What does “recovery” actually mean — and why does it matter so much for how we live, move, and age?

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Paris Gaines and Dr. Chris Telesmanic, Doctor of Physical Therapy, from Recover Lab — a Fresno-based recovery and wellness studio focused on personalized, evidence-informed approaches to healing and longevity.

The conversation explores the difference between active and passive recovery, why modern medicine often struggles to individualize care, and how modalities like assisted stretching, infrared saunas, cold plunges, red light therapy, and mobility work fit into a broader picture of health. Dr. Telesmanic breaks down what’s actually happening in the body during inflammation, soreness, and recovery — and why blunting symptoms without understanding them can sometimes do more harm than good.

Jordan also presses on bigger questions: youth sports specialization, injury prevention, flexibility, longevity, and how Fresno schools and communities could better support health through movement and education. Along the way, the group dives into cold plunge science, sauna benefits, sleep, diet, and the psychology of discomfort — plus a rapid-fire “overrated vs. underrated” segment covering everything from hot yoga and sensory deprivation tanks to Fresno pizza and NFL running backs.

This episode is a thoughtful, grounded look at recovery not as a luxury, but as a foundation for a longer, healthier, and more functional life — right here in Fresno.

Recover Lab Website

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, host Jordan Mattox sits down with Luke Hoekstra, Executive Director of the Kings River Land Trust, for a wide-ranging conversation about one of the Central Valley’s most important—and most misunderstood—natural resources. Luke shares his favorite Fresno restaurants, then dives into the true nature of the Kings River: its volatile flows, its complex system of forks and irrigation diversions, and how the river once supported salmon runs all the way to the Pacific. Jordan and Luke unpack flood risks, groundwater recharge, and why river strainers and spring runoff make the Kings so dangerous. From there, they explore what land trusts actually do, how conservation easements work, and why protecting farmland, ranchland, and riparian habitat matters for the region’s long-term environmental and economic health. The conversation also touches on recreation, environmental psychology, balancing human needs with ecological stewardship, the politics of California water, and the practical challenges of restoring rivers in a changing climate. Luke closes with insights into the Kings River Land Trust’s vision, an update on recent conservation projects, and some favorite books and hiking spots.

Donate to Kings River Land Trust

In this episode of Fresno’s Best, Jordan talks with Christopher, owner of the soon-to-open We Rock the Spectrum inclusive sensory gym in Clovis, beginning with a tour of Fresno’s Filipino food scene—including food-truck favorites and the eternal question of when Fresno will finally get a Jollibee—before diving into what makes an inclusive gym truly inclusive. Christopher explains how his experience raising two children on the autism spectrum motivated him to bring this franchise to the Central Valley, and he describes how sensory-friendly equipment, child-directed play, calming spaces, and a philosophy of belonging shape every decision he’s making as the gym prepares to open. Jordan and Christopher explore some of the biggest questions facing families of kids with disabilities, including balancing structure and freedom, navigating overstimulation, understanding risk, creating opportunities for social connection, and partnering with schools and therapists. Christopher also offers insights on why Fresno needs more inclusive public parks, how “play with purpose” differs from therapy-led play, what parents should expect during a visit, and ways the gym keeps pricing competitive to remain accessible.