Friday, February 28, 2025

Altadena Talks and Altadena Talks Foundation Give Voice to Altadena Residents

STAFF REPORT

After the Eaton Fire ravaged Altadena in January, it left more than just destruction in its wake—it sparked a movement.

Out of the ashes, Altadena Talks was born, a first-of-its-kind podcast dedicated entirely to the well-being of Altadena residents.

Hosted by Brian Baccus and Jamal Smith, both proud Altadena natives, the podcast delivers essential resources, real-time updates, and heartfelt conversations with community leaders, experts, and neighbors.

Broadcasting live Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, the podcast brings residents together like never before—offering hope, information, and a space to heal.

According to the hosts, Altadena Talks is not just a podcast, but a lifeline.

The podcast includes the Toni Talks segment hosted by Altadena native Antoinette “Toni” Bailey Raines.

The segment is dedicated to helping residents navigate change, whether through home design, community developments, or simply finding ways to adapt in an evolving world.

The hosts didn’t stop there.

They also established the Altadena Talks Foundation, ensuring that the voices of the community would not only be heard but uplifted, supported, and empowered.

The Altadena Talks Foundation is taking action.

Recognizing that recovery is more than just rebuilding homes, the foundation provides direct financial aid, temporary housing, mental health services, and disaster preparedness education.

This isn’t just about relief—it’s about revitalizing Altadena and ensuring no one is left behind.

The impact of this initiative is already being felt. The foundation’s first major event, the Black History Month Festival at Jackie Robinson Park, was a testament to the power of unity, culture, and resilience.

The initiative continues to grow and evolve.

“Altadena Talks isn’t just about conversation—it’s about connection,” Baccus said. “It’s about standing together, lifting one another up, and ensuring every resident has a voice, a resource, and a path forward.”