In the early 70’s, Brooks Firestone left his family’s famous tire company to start the Valley’s first commercial winery.  In the last 50 years, with Kate, his wife of 62-years, the Firestones have raised 4 children, and now boast 14 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

While he’s most proud of his family, Mr. Firestone has made his mark on our community as a philanthropist and politician.  He served 2 terms as a California Assemblyman and one term as a County Supervisor.  He and Kate were also honored in 2018 with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation for their long record of service.

In our wide-ranging conversation, Mr. Firestone and I discuss his career in the wine industry and his achievements in politics.  We also discuss his three books, two about Valley Animals and a third about his recently discovered passion for choral singing.  I couldn’t resist mentioning his brief stint on his youngest son Andrew’s season of the Bachelor.  And there’s a few other classic stories thrown in, including one about President Ronald Reagan and his longtime vet, the beloved Doug Herthel.

Mentioned in this episode: his three books: Valley Animals, More Valley Animals (to be published later this year), and Evensong; Firestone Winery, Firestone Walker Brewing Company, Messiah… Refreshed!, Doug Herthel, St. Marks Church, Alisal Guest Ranch, and Anya Linden.

Sunrise Organic Farm is featured in Small Business Spotlight.