LIFE + CULTURE
SEEN, HEARD, LOVED
EDUCATION
FIRST FRIENDS, LASTING LESSONS
AUGUST 2026
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Our Greatest Legacy
This issue holds a special place in my heart. Children are more than just the here and now; they are our future. Their laughter, curiosity, growth, and limitless potential shape the world in ways we can't fully measure.
As parents, grandparents, teachers, and caregivers, we invest so much of ourselves into helping children thrive. We guide them, encourage them, and celebrate their milestones. Yet, in the process, they shape us as well. They remind us to slow down, embrace wonder, and find joy in life's simplest moments.
We also can't overlook the important role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility, patience, and companionship. The bond between children and their pets can be truly transformative, creating connections and memories that often last a lifetime.
At the heart of both children and pets is a simple truth: they depend on us. Our care, guidance, and attention help shape who they become. In return, they fill our homes with laughter, purpose, comfort, and love.
This month's issue celebrates the kids and pets who enrich our lives in countless ways. Please enjoy feature articles highlighting J-Walkers, Heritage Oak Private School, Aloha Veterinary Hospital, Yorba Linda Water District, Pedego Bikes & E-Bikes, and an article written by a Chapman University intern exploring some of the best dog-friendly destinations in our local communities. Each story offers meaningful insights and reminders of what matters most.
I hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra time and love into the children and pets in your life. They have a remarkable way of teaching us about patience, loyalty, resilience, and unconditional love.
Here's to the future represented by our little ones, and to the pets who faithfully walk beside us through every season of life.
Thank you for reading Lifestyle. I appreciate your continued support and hope to see you around town.
Cheers!
BRIAN PATCHETT, PUBLISHER @YORBALINDACITYLIFESTYLE
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Brian Patchett | brian.patchett@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATORS
Tawanna Cullen | tawanna.cullen@citylifestyle.com
Leonardo Scola | leonardo.scola@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Heather Whitsitt
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Art Cordero/CoreMedia Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
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The Good Shepards Dog Training
At The Good Shepards, dog training is about more than obedience—it’s about building stronger relationships between dogs and their owners. Founded by mother-daughter duo Stacie and Isabella Shepard, the Yorba Linda team uses a balanced, real-world approach focused on structure, leadership, confidence, and connection. Their programs help dogs thrive in everyday environments while giving owners the tools to create lasting trust and harmony. Today, they remain committed to helping dogs and families grow together. https://www.thegoodshepards.info/
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THE POWER OF BEING PRESENT
Through J-Walkers, Tammy Hotsenpiller is showing children the lasting impact of being seen, heard, and loved.
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT
On busy school mornings, while most people are packing lunches, checking calendars, or rushing to start their day, Tammy Hotsenpiller is already walking. What began as a personal practice of prayer has become a meaningful presence in her community—one that children eagerly anticipate, and families deeply appreciate.
J-Walker and the Kids
Tammy and her husband, Phil, serve as the pastors of Influence Church in Anaheim Hills.
Their commitment to children shapes their ministry and family life.
They’ve embraced a blended approach that combines homeschooling with traditional classroom learning, creating a partnership in which parents and educators work together to help students thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.
The story behind J-Walkers began with consistency.
Long before the name existed, Tammy was spending time in prayer near neighborhoods and schools, intentionally investing in the well-being of the communities around her.
“Honestly, it started really simple. I was walking and praying because I needed time with God. Life gets noisy, and those mornings became sacred to me. I would walk through neighborhoods and around schools just talking to Jesus about families, kids, people hurting, and honestly, about my own heart too. I didn’t have some grand plan. I just knew I wanted to stay close to God and listen for His voice.”
As the walks became part of her routine, Tammy became a familiar face to local students. Then came an unforeseen nickname that would change everything.
“It makes me laugh because it was so unexpected. A group of kids jokingly called me a ‘jaywalker’ because they saw me cross the street ‘illegally’ on one of my prayer walks,” she recalls.
“I went and joked with them, and then kept seeing them every day, and they would yell, ‘Hey, J-Walker.’ I remember not thinking much about it until one day, the Holy Spirit told me-Tammy, you are a J-Walker, a Jesus walker, walk for these kids. It was like a mandate from Heaven. And it was there that J-Walkers was born. Someone who simply walks with Jesus every day.”
J-Walkers grew naturally from the relationships Tammy was building along her morning route.
As students got to know her, those greetings turned into longer conversations about school, family, faith, and life’s daily challenges.
Tammy found that what many children wanted most was simply to be heard.
CONTINUED >
“Kids are hungry for real conversations. Not to fix or lecture them, just listen to what they’re going through.”
“I think they need someone to slow down long enough to really see them. Kids are hungry for real conversations. Not to fix them or lecture them—just listen to them and what they’re going through,” Tammy explains.
“So many kids feel invisible or unheard. Sometimes, a donut, a smile, and a simple conversation can open the door for a child to finally feel safe. We had a girl come to a Jesus club at one of our local clubs, just because there was free pizza. She gave her life to Jesus and now serves in our ministry.
Many of the most meaningful conversations happen in passing—moments that have become opportunities for students to share what is really on their minds.
One experience remains especially meaningful to Tammy and continues to affirm the importance of being present.
“I remember one morning passing the school quietly, praying over the students. One little girl asked if she could walk with me. ‘J-walker,’ she asked, ‘would you still love me if I did something really bad?’
Immediately, I responded that my love was not based on what we do, right or wrong, that my love was authentic and genuine. She began to share a difficult story with me. I knew then that I was in the right place at the right time. Often, the students will approach me and ask if I would walk with them.”
Experiences like this have reinforced the value of creating spaces where children feel accepted and secure.
Instead of emphasizing performance, J-Walkers focuses on belonging
For many students, that distinction has made all the difference.
“Love opens doors that pressure never will,” says Tammy.
“Kids don’t want another person talking at them. They want a relationship. Jesus met people with compassion first, and that’s always been important to me. I want kids to know they’re valued before anything else. I also think that in this generation, these kids don’t have many people looking them in the eye. Everyone is glued to a phone, so this gives them a genuine connection.”
The excitement children show when they see Tammy speaks volumes about the relationships she’s formed over time.
They now run up to share news, ask questions, and tell Tammy about what's happening in their lives.
“It fills my heart every single time. There’s something so beautiful about seeing kids run up smiling, wanting a hug, wanting to talk, wanting to share their lives, yelling ‘J-walker’ across Starbucks when they see me. It reminds me that connection matters more than we realize, and a simple walk can deeply impact students’ lives.”
The influence of J-Walkers now stretches well beyond morning walks.
The message has expanded through community involvement, ministry opportunities, and storytelling.
The J-Walker was recently adapted into a children’s comic book with Tammy, giving families another way to introduce young readers to themes of faith, kindness, courage, and purpose.
The book reflects the same spirit that first inspired those early walks: meeting children where they are and helping them understand their worth.
Tammy’s example offers an encouraging reminder for parents that meaningful influence is often built through ordinary moments repeated faithfully over time.
Consistency, availability, and sincerity can shape a child’s confidence in lasting ways.
Whether through a conversation around the dinner table, a walk through the neighborhood, or a few uninterrupted minutes at the end of the day, connection remains one of the greatest gifts adults can offer. CONTINUED >
When asked what message she hopes every child carries with them, her answer reflects the heart of the entire mission.
“You are seen. You are loved. You matter. And your life has purpose. I want every child to know they are never alone and that God has an incredible plan for their life.”
As J-Walkers continues to grow, its foundation remains unchanged. One person walks. One child feels noticed. One conversation creates trust. Then another follows.
Students regularly call out "J-walker" when they see her around town. They wave from across parking lots, share life updates, and remember the conversations they once had on their way to school.
Those moments tell the story of J-Walkers better than any statistic ever could.
What began as a personal time of prayer has evolved into a lasting connection with a generation of young people who know they always have someone in their corner.
Visit https://jwalkers.org/ to learn more about this incredible organization.
“It was there that J-Walkers was born. Someone who simply walks with Jesus every day.”
J-Walker & Team Members
Tammy, the J-Walker
J-Walker comic book and donuts
E-Bike Safety Matters
Pedego Electric Bikes Yorba Linda helps parents make informed e-bike purchasing decisions.
As eBikes become increasingly popular with families, parents should understand that choosing the right bike involves more than selecting a model online. Safety, rider readiness, and local and state laws all play important roles.
Considerations include whether their child can confidently ride a traditional bicycle, follow rules consistently, judge traffic safely, and navigate shared pathways responsibly. Equally important is selecting an e-bike that properly fits the rider and meets safety standards. California (CA) classifies eBikes into three categories. All have fully operable pedals and a motor of 750W or less. Class 1 bikes provide pedal assistance up to 20 mph, while Class 2 bikes include a throttle and can assist up to 20 mph. Both are open to riders of all ages, with helmets required for those under 18. Class 3 e-bikes provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph and require riders to be at least 16 years old. CA law also requires all Class 3 riders to wear helmets.
Be aware that some high-powered electric bikes exceed the state's e-bike standards and may be classified as motorized vehicles, requiring registration and licensing. Understanding these distinctions helps families ride safely and legally.
Pedego has been a founding member of the PeopleForBikes electric subcommittee, which, alongside CalBike, worked to establish eBike regulations in CA. Today, Pedego’s CEO is chairman of the PFB committee and works on safety issues, improving eBike and eMoto legislation, recognizing that parents may be unaware these faster and more powerful eMotos are dangerous and illegal for their child to ride.
For parents, the best approach is simple: know the laws, establish clear expectations, and choose an eBike backed by professional training, service, and support. With the right preparation, eBiking can provide families with a fun, healthy, and safe way to explore their community.
Other resources:
For more info. visit www.pedegoyorbalinda.com
Yorba Linda:
https://www.yorbalindaca.gov/924/ Ride-Ready-Yorba-Linda-Electric-Bicycles
Orange County:
https://octa.net/getting-around/active/ oc-bike/e-bikes
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALOHA VETERINARY HOSPITAL
FIRST FRIENDS, LASTING LESSONS
FROM FIRST FRIENDSHIPS TO BACK-TOSCHOOL ROUTINES, ALOHA VETERINARY HOSPITAL OFFERS GUIDANCE FOR RAISING HAPPY, HEALTHY PETS.
For many children, a pet becomes their first best friend. Whether it's a dog greeting them after school, a cat curled up nearby during homework, or a beloved companion joining family adventures, these relationships often shape childhood in meaningful ways.
According to the team at Aloha Veterinary Hospital, growing up with pets can help children develop compassion, empathy, confidence, and emotional resilience. Pets provide unconditional love and comfort while teaching children that their actions directly affect another living being. These early experiences often influence how children build relationships and care for others throughout their lives.
“Caring for a pet teaches children that kindness, patience, and consistency matter, while fostering empathy, responsibility, and confidence that often lasts a lifetime.”
Age-appropriate involvement in pet care offers valuable life lessons. Helping prepare meals, participating in daily walks, assisting with grooming, or engaging in positive play encourages responsibility, patience, and commitment. It also teaches children to recognize their pet's needs, emotions, and comfort levels. When families work together to care for a pet, they reinforce teamwork while creating meaningful memories and shared experiences.
As summer gives way to the school year, pets can experience transitions of their own. Many thrive on routine, and changes in household schedules may lead to clinginess, restlessness, changes in appetite, increased vocalization, or other stress-related behaviors.
Preparation can ease the adjustment. Families can gradually return to school-year schedules, practice short departures, provide enrichment activities, create calm rest areas, and maintain regular exercise routines. Through its Fear Free approach, Aloha Veterinary Hospital focuses on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress, helping pets feel safe, supported, and secure both at home and during veterinary visits.
If a pet is showing persistent signs of anxiety, a veterinary evaluation can help identify personalized strategies and support their overall well-being. For additional information, please visit our website at https://alohavethospitaloc.com. To book an appointment, please call 714 462-3360.
ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT
GROWING
Minds, Growing CHARACTER
“WE COMBINE ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE WITH CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT, PERSONAL ATTENTION, AND A STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY, CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE STUDENTS THRIVE.”
-HEAD OF SCHOOL LATRESE JACKSON
For families, selecting a school for their children is about more than academics.
It is about finding a place where students are known, encouraged, and inspired to grow into capable, compassionate young people.
For nearly six decades, Heritage Oak Private Education in Yorba Linda has built its reputation around that belief, creating an environment where students from preschool through eighth grade are supported through every stage of childhood.
As children grow, their needs evolve.
Heritage Oak’s educational approach grows alongside them, offering age-appropriate experiences that challenge students while nurturing confidence and curiosity.
From the earliest years through middle school, learning extends past textbooks to include enrichment, leadership opportunities, and personal development.
HERITAGE OAK PRIVATE EDUCATION BLENDS ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT, CONFIDENCE, CURIOSITY, CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT, AND LASTING LIFE EXPERIENCES.
“At Heritage Oak Private Education, we recognize that children grow and learn differently at every stage of development. Our curriculum is intentionally designed to be developmentally appropriate, research-based, and aligned with best practices in education,” explains Head of School Latrese Jackson.
That individualized attention remains one of the school’s defining strengths. Families often describe Heritage Oak as a place where children feel seen, valued, and understood.
Community is woven into everyday life on campus.
Family events, student leadership programs, and opportunities for cross-grade connections encourage relationships that extend far beyond the classroom.
Students learn not only alongside one another but from one another, building confidence and social skills through shared experiences.
The school’s commitment to developing character is equally important.
In addition to academic achievement, Heritage Oak emphasizes leadership, communication, responsibility, empathy, and service.
These qualities are cultivated through classroom experiences, extracurricular activities, and programs designed to help students understand their role in the broader community.
Even as screens take up more of children’s daily lives, Heritage Oak keeps real conversation and face-to-face connection at the center of student life.
Students participate in collaborative projects, athletics, performing arts, service initiatives, and leadership opportunities that encourage meaningful interaction and self-expression.
These experiences help children develop the confidence to communicate effectively and build lasting friendships.
Recognition as a Blue Ribbon School and a 2026 A+ School by Niche reflects the school’s longstanding pursuit of excellence.
Yet for many families, the distinction lies not in awards but in the day-to-day experience their children enjoy on campus.
“What truly sets us apart, however, is our commitment to educating the whole child,” says Latrese.
“We combine academic excellence with character development, personal attention, and a strong sense of community, creating an environment where students thrive.”
As Heritage Oak Private Education approaches its 60th anniversary, the school remains focused on the same work it has always valued—helping students grow into capable, caring young people prepared for what comes next.
Visit https://heritageoak.org/ to learn more about Heritage Oak Private Education.
WHERE DOGS LEAD THE WAY
DISCOVER DOG-FRIENDLY PARKS, PATIOS, AND LOCAL ADVENTURES TOGETHER
ARTICLE BY MADELINE SULLIVAN, CHAPMAN INTERN
If you’re a pet owner in Orange County, you already know leaving your dog at home on a beautiful summer day feels like an act of cruelty. Well, the good news is, you don’t have to. From grassy bark parks to pet-friendly brewery patios, Yorba Linda and its neighboring communities have no shortage of dog-friendly destinations and offer a plethora of opportunities where you and your four-legged friends can explore and enjoy the community together.
Bruster’s Ice Cream
Let them roam free at Yorba Linda’s off-leash dog park, Checkers Park. This well-kept park offers fenced and secure off-leash space with shaded structures and fresh grass surfaces that are a dog’s paradise. If you’re looking for a park family and pet-friendly, Box Canyon Park, also located in Yorba Linda, is your answer. Box Canyon has something for everyone: a pirate ship playground, pickleball and basketball courts, a covered picnic pavilion, and wide-open green space for your dog to run free. For dog owners who want a little more structure, Olive Hills delivers. This well-maintained Anaheim park features separate enclosures for large and small dogs, waste bag dispensers, water stations, shaded benches, and easy parking. The perfect park for you and your four-legged friend to have an easy and stress-free adventure.
Dine out with your dog at Yorba Linda’s Lone Wolf Brewing Company. The brewpub is perfect for a casual dinner, known for its craft beers, healthy comfort food, and its Tuesday night line dancing. The brewpub also welcomes your dogs on their patio and even provides water bowls for your furry friends. Lone Wolf’s relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to wind down with your dog after a long walk or park adventure. If you are looking for more of a quick stop, go to Brea’s Carbon Canyon Coffee Company. This delightful, laid-back coffee shop has an excellent selection of coffees, cold brews, and lattes, as well as their famous Olinda Burger. They provide a relaxed outdoor setting for you and your dog to enjoy. Carbon Canyon is the perfect spot for you and your pups to enjoy
a slow and easy-going morning or afternoon. Looking for a social evening? Check out Placentia’s Bruery Tasting Room, which has a spacious and comfortable outdoor seating area, rotating food trucks, and a beer lineup that gives even serious craft beer enthusiasts plenty to delve into. The Bruery Tasting Room provides a fun and social atmosphere for both dog owners and their pups. Craving a sweet treat after dinner? Check out Bruster’s Real Ice Cream shop, located in Yorba Linda. Bruster’s serves special doggie sundaes and provides a pet-friendly outdoor space where you and your pets can enjoy dessert.
In the Yorba Linda and the surrounding cities community, dogs aren't an afterthought; they're family and a part of the daily routine. As August begins and the end of the summer nears, there's no better time to leash up and discover everything this area has to offer. From strolling the park to easy-going patio dining, this community has so many opportunities for you to create long-lasting memories with your furry friends.
Checkers Park
Olive Hills Dog Park
Homemade Dog Food
ARTICLE BY AMY TINNIN
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
My two pugs are more than pets—they’re part of the family. That’s why I started making their food at home, and it’s been one of the most popular posts on my blog. You may be surprised just how easy this recipe is. I add all the ingredients to my slow-cooker to cook, and my dogs love it. If you decide to try this recipe for your pet, please consult your veterinarian. Every dog has different needs based on age, weight, and any health issues. You can even share this recipe with your vet to see if any changes are needed. The ingredients are flexible and can be easily swapped to substitute the turkey for chicken or beef, and even try different dog-safe vegetables. Making dog food at home isn’t hard—it just takes a little planning, and my dogs love it.
Slow Cooker Homemade Dog Food
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 lbs ground turkey (85% lean)
• 1¼ cups frozen sweet potatoes
• 1½ cups frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup frozen spinach
• 1½ cups uncooked brown or white rice
• 4 cups water
DIRECTIONS:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Break up the ground turkey and mix all the ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
Note: My dog food was ready in 3½ hours on High. Let cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for later use.
Recipe from Amy Tinnin - A Cup Full of Sass
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MEET THE TEAM: KEEPING WATER FLOWING DAILY
ARTICLE
BY HEATHER WHITSITT
Before children head off to school and pets settle into their morning routines, a dedicated network is already hard at work delivering one of life's most essential resources. Clean, reliable water touches nearly every part of daily life, yet few residents ever see what it takes to keep it flowing.
From brushing teeth before school to filling a dog's water dish, it plays a role in routines both big and small.
That’s one reason the Yorba Linda Water District (YLWD) has turned its annual Open House into one of the area’s most anticipated family events.
Through interactive exhibits, tours, demonstrations, and hands-on activities designed for all ages, the District invites residents to discover the people and technology behind the safe, reliable water service that keeps our community running every day.
According to Mark Toy, General Manager of the Yorba Linda Water District, the event was created to help residents better understand an essential service that often goes unnoticed.
“Our Open House was created to bring the community behind the scenes and show people what it really takes to deliver safe, reliable water every day,” he says.
“We wanted to create a fun, interactive experience where residents could meet the people behind the service and see firsthand the work happening right here in their own community.”
In operation since 1909, YLWD serves approximately 74,000 residents, providing water and sewer services across its extended service area.
Behind that responsibility is a team of professionals who oversee a state-of-the-art treatment facility, maintain extensive infrastructure, and support emergency preparedness efforts, ensuring water quality standards are met around the clock.
For kids, the Open House offers a chance to explore a world they may never have considered.
For parents and grandparents, it provides insight into the systems that support everyday life.
The event transforms complex topics into engaging experiences that make learning memorable.
Education remains a major focus of the District’s outreach efforts.
Through school visits, classroom presentations, career fairs, and tours, YLWD helps students understand how water travels from its source to homes and businesses.
Those lessons often spark curiosity about science, engineering, environmental stewardship, and careers in public service.
The District also works to help residents appreciate the many steps involved in managing water both before and after it reaches their homes.
Understanding that process fosters a greater appreciation for the value of water and the critical infrastructure required to deliver it safely and reliably every day.
The 2025 Open House drew more than 500 attendees and featured activities that appealed to every age group.
Community partners joined the event as well, highlighting the collaborative efforts that support public services throughout the region.
One of the biggest successes of the day was seeing multiple generations learn side by side.
Children explored hands-on demonstrations while adults gained a closer look at the technology and systems that help ensure reliable water and sewer services every day.
A favorite guest also returned to delight attendees.
“Ricky the Rambunctious Raindrop” posed for photos, greeted visitors, and added plenty of fun to an already lively atmosphere.
Beyond the activities, one of the event’s most meaningful aspects is the opportunity for residents to meet the people who make local water service possible.
“These conversations and interactions help build trust, transparency, and understanding,” explains Mark.
“Residents get to ask questions, learn about the work happening behind the scenes, and see firsthand the passion our employees have for serving the community.”
That personal connection helps transform an often-invisible utility into something much more relatable.
Ricky and the YLWD Engineering Team
Visitors leave with a better understanding of the expertise, planning, and teamwork required to provide dependable service every day.
Looking ahead, YLWD is preparing an even larger experience for its 2026 Open House. Returning favorites will include tours, demonstrations, live music, hands-on activities, and opportunities to meet District staff.
Visitors will also have the chance to explore the District’s nationally-recognized PFAS Water Treatment Plant and learn more about the innovative technologies being used to protect water quality.
Whether attending with children, bringing along grandparents, or simply looking for a fun weekend activity, visitors will find plenty to enjoy—and perhaps learn something new along the way.
For first-time guests, Mark encourages them to come see the event for themselves.
“If you've never attended YLWD's Open House before, this is the year to see what everyone is talking about!”
The Yorba Linda Water District Open House will take place on Saturday, October 3, at the District headquarters located at 1717 E. Miraloma Avenue in Placentia
Admission is free, making it an easy way for families to spend time together while discovering the remarkable story behind every drop of water.
Learn more about the Yorba Linda Water District by visiting https://www.ylwd.com/.
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TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
JANIE
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
AUGUST 5TH
Brea, y2k2k! - Concerts in the Park
City Hall Park, 401 S. Brea Boulevard Brea, CA 92821 | 6:30 PM
Brea, Concerts in The Park. Seating is on the lawn of City Hall Park. Blankets and beach chairs are encouraged! This is a family-friendly and dog-friendly event. North Hills Church will return with its legendary barbecue tri-tip.
AUGUST 5TH
Brea Fest
Brea Civic Canter, 1 Civic Center Circle Brea, CA 92821 | 6:30 PM
Brea Fest is the “tastiest” celebration of the year! Guests are invited to sample delicious food and beverages donated by local restaurants while listening to live music, exhibitions in the Gallery, and live theatre performances. “Kidsville” includes face painting, balloon animals, make-and-take crafts, a bounce house, and kid-friendly foods. There is a nominal charge of $4. Proceeds support Brea’s Art Programs.
AUGUST 9TH
Concert in the Park - Yorba Linda
Hurless Barton Park, 4601 Casa Loma Avenue Yorba Linda, CA 92886 | 5:30 PM
Concert in the Park - The Flux Capacitators (Time Traveling 80's & 90's Rewind Band). Join us to enjoy great music and fun with family and friends! New this year - food trucks will be available!
AUGUST 15TH
Movie in the Park - Lilo & Stitch
4601 Casa Loma Avenue Yorba Linda, CA 92886 | 7:00 PM
Movie in the Park - Lilo & Stitch, Hurless Barton Park. Enjoy a Saturday evening at the park watching a family movie on our 20ft inflatable movie screen. Bring your chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner!
AUGUST 19TH
Summer Nights, Nixon Library – Le Polynesia
Pat Nixon Amphitheater, 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd. Yorba Linda, CA 92886 | 7:00 PM
The spirit of the islands to life through captivating dance, music, and rich cultural traditions. Join us on the lawn in the Pat Nixon Amphitheater for family-friendly performances, each offering a truly unique and exciting experience. Doors open at 7:00 PM. Concert will begin at 7:30 PM. Featured Food Truck: Guac n’ Roll Tacos will begin serving food at 6:00 PM
AUGUST 27TH
Brea Chamber Presents, Economic Forecast 2026
Chino Hills Community Center, 14250 Payton Drive, Chino Hills, CA 91709 | 11:00 AM
Register now for the 2026 Economic Forecast featuring renowned economist Dr. Christopher Thornberg on the Brea Chamber’s event page. Gain expert insights into key trends shaping business, investment, and community growth, and walk away with actionable strategies to confidently navigate today’s evolving economic landscape. $125 for Chamber Members, non-members $175.
