Dear Oakland

About Dear Oakland

a love letter to Oakland

Publisher

Dear Oakland

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Jan 2025

Latest episode

20 Aug 2025

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   20 Aug 2025

   Ep. 13 Edreece Arghandiwal

   Host "Dear Oakland" interviews Edreece Arghandiwal, co-founder and CMO of Oakland Roots SC, about building a community-focused soccer club and its impact on the city.

2. 

   4 Jun 2025

   Ep. 12 Baba Afolabi

   Baba Afolabi, Oakland community advocate and entrepreneur, shares his journey from Nigeria to becoming a local business leader and his vision for economic revitalization in Oakland, highlighting his commitment to community-driven change in this interview.

3. 

   21 May 2025

   Ep. 11 Akintunde Ahmad

   Akintunde Ahmad is a multimedia creative, journalist, and entrepreneur from Oakland, California, whose work is deeply rooted in his love for his city, its culture, and his family’s multigenerational legacy there. Through storytelling, advocacy, and entrepreneurship, Akintunde is dedicated to highlighting systemic injustices — not just to expose them, but to help remedy them and build pathways for lasting, community-centered change. As the Founder and Creative Director of Ade Dehye, Akintunde uplifts traditional West African craftsmanship while tackling waste colonialism and fast fashion through upcycled, handwoven, and hand-dyed textiles. His storytelling has appeared in publications like The Atlantic, The Guardian, and San Francisco Chronicle, often focusing on the intersections of race, inequality, and resilience in Oakland and beyond. A passionate community builder, Akintunde also co-founded Kinfolx, an Oakland-based coffee shop, wine bar, and cultural hub centering BIPOC culture. At the heart of all his work is a commitment to Oakland — its people, its stories, and its future. IG: @akintundeahmad

4. 

   7 May 2025

   Ep. 10 Baba's House

   Jen, a nightlife industry professional with a gift for crafting unforgettable experiences, and Alan, a classically trained pianist and violinist with a deep love for jazz, have come together to create something truly special—Baba’s House. Located in downtown Oakland, Baba’s House is more than just an immersive community event space and Asian snack shop; it’s a living tribute to their family’s legacy. As children of immigrants, Jen and Alan chose to break from traditional expectations, forging a path rooted in creativity, culture, and community. Inspired by Baba’s love of food, connection, and hospitality, they have built a space where artists, dreamers, and visionaries can come together to experiment, collaborate, and celebrate. With a focus on uplifting the AAPI, BIPOC, and creative communities, Baba’s House is a home for storytelling, music, art, and the shared joy of being together. Through their work, Jen and Alan are not only preserving tradition but also redefining what it means to build a lasting legacy. IG:@thisisbabas.house

5. 

   23 Apr 2025

   Ep. 9 Tarek Morad

   Tarek Morad was a seasoned defender for Oakland Roots SC, bringing grit, leadership, and experience to the backline. With a career spanning multiple clubs in the USL Championship, he has established himself as a disciplined and reliable presence on the field. Known for his tactical intelligence and strong defensive abilities, Morad played with a passion that mirrored the resilience of the city he was representing. Beyond soccer, he embodies the spirit of Oakland Roots’ mission—using the game as a vehicle for social change. Whether he’s making crucial tackles or engaging with the community, Morad’s impact extends far beyond match day. His dedication to both the sport and the people it serves made him a vital part of the team and a role model for aspiring athletes. IG; @tarekmmorad

6. 

   2 Apr 2025

   Ep. 8 Brittsense

   Brittsense is a visionary documentarian, photographer, and storyteller from Deep East Oakland whose work shines a light on the raw, unfiltered beauty of overlooked communities. With a camera as her tool and storytelling as her purpose, she travels the world capturing the essence of resilience, struggle, and love, amplifying voices that are often unheard. Rooted in a deep love for her hometown, Brittsense uses her art to challenge narratives and reclaim the humanity of Black and Brown communities. Her imagery is intimate, emotional, and unapologetically real—each frame a testament to the power of presence and connection. Through projects like 222ForgottenCities, she not only documents history but actively reshapes it, reminding us that every neighborhood, every face, and every story holds value. Her work extends beyond photography; it’s a movement, a message, and a mission. Brittsense embodies the spirit of Deep East Oakland, carrying its energy into every space she enters. Whether behind the lens or in front of a crowd, she continues to inspire, uplift, and remind us all that our stories matter. IG: Brittsense

7. 

   19 Mar 2025

   Ep. 7 Victor Diaz

   Victor Diaz of Renegade Running, an independent specialty-running store in Oakland, California. More than just a retail space, Renegade Running serves as a community hub where runners of all backgrounds can connect, train, and grow. With a deep passion for the sport and a commitment to inclusivity, Victor is working to reshape running culture by fostering greater BIPOC representation and allyship in the industry. Through curated footwear, apparel, and community-driven initiatives, he is creating a space that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of Oakland’s running community. IG:@renegade_running

8. 

   5 Mar 2025

   Ep. 6 Heads or Tails

   This week, we’re joined by Kylee and Lou Lou, the duo behind Heads or Tails Collective, a vintage clothing store celebrating bold expression and secondhand fashion. San Francisco native Lou Lou grew up surrounded by costumes and props, shaping her fearless style and love for unique textiles. Kylee, from Wisconsin, embraced bold fashion despite standing out in her small town. Their shared passion led them to Oakland, where they turned friendship into a business. Join us as they share their journey, the challenges of running a vintage shop, and why fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a way of life. headsortailscollective

9. 

   19 Feb 2025

   Ep. 5 Kanitha Matoury

   Kanitha Matoury is a small business owner, mother, U.S. Air Force veteran, and political refugee running to represent District 2 in Oakland’s April 15th special election. A first-generation Cambodian immigrant, she served as an Air Force reservist before earning a Finance degree at San Francisco State. For 17 years, she has built and nurtured local businesses like Spice Monkey Restaurant & Bar and Howden Market, fostering community and resilience. Now, she’s ready to bring her passion for Oakland to City Hall—focusing on safety, economic growth, and a thriving, connected community.

10. 

    5 Feb 2025

    Ep. 4 Langstyn Avery

    In our latest episode, we sit down with Langstyn Avery, one of the innovators behind @negusinnature, to talk about the inspiration behind the movement and the nature-centric experiences they’re curating for the community. Langstyn is a creative powerhouse shaping Oakland’s cultural scene. A mixed-media artist, comedian, and event manager, producer, curator at Wolfe Pack Studio, Langstyn curates vibrant experiences—from stand-up comedy to live music—creating space for artists to shine. His work extends beyond entertainment, fostering healing, connection, and empowerment.

11. 

    24 Jan 2025

    Ep. 3 Flygerian Jeff

    Flygerian Jeff is an international DJ, cultural curator, and the visionary founder of United Tribes of Africa. Hailing from Oakland, he’s on a mission to ignite the dance floor and unite communities through the powerful rhythms of the African diaspora. With each beat, he weaves together global sounds and deep-rooted cultural vibes that bring people together, whether it's at his electrifying events or through his dynamic mixes. Want to vibe with him? Catch his latest sound adventures and stay in the loop for upcoming United Tribes of Africa events via his Instagram. IG: flygerianjeff Bookings: www.flygerianjeff.com Events: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/united-tribes-of-africa-595289

12. 

    24 Jan 2025

    Ep. 2 Charlese Banks

    It was a pleasure talking to Charlese, the creative behind The Town Experience. On this episode, we delve into what the intention was behind The Town Experience, how Charlese turned what she thought was a weekend project into a collaborative business with Visit Oakland, which prioritizes tourism in the city, and we get into many of the epic events that we can look forward to including Black Joy Parade and All Star Weekend. Instagram: @sociallyflyy_ & @thetowexperience

13. 

    8 Jan 2025

    Ep. 1 Yakpasua Zazaboi

    In this episode, we sit down with Yakpasua Zazaboi, one of the godfathers of sideshows, who has made a significant impact on both the Oakland community and the world of filmmaking. A proud father, entrepreneur, and award-winning filmmaker, Yakpasua shares his journey through the gritty streets of Oakland, his passion for the city's culture, and the artistic vision that has driven his success. With deep roots in the local community, he discusses how sideshows have shaped his life and the creative projects he's championed. This is a conversation you won't want to miss! Instagram: @zaza.boi &  @SYDESHOWZ  (https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCgCAtKgk0jegrLkzf7haDJQ)

14. 

    8 Jan 2025

    Dear Oakland Intro

    Join Chelsea and Jas, two Oakland residents, as they celebrate the heart and hustle of this city. Each episode highlights inspiring small business owners, creatives, and changemakers who share their stories and visions for a thriving Oakland.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

4,708

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 33 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

26

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

32

Contact Dear Oakland

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.