Welcome to Benicia Voice — the podcast that amplifies the stories, people, and pulse of our community.

In this episode, producers Andy and Bart are joined by special guest Jim Kennon to share exciting news about the expansion of the Benicia Makerspace.

The Maker Space is growing with the addition of a brand-new automotive shop, complete with a car lift — opening up new possibilities for members to work on vehicle maintenance, restoration projects, and hands-on mechanical learning. This expansion reflects the Maker Space’s continued mission to empower creativity, skill-building, and collaboration across a wide range of disciplines.

Jim discusses what inspired the expansion, how the new shop will be used, and how it will serve both experienced makers and those just getting started.

Whether you’re into woodworking, fabrication, electronics, or now automotive projects, the Benicia Maker Space continues to evolve as a hub for innovation and community connection.

🔗 Learn more at: https://www.beniciamakerspace.org/

📍 Tune in wherever you get your podcasts — Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.
🎧 Benicia Voice — where community conversations come alive!

Welcome to Benicia Voice — the podcast that amplifies the stories, people, and pulse of our community.

In this episode, producers Andy and Bart are joined by special guest Jim Kennon, founder of the Benicia Maker Space, for an important community conversation about the closure of the Valero Benicia Refinery.

As the Maker Space is located in Benicia's Business & Industrial Park, Jim shares his perspective on what this transition could mean for Benicia — from economic impacts and workforce shifts to opportunities for innovation, local entrepreneurship, and community-driven solutions. The discussion explores how organizations like the Maker Space can play a role in helping residents adapt, reskill, and build new pathways forward.

This episode focuses on where Benicia goes from here — highlighting resilience, creativity, and the power of community as the city navigates a major turning point.

📍 Tune in wherever you get your podcasts — Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.
🎧 Benicia Voice — where community conversations come alive.

Welcome to Benicia Voice — the podcast that amplifies the stories, people, and pulse of our community.

In this episode, producers Andy and Bart are joined by special guest Jim Kennon to talk about the exciting upcoming STEAM Discovery Festival, presented by the Benicia Maker Space.

This hands-on, family-friendly festival celebrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) — bringing together makers, creators, students, and curious minds of all ages.

From interactive exhibits and live demonstrations to creative workshops and innovative projects, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore how creativity and technology come together.

Jim shares insights into what inspired the festival, what attendees can expect this year, and how the Benicia Maker Space is helping foster learning, creativity, and community connection right here in town.

🔗 Learn more and get details at: https://www.steamdiscoveryfestival.com

📍 Tune in wherever you get your podcasts — Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform.
🎧 Benicia Voice — where community conversations come alive!