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The aroma hits you first: smoky, rich, unmistakably Texan. But this isn’t Houston. You’re in San Francisco’s Sunset District, where Daniel Ramirez and his wife, Lareina, have built something special at Smoking D’s BBQ.

Daniel, a Houston native, missed the Texas barbecue of his hometown, so he made it himself and his own. What began as casual taste tests for homesick friends turned into a farmers market hustle, and eventually, a brick-and-mortar hit on Irving Street that now sells out almost every weekend. But it wasn’t just the brisket that turned heads — it was the bao.

Inspired by a trip to a night market in China, Daniel had the idea to merge his 18-hour smoked brisket with the pillowy softness of a Chinese pork bun. After several experiments (and a few delicious mistakes), the brisket bao was born — a cross-cultural creation that honors his Mexican roots and Lareina’s Chinese heritage. It’s now their breakout hit.

🎙️ In this episode, we talk about:

• What makes Texas brisket so legendary — and so hard to master
• How Daniel and Lareina blend Mexican, Chinese, and Texan traditions in every bite
• Why doing barbecue in San Francisco comes with unique challenges
• What it takes to grow from backyard cookouts to a full-time restaurant
• And how a bao changed everything

📍 Smoking D’s BBQ is located at 2181 Irving Street in San Francisco. They’re open Wednesday–Sunday, 11am–6pm — but go early. When it’s gone, it’s gone.

🎧 Like the episode? Share it, hit follow, and leave a quick review. It helps more neighbors find the show.

💬 Got a guest idea or feedback? Reach out on social media or email me at jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com. I’d love to hear from you.

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✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

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The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

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What does it mean to grow up Chinese American? And how do the stories of Chinese families in the Sunset District resonate with communities everywhere?

In this episode, Jessica sits down with Lily Wong, Director of Community Engagement at Wah Mei School and Director of the Sunset Chinese Cultural District, to explore the stories that don’t always make the headlines.

Together, they dive into:

• How Wah Mei became a pioneering bilingual, bicultural preschool in the Sunset District
• How the Sunset Chinese Cultural District was born during a moment of crisis. Website: https://sfsccd.org/en/
• What it means to find belonging across cultures, generations, and neighborhoods
• How murals, street festivals, and everyday victories are weaving new roots for the future

Along the way, Lily shares personal memories of growing up in the Mission District, witnessing neighborhood change, and reconnecting with her heritage in powerful new ways.

🌟 Plus: Stick around for a fun round of Sunset District trivia! (Spoiler: Lily wins… kind of.)

Whether you grew up in San Francisco, are part of an immigrant family, or simply love stories about neighborhoods and community pride, this episode is for you.

Come for the ideas and perspectives, and stay for the heart, history, and hope.

Stay Connected

📌 Listen on Buzzsprout
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▶️ Watch on YouTube
✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

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The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

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Hi Folks! This week’s episode has a different format, released in response to recent national changes that could reshape healthcare access for millions of Americans. With funding cuts, layoffs, and political uncertainty at the federal level, I wanted to share a timely conversation that explores what else might be possible.

My guest is Barry Hermanson, a longtime Sunset District resident, Green Party advocate, and former small business owner who has spent decades organizing around healthcare access and policy reform. Together, we unpack the real-world consequences of a profit-driven system and explore the promise — and obstacles — of single-payer healthcare in California.

💬 Why this matters to me:
Before I got into real estate and podcasting, I spent years working in healthcare policy and advocacy—including as Director of Government & Community Affairs at a local community health center. I’ve seen up close how hard it is for people to get care, even when they’re “covered.” This conversation is my attempt to unpack those experiences and ask better questions about how we move forward.

⚠️ Disclaimer:
The guest’s appearance does not constitute an endorsement of any political party or candidate. Views expressed are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host.

🏡 Local Updates from the Sunset District

🌳 Sunset Dunes is now officially open — a new park celebrating the neighborhood’s natural history
🏘️ Big zoning changes are coming to San Francisco. Learn more at sfplanning.org
🧺 Outer Sunset Farmers Market: Sundays, 9 AM–3 PM | 37th Ave between Ortega & Quintara
🧠 Trivia Night at Harrington’s Bar & Grille — hosted monthly by Jessica. Email for upcoming dates!

📬 Connect with Me

📸 Instagram: @jessicaj.ho
🌐 Facebook: The Sunset Connection
✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com
🎧 Subscribe & listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts

If you enjoyed the episode, please consider leaving a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review, sharing it with a friend, and tagging me on social media. It really helps more people discover the show.

🎶 Music Credits

“Spring Cleaning (Instrumental)” by Lunareh
“Something Else (Instrumental)” by Nu Alkemi
All tracks licensed via Soundstripe

Stay Connected

📌 Listen on Buzzsprout
📷 Follow on Instagram
📘 Like us on Facebook
▶️ Watch on YouTube
✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

Subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!

The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

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What does it really take to afford a life in San Francisco—and what happens when plans change?

In this episode, I sit down with Dyanna and Dane Volek to talk about their journey through homeownership, affordable housing programs, and navigating major life transitions.

Dyanna, a public servant and Sunset native, shares how the City’s housing programs helped her build a future in the place she grew up. Dane reflects on the closure of Anchor Brewing—where he rose from keg washer to brewmaster—and how he’s rebuilding through art, financial planning, and community connection.

We reflect on the systems that hold up and the ones that fall short, the emotional weight of transformation, and the quiet strength it takes to stay rooted in hope—even when everything goes off course, but somehow ends up exactly where it should.

Plus:
– The second edition of the Realty Rundown: a 20-year lookback at the Sunset housing market
– Anchor Brewing’s last brewmaster on the brewery’s closure
– Big ideas on how public-private partnerships could support SF’s working class
– And some good old trivia to bring it all home 🎉

Have questions for Dyanna or Dane?
Reach Dane at dane@stackedlife.com and Dyanna on Instagram: @dyannaluna

👉 Learn more about San Francisco's BMR (Below Market Rate) ownership programs here:
https://www.sf.gov/reports--august-2024--below-market-rate-bmr-ownership-programs

💬 Like the podcast? Share it with a friend!
📣 Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thesunsetconnection
📩 Email me: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

🎧 See you in two weeks on The Sunset Connection!

Stay Connected

📌 Listen on Buzzsprout
📷 Follow on Instagram
📘 Like us on Facebook
▶️ Watch on YouTube
✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

Subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!

The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

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In today's episode of The Sunset Connection, host Jessica Ho introduces two exciting new segments: The Realty Rundown and Community Announcements!

We start by exploring the latest real estate trends impacting San Francisco's Sunset District, highlighting key market insights, financial opportunities, and the city's beneficial DALP program for first-time homebuyers.

Our special guest is Margaret Graf, a dedicated advocate for seniors, retired nurse and attorney, and accomplished author. Margaret shares rich stories from over six decades in the Sunset District, reflecting on San Francisco's transformation, her work with seniors through her nonprofit Senior Power, and her impactful roles with the Advisory Council on Aging and Disability Services (DAS). She also discusses her delightful children's book, "The Adventures of Rob Raven: Climate Change by Wing and Tail," and previews her upcoming book, "Senior Sharp," celebrating the art and joy of aging.

Community Announcements:

• Join Vindy Chan and the Taraval Police Station’s Scam Awareness Project, meeting every other month, next in May 2025. Email Jessica or Vindy (info below) for more information!
• Attend the Never Better Elders Event by Community Living Campaign on May 15th, 1-4 pm, at the Hall of Flowers, featuring senior resources, entertainment, and appearances by Margaret Graf and Art with Elders.

Key Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• DALP (Downpayment Assistance Loan Program): SF Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development
  • Application Deadline: June 2nd, 2025
• Senior Power Newsletter & Community Living Campaign:
  • Contact Margaret Graf: opoygan1@yahoo.com
• SF Department of Aging and Disability (DAS):
  • Aging & Disability Resource Line: (415) 355-6700
  • SF Department of Disability and Aging Services
• Vindy Chan (Safety Liaison, Taraval Police Station)
  • Email: vindy.chan@sfgov.org
• "The Adventures of Rob Raven: Climate Change by Wing and Tail" by Margaret Graf:
  • Purchase on Amazon
• Upcoming Book "Senior Sharp" by Margaret Graf:
  • Stay tuned for release information in May 2025
• Never Better Elders Event:
  • Date: May 15th, 2025, 1-4 pm
  • Location: Hall of Flowers, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
  • Community Living Campaign Events

Stay Connected:

• Host Jessica Ho:
  • Jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

Thank you for tuning in to The Sunset Connection. Let’s stay connected and continue supporting our vibrant community!

Until next time, that’s all folks!

Stay Connected

📌 Listen on Buzzsprout
📷 Follow on Instagram
📘 Like us on Facebook
▶️ Watch on YouTube
✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

Subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!

The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

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🍀 Happy Early St. Patrick's Day! 🍀

In this third episode of The Sunset Connection, we sit down with Katy Tang, former San Francisco District 4 Supervisor and current Executive Director of the Office of Small Business. As a lifelong Sunset resident, Katy reflects on her journey in public service, the challenges and triumphs of her time in office, and her ongoing work advocating for small businesses across San Francisco.

Come along as we dive into:

• How growing up in the Sunset shaped her leadership style
• The Discover Your District initiative and why community connections matter
• The evolving small business landscape and how government can better support local entrepreneurs
• Her work leading San Francisco’s Office of Small Business and her mission to simplify processes for business owners
• What the future holds for the Sunset District’s economic growth and local businesses

Plus, we wrap things up with some fun St. Patrick’s Day trivia. For example, did you know how SF brewers smuggled malt syrup during Prohibition?

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

• SF Office of Small Business: sfgov.org/smallbusiness – Your one-stop shop for permits, leasing support, and small business guidance.
• Shop Dine SF Initiative: sfgov.org/shopdinesf – Support local businesses and explore curated guides for neighborhoods like the Sunset.
• Business Registration Info: sftreasurer.org/business – Need to register a business in SF? Start here.
• Follow the SF Office of Small Business on Instagram: @shopdinesf

📢 Want to hear more? Subscribe to The Sunset Connection, leave a review, and share your thoughts by emailing me at Jessica.Jasmine.Ho@gmail.com! Let me know what topics and guests you’d love to hear from next.

Stay Connected

📌 Listen on Buzzsprout
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📘 Like us on Facebook
▶️ Watch on YouTube
✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

Subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!

The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

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Dive into the heart of the Sunset District with SFPD Taraval Police Captain Brien Hoo as he explores the intricacies of community safety and policing. Growing up in the area, Captain Hu shares his vibrant memories and insights into how the neighborhood has transformed over the decades. This episode not only highlights the pressing public safety issues facing the community, particularly the rise of scams targeting vulnerable residents, but also emphasizes the vital role of community policing in building trust and cooperation between law enforcement and citizens.

Join us for an engaging conversation filled with valuable insights and a bit of fun with trivia that delves into the history of the Sunset District. Discover how each of us can contribute to making our community safer while celebrating its rich diversity. If you're curious about how to get involved in local initiatives or simply want to learn more about your neighborhood, this episode is packed with relevant and actionable information. Let’s work together to keep our Sunset District thriving! Tune in, engage with us, and take part in shaping the future of our community.

Vimeo Link to SFPD Blessing Scam Video

Please contact me at Jessica.Jasmine.Ho@gmail.com if you have any ideas or feedback! Thanks, and see you again in two weeks.

Stay Connected

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✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

Subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!

The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.

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In the inaugural episode of "The Sunset Connection," host Jessica Ho, a Sunset resident, sits down with Albert Chow, esteemed community leader and owner of the historic Great Wall Hardware store in San Francisco's Sunset District. Together, they embark on a journey through time, exploring the neighborhood's transformation from its origins as the "Outside Lands" to the vibrant community it is today.

They reflect on Albert's personal stories, discuss how the neighborhood's changing demographics influence its rich cultural tapestry, and more.

Join us for this enlightening conversation as we celebrate the Sunset District's rich history, its dynamic present, and the inspiring individuals who contribute to its enduring spirit.

Have an idea for the podcast or want a chance to be featured in the next one? Please email me at Jessica.Jasmine.Ho@gmail.com.

Stay Connected

📌 Listen on Buzzsprout
📷 Follow on Instagram
📘 Like us on Facebook
▶️ Watch on YouTube
✉️ Email: jessica.jasmine.ho@gmail.com

Subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more neighbors find the show!

The Sunset Connection — exploring the stories and histories that connect us.