In this episode, host Ryan sits down with Desiree Kennard—a local mom and former hairstylist of 26 years who’s now training to become a clinical massage therapist. Desiree shares her deep dive into Shiatsu, a hands-on practice working with pressure points and meridians, and explains how the body can hold onto “stuck” emotional energy and trauma—and how intentional touch can help release it. Together, they explore Desiree’s transition from being a social “cheerleader” behind the salon chair to stepping into the role of a physical healer, along with a wide-ranging conversation about the science (and lived experience) of energy work, the realities of single parenting, and why compassion and communication matter more than ever in building a stronger community.

In this episode, Ryan sits down with recurring guest Gary Pate for another Sunday “church” session on the Welcome to Grass Valley podcast. The two dive into the local skate park scene, talking about why the Western Gateway project needs skater-led design to avoid overcrowding and the “blind spots” common in many parks. From there, the conversation shifts to the ethics of artificial intelligence—including how AI may affect music distribution contracts and the bigger concern of AI potentially “rewriting history” and reshaping human memory. Along the way, they touch on sobriety, overcoming stage fright, and the value of intentional living, making the case for rebuilding real-world community in an era where social media can feel increasingly isolating.

In this engaging episode of "Welcome to Grass Valley," hosts Ryan and Nathaniel delve into the concept of keeping it real versus being fake. They explore the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a world that often pressures individuals to present a false version of themselves. The discussion touches on the importance of integrity, acknowledging one's ego, and the social pressures that lead to inauthentic behavior. They also reflect on personal experiences, sharing stories of little white lies and the struggle to be true to oneself. The conversation emphasizes the significance of self-awareness, balancing one's inner dualities, and embracing vulnerability to foster genuine relationships.

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