ+ history. Rich with personal anecdotes and intriguing stories, this episode offers an insightful tribute to a legendary figure whose cultural and historical significance continues to echo today.

Tom Rielly, a pioneering figure in the LGBTQ+ community and founder of the TED Fellows program, joins Patrick Evans and Randy Florence for a compelling conversation on Big Conversations, Little Bar. With over 34 years of involvement in TED Conferences, Rielly shares insights into the evolution of TED and the importance of fostering diverse voices through the Fellows program. The discussion delves into Rielly's journey from Silicon Valley entrepreneur to a leader in promoting innovative ideas and social change. Listeners will also learn about the impact of technology on the LGBTQ+ community and how it has shaped modern communication. This engaging dialogue highlights the power of ideas worth spreading and the necessity of empowering the next generation of thinkers and creators.

Takeaways:

• Randy Florence emphasizes the impact of high-speed internet in transforming online experiences, facilitating new possibilities.
• Tom Rielly shares that he founded the TED Fellows program to recognize exceptional young talents globally.
• The conversation highlights how technology has empowered LGBTQ+ organizations through innovative solutions and support.
• Randy Florence reminisces about the early days of the internet, recalling the excitement of dial-up connections.
• The importance of community and collaboration is reiterated as key to the success of TED events.
• Randy Florence discusses how humor played a vital role in his TED Talk performances, enhancing audience engagement.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• McCallum Theater
• PlanetOut
• Digital Queers
• Adobe
• Aldus
• Quark
• Microsoft
• FedEx
• TED