I want to hear from you especially if you have a story about a hometown friend to tell me about

• It is never too late. Especially when it comes to making positive changes in our lives and in this first episode of Season 2 of Hometown Friends, we see that James LaBlanc is a living example of this. James is an author, motivational speaker and community developer who was born a biracial orphan, adopted into a white family, with seemingly every possible advantages but experienced the challenges and struggles that many families face after the divorce of his adopted parents. James takes us on a journey through his childhood and into adolescents, where his early exposure to using drugs and his attempts to belong in high school, resulted in a long and arduous life full of addiction, homelessness, criminal activity and incarceration. James describes how a kid from a wealthy neighborhood Berkeley CA, could find himself participating in a prison riot and the unexpected ways that he learned how to be a friend. The conversation delves into the themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the significance of friendships, particularly hometown friendships. It explores the impact of authenticity, vulnerability, and making amends with oneself and others. This conversation shows us all that friendship comes in many forms and that it is never too late to learn to forgive those that have hurt us, make amens with those we have hurt and to learn ways to accept ourselves and to be our own best friend. Buy his book https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-James-M-LeBlanc/dp/1631297112?dplnkId=8a740ba0-b410-43ac-a704-9593cb4a3029&nodl=1

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I want to hear from you especially if you have a story about a hometown friend to tell me about

Mark Conway and I delve into his memories of the friendships that gave him the opportunity to become a different person and lead to a new understanding of himself. We share and explore the unique bonds that ties us both to out Berkeley roots.

This episode ties together the adventures of adolescence with the joys and challenges of parenthood, and promises relatability stories of being lost and then finding yourself in the ways our friends reflect us in genuine camaraderie.

Tune in and celebrate the magic of hometown friendships! 🏡🎧

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I want to hear from you especially if you have a story about a hometown friend to tell me about

In this heartfelt episode of Hometown Friends, join us as we dive into the life and memories of Greg White, who was born in Denver Colorado but moved to “Bizerkeley” CA where he grew up. Hometown Friends is not only about the stories of our youthful friendships, it’s about where you are from and where you feel you belong!
Greg has always identified with the people, history and culture of his hometown. He shares stories of teenage house parties where dancing and drinking were the main focus, as well as his experiences of hot tubing, skateboarding naked, and smoking weed at school with his friends. Greg and I met at Berkeley High School and have been loosely connected for 40 years and I knew him as the mastermind leader of a stoner crew that always had incredible adventures and were skillful athletes. He is a wonderful freak that I always looked up to as someone who was truly himself. We share a love for our community and for staying connected with our hometown friends.

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Follow us on Instagram @Hometownfriendspod

I want to hear from you especially if you have a story about a hometown friend to tell me about

Host Chandler Hoffman and his first grade friend, Carvel Watson reminisce about their childhood friendship and the sense of community they experienced growing up in Berkeley. They discuss their beloved teachers that made them feel loved and allowed them to learn, in contrast to other teachers that made them feel negative about themselves and squelched their confidence in school. They discuss the scary experiences of being picked on in school and how each of them dealt with the significant feelings of fear throughout their lives. They reflect on the loss of community in today's society and how social media can be an illusion of connection which leads to lessened feelings of community relationships. Chandler and Carvel are honest and vulnerable with each other throughout this episode and it leads to heartfelt conversation that is sure to move you to tears.

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I want to hear from you especially if you have a story about a hometown friend to tell me about

Join us on "Hometown Friends" as we hear from John Sasaki, whose journey from discovering lacrosse on the east coast to founding a team at Berkeley High paved the way for a remarkable 20-year career in TV news at KTVU and his current role as Communications Director for the Oakland Unified School District. Host Chandler Hoffman explores the transformative power of friendships and the essence of community, while John discusses the limitations of social media connections and the importance of genuine, face-to-face communication. Tune in as we celebrate the enduring bonds of hometown friendships and the legacy of activism in Berkeley and Oakland.

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I want to hear from you especially if you have a story about a hometown friend to tell me about

Join us for a captivating episode of "Hometown Friends," featuring Alex and Emily from Berkeley, California. Dive into their experiences growing up in a multicultural environment and how it shaped their views on diversity and friendship.

Alex discusses the challenges of losing diversity in high school, while Emily shares her unique experience as a White Jewish woman in a Black sorority, sparking a broader discussion on cultural appropriation. Together, they emphasize the importance of using privilege to foster inclusive communities and maintaining intentional relationships.

Hear how their lifelong hometown friendship has provided a safe space for authenticity and support through all stages of life, illustrating the lasting impact of deep, intentional connections.

Engage with us on YouTube and Instagram, share your thoughts, and let’s keep the conversation going!

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I want to hear from you especially if you have a story about a hometown friend to tell me about

Join Owen and Dave—two friends who found each other later in life but share a deep bond rooted in their hometown of Berkeley, California.

From childhood adventures to navigating adulthood, they reminisce about coffee shops, pedal through scenic cycling routes, and swap stories about staying healthy.

Tune in as they celebrate enduring friendship, sipping lattes and conquering hills. True camaraderie, one cup of coffee at a time!

Don’t miss their journey—like, comment, and subscribe to stay connected!

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I want to hear from you especially if you have a story about a hometown friend to tell me about

In today's episode, we delve into Rich Stroud's deeply personal journey of battling addiction and the transformative power of friendship. Rich shares his raw and moving experiences, highlighting the crucial support of friends who stood by him, offering a lifeline during his darkest days. This conversation is not just about struggles; it's a showcase of two friends appreciating their adolescent friendship after not seeing each other for decades, and the incredible impact that true friends can have on our lives, proving that sometimes, the right people can indeed save us.

As we explore Rich's story, we're reminded of the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of appreciating our hometown friendships while navigating life's toughest challenges. This episode serves as a heartfelt tribute to the bonds that sustain us through adversity. Please like, follow, share and subscribe!

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