For nearly 2 decades, the tour guides at Hearst Castle -- the jewel in the crown of California State Parks -- were trained by a team led by Debra Mendenhall. Debra credits her grandmother for instilling in her a sense of strength and determination. 

"Most of the things I've taken through my life came from Ina Claire Ferguson Hare.  She was an amazing person, and I miss her every day."

Hear the inner thoughts of storyteller, Richard Stirling of Vaxxed Films who says, "Filmmakers are magicians ... creating an illusion of place." To see his films, go to his YouTube channel here.  

Get nuggets of wisdom like, "Don't sweat the little shit," or "He's actually personable -- sometimes," when you listen to these three people who became fast friends in their 60s when they started a job as historic interpreters at one of California's premier state parks, Hearst Castle. 

Donnelle survived a childhood of unspeakable violence and made a conscious decision at 14 years old that she would not live that way as an adult. She is now a keynote speaker; teacher; and historic interpreter at one of California's most visited state parks, Hearst Castle. 

"If you don't like what you were raised with then don't emulate it."  -- Donnelle Guiltinan

This episode is dedicated to Elaine's father, Eddie Rosell, who passed away in 2021. "Eventually, it all works out."

Paula tells her story of life in journalism, standing up to corporate incompetence, and getting fired. Welcome to, We the Reporters.