In this special episode of The Bay Insider, we sit down with Teresa Van Woy: author, podiatrist, world traveler, and former resident of Raphael House. Teresa shares her remarkable childhood story, from growing up with eight siblings on the road to eventually finding safety, structure, and a sense of home at Raphael House, a San Francisco organization that has supported low-income and homeless families since 1971.

We talk about how Raphael House has evolved over the years, from its early days run by nuns to the comprehensive, family-focused program it is now, offering shelter, education support, job training, and long-term stability through its Bridge Program. With a 95% success rate in helping families secure permanent housing, it remains one of the city’s most meaningful resources.

It’s a heartfelt conversation about resilience, community, and the impact real stability can have on a child’s life.

If you’d like to dive deeper into Teresa’s story, her book, Wildflower, is available on Amazon and at local bookstores. Tune in and learn how you can support the work Raphael House continues to do.

Episode Youtube Link: Raphael House - Inspiring Families and Illuminating Hope Video

Raphael House Information
Website: www.raphaelhouse.org
Email: info@raphaelhouse.org
Black & White Gala: event.auctria.com/503b1f03-0cd9-4901-a665-5cdbe41ec74a/

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

Teresa Van Woy’s Social Media Accounts:

Youtube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCtuiOk4GxTQiLWdJeuYg0Aw
Facebook: www.facebook.com/drteresamvanwoy
Instagram: www.instagram.com/drteresavanwoy/
Twitter / X: x.com/drteresavanwoy

Wildflower Book: www.amazon.com/dp/1734382724?fbclid=IwAR1CsKA218rGMm_qLet1fNqCJ04F686pRGnRvKdMXLTN6l56CvBlPHNqehc

Teresa Van Woy’s Contact Information:
Podiatry: www.drteresavanwoy.com/podiatry

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Amanda Martin | Lic #01386284
Ying He | Lic #01964556

BarbCo Real Estate Group

In this episode, Amanda and Ying take on a topic that’s been getting a lot of attention lately: the idea of a 50-year mortgage. We structured the conversation as a debate.

Ying argues for the potential for affordability especially for renters who feel locked out of the market and need another pathway into homeownership. Amanda takes the other side, calling out the long-term tradeoffs: higher interest costs, slower equity, and what this could mean for the housing landscape overall.

We are hoping this episode will show you the potential impact of the 50 year mortgage and how it should be utilized if passed.

You can access the slides here: 50 Year Mortgage Debate

Episode Youtube Link: 50 Year Mortgage Debate

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Amanda Martin | Lic #01386284
Ying He | Lic #01964556

BarbCo Real Estate Group

In this episode of The Bay Insider, Amanda and Ying head to Mount Davidson Manor, a quiet gem on San Francisco’s west side with deep roots and undeniable charm. Joined by resident Deepti, they explore what makes this 1920s neighborhood so special: its Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, detached homes, ocean views, and that rare sense of calm you don’t often find in the city.

They also trace the legacy of Fernando Nelson, the builder behind much of western San Francisco, and share a few local favorites along the way, from Charm Café and Ambrosia Bakery to Ocean Ale House and Aptos Park.

History
Fernando Nelson
George Davidson
Seven Hills of San Francisco

Restaurants, Cafés and Bars

Ambrosia Bakery
Champa Garden
Charm Café
Cherry Blossom Café
Fruit Barn
Lucho’s
Ocean Ale House
Ofena
Pakwan Restaurant
Philz Coffee
Sakesan
The Plant Lady

Shops
Stone’s Town / Stonestown Galleria
Target
Trader Joe’s
Walgreens
Whole Foods

Recreation
Aptos Park
Balboa Park
British Swim School
CC Arts and Crafts
Mount Davidson
Little Oceanauts
Terrace Green Park
Vibo Music
West Portal Park
YMCA
24 Hour Fitness

To see the full list, visit thebayinsider.com

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Instagram: @thebayinsider
Facebook: thebayinsider

Amanda Martin | Lic #01386284
Ying He | Lic #01964556

BarbCo Real Estate Group