We had the good fortune of connecting with Brandon Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brandon, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
My campaign for Governor of California is centered on restoring opportunity, safety, and dignity for every Californian. Through the RESTORE California movement, we’re tackling the core issues affecting our communities—rising crime, unaffordable housing, homelessness, failing schools, and a healthcare system that leaves too many behind.

By promoting policies that prioritize public safety, economic freedom, education reform, and transparency in government, we’re working to create a state where families can thrive, small businesses can grow, and people of every background have a voice. This campaign isn’t just about winning an election—it’s about rebuilding trust, restoring hope, and driving meaningful change that uplifts communities across California.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m currently running for Governor of California, but my journey here has been anything but typical. I’ve built businesses from the ground up, worked with children and families, and served communities through both entrepreneurship and ministry. What sets me apart isn’t just my background—it’s my belief that leadership means listening first, then building solutions that actually work for real people.

One of the things I’m most proud of is helping provide affordable housing for the homeless in Missouri—long before I was a candidate for office. That experience taught me that government doesn’t always need to get bigger to get better. Sometimes, it just needs to get out of the way and let real solutions rise from the ground up.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I’ve faced my share of setbacks—financial risks, political resistance, and seasons of doubt. But I’ve learned that persistence matters, and so does surrounding yourself with people who are willing to challenge you, sharpen you, and speak truth. Faith has also been a huge part of my journey—it’s given me direction when the road wasn’t clear.

Through my campaign and the RESTORE California movement, I want people to know that we’re not just running to win—we’re running to rebuild. I believe California can be a place of opportunity, safety, and hope again. My story is proof that everyday people, when committed to a cause bigger than themselves, can lead real change.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d want them to experience the full spectrum of what makes California so special—natural beauty, great food, local gems, and the kind of people you never forget.

Day 1: San Diego Coastline
We’d kick things off in San Diego—grab breakfast at The Cottage in La Jolla, then walk the cliffs at Torrey Pines or kayak through the sea caves. For dinner, we’d head to Cesarina in Point Loma—homemade pasta and great atmosphere.

Day 2: Carlsbad + Encinitas Vibes
Coffee at Better Buzz, then a beach day in Carlsbad or Moonlight Beach in Encinitas. For dinner, Campfire in Carlsbad offers a fun, wood-fired family-style experience. We’d finish the day with a walk along the beach at sunset.

Day 3: Orange County
We’d cruise up the coast to Laguna Beach. Explore the art galleries, get fish tacos at Bear Flag Fish Co., and spend the afternoon hiking and watching the sunset from Top of the World park.

Day 4: L.A. Day Trip
Start with breakfast burritos from Great White in Venice. Walk the boardwalk, explore Abbott Kinney, and head to the Getty Center or Griffith Observatory. We’d wrap up with dinner at Republique or another family-friendly spot with amazing food.

Day 5–6: Mountains or Desert Escape
Depending on the season, I’d take them to either Big Bear for some mountain air and outdoor fun or Palm Springs for a relaxing poolside break. Either way, it’s a great change of pace and perfect for making lasting memories.

Day 7: Local Favorites & Farewell
Back home, I’d take them to my favorite taco stand, Juanita’s in Encinitas, or Los Tacos in Vista. We’d visit a farmers market, take one last walk along the coast, and reflect on a week filled with everything that makes California great.

California’s diversity—in culture, landscape, and people—is what makes it exciting. You can go from surfing to hiking, street tacos to fine dining, small beach towns to world-class cities, all in one trip. That’s the California I love to share.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people who’ve shaped my journey, but if I had to choose one shoutout, it would go to my wife, Yesenia. Her steady encouragement, sharp insight, and unwavering belief in what we’re building together—whether in business, family, or this campaign—have been the foundation for everything I’ve pursued.

Beyond that, I’d give credit to the pastors and mentors who’ve poured into me over the years, reminding me that leadership is about service, not status.

Lastly, I’ll give a nod to The Book of Nehemiah. It’s been a guiding inspiration as I’ve stepped into this calling to help rebuild what’s been broken—starting here in California.

Website: https://brandonrjones.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restorecali

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/restore-california/?viewAsMember=true

Twitter: https://x.com/restorecali

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569028167631

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RESTORECalifornia

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.