Explore every episode of the podcast Stop & Talk
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| Sparkle Barnes: Keeping the Door to Care Open | 11 sept. 2026 | 00:59:27 | |
Sparkle Barnes is President and CEO of Health Center Partners of Southern California and its Family of Companies, where she leads a network supporting community health centers across the region. Since joining the organization, she has held a series of leadership roles, including Chief Strategy Officer and President of CNECT. Under her leadership, Health Center Partners launched Next50: A Legacy of Impact, a Future of Innovation, a strategic plan focused on strengthening and evolving its work for the years ahead. Her connection to the work is also personal: growing up in a working-class family, she experienced firsthand what it meant when a family could not afford health insurance. In this episode: Our health shapes what we’re able to do with our lives: pursue a dream, care for our families, build a career, or simply show up for the people and places that matter to us. That belief is at the heart of Sparkle Barnes’ work as President and CEO of Health Center Partners, and it is why federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) matter so much. You may not know what an FQHC is, but there’s a good chance you or someone you know depends on one. Through Health Center Partners’ members alone, community health centers serve roughly 580,000 people in San Diego County. Rooted in the communities they serve, they connect primary care with behavioral health, oral health, and other supports that help people overcome barriers to getting and staying healthy.
Sparkle also shares how Health Center Partners is responding through collaboration, innovation, and better data, while keeping the focus on the people behind the numbers. As policy changes unfold, she remains resolute in their mission to help people have the health they need to pursue the lives they imagine for themselves and their families.
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| Mario Ordóñez-Calderón: The Ocean as a Place of Belonging | 28 août 2026 | 00:58:40 | |
Mario Ordóñez-Calderón is a Maya Indigenous leader, U.S. Navy veteran, surfer, and Founding Executive Director of Un Mar de Colores, an Indigenous-led nonprofit advancing ocean access, youth wellbeing, and coastal resilience. His work sits at the intersection of coastlines and culture, using environmental education, eco-therapy, and youth leadership to position the ocean as both a learning environment and a place of collective care. Mario also serves on the Environmental Justice Advisory Board of the California Ocean Protection Council and has helped bring Un Mar de Colores’ work into regional and international conversations about ocean health, climate resilience, and equitable coastal access. This Episode San Diego County is shaped by the ocean. But living near the coast doesn’t necessarily mean feeling connected to it.
They also get into the systems behind that work. Mario recounts helping advance legislation that reduced barriers for outdoor equity programs, then discovering that passing a law was only the first step. His experience working with lifeguards and public officials in Oceanside offers another lesson from the episode: meaningful access often depends on persistence, partnership, and people willing to rethink how public spaces work. Key Moments:
Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
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| Alan Sorkin: The Power of Business Meets the Passion of Giving | 14 août 2026 | 00:59:14 | |
Alan Sorkin is a nonprofit leader, mentor-coach, entrepreneur, and member of the Prebys Foundation Board. He co-founded and served as volunteer CEO of San Diego Social Venture Partners, now Amplify Impact Partners, led the San Diego-Tijuana Bi-National Coalition to reduce substance abuse, and has advised more than 50 small businesses through Vistage Worldwide. Across his work, Alan helps leaders make better decisions, strengthen organizations, and achieve greater impact. This Episode: How do leaders turn hard-earned lessons into greater impact?
The conversation explores the difference between directing people and helping them find a shared vision, why organizations must keep adapting, and how philanthropy can move beyond generosity toward meaningful, lasting impact. Key Moments:
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This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
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| Novien Yarber: What Prebys Heard From Grantees | 18 juin 2026 | 00:57:03 | |
Dr. Novien Yarber is the Senior Learning Officer at Prebys Foundation, where he helps the foundation listen, reflect, and learn from its work with community partners. Known around the office as “Dr. Novi,” he brings a rare combination of rigor, warmth, and curiosity to the practice of evaluation. Before joining Prebys, Novi served as Director of Leadership, Philanthropy, and Social Impact at the University of San Diego’s Nonprofit Institute, where he led community-focused programs at the intersection of leadership and social change This Episode: What does it look like when a foundation takes a closer look at itself? In this episode, Novi and Grant reflect on what Prebys heard from grantee partners through its most recent Grantee Perception Report. The conversation explores both the affirmations and the invitations for growth, including how grantees perceive Prebys’ leadership, impact, adaptability, transparency, and relationships across San Diego County. This episode offers a candid look at how a foundation makes sense of feedback, wrestles with trade-offs, and thinks about its role in community. Novi and Grant discuss one of the central tensions in place-based philanthropy: how to keep learning and responding to changing conditions while also being clear and predictable for the organizations doing the work every day. They explore what real transparency requires, why trust matters for shared learning, and how funders and grantees can build relationships strong enough to hold wins, losses, lessons, and setbacks.
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| Dana Toppel: Housing, Hope, and Human Service | 05 juin 2026 | 00:59:43 | |
Dana Toppel is CEO of Jewish Family Service of San Diego, one of the region’s most established human services organizations. Founded more than 100 years ago, JFS continues to be rooted in Jewish values while serving people across San Diego County, including older adults, immigrants, families, Holocaust survivors, and neighbors facing housing, food, and other basic needs. Dana has held multiple leadership roles at JFS since 2009 and brings more than two decades of direct service, clinical, and nonprofit leadership experience.
What does it take to meet urgent needs today while building a stronger safety net for tomorrow? In this episode, Dana and Grant explore how Jewish Family Service is responding to this moment in San Diego. Dana shares how JFS serves more than 60,000 people each year, with a focus on helping people access safe and stable housing, culturally competent food, and the wraparound support they need to move toward greater stability and dignity.
Dana reminds us that hope is active. It comes from staying close to people’s stories, building relationships across differences, and continuing to show up for the work, even when outside forces push back.
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| Erin Harkey: Arts, Culture, and a Healthy Democracy | 15 mai 2026 | 00:57:00 | |
Editor’s Note: This episode was recorded in April 2026, before the City of San Diego released its initial FY27 budget proposal. That proposal has since raised urgent questions about the future of public arts funding in San Diego, making this conversation with Erin Harkey especially timely. Erin Harkey is the President and CEO of Americans for the Arts, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization for advancing arts and culture. She helps shape the national conversation about public arts funding, creative workers, cultural policy, and the future of the arts ecosystem. Before joining Americans for the Arts, Erin held major arts and civic leadership roles in Chicago, including serving as Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Her career also includes work in Los Angeles and Long Beach, giving her a perspective that spans local practice, regional systems, and national advocacy. This Episode: How do arts and culture help build a healthy society?
Erin reminds us that culture is everywhere: in museums and theaters, state fairs, classrooms, community centers, faith spaces, neighborhood traditions, and the things people do together every Saturday. Seeing the arts this way helps communities recognize the creative life already around them and understand why public funding matters. They discuss how arts and culture are “both an indicator and facilitator” of a healthy society, shaping quality of life, economic vitality, mental health, civic dialogue, democracy, and the ways communities express who they are.
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| Jonathon Glus: Embracing San Diego as a Creative City | 30 avr. 2026 | 00:56:09 | |
Editor’s Note: This episode was recorded in March 2026, before the City of San Diego released its initial FY27 budget proposal. That proposal has since raised urgent questions about the future of public arts funding in San Diego, making Jonathon and Grant’s conversation about arts, culture, and downtown’s future especially timely. Jonathon Glus is the Prebys Senior Art & Design Fellow in Residence at the Downtown San Diego Partnership, working to help shape a bold vision for a more creative, vibrant, and connected downtown. A longtime arts leader, Jonathon brings national experience and a deep belief in the role artists, creative businesses, and cultural infrastructure can play in the life of a city. In San Diego, his work is focused on what it would take for downtown to become not only a place of business, but a civic and creative center worthy of the region’s talent, beauty, and binational identity. This Episode: Jonathon and Grant explore why downtowns still matter, not just as business districts, but as civic centers where people gather, connect, experience beauty, and feel part of a shared life. Jonathon makes the case that arts and culture are essential to that work. They bring people into public spaces, support creative workers and small businesses, strengthen local identity, and help make a city feel alive. Together, they look at what San Diego can learn from other cities that have used creativity to reimagine their urban cores, while also naming the ingredients this region already has, from Balboa Park and historic buildings to its border-region identity and creative talent. At a moment when public arts funding is under serious threat, the conversation is a reminder that arts and culture are not extras. They are part of the civic infrastructure that helps communities build belonging, opportunity, and shared pride. If San Diego wants to be a global and inviting city, arts and culture need to be part of that story. Key Moments:
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This is a production of the Prebys Foundation Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Produced by Adam Greenfield, Tess Karesky, Edgar Ontiveros Medina, and Crystal Page Production Coordination by Tess Karesky Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.com If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe | |||
| Norma Chávez-Peterson: Courage, Community, and Defending Civil Liberties | 17 avr. 2026 | 00:59:33 | |
Norma Chávez-Peterson is a longtime organizer and civil rights leader who serves as Executive Director of the ACLU of San Diego & Imperial Counties, one of the region’s leading voices on civil liberties and immigrant rights. Born in Michoacán, Mexico, and raised in San Diego, she brings lived experience and deep community roots to her work in the border region, where local realities often reflect broader national debates about democracy, belonging, and power. This Episode: What does courageous community leadership look like when civil liberties, immigrant rights, and democracy itself are under strain?
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| Jay Buys: Profit, Purpose, and the Future of Business | 02 avr. 2026 | 01:00:59 | |
Jay Buys is the founder and CEO of Visceral, a B Corp-certified creative agency that builds brands and websites exclusively for social change organizations. Working with nonprofits, foundations, and other mission-driven partners, Jay has helped shape a business model that puts people, profit, and planet in conversation rather than opposition. In San Diego and beyond, he is part of a growing movement challenging the idea that business success has to come at the expense of workers, communities, or values. This Episode: What would it take to reimagine business as a force for shared good? Jay and Grant dig into the growing movement to build companies that measure success by more than profit alone. Their conversation explores Certified B Corporations (B Corps), social enterprise, and the wider push for business models that invest in workers, communities, and the future. Jay sees business as a vital community asset—one that can actively contribute to shared prosperity and well-being. In his view, profit itself is not the problem; greed is. What matters most is how a business uses its resources and whether its values are reflected in wages, benefits, accountability, and community impact. They examine the difference between authentic commitment and “purpose washing,” and what it means to run a company that tries to live its values, even when there are tradeoffs.
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| Laura Castañeda: Journalism, Trust, and Telling the Full Story of a Border Region | 19 mars 2026 | 01:00:25 | |
What does responsible journalism look like in a region as complex as San Diego and the U.S.-Mexico border? In this candid conversation, Laura and Grant explore how journalism has shifted from well-resourced newsrooms to a faster, thinner, and more fragmented media landscape. Laura reflects on what’s been lost and what’s at stake when communities aren’t fully represented or heard. They also dig into community trust: how it’s built through real relationships, how quickly it can erode, and why it remains essential to meaningful reporting. Looking ahead, they explore how younger audiences consume news and the growing risks of misinformation. They call out the importance of journalism that captures the full human story, especially around immigration and life in a border region. As Laura says, journalism isn’t dead; it’s changing. For her, the path forward is to meet people where they are and stay grounded in journalism’s core role of holding power accountable and reflecting the full complexity of communities. Key Moments:
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This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
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| Gil Alvarado: Using All Our Resources to Benefit the Community | 04 déc. 2025 | 00:44:40 | |
Gil Alvarado is the Chief Financial and Investment Officer (CFIO) of the Prebys Foundation, where he helps steward a $1.2 billion portfolio with an eye toward both strong returns and strong community benefit. A national thought partner in mission-aligned investing, Gil brings an entrepreneurial mindset to philanthropy—designing funds, partnerships, and investment strategies that help fuel innovation, expand opportunity, and strengthen San Diego’s long-term resilience. This Episode: How can a foundation use the full breadth of its resources to support a thriving region? Grant and Gil unpack how the foundation’s investment strategy works in tandem with its grantmaking to advance health, creativity, and economic opportunity in San Diego. Gil explains how the $50 million Prebys Venture Fund backs early-stage life science and tech companies; why investments in affordable housing, small-business lending, and civic revitalization expand what’s possible for the region; and how patient capital (long-term investment) lets a foundation take the long view on challenges like climate resilience and the blue economy. This episode offers an accessible look at how financial strategy, mission, and community well-being intersect. Key Moments
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Take Action Tips for organizations looking to expand their impact through investments:
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| Walking Shield: Building Capacity and Honoring Tribal Self-Determination | 20 nov. 2025 | 00:57:20 | |
Walking Shield has spent nearly four decades improving quality of life for Native communities across the United States—bridging sovereign tribal nations with philanthropy, federal agencies, and the U.S. military. Alongside the Walking Shield team, Executive Director, Dr. John Castillo, and Senior Fellow, Mariano Diaz help tribes build the capacity needed to secure federal funding, strengthen infrastructure, and advance true self-determination. Their work blends grassroots trust-building with systems-level strategy, supporting tribes on projects ranging from road repairs and water access to energy development, environmental co-management, and leadership planning. This Episode:
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Credits: The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe | |||
| Brandon Steppe: “Shoulder to Shoulder” Mentorship That Changes Lives | 06 nov. 2025 | 00:59:52 | |
Brandon Steppe left a corporate career to start a recording studio in his garage—never imagining that a few persistent neighborhood kids would change his life. Those early studio sessions grew into the David’s Harp Foundation, a nonprofit where justice-involved and opportunity youth in San Diego discover their voices and chart a path forward through music, media, and mentorship. This Episode Can rhythm and relationship change a young person’s life? Brandon shares how vulnerability and honesty became cornerstones of his organization’s culture, starting with a simple practice he calls flashlight first: mentors shine the light on themselves before asking youth to open up. From those early lessons grew a creative community that helps youth connect to support, record songs behind detention walls, and build micro-enterprises that pay real wages and teach real skills.
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This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team
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| Richard Tate: Health, Justice, and the Power of Voice | 11 sept. 2025 | 00:58:24 | |
Richard Tate is the President and CEO of the California Wellness Foundation, where he leads with clarity, courage, and hope. A communications strategist turned first-time CEO, Richard embraces the power of philanthropy not just to fund change, but to stand up for values. Under his leadership, Cal Wellness has become a bold voice for health and racial justice at a time when those commitments are under attack.
Grant and Richard explore why this moment calls for philanthropy to mobilize more than just dollars—to use its voice, influence, and resources in defense of equity and community well-being. Richard shares what it’s like to lead through fear, why Cal Wellness is “spending up” in response to urgent need, and how hope remains a discipline for leaders navigating turbulent times. Along the way, he reflects on lessons from his parents, the Civil Rights Movement, and peers who inspire him to push beyond comfort zones. From navigating attacks on diversity and equity to reimagining healthcare in California, this conversation is a call to speak out, act boldly, and build a healthier, more just future together. Key Moments:
Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe. | |||
| Scott Lewis: Journalism, Democracy, and the Future of San Diego | 28 août 2025 | 00:59:03 | |
Scott Lewis is CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Voice of San Diego, the pioneering nonprofit newsroom he helped build nearly two decades ago. What began as an experiment in funding professional journalism outside of the old newspaper model is now a national template, proving that communities can sustain independent, fact-driven reporting. Scott is known for his candid, conversational style and his conviction that journalism is about creating a shared story that helps communities face hard truths and imagine better futures.
In this thought-provoking conversation, Scott and Grant trace the story of Voice of San Diego from its early days as a bold experiment to its present role covering the region’s toughest issues—from homelessness and housing to infrastructure, schools, and civic leadership. They explore how journalism can cut through partisanship and apathy by telling stories that matter, how San Diego’s unique civic culture shapes progress (and stalls it), and why shared stories are essential to purpose and belonging. Scott also reflects on the responsibility of local media in a time when national trust is fractured and public funding for journalism is under attack. For him, it comes down to optimism: believing that communities are strong enough to face their biggest problems when they have the facts and the courage to talk about them. Key Moments:
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Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe. | |||
| Sew Loka’s Claudia Rodriguez-Biezunski: Slow Fashion, Bold Stories | 14 août 2025 | 00:59:25 | |
Claudia Rodriguez-Biezunski is the founder of Sew Loka, a community-driven textile art studio in San Diego’s Barrio Logan. A self-taught artist and entrepreneur, Claudia transforms reclaimed fabrics into vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces that weave together personal history, cultural identity, and environmental consciousness. From collaborating with pro sports teams like the San Diego Wave and San Diego FC to teaching teens how to upcycle thrifted finds, her work proves that sewing is alive and thriving.
How can a needle and thread become a force for cultural preservation, sustainability, and self-expression? In this lively conversation, Claudia shares how her father’s denim business planted the seeds for her creative path, why she’s committed to slow fashion over fast trends, and how Sew Loka has grown into a hub for artistry and connection. She talks about the meditative rhythm of sewing, the power of “grandma crafts” to calm the mind and inspire the next generation, and the importance of reclaiming erased histories through art. Along the way, Claudia reveals why each piece she makes carries a narrative—from honoring her Chicana heritage to advocating for our planet—and how she’s building community one stitch at a time. Plus, check out the extraordinary pieces Claudia shared in the video recording. Key Moments: [3:35] Why denim is both a family legacy and an environmental challenge Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
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Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team
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| Afira Arrastia-DeVries: Kids Are Not a Problem to Solve | 31 juil. 2025 | 00:58:31 | |
Afira Arrastia-DeVries is the President and CEO of the Monarch School Project, the only K–12 public institution in the U.S. solely dedicated to educating unhoused students. A 2025 Prebys Leadership Awardee, Afira brings a powerful combination of heart, strategy, and passion to her work. As a sociologist, advocate, and leader, she’s reshaping education around support, community, and the radical act of seeing children not for their struggles, but for their gifts. This Episode: In this meaningful conversation, Afira shares how Monarch School is redefining what education can look like for unhoused students. Through a strengths-based approach, the school offers not just academics but community, care, and dignity for students and their families. We explore the profound impact of trauma-informed teaching, why children thrive when given space to define themselves, and how systems must change to meet the moment. Afira and Grant also go deep on leadership, advocacy, and why silence is no longer an option in the face of policies that harm the most vulnerable. This is a conversation about courage, truth-telling, and the belief that every child is worthy of joy, safety, and possibility.
This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team
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| Peter Ellsworth: Trust Begins With Listening | 17 juil. 2025 | 00:58:57 | |
Peter Ellsworth is a longtime San Diegan, civic leader, and founding force in modern philanthropy. From his early days in law and healthcare to his visionary role at the helm of the Legler Benbough Foundation, Peter has lived a life steeped in service, humility, and quiet transformation. A member of the Prebys Foundation Board, he remains a guiding voice for how philanthropy can—and must—listen first.
Grant and Peter explore the evolution of philanthropy in San Diego and how Peter helped pioneer a relationship-driven, trust-based approach to giving. They discuss the opportunities of working in hyperlocal neighborhoods, the importance of humility in leadership, and why building genuine partnerships with community leaders creates lasting impact. From Southeast San Diego to Balboa Park, Peter’s story is a reminder that the best ideas come from the ground up.
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Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team | |||
| Mark Cafferty: Why Inclusive Growth Is Smart Business | 03 juil. 2025 | 00:58:32 | |
Mark Cafferty is the President and CEO of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC), where he leads with a mix of realism, resolve, and heart. In this conversation, he shares his experiences of how his values—shaped family, mentorship, and a belief in equity— continue to guide his leadership today. Under Mark’s direction, EDC has taken a bold stance: inclusive growth isn’t just good policy, it’s a business imperative for San Diego’s future. This Episode: What does it take to build an economy that works for everyone? Mark and Grant dive deep into San Diego’s unique economic landscape, from its binational strengths to the increasing threats facing its innovation and research sectors. They explore how the EDC’s goals aim to create more skilled workers, quality jobs, and thriving households, especially for communities historically left behind. They also talk about the importance of values-driven leadership in a time of uncertainty. As diversity, equity and inclusion comes under fire nationally, Mark shares why staying the course is both a moral and economic necessity. Through it all, Mark reminds us San Diego’s competitive advantage is in its people. Note: Jennie Brooks is mentioned as the EDC Chair, which was accurate at the time of recording. The current EDC Chair is Tom Seidler. Key Moments:
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This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team
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| Molly Puryear: Dancing Toward Joy, Connection and Possibility | 05 juin 2025 | 00:57:26 | |
Molly Puryear is the Executive Director of Malashock Dance and a lifelong believer in the healing, connective power of movement. With infectious joy and deep conviction, she champions dance not just as an art form but as a way to be more fully human. Under her leadership, Malashock is expanding the definition of what dance can do for the community. This is demonstrated through SD NeuroDance, a pioneering program blending movement, neuroscience, and care to support individuals living with ALS, Parkinson’s, cerebral palsy, and more.
In this heartfelt conversation, Molly shares how Malashock Dance is helping SD NeuroDance participants and caregivers alike reconnect with joy, dignity, and embodiment through dance. The program shifts the focus from limitations to possibilities. Rooted in science and lived experience, SD NeuroDance creates a space where people can move, bond, and feel at home in their bodies. It’s also a story of listening: to staff, to community, and to the wisdom that healing can look like rhythm, music, and mirroring movement with a loved one. Molly and Grant explore the deeper truth behind all of this—how dance, so often underfunded and undervalued, is core to who we are. From weddings to cultural traditions to spontaneous joy in the living room, dance is everywhere. And as Molly reminds us, in a world that teaches us to unlearn joy, movement can help us remember.
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| Live from the Prebys Sparx Awards Celebration: Celebrating Bold Ideas for Youth Well-Being | 22 mai 2025 | 00:55:53 | |
Katelyn Woodside is the Executive Director of the VAPA Foundation, a nonprofit bringing transformative arts education into San Diego’s public schools. A classically trained violinist, longtime educator, and nonprofit leader, Katelyn is advancing a bold vision: healing through expressive arts. Her organization’s award-winning proposal will train teaching artists in expressive arts therapy and place them in 25 schools across the county—reaching nearly 5,000 students with creative tools for connection, confidence, and well-being. This special episode of Stop and Talk was recorded LIVE at the Prebys Sparx Awards Breakfast, where the VAPA Foundation was honored as the grand prize recipient. Katelyn is joined by four outstanding Sparx honorable mention awardees—A Reason to Survive, Coastal Roots Farm, United Women of East Africa, and Youth Creating Change—each bringing powerful, place-based solutions to the youth mental health crisis.
In this episode, Grant speaks with the five Sparx awardees. Together, they share how their work is rooted in cultural identity, creativity, and community connection—meeting young people where they are, and building healing from the ground up. Their work highlights how healing happens when we invest in the assets already rooted in our neighborhoods.
This is a production of the Prebys Foundation The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.
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| Elite, Not Elitist: Reimagining Public Higher Education with Pradeep Khosla | 08 mai 2025 | 01:02:21 | |
Pradeep Khosla is the chancellor of UC San Diego and a nationally recognized voice on the evolving role of public research universities. Under his leadership, UC San Diego has doubled in size, broadened its access, and transformed from a "diamond in the rough" into a globally respected powerhouse for innovation, education, and the arts. He spearheaded the expansion of student housing—growing UC San Diego’s housing program into the second largest in the nation—to make college more affordable and accessible for thousands. Chancellor Khosla brings a strategic, inclusive lens to higher ed.
In this episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant and co-host Crystal Page sit down with Pradeep Khosla, Chancellor of UC San Diego, to discuss the transformational growth and philosophy behind one of the nation’s top public universities. Chancellor Khosla offers an expansive view on the role of public research universities in society—from economic impact to cultural integration and educational access. With a focus on abundance over scarcity, Chancellor Khosla explains how UC San Diego has evolved into a national leader in both science and the arts, investing in student housing, public transit access, and downtown engagement. He also reflects on the challenges of leading through federal uncertainty, advocating for research funding, and shaping an inclusive institution that belongs to the community it serves.
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This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team
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| Dr. Paula Cordeiro: The Convergence of Nonprofit, Business, and Social Good | 24 avr. 2025 | 01:00:47 | |
Dr. Paula Cordeiro is a trailblazing educator, leadership expert, and social entrepreneur working at the intersection of business, nonprofits, and global development. A former dean and founder of the Nonprofit Institute at the University of San Diego, she’s reshaping how we think about leadership, wealth building, and the power of purpose-driven enterprises. Through programs like the Global Entrepreneurship Fellowship, she’s connecting San Diego to the world and bringing the best of global innovation home. This Episode: Paula Cordeiro is championing a new model for leadership—one where empathy and equity are as important as profit margins. From food co-ops and employee-owned companies to certified B Corps and social enterprises, Paula sees a growing movement to blur the traditional lines between nonprofit and for-profit organizations. The goal? Create more sustainable, inclusive, and locally rooted economies. In this conversation with Grant, Paula shares how her upbringing in a vibrant immigrant community shaped her worldview, how Mondragon, Spain, sparked her passion for co-ops, and why she believes San Diego can become a global hub for socially minded business innovation. She also reflects on the power of teaching empathy, and the opportunities to address wealth gaps. Key Moments:
This is a production of the Prebys Foundation
Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team
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| Angelina Renteria: Trust, Tradition, and Tribal Healthcare | 10 avr. 2025 | 01:01:40 | |
Angelina Renteria is the Chief Operating Officer of Indian Health Council, a tribally-run health center serving nine sovereign tribal nations in North San Diego County. With nearly 30 years of experience in health and fitness and two decades in health-focused grant development, she brings deep expertise and cultural insight to her work. Angelina is a passionate advocate for wellness, community voice, and culturally grounded care that meets people where they are. That’s the level of care Angelina Renteria champions through Indian Health Council. In this episode, Grant and Angelina explore what it means to offer "womb to tomb" care that reflects the culture, needs, and values of tribal communities. From snowy mountain roads to multi-generational households with limited transportation, tribal members face unique health access barriers, and Indian Health Council meets them with compassion and strategy. Angelina shares how the clinic’s integrated care model—where providers, nurses, behavioral health staff, and even peer support specialists collaborate—leads to better outcomes and stronger trust. She also opens up about her own journey from a childhood on military bases to becoming an advocate for Native health, and how her experience of being othered as a teen became fuel for inclusive leadership.
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| Grant Oliphant: Reconnecting with Why Our Work Matters | 27 mars 2025 | 01:01:12 | |
Grant Oliphant is the CEO of the Prebys Foundation and a longtime leader in philanthropy and social impact. With decades of experience guiding foundations through moments of transformation, he has a deep understanding of how philanthropy can respond to crises, support nonprofit resilience, and advocate for the society we aspire to reach. This Episode: Nonprofits are facing unprecedented challenges—from shifting political landscapes and funding cuts to increasing demands for services. With federal cuts threatening essential programs, nonprofit leaders are grappling with how to sustain their missions while navigating an evolving philanthropic landscape. In this candid conversation, Grant Oliphant flips the script and takes the guest seat, offering his insights on the role of philanthropy, nonprofits, and each of us as individuals in this moment. He shares how the Prebys Foundation is standing with San Diego’s nonprofit sector, the moral and practical dilemmas organizations face, and why belonging remains at the heart of Prebys' mission. Grant and Crystal also unpack the larger cultural shifts at play, from the erosion of trust in institutions to the censorship of language that directly impacts the people nonprofits serve. As they discuss what’s at stake, they also offer hope—reminding listeners that the nonprofit sector remains one of the most trusted forces for good, and that resilience is built through community and shared purpose. Key Moments:
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Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Coordination by Tess Karesky Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast .org
If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Chris Appleton: Prescribing Art as Medicine | 13 mars 2025 | 01:00:07 | |
Chris Appleton is the founder and CEO of Art Pharmacy, a pioneering initiative using social prescribing to integrate the arts into healthcare and improve mental well-being. A leader in arts and social impact, his work has been featured in The New York Times, CNN, and NPR. With a background in nonprofit leadership Chris is redefining healing one creative prescription at a time. This episode: What if a doctor’s prescription didn’t lead you to a pharmacy, but to a painting class, a dance performance, or a music workshop? For centuries, artists have played a vital role in well-being, and cultures around the world have embraced the arts as a source of health, community, and renewal. Now, social prescribing is reshaping healthcare by integrating the arts, not just as enrichment but as a science-backed tool for improving both mental and physical health.
Grant and Chris also explore how programs like Prebys Foundation’s Healing Through Arts and Nature initiative are improving community health through greater access to arts, culture, and nature. Grant shares how his own experience stepping onto the dance floor at a recent grantee event led to an unexpected moment of joy, connection, and uplifted spirits that reinforced the power of the arts in fostering well-being. 🎧 Tune in as Grant and Chris discuss why the healthcare system has been slow to adopt this approach, how social prescribing is gaining momentum, and what it means for the future of holistic healing. Key Moments:
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
5 Things You Can Do
Credits Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Coordination by Tess Karesky Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.com If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| The Alternative is Unacceptable | 13 févr. 2025 | 01:03:33 | |
In this episode, Grant sits down with four motivated leaders who are driving solutions to the Tijuana River sewage crisis. Ramon Chairez, Sarah Davidson, Lesly Gallegos-Stearns, and Kapili Pasa are proving that change isn’t just possible, it is already happening through advocacy, environmental education, and community organizing. Their stories reveal deep, personal connections to the estuary, the ocean, and the communities most affected. From respiratory illnesses to economic setbacks and lost opportunities for youth, they highlight why urgent action is needed and why those in power must be held accountable. Everyone in San Diego County deserves clean air, safe oceans, and a thriving future. Despite the challenges, their message is clear: action is necessary, and change is within reach. With growing community advocacy, legal action, and scientific research, momentum is building. As Kapili puts it, "The alternative is unacceptable." This episode is a call to believe in San Diego’s ability to solve big problems and to be part of the solution.
Special Series: This season, Stop & Talk is diving into one of San Diego County’s biggest environmental and health emergencies: the Tijuana River Sewage Crisis. Through this special series, we hear from doctors, advocates, researchers, and others fighting for clean environments, healthy communities, and real solutions. Credits: Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Coordination by Tess Karesky Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina
The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.com
Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team
If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Tijuana River Pollution: Speaking Up for Patient Health with Dr. Dickson and Dr. Nguyen | 30 janv. 2025 | 01:01:12 | |
Special Series: This season, Stop & Talk is diving into one of San Diego County’s biggest environmental and health emergencies: the Tijuana River Sewage Crisis. Through this special series, we hear from doctors, advocates, researchers, and others fighting for clean environments, healthy communities, and real solutions to a crisis that’s been dismissed for too long. This episode: In this episode, host Grant Oliphant speaks with Dr. Dickson and Dr. Nguyen about what they’re seeing in their exam rooms, why this crisis demands urgent action, and the surprising response when they raised their concerns.
Credits: Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Coordination by Tess Karesky Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina
The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.com
Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team
If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Season 2 Wrap-Up | 06 nov. 2024 | 01:23:34 | |
Season 2 of Stop and Talk brought us stories of resilience, creativity, and community action across San Diego. Hosts Grant Oliphant and Crystal Page welcomed guests who are tackling complex challenges, from reimagining public spaces to strengthening community mental health and fostering economic equity. Each conversation offered a glimpse into the powerful work happening in San Diego County—and the people behind it.
Thank you to all of our fantastic guests this season! Revisit all of Season 2: Episode 1: Micah Parzen - It's About ALL of Us Episode 2: Diane Moss - Removing Barriers to Good Food Is a Community Effort Episode 3: Preeti Bhattacharji - Using all a foundations assets to impact social change Episode 4: Ramel Wallace - Creativity as Care, Reflection, and Connection Episode 5: Irwin Jacobs - Using What We Have to Strengthen San Diego County Episode 6: Dr. Constance Carroll - The incredible impact of community colleges Episode 7: Dr. Mary Walshok - When the world wants to see the future, they look at California Episode 8: Dr. Benjamin Maxwell - Community can help youth thrive psychologically and flourish Episode 9: Dan Yates - The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership Episode 10: Amina Sheik Mohamed - Health equity and belonging are key to well-being Episode 11: Dr. Isabel Newton - Centering humanity in all aspects of healthcare Episode 12: Dr. Sindy Escobar Alvarez - The Intersection of Medical Research and Philanthropy Episode 13: Omar Blaik - Downtowns should be for everyone Episode 14: Carol Dedrich - Fun is a critical component of mental health Episode 15: Thelma Virata de Castro - Expressing Yourself is a Powerful Thing
This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio.
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| Thelma Virata de Castro: Expressing Yourself is a Powerful Thing | 23 oct. 2024 | 01:01:37 | |
In this episode, host Grant Oliphant sits down with Thelma Virata de Castro, a Filipinx artist, playwright, and community teacher based in San Diego. Thelma's work delves deep into the human experience, with a unique blend of humor and profound themes. Through her "Cultivating JOY" project—part of the Far South Border North initiative—Thelma empowers writers and audiences to explore their relationships with nature.
The conversation also touches on her dedication to uplifting other writers and the incredible value of collaboration. Thelma’s belief in the power of community, creativity, and noticing the world deeply drives her art, making her a significant voice in San Diego’s vibrant arts scene.
Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio
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| Carol Dedrich: Fun is a critical component of mental health | 09 oct. 2024 | 01:01:21 | |
Carol Dedrich, CEO of Girl Scouts San Diego, joins host Grant Oliphant to explore the evolving role of Girl Scouts in shaping the next generation of leaders. Drawing from her rich experiences as a U.S. Army captain and Girl Scout alumna, Carol shares how her journey is intricately connected to the mission of empowering young women in today’s complex world. She reflects on the similarities between military service and Girl Scouts, where camaraderie, resilience, and community play vital roles in both environments. Carol delves into the impactful programs offered by Girl Scouts, from outdoor adventures and STEM education to addressing youth mental health. With a focus on fostering courage, confidence, and character, she discusses how Girl Scouts are equipped to navigate challenges like bullying, social media pressures, and isolation. Supported by partnerships, including the Prebys Foundation, Carol reveals how Girl Scouts are nurturing the mental well-being of girls, ensuring they thrive not just as future leaders but as individuals. Throughout the conversation, Carol emphasizes the importance of mentorship, fun, volunteerism, and adapting to the changing needs of girls in diverse communities. Her vision for Girl Scouts includes expanding access and developing a model that builds valuable skills for the future while fostering well-being.
Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio
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| Omar Blaik: Downtowns should be for everyone | 25 sept. 2024 | 01:04:17 | |
In this episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant sits down with visionary urban planner Omar Blaik, CEO of U3 Advisors, to explore the future of downtown spaces and their potential to serve all community members. Drawing from his extensive experience revitalizing cities like Philadelphia, Omar discusses the role of thoughtful design in fostering connection, empathy, and vibrancy in urban environments. Key to the conversation is San Diego's Civic Center—a six-block area around City Hall—which Omar sees as a golden opportunity to reshape the heart of the city. He and Grant delve into how reconnecting the downtown grid, breaking down physical and social barriers, and creating multi-use spaces can transform this site into a dynamic hub that reflects the city's diversity and greatness. Omar emphasizes the importance of designing cities "for us," ensuring that public spaces feel inclusive and welcoming to all, rather than being tailored for tourists or single-use purposes. The episode touches on the lessons learned from cities around the world, including Omar's native Cairo, and offers a compelling vision for how American cities can evolve to meet the needs of their people, creating spaces that encourage interaction, inclusivity, and sustainability. Join Grant and Omar as they envision a future for San Diego that not only serves its residents but sets a national example for urban renewal and community engagement. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio
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| Live Episode - Dr. Sindy Escobar Alvarez: The Intersection of Medical Research and Philanthropy | 11 sept. 2024 | 00:51:25 | |
In this special live episode of Stop & Talk, Dr. Sindy Escobar Alvarez, Program Director for Medical Research at the Doris Duke Foundation, joins host Grant Oliphant. This interview was recorded at a community forum hosted by the Prebys Foundation that explored the evolving landscape of medical research funding and its impact on community health. They discuss the many important issues facing the field, including equity in research, the role of philanthropy in driving innovation, and many others. Additionally, community members were invited to ask questions, illuminating some of the factors that drive San Diego County’s health clinicians and medical researchers. Listen in to hear how philanthropy can help create better science, elevate important but traditionally undervalued areas of research, and change our focus from sick care to healthy care. You can read more about the event and watch the full video of this episode here. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky
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| Dr. Isabel Newton: Centering humanity in all aspects of healthcare | 28 août 2024 | 01:00:37 | |
Dr. Newton's commitment to equity in healthcare also focuses on healthcare workers. She and Grant discuss the profound impact of mentorship. She shares how mentors influenced her journey, how she is mentoring aspiring medical professionals, and how diverse voices lead to more innovation. Learn how Dr. Isabel Newton is making strides in healthcare by championing equity, nurturing future leaders, and advocating for the universal right to high-quality care. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Amina Sheik Mohamed: Health equity, cultural awareness, and belonging are key to well-being | 14 août 2024 | 00:59:32 | |
Amina Sheik Mohamed is a dedicated advocate for health equity and cultural inclusivity. Her incredible work led her to be awarded one of Prebys Foundation’s inaugural Leadership Awards. As the Founder and Director of the Refugee Health Unit at UC San Diego, Amina has been instrumental in championing initiatives that empower immigrant communities in San Diego County. In this episode, she joins host Grant Oliphant to explore the intricate connections between community health and cultural identity. Amina is committed to improving positive health outcomes for the refugee community in San Diego by promoting health equity and making sure that community members have a voice in how their needs are met. She shares her experiences in developing collaborative programs that not only address immediate health needs but also foster long-term well-being and agency. Amina emphasizes the importance of trust and relationship-building in healthcare, advocating for systems that genuinely reflect the needs and values of the communities they serve.
Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, | |||
| Dan Yates: The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership | 31 juil. 2024 | 01:00:30 | |
In this episode, Stop & Talk host Grant Oliphant engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dan Yates, board chair of the Prebys Foundation and co-founder/CEO of Endeavor Bank. A true San Diego native, Dan's journey from Paradise Hills to becoming a leading civic figure in San Diego reveals a profound commitment to community and service.
Throughout the episode, Dan discusses his path to banking, driven by a desire to connect business with community. His work at Endeavor Bank exemplifies this, blending entrepreneurial spirit with a strong focus on civic leadership. Dan emphasizes the importance of listening to, understanding, and supporting the diverse fabric of San Diego, from his efforts with Second Chance to his ongoing engagement with Morse High School students. Dan's unique blend of professional acumen, vulnerability, and heartfelt community involvement is making a lasting impact on San Diego. Listen in to hear his insights on how local business can serve as a force for good, and his vision of a more connected and inclusive community. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Dr. Benjamin Maxwell: Community can help youth thrive psychologically and flourish | 17 juil. 2024 | 01:00:29 | |
Dr. Benjamin Maxwell, Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Rady Children’s Hospital, joins host Grant Oliphant to discuss enhancing youth psychological well-being, challenges to mental and behavioral health, and comprehensive solutions that go beyond the clinic. He shares the importance of early intervention and the vital role the community plays in creating environments that help young people flourish. His collaborations with organizations like Sapien Labs, YMCA of San Diego, and Outdoor Outreach showcase how collective efforts can tackle the root causes of mental health struggles, fostering resilience and thriving communities. They also examine the impacts of social isolation, screen time and social media, and fragmented family connections on the rise of youth mental health crises. Dr. Maxwell reminds us of our ability to take on huge challenges and offers practical ways parents can address these issues.
This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Dr. Mary Walshok: When the world wants to see the future, they look at California | 03 juil. 2024 | 00:59:26 | |
In this episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant sits down with Dr. Mary Walshok, an influential thinker and powerhouse in the San Diego community. Recently retired from her role as Vice Chancellor at UC San Diego, Mary spearheaded the creation of Park and Market, a facility designed to support serendipitous interactions and collaboration across sectors. She shares her deep insights into the intersection of innovation, community, and economic development. Mary reflects on her vibrant life story, from her unique upbringing in Palm Springs to her pivotal contributions to the local academic and civic landscape. She discusses San Diego County’s abundant geographic, cultural, and demographic features, emphasizing how these elements can drive creativity and opportunity. Grant and Mary explore Mary’s vision for a diverse and inclusive community where unexpected encounters foster new ideas and opportunities. Listen to Mary’s reflections on the role of diversity in innovation, the importance of place, and the value of bringing local and global wisdom together. This episode is a deep dive into how a community can use its unique assets to become a hub of creativity and forward-thinking progress. This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Dr. Constance Carroll: The incredible impact of community colleges | 18 juin 2024 | 01:03:19 | |
In this episode, Dr. Constance Carroll, Chancellor Emerita of the San Diego Community College District, joins host Grant Oliphant to share her extraordinary journey in the realm of higher education and her lasting impact on the San Diego community. From her early days as the youngest black woman college president in the United States to her pivotal role in expanding community college baccalaureate programs, Constance’s story is one of resilience, vision, and unwavering dedication to student success. Constance reflects on her circuitous path from Pittsburgh to San Diego, describing both cities' unique cultural and educational landscapes. She candidly discusses her transition from her plan to be a classics professor to becoming a prominent leader in community college administration, driven by her desire to create meaningful opportunities for students. The conversation delves into Constance’s influential work as head of the California Community College Baccalaureate Association, highlighting the significance of affordable education and workforce development in today’s economy. Her efforts have led to the expansion of bachelor’s degree programs across California’s community colleges, providing vital pathways for students and meeting critical workforce needs. Constance also shares personal anecdotes, including the inspirational story of her mother’s perseverance in the face of educational segregation, which deeply influenced her own commitment to education and equity. Hear Constance Carroll’s inspiring insights on the transformative power of education and her continued dedication to fostering a brighter future for students in San Diego and beyond.
This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Irwin Jacobs: Using What We Have to Strengthen San Diego County | 05 juin 2024 | 01:26:49 | |
Irwin Jacobs, joins host Grant Oliphant to reflect on his extensive, impactful philanthropic work in the San Diego region and beyond. He shares an inspiring journey of philanthropy deeply intertwined with personal values and community impact. Irwin speaks candidly about the challenges and triumphs of these endeavors, emphasizing the importance of resilience, vision, and community engagement. A lifelong donor and scholarship recipient in his younger years, Irwin’s philanthropic philosophy is rooted in thoughtful engagement, giving back, and a commitment to community betterment. He speaks about the Giving Pledge, a commitment he embraced with humility and purpose, reflecting his belief in substantial, impactful giving. Irwin’s approach, shared with his late wife Joan, highlights a collaborative and generationally inclusive vision, fostering a family legacy of generosity. The conversation delves into broader societal issues, such as climate change, AI, ideological divides and immigration, showcasing Irwin’s forward-thinking and energetic engagement in philanthropy. His ability to navigate and address multifaceted challenges serves as a model for effective and compassionate giving. Listen to Irwin Jacobs' remarkable journey and learn how strategic philanthropy can create lasting, positive change in San Diego County. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Ramel Wallace: Creativity as Care, Reflection, and Connection | 22 mai 2024 | 01:02:40 | |
In this episode, Stop & Talk host Grant Oliphant talks with Ramel Wallace, a multifaceted artist, activist, and community builder deeply embedded in the San Diego creative scene. Ramel's journey, rooted in hip-hop storytelling and community engagement, provides a unique lens into the city's history, culture, and social dynamics. Ramel discusses his viral "We’re San Diegans" video series, which humorously and poignantly captures the essence of San Diego life, touching on local pride, cultural diversity, the city's social issues, and of course, tacos. He also shares his perspective on the significant yet often overlooked impact of redlining and gentrification, which he is exploring through his Far South/Border North campaign. The conversation delves into Ramel's role as the host of CreativeMornings San Diego, his dedication to fostering creativity and care, and his commitment to cultural preservation through initiatives like "The Last Black Man in Barrio Logan." Through his work, Ramel emphasizes the importance of intimate community connections and the powerful role of creativity in addressing societal issues. Tune in to hear how Ramel's artistry and activism are shaping San Diego's future, how creativity and care are intertwined, and discover the profound ways in which art can be a catalyst for social change.
Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.
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| Preeti Bhattacharji: Using all a foundations assets to impact social change | 08 mai 2024 | 01:02:03 | |
Preeti Bhattacharji &Impact Investing: Shaping Communities Through Sustainable Investments Preeti Bhattacharji, Head of Sustainable Investing at J.P. Morgan Chase Private Bank, has a fascinating journey that began as a journalist. Her passion for covering historically marginalized communities around the world eventually intersected with the financial crisis. As she witnessed people losing their homes and entire towns being affected, she realized that she lacked the tools to fully comprehend the situation. Driven by this realization, Preeti made a bold career pivot. She delved into understanding markets, financial engineering, and the potential impact they could have on communities. Her pivotal question emerged: “If markets can devastate a community, could they also be harnessed to improve a community?” In this episode, Preeti joins host Grant Oliphant to explore the world of impact investing. Impact investing goes beyond traditional grantmaking; it involves large organizations strategically using their assets to drive positive social change. Impact investing allows for a dedication of resources which provides an alignment in organizational values while producing a financial return. Preeti shares her insights and experiences, shedding light on how sustainable investments can shape communities. By aligning investment decisions with values, organizations can create a positive ripple effect that extends far beyond financial returns. Preeti Bhattacharji’s expertise bridges the gap between finance and social impact, making her a valuable advocate for sustainable investing. Tune in to discover how impact investing can transform communities and contribute to a better world.
Terminology you may want to know before listening to this episode:
Financial definitions sourced from Investopedia.com Special Note: While Prebys Foundation is a client of J.P. Morgan Chase, this episode is purely educational and should not be considered as financial advice. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Diane Moss: Removing Barriers to Good Food Is a Community Effort | 24 avr. 2024 | 00:58:55 | |
On the latest episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant engages in a dynamic conversation with Diane Moss, the CEO of Project New Village. Founded in 1994, Project New Village spearheads a transformative initiative in Southeastern San Diego, leveraging neighborhood-based agriculture to ensure widespread access to nutritious food. Diane shares insights from her journey and highlights the power of collaboration with community partners to tackle food accessibility challenges.
N. Diane Moss is a waymaker and womanist with more than 30 years of experience managing small community-rooted organizations in southeastern San Diego. She was selected as the 2019 Women of the Year for the 79th State Assembly District and awarded the 2019 Trailblazer award by the San Diego Voice and Viewpoint. Most recently, she received the Prebys Foundation’s Leaders in Belonging Award. Moss is an alumnus of the University of California San Diego (1980) and a member of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Alumni Network. She is supportive of and involved with numerous community and cultural groups including the San Diego Food System Alliance; Hunger Free San Diego Advisory Board; and Society for the Preservation and Promotion of African American Culture (SOPPAAC). She serves on Board of Directors for the Elementary Institute of Science; and the advisory board for Neighborhood House Association Adult Day Center and the San Diego Continuing Education Foundation.
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| Micah Parzen: It's About ALL of Us | 10 avr. 2024 | 01:02:26 | |
Welcome back, friends! We’ve missed you. In this first episode of season 2, host Grant Oliphant and Micah Parzen, CEO of the Museum of Us, delve into efforts to preserve historic border wall murals in partnership with Friends of Friendship Park. Amidst the introspection triggered by George Floyd's murder, they discuss the Museum's transformative journey toward greater inclusion in the museum. This includes rebranding the museum and forging a meaningful partnership with the Kumeyaay Nation, all aimed at honoring the diverse histories of the San Diego region. Micah sheds light on Balboa Park's complex past, revealing a community-driven effort to recount its true history. Plus, we're excited to introduce our new co-host, Crystal Page, who brings fresh insights to our discussions about the interview, meaning Grant won't have to converse with himself anymore. About Micah Parzen: Micah Parzen is a nonprofit leader, attorney, and anthropologist, who is always searching for ways of partnering with others to create transformative organizational change. He has served as CEO of the Museum of Us (formerly the San Diego Museum of Man) since 2010, where he and his team are focused on developing better and better practices in what an anti-racist and decolonial museum can look like, along with how those practices can create a positive ripple effect in the museum field and beyond. Micah currently serves as the President of the Board of the Balboa Park Cultural Partnership, a collaboration of 28 arts & culture institutions in Balboa Park, which sits on the unceded ancestral homeland of the Kumeyaay Nation. Show Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Assistance by Tess Karesky The Stop & Talk Theme song created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. | |||
| Minisode: We Want to Know What You Think | 14 mars 2024 | 00:00:42 | |
As we prepare to launch season 2, we would like to know what you think of Stop & Talk. What do you like? What should we explore? Please complete the listener survey by the end of March to help us prepare for the new season. And as always thank you for listening! We will be back April 10! Complete the listener survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/StopandTalkSurvey | |||
| Season 1 Wrap Up | 20 déc. 2023 | 00:22:15 | |
In this installment of "Stop & Talk," we take a journey through the highlights of Season 1, revisiting the wisdom and insights shared by each guest. Grant delves into the core themes that emerged, focusing on how these influential figures draw upon their personal journeys, foster robust networks, and maintain a deep-rooted sense of fulfillment in their professional endeavors. Tune in to uncover the shared experiences and valuable lessons that define their success and strengthen San Diego communities. Guests include: Svasti Haricharan, Dr. Dan Calac, Felicia Shaw, David Miyashiro, john powell, Rafael Payare, Megan Thomas, Sidd Vivek, Roxana Velásquez, Macedonio Arteaga Jr, and Cara Dessert. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-produced by Crystal Grant & Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Recorded in the Voice of San Diego Studio This podcast is an initiative of the Prebys Foundation, the largest independent private foundation in San Diego County, dedicated to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and vibrant future for all residents of San Diego. | |||
| Calling All Musicians: We Need Your Help with the Season 2 Music | 13 déc. 2023 | 00:00:57 | |
At Stop & Talk, we want to show our love of local music. For Season 2 of the podcast, we want to hire a San Diego County musician (or musicians) to create our theme music. Interested? Send a sample of your music that you think fits the style of our podcast to info@prebysfd.org. If we think you're a fit, we'll pay you to create the theme music for next season. We will be back shortly with the Season 1 wrap up! | |||
| Cara Dessert: At the Center of Our Advocacy is Joy | 29 nov. 2023 | 00:54:02 | |
Hailing from El Centro, CA, Cara Dessert has always been an organizer and powerful galvanizer of community and equality. She has nearly two decades of experience in non-profit and social justice work, making her the ideal CEO of the San Diego LGBT Community Center. In this episode of Stop and Talk, Cara discusses the history and role the LGBT Community Center plays in the San Diego community, the power a sense of belonging brings to not just herself but also those who feel they have no place and much more. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-produced by Crystal Grant & Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Recorded in the Voice of San Diego Studio | |||
| Macedonio Arteaga Jr: Taking Time to Help People Heal is a Basic Human Function | 22 nov. 2023 | 00:48:31 | |
As the Executive Director of Izcalli, a long-standing non-profit organization that works with at-risk youth, Macedonio Arteaga has a keen eye for the needs of future generations. If you combine that with his past advocacy experience in the San Diego region and his evident sense of humor, it's clear San Diego has a special and needed resource in hand. In this episode of Stop and Talk, Macedonio discusses how to strengthen communities through art and culture, how being a comedian and using humor creates empathy and understanding for San Diego youths' struggles, and much more. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-produced by Crystal Page & Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Recorded in the Voice of San Diego Studio
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| Roxana Velásquez San Diego is a Cultural Center | 15 nov. 2023 | 00:57:42 | |
Roxana Velásquez is the Maruja Baldwin Executive Director and CEO at the San Diego Museum of Art. Since taking over the role in 2010, Roxana has used passion and commitment to art for all to share, invite, and inspire our region. She chooses beauty and wants each San Diegan to feel pride over the richness of our cultures and the art residing in our communities, museums, and archives. In this episode of Stop & Talk, Roxana discusses the delicate balance between the past and future in Balboa Park, how art is both a duty and a right of all citizens, and much more. Hosted by Grant Oliphant Produced by Crystal Page & Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Recorded in the Voice of San Diego Studio
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