The Something Better Podcast

Hal-LAW-een is back!

The Bakersfield Police Department's popular Hal-LAW-een Spooktacular will be back at the end of October! We sit down with Carina Ortiz and Sgt. Eric Celedon from PD to talk about the event, what it's all about, what's new, when exactly it is (4 - 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29), and what you need to know if you're coming this year!

El Niño, storm preps and the Water Department

The California Department of Water Resources has dedicated Oct. 17 - 24 this year as Flood Preparedness Week and we're highlighting how the City of Bakersfield is prepping for the wet season and a possible Super El Niño this winter. Daniel Maldonado, fresh from being appointed the City's new Water Department Director, joins us to talk about what his department is doing to make sure you, your family and your property are kept safe even in the face of heavier storms than normal. Plus, learn a bit about out to make your home more water friendly and maybe save a couple bucks while you're at it!

Reducing Gun Violence in Bakersfield, Pt. 2

Did you know? Less than 1/10th of 1% of the City's residential population is responsible for 60-70% of all gun violence in Bakersfield? That equates to between 150 and 200 people. That means using strategic targeting can address the majority of gun violence and stop it before it happens. That's the idea behind Bakersfield's Office of Violence Intervention & Prevention. City Manager Christian Clegg and Asst. to the City Manager Crystal Rubio join us to give an update on the the OVIP program. We last spoke with members of the City's OVIP back in 2025. Now we're taking a look at progress since then, how the program works and how it's breaking the cycle of violence for at-risk individuals in Bakersfield.

25 Years Remembering Patriot Day

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Thousands of lives were lost, including fire and police personnel in New York City. As the nation marks the anniversary, members of the Bakersfield Fire Department and the Bakersfield Firefighters Historical Society will host two ceremonies at Fire Station 15 on Buena Vista Road. On Episode 33 of The Something Better Podcast, A.J. Clark, Jason Johnson and Derek Rodriguez with Bakersfield Fire, discuss the events of 9/11, how it impacted them and how they were able to bring a piece of one of the World Trade Center buildings to Bakersfield to honor the lives lost. They also discuss other memorials at Fire Station 15 and what visitors can expect when attending the site.

Sitting down with Code Enforcement

Ever wonder what Code Enforcement does? What code are they enforcing, anyway? We sit down with Code Enforcement Supervisor Jose Gonzalez to answer those questions, as well as when should you call them and what's the best way to get a quick response to issues. Hear how they use the Bakersfield Mobile App to receive and respond to the public's concerns and learn about Code's Rapid Response Teams. And if you haven't already, like and subscribe to The Something Better Podcast so you never miss an episode!

Fireworks safety for Independence Day

It's a great time to celebrate the nation's independence, especially with the 250th anniversary coming up. But don't ruin your holiday with a trip to the E.R. or a costly fine! Bakersfield Fire Department Public Information Officer A.J. Clark joins the podcast to talk about fireworks safety, how to know what to buy and not buy, plus how to report illegal fireworks if you see or hear them around your neighborhood. Check it out, stay safe, have fun and have a great holiday!

Summer pool and swim tips from the City's Aquatics Division!

We're up to 30 episodes and for the first time ever, we're going VIDEO on The Something Better Podcast! We're trying something new, so we hope you enjoy it! And our first video guests are Katherine Dye & Anthony Bishop who help run things at the McMurtrey Aquatics Center in Downtown Bakersfield. They have some great tips on how to stay safe in the pools - both the City's facilities and at home - as well as letting us know about the great programs and classes they offer for ALL AGES! Check it out, stay cool and, of course, stay safe!

Meet the new BPD Chief, Brent Stratton!

After six years, the Bakersfield Police Department has a new leader at the top. Brent Stratton was appointed the new Chief of Police, taking over in April 2026. Chief Stratton joined the podcast to talk about his life growing up here in Bakersfield, his career in law enforcement, his goals for the department, and what it means to him to be part of the community.

Rec. & Parks staying busy for the community

On Episode 28 of The Something Better Podcast Recreation & Parks Director Darin Budak discusses new changes at The Park at River Walk, programs being offered through the department and gets into the benefits of the Park Ranger Program. Darin even discusses an upcoming major project that should be complete by summer 2026.

Multi-modal projects

Public Works Director Zac Meyer and Assistant City Manager Gary Hallen return to talk multi-modal projects the City is bringing to our local roads. But, what exactly is multi-modal and what does it mean for road users? Zac and Gary explain and tell us about projects you may soon see when you're moving around town, how they're funded, and how they'll make a difference in your life.

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Emergency Preparedness

We welcome Bakersfield Fire Chief Kevin Albertson and BFD PIO AJ Clark back to the podcast this episode to talk about something that is on a lot of people's minds after the devastating fires in L.A. in 2024: How can you keep your home and family safe ahead of fire season? They explain how to come up with a plan for your family in an emergency, whether something like the L.A. fires can happen here, and how the Bakersfield Fire Department would respond if it did. As always, thanks for listening, don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast on your favorite service so you never miss an episode!

Enhancing your Arena experience

Adam Miller returns to the podcast to talk about the improvements that have been made at the Dignity Health Arena. Miller is the General Manager of the Arena and in this episode he tells us what you can expect when you come to a game or event at the City's premiere venue. From seat and scoreboard upgrades to saving on energy costs with new solar collection panels. And don't forget the new name on the outside! Remember to like and subscribe so you don't miss an episode!

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H Street Improvements Project: Making safer for all

A major improvement project is coming to H Street in Downtown Bakersfield, so Public Works Director Zac Meyer and Assistant City Manager Gary Hallen stopped by to talk about what you can expect as things get underway. New roundabouts, pedestrian crossing bulb-outs, lane reductions and more are on the way to the road. Learn why we're making these improvements and how they'll help everyone who uses the road, from vehicle drivers to walkers and joggers as well as bicyclists.

Breaking down Boards & Commissions

The City Clerk's Office is always looking to fill seats on our boards and commissions. And on this episode of The Something Better Podcast, City Clerk Julie Drimakis and Assistant City Clerk Cari Cowling breakdown the importance of each, their roles within the City, recruitment and how you can apply. Anyone interested in learning more and applying for a board or commission can visit the City Clerk's online portal.

Wastewater 2.0: Sewer Rates and more

Asst. Water Director Evette Roldan returns to talk more about the City's Wastewater Division, the proposed sewer rate changes and Prop 218 notices and more about the system we all use but never really think about. And if you missed Evette's first visit, check it out here.

Journey Through Time on the Bakersfield Trail!

Looking for something fun to do around town... and maybe learn something while you're at it? Visit Bakersfield has just what you're looking for with their new Bakersfield Historical Trail! The trail takes you on a journey through time in Bakersfield, checking out spots you might never have known about and telling you the history of our City along the way. Visit Bakersfield manager Matt Billingsley joins the podcast to talk about what their office does plus how you can earn cool prizes and up your Bakersfield trivia game at the same time!

It's Condorstown!

We hope you had a great holiday break and are ready for more of The Something Better Podcast! Adam Miller, General Manager for the Dignity Health Arena, Theater & Convention Center is back to talk about the Bakersfield Condors, back for season 27! We talk about the team's connection with the community, why it's so important, and ways the community embraces the team like the annual Teddy Bear Toss. Not only do we discuss the club's history, but its future, too, touching on the youth program, the Mini Condors!

Holiday Safety Tips from the Bakersfield Fire Department

The Bakersfield Fire Department keeps us safe every day, responding to fires and medical emergencies and even car crashes. But the holidays can bring their own safety concerns, too. Fire Chief Kevin Albertson and Battalion Chief A.J. Clark join the podcast to talk about how to keep your family safe in the kitchen, decorating and in case of an emergency. Learn what you should have prepared before disaster strikes.

Bakersfield's entertainment center!

The man who runs the City of Bakersfield's entertainment center - the Dignity Health Arena, Theater & Convention Center and the Amphitheater at the Park at River Walk - stopped by to talk about all the big shows to check out this season! Adam Miller is the General Manager of the City's venues and he talked to us about what you should be looking forward to, from the Harlem Globetrotters return, to the Offspring and Trans Siberian Orchestra and more!

Hal-LAW-een Spooktacular!

Things are getting spooky at the Bakersfield Police Department this month: It's almost time for Hal-LAW-een! Carina Ortiz and Sgt. Eric Celedon from BPD's Community Outreach team stop by the podcast to talk about their signature annual event, how it came about and its growth over the years to become a huge gathering the community has embraced. Plus, find out what you need to know if you plan on coming! Just about every City department will be involved in the fun on Thursday, Oct. 30 at BPD HQ on Truxtun Avenue, and we hope you and your kids can make it out and we can make this year's the biggest yet!