On this episode of Beyond the Vines, I sit down with Maren Bean, owner of X’Core Northbay, with locations in Petaluma, San Anselmo, and soon-to-open Novato.

We talk about how Maren stepped into studio ownership, what makes the X’Core workout so effective, and why it has become such a powerful part of so many people’s weekly routines. She shares what it really takes to grow from one boutique fitness studio to multiple locations — all while maintaining a strong sense of culture, connection, and community.

If you’ve ever wondered whether this style of workout is right for you, felt intimidated to try something new, or are looking for a 45-minute class that delivers real results, this episode is for you.

More than just fitness, X’Core is about building confidence, strength, and a supportive environment where everyone feels welcome. This conversation will leave you feeling inspired — and maybe ready to book your first class.

You can find X’core on Instagram at @xcorenorthbay and on the web at xcorestudio.com.

You can find Amy Ahlers at amyahlersrealestate.com and @amyahlers_realtor on Instagram.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests on Beyond the Vines are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Amy Ahlers, or LivXplore Real Estate & Lifestyle.

In this episode of Beyond the Vines, I’m joined by Mary Orellana, the owner and founder of Lovey Coffee Co. — a woman-owned, small-batch coffee roaster rooted right here in Sonoma County.

Mary shares her journey from a lifelong love of coffee to building a business centered on community, ethical sourcing, and connection. We talk about what it really looks like to start a coffee company from the ground up, the meaning behind the Lovey Coffee name, and what it’s like being “your local coffee lady” at pop-ups, events, and weddings throughout the area.

She also opens up about the hands-on nature of small-batch roasting, the learning curves of entrepreneurship, and what success looks like to her today. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a small business supporter, or someone dreaming of starting something of your own, this conversation is full of heart, honesty, and inspiration.

Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy this one.

You can find Lovey Coffee Co. on Instagram at @loveycoffeeco and loveycoffeeco.com

You can find Amy Ahlers at amyahlersrealestate.com and @amyahlers_realtor on Instagram.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests on Beyond the Vines are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Amy Ahlers, or LivXplore Real Estate & Lifestyle.

In this heartwarming episode, Amy sits down with Linda and Isaak Cermak, the married duo behind Sonoma County’s well-loved Red Bird Bakery — a place that feels like stepping into someone’s home kitchen the moment you walk through the door. Together, they share the story behind the name, the roots that inspire their craft, and the early mornings spent “listening to the dough” and growing their business.

This conversation unfolds like a slow, comforting bake: full of intention, creativity, and a deep love for nourishing their community. From the delicate layers of Linda’s pastries to Isaak’s artisan loaves shaped by decades of craft, you’ll hear how the Cermaks built a bakery centered on warmth, connection, and the simple joy of feeding people well. It’s a celebration of small town magic, shared dreams, and the beauty of building something meaningful together.

You can find Red Bird Bakery at 556 East Cotati Ave in Cotati and 463 Sebastopol Ave in Santa Rosa. You can also find them on Instagram at @redbirdbakery and redbirdbakery.com.

You can find Amy Ahlers at amyahlersrealestate.com and @amyahlers_realtor on Instagram.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests on Beyond the Vines are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, Amy Ahlers, or LivXplore Real Estate & Lifestyle.