Radically Curious Conversations is a weekly discussion meant to inspire through meaningful, engaging and entertaining conversations about the community and world around us. Jessica Gomez and Tiffany Cooper combine with weekly guests to bring a refreshing, relatable, unpredictable and intelligent voice to topics impacting Southern Oregon, our state and country. Tune in online every Thursday at 4:00pm PST and connect with Rogue Voice.
Watch Live on our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/RogueVoiceSouthernOregon/
Watch Live on Zoom: https://roguevalleymicro.zoom.us/j/97954437025
Watch past shows on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
Meet Jessica
Jessica Gomez is the Founder and CEO of Rogue Valley Microdevices, Inc., the first microelectronics manufacturing company in Southern Oregon. Jessica developed a love for high-tech entrepreneurship after holding positions at Standard Microsystems in the 1990’s and then Integrated Micromachines, Inc. in 2001. In 2003 Jessica, and her husband, relocated to Southern Oregon and founded Rogue Valley Microdevices, Inc.
Jessica is an active member of the community and is dedicated to supporting economic development.
She serves on the Oregon Institute of Technology Board of Trustees, was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Oregon Healthcare Committee and the Oregon Business Development Commission, serves on the Oregon Business Council’s Board of the Directors, The Chamber of Medford/Jackson County, Chairs the Rogue Workforce Partnership. She is also the co-founder and Board Chair of the Sustainable Valley Technology Group, is a Board Member of the STEM Investment Council, a committee member of the City of Medford’s Housing Advisory Committee, among others.
Jessica has recently received the Executive of the Year award from the Portland Business Journal, MEMS World Summit award and the SEMI Foundation Spotlight on Women award. Jessica is married and is the mother of two beautiful daughters.
MEET TIFFANY
Tiffany Cooper is a Broadway actor, vocalist, executive speaker coach and educator whose career spans over 30 years in the entertainment industry on stage, television and film. She was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, where she received extensive training in classical acting, dance and voice before attending college. After earning degrees in Speech Communications, Theatre, and Dance from Murray State University in Kentucky, she moved to New York City to pursue a professional career in the performing arts.
As an arts educator, she shares her knowledge and passion for the arts. She received certification in arts education from The Actors Fund in New York City and has participated in and led numerous arts-in-education programs in New York, Alaska and Florida. In addition, she regularly adjudicates regional and national talent competitions including the Midwest Starz Dance Competition in Wisconsin, WI.
As an executive speaker and performance coach, she offers numerous techniques to make presentations memorable, impactful and inspiring. Her clients include business executives, political candidates, keynote speakers, TEDx speakers, performing artists and amateur enthusiasts. Tiffany stays active utilizing all facets of her skill sets as a performer, arts educator and speaking coach in her community and beyond. She enjoys volunteering her time, energy and talent with various charity organizations.
PAST DISCUSSIONS
How To Tackle Online Schooling and Privacy During the Pandemic
November 19, 2020
Over seven months ago, students across the United States transitioned to online learning because of the coronavirus. As cases continue to surge, many youth are still attending online classes. For parents, one huge concern has been privacy and how much time their children spend on the computer. At the schools, an incredible amount of work is being done by IT professionals to keep children safe and their online programs operating smoothly. Rogue Voice is joined by Suhaib Al-Tamimi, a Computer Support Specialist with the Phoenix-Talent School District, and Allan Quirós, IT Manager with Phoenix-Talent School District, to discuss these challenges and how the schools continue to adjust to online learning. Watch Here.
air travel and health: how to fly safely amid a pandemic
Thursday, November 12, 2020
Air travel was one of the first industries to be hindered by the coronavirus pandemic. With the holidays coming up, people are wondering if they should fly to visit relatives. And, will it be safe to fly for business trips or vacations in 2021? With many questions still surrounding the coronavirus, experts in the air travel industry are taking the proper precautions to keep people safe. Jason Foster, Air Service & Business Development Manager for the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport, and Airport Director Jerry Brienza, join Rogue Voice to discuss air travel over the holidays, and what 2021 holds for airports and passengers. Watch Here.
what happens now? impacts from the election results.
Thursday, November 5, 2020
Now that one of the most historical elections in modern U.S. history is over, where do we go from here? To determine next steps, we must dissect the election and how the results from across the country could impact people at the state and local levels. Additionally, we will talk about how the results from the presidential election will factor into the ballot results. Gabriel Braet of the Young Republicans of Oregon, and Southern Oregon University graduate Megan Godsby, join Rogue Voice to review Tuesday’s election results and how they may change things in "What Happens Now? Impacts from the Election Results at the National, State and Local Levels." Watch Here.
back on the field. letting youth play recreational sports amid the pandemic
Thursday, October 22, 2020
The coronavirus has impacted almost every facet of life: work, business, school, social engagements, and sports. In Oregon, Phase 2 reopening guidelines states “sports that involve participants coming into bodily contact are prohibited at this time.” With a vaccine months or a year away, this could result in sports being halting for the foreseeable future, including youth sports. Because these extracurricular activities provide so many benefits to young people, a group has started the “Let Them Play” initiative to request high school student athletes be granted the opportunity to play this fall. Jackson County Commissioner Rick Dyer, and Vice Chairman of the Medford Parks and Recreation Commission, Julian Cordle, join Rogue Voice to discuss how we can safely bring back youth sports. Watch Here.
could the great hack happen to you?
Thursday, October 15, 2020
Cybersecurity can be challenging, even under normal circumstances. With the coronavirus pandemic and work from home scenarios, even greater obstacles have been created for IT and security professionals. While there is no way to completely guard against online threats, there are plenty of ways to decrease your exposure. Cybersecurity expert Eric Rockwell and Micah Shanks, CEO of Lifeline, join Rogue Voice to dive into the most common ways businesses are being breached and what you should be doing today to keep your system safe from an attack in "Could the Great Hack Happen to You? Hear what the experts have to say about keeping you and your business safe." Watch Here.
diversity not division part 2
Thursday, October 8, 2020
Rogue Voice resumes our discussion from last week's episode. We'll dive deeper in and talk about different tactics to use to have meaningful conversations in a politically divisive atmosphere. Watch Here.
diversity, not division: discovering the true value of thought diversity in politics
Thursday, October 1, 2020
Red vs. blue; left vs. right; us vs. them. Political division has run rampant and creates a toxic atmosphere where people are afraid or anxious to share differing political views and engage in constructive dialogue. But now is the time to build a bridge between the right and left and create spaces where people can safely share diverse political views and encourage critical thinking. Marla Estes, creator of Building Bridgers, and Gabriel Braet of the Young Republicans of Oregon, join Rogue Voice and discuss how to create this change in "Diversity, Not Division: Discovering the True Value of Thought Diversity in Politics." Watch Here
DEVASTATION AND DESTRUCTION. THE AFTERMATH OF FIRES THAT RIPPED THROUGH SOUTHERN OREGON.
Thursday, September 24, 2020
The entire community is still in shock from the fires that raged in Southern Oregon. We are saddened by the wide-scale destruction and by the number of our neighbors who need shelter and basic necessities. Dee Anne Everson, United Way of Jackson County Executive Director, and Alec Lamoreaux, Operations Manager for Northwest Seasonal Workers Association, join Rogue Voice to discuss the next steps that are needed to stabilize our communities and how to begin the rebuilding process. Watch Here.
What the heck is happening?! parents, administrators and community leaders are still putting the puzzle pieces in place for school.
Thursday, September 17, 2020
Dr. Bret Champion, Superintendent of the Medford School District, Brad Russell, Rogue Valley YMCA Executive Director, and Cassie Chan, a full-time working mother of two, join Rogue Voice to talk about how this year’s return to school is dramatically different amid the COVID-19 pandemic. When the coronavirus outbreak led schools to shut down this past spring, parents had to quickly rally, juggling their jobs with the added roles of teacher, tutor and occasional IT technician. But as the virus surges, school districts are again shifting much or all learning online with no clear end in sight. How do school administrators, community leaders and parents all come together to ensure a “Student First” model amid growing frustration? Watch Here.
Southern Oregon fires impact - resources and information
Thursday, September 10, 2020
To sign up for assistance online or if you are interested in volunteering, please visit https://roguevalley.recovers.org/
2. For shelter and immediate assistance from the RED Cross, please go register in person at the Jackson County Expo. The expo has a shelter set up for large and small animals. If you are interested in volunteering, the expo also need help.
3. Northwest Seasonal Workers Association need volunteers who are experienced with managing logistics or if you are bilingual Spanish speaking. Many of their member families have lost their homes and need assistance. Address: 203 N Oakdale Ave, Medford, OR 97501 Phone: (541) 773-6811
4. Please send all donations of materials and supplies to Good Will. All drop off locations are available. If you need help they are also offer vouchers to those who need supplies. https://www.sogoodwill.org/
5. Please send donations to The United Way of Jackson County. They have started a fire relief fund. You can donate directly through there website or send a check. http://www.unitedwayofjacksoncounty.org/give/
Healthcare management in a time of crisis
Thursday, September 3, 2020
Scott Kelly, President and CEO of Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center, and Family Medicine Specialist Dr. James Grebosky, joins Rogue Voice to discuss how the healthcare system is continuing to adapt to the COVID-19 crisis. We explore the long-term changes the epidemic will bring to the health care landscape, and how their approach to patients and employees may have shifted during the crisis and what it means for the communities they serve.
The New Ways to View Farm to Fork: Key Things Everyone Needs to Know About Sustainable Farming & Gardening
Thursday, July 30, 2020
We’ve all heard about the farm-to-table movement and sustainable food production. You probably know these concepts are meant to help the environment — but what exactly are they? And what do they ask of us: the consumers? Rogue Voice digs into this topic with Chris Hardy, Owner/Operator of Hardy Seeds and Joan Thorndike, Organic Flower Farmer and Owner of Le Mera Gardens to learn more about the benefits of both and how they may apply to all of us.
#Breakthestigma: Reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, promoting well-being & improving mental health outcomes
Thursday, July 23, 2020
Mental illnesses affects 19% of the adult population, 46% of teenagers and 13% of children each year. People struggling with their mental health may be in your family, live next door, teach your children or work in the next office. However, only half of those affected receive treatment, often because of the stigma attached to mental health.
Andrea Berryman Childreth, founder of The Lemonade Project and Athena Goldberg, VP of Behavioral Health for AllCare, joined Rogue Voice to address the challenges, resources and support available for those struggling with mental illness.
Is Transformation on the Horizon? Potential Changes in Commercial Construction / Real Estate in the Post-COVID-19 Market
Thursday, July 16, 2020
The severity and issues associated with the COVID-19 pandemic pose a new set of challenges and opportunities for commercial construction and real estate, as people are rethinking how to use various spaces. There is not a one-size-fits-all solution for businesses. As companies are now focusing on how offices will function in the future, what changes are on the horizon for commercial real estate and construction? Rogue Voice addresses this topic with Allen Purdy, Co-Owner and President of S+B James Construction, and Scott King, founder, principal broker, and owner of Merit Commercial Real Estate.
moving forward. addressing issues of racism, equity and cultural diversity. how do we build a more inclusive community?
Thursday, July 9, 2020
After recent protests across the nation, conversations regarding racism, equity, and how to build more inclusive communities are becoming more frequent. Individuals, and the nation as a whole, are facing these complex issues and struggling with how best to support one another and how to call out an end to systemic bias. As we move forward, it will be important to lay out practices which focus on bringing communities together around positive change. Rogue Voice will address this topic with Nataki Garrett, Artistic Director for Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and Thomas St. Thomas, Writer & Contributor for Medium.
Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
ETHICS & ACCOUNTABILITY IN POLICE TRAINING: How Expectations Are Evolving Around Police Interactions
Thursday, July 2, 2020
As a result of recent protests happening across the United States, perspectives on 21st century policing are changing. The public's expectations regarding police training, interactions and accountability is rapidly evolving, with people demanding more from law enforcement and those in positions of authority. Police departments are currently navigating these issues and discovering how this may change future operating procedures. Rogue Voice will address this complex topic with Greg Costanzo, founder of ETHOS Consulting team, and Lieutenant Hector Meletich of the Ashland Police Department. Join us for "Ethics & Accountability In Police Training: How Expectations Are Evolving Around Police Interactions.
vaccinations & freedom of choice. perspectives from a medical researcher and parents
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Many countries require people to receive certain immunizations. In the United States, some state laws dictate mandatory vaccinations. Controversies over the efficacy, safety, and morality of immunizations stem from two, sometimes conflicting, goals: protecting individual liberties and safeguarding the public’s health.
Rogue Voice examined this issue with Dr. Jennifer Margulis, researcher and science journalist and Ron Scott and Dawn Croucher, parents who are making the choice whether vaccinations are the correct answer for their children and family. Watch for: Vaccinations & Freedom of Choice: Perspectives from a Medical Researcher and Parents
encouraging stem training now is shaping the future of the workforce
Thursday, June 18, 2020
Over the past 10 years, jobs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) fields have grown 3x as fast as jobs in non-STEM fields, according to the Department of Commerce. The best STEM schools engage students in real engineering and design challenges and connect them with career opportunities, which can help young people gain the skills necessary to succeed in these fields.
Rogue Voice will go in-depth with Shari Liss of the SEMI Foundation -- who leads High Tech U. We will also talk with two High Tech U participants -- Matt Mills and Margaux Quady -- who were involved in St. Mary’s High Schools STEM program. Educators are focused on getting more students hooked on math and science earlier in their school careers, which is why additional STEM programs are being launched nationwide.
WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
From Doctor To Patient: An Integrative Approach to Cancer Treatment, Brain Health and Overall Well-Being
Thursday, June 11, 2020
We all know it's important to stay healthy; however, for many of us, our health takes a backseat until we think something may be wrong. This episode of Rogue Voice explored ways to better fight disease and focus on our overall health in the long-term. Jessica Gomez and Tiffany Cooper were joined by Dawn Lemanne, MD and Director at Oregon Integrative Oncology, and Deborah Gordon, MD at Northwest Memory Center, as they dive into a discussion about our health and well-being in "From Doctor To Patient: An Integrative Approach to Cancer Treatment, Brain Health and Overall Well-Being."
WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
The Show Must Go On! What Live Music and Entertainment Venues Will Look Like in the Future
Thursday, June 4, 2020
Generally catering to large groups of people, live music and entertainment venues were some of the first industries to feel the impacts of COVID-19. As Oregon and other states begin to re-open, a vision for the next phase of live entertainment starts to take shape. Donna Briggs, President & CEO of Britt Music and Arts Festival, and long-time Ashland guitarist Ed Dunsavage, join Jessica Gomez and Tiffany Cooper for the next episode of Rogue Voice . “The Show Must Go On! What Live Music and Entertainment Venues Will Look Like in the Future."
WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
Misconceptions, Myths and Truths: Digging Into the Cannabis Industry
Thursday, May 28, 2020
The cannabis industry is booming in the United States and is showing no signs of slowing down. Last year alone showed a 76% increase in cannabis jobs in the United States. However, even as the movement picks up steam, there is still a lot that is unknown about the plant and the business behind it.
This week, Rogue Voice talks with Matt and Natalie, owners of Jefferson Packing House, to address the myths, misconceptions and truths about the cannabis industry.
WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
Survival Mode or Business as Usual? What is the new normal for Travel/Tourism as it relates to retail and RESTAURANTS?
Thursday, May 21, 2020
COVID-19 has impacted many aspects of our lives, and has been especially challenging for the business community. Angela Wood, Director of Sales for Travel Medford, and Pam Hammond, Owner of the Padding Station retail stores, were the guests. They discussed the short and long term impacts, creative thinking, and how to collectively work together to manage in this new scenario.
WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
The Truth About Distance Learning: What Students, Parent and Administrators are Saying
Thursday, May 14, 2020
With millions of students across the country impacted by school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, Rogue Voice talked with Logos Public Charter School Executive Director Sheryl Zimmerer, South Medford High School student Evalina and her mom Christina Kruger about the challenges and successes of distance learning.
WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
Families Coping in covid-19 with tobias read and heidi eggert
Thursday, May 7, 2020
Families Coping in COVID 19. We chat with Oregon's State Treasuer Tobias Read and his Business Executive Wife Heidi Eggert from Nike on how they are managing their family, home-schooling, working full-time, etc. during COVID.
WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ
Innovation in new work models
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Our first talk will feature Jessica Gomez and Tiffany Cooper discuss the “Innovation of New Work Models” with Megan Davis Lightman and John Bowling. They will go over the current innovations businesses have had to implement due to COVID-19 and how this will likely shape the future of business.
WATCH HERE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgEPOYHFWnEXC6tKYrUMUWQ