Infinite Earth Radio – weekly conversations with leaders building smarter, more sustainable, and equitable communities

TOPICWhat’s Driving the Affordability ProblemIN THIS EPISODE[01:53] Mike shares how to register for the 2017 New Partners for Smart Growth Conference.[02:04] Mike describes the Infinite Earth Lab program and how to sign up for the waiting list.[03:00] Jeff Bellisario is introduced.[03:21] Shannon Peloquin is introduced.[03:51] Jeff reflects on what he finds so compelling about community development.[06:06] Shannon shares how affordable housing and community development motivate her.[07:49] Jeff and Shannon share how significant the affordability problem is in the San Francisco Bay Area.[11:25] Jeff addresses the drivers of the affordability problem.[13:13] Shannon gives her perspective of what’s driving the affordability problem.[14:13] Jeff discusses the population of San Francisco and job growth in that area.[16:26] Shannon shares her thoughts of what San Francisco needs to do to alleviate the housing affordability crisis.[18:39] Jeff weighs in with his opinion of what San Francisco needs to do.[19:52] Shannon discusses financial incentives to create commercial development.[22:46] Jeff adds his thoughts to the discussion of financial incentives.[23:30] Shannon describes what’s currently being done in the San Francisco Bay Area to create housing.[24:24] Shannon mentions if there have been any housing-shortage studies done in the Bay Area.[25:19] Jeff contributes to the topic of housing-shortage studies.[26:20] Shannon identifies what needs to happen to make progress on the affordable housing issue.[28:19] Jeff tells his thoughts on what needs to happen to make progress on the affordable housing issue.GUESTS/ORGANIZATIONS Jeff Bellisario is a Research Manager for the Bay Area Council Economic Institute. He supports a wide range of Institute research through project management, research design, and analysis. His research interests lie at the intersection of community development and finance, and his past projects include analyses of Bay Area housing programs, public-private partnerships for infrastructure, and the economic impacts of transportation investments. Prior to joining the Bay Area Council Economic Institute, Jeff worked in Chicago in various portfolio management and investment analysis positions for John Hancock Financial Services and State Farm. Jeff holds an MPP degree from the UC-Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy and a BS in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He enjoys long runs through the hills of the East Bay and cheering on his favorite baseball team, the Chicago Cubs.The Bay Area Council Economic Institute is a public-private partnership of business, labor, government and higher education, that works to support the economic vitality and competitiveness of California and the Bay Area. Its work builds on the twenty-year record of fact-based economic analysis and policy leadership of the Bay Area Economic Forum, which merged with the Bay Area Council in January 2008. The Bay Area Council and the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) are the Institute’s leading institutional partners. The Economic Institute also supports and manages the Bay Area Science and Innovation Consortium (BASIC), a partnership of Northern California’s leading scientific research institutions and laboratories.Through its economic and policy research and partnerships, the Economic Institute addresses major issues impacting the competitiveness, economic development and quality of life of the region and the state, including infrastructure, globalization, science and technology, and governance. Its Board of Trustees, which oversees the development of its products and initiatives, is composed of leaders representing business, labor, government, higher education, science and technology, philanthropy and the...

TOPICLeaving a Lasting, Tangible ImpactIN THIS EPISODE[01:44] Mike shares how to register for the 2017 New Partners for Smart Growth Conference.[01:54] Mike tells how to register for the FREE Equitable Development training from Infinite Earth Academy. Find the registration link in the Resources section below![02:31] Kate Meis is introduced.[02:53] Kate expresses what she is most excited about for this year’s New Partners for Smart Growth Conference.[06:24] Kate conveys the time frame for the projects to be done in St. Louis.[07:01] Kate mentions some of the key topics of the New Partners for Smart Growth Conference.[09:05] Kate identifies some challenges of continuing the momentum towards smarter, more sustainable communities.[12:49] Mike discusses environmental policies and the effects of moving to a carbon-neutral economy.[14:26] Kate comments about what smart growth looks like.[16:04] Kate describes her thoughts on what she sees are the most promising developments impacting smarter and more sustainable communities.[19:43] Mike mentions the arrival of self-driving cars and trucks and that driving is one of the biggest employers in the U.S.[22:35] Kate weighs in on the topic of job automation.[23:46] Mike replies about how we shouldn’t be afraid of technology.[24:34] Kate responds that we should rethink what change means for our education system and workforce training.[25:31] Kate relates what the change in administrations might mean for smart growth and sustainability efforts.[32:00] Mike talks about the high demand for walkable, smart-growth communities and about the shifting economics of energy markets.[33:04] Kate agrees about the market momentum.[33:54] Mike tells how to register for the 2017 New Partners for Smart Growth Conference in St. Louis.GUEST Kate Meis is the Executive Director of the Local Government Commission (LGC). Kate is a champion for local governments; a recognized leader in local climate change adaptation, mitigation and clean energy efforts; and an ardent coalition builder. She obtained a Masters of Science degree in Community and Regional Development from the University of California, Davis, and has a Sociology Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Sonoma. ORGANIZATIONFor over 35 years LGC has connected cutting-edge leaders from across the nation. Together they are advancing transformative policies and implementing innovative solutions for sustainable communities. LGC works to build livable communities and local leadership by connecting leaders via innovative programs and network opportunities, advancing policies through participation at the local and state level, and implementing solutions as a technical assistance provider and advisor to local jurisdictions. With roots in California and a national reputation, LGC offers inspiration, information, and partnership for local and regional champions dedicated to building thriving communities that integrate civic engagement with environmental, social and economic priorities.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“This year I’m really looking forward to having a tangible impact in the community we’re going to be in in St. Louis. So, in the past we’ve gone, we’ve had a great few days, we’ve done local tours, we’ve engaged our local partners through a local advisory committee, and we’ve made some great partnerships and some great connections, but we had never really utilized all these experts we’re bringing together across the nation to leave a lasting impact in our host city. So that’s our priority this year.”“We will also be working with some art organizations in three neighborhoods to provide some technical assistance and in critical areas that they identify, and then also working with some local youth to build and install three large,...

TOPICAdvancing Racial, Social, and Environmental EqualityIN THIS EPISODE[01:23] Mike announces the Infinite Earth Lab training program.[02:44] Mike explains this episode of Infinite Earth Radio.[03:11] Robert Garcia is introduced.[04:07] Robert explains when he realized fighting for civil rights would be his life’s work.[05:37] Robert describes the victory of the Bus Riders Union versus the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority.[07:51] Robert shares why Title VI of the Civil Rights Act is an important tool in the battle for environmental justice.[12:24] If those who receive federal funding violate the agreement of Title VI, what can the federal government do?[16:19] Robert explains why The City Project is focused on equal access to natural resources.[21:00] Robert discusses his efforts to restore the Los Angeles River.[25:07] Robert shares what it was like for The City Project to be involved in creating new national monuments.[28:47] How will the communities with newly restored natural areas going to benefit from the investment and the restoration and not become displaced?[33:33] Robert shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[33:59] Robert describes the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[34:19] Robert explains what California, our national parks, our natural resources and monuments look like 30 years from now.GUEST Robert García is a civil rights attorney who engages, educates, and empowers communities to seek equal access to public and natural resources. He is the Founding Director and Counsel of The City Project, a non-profit legal and policy advocacy organization in Los Angeles, California. Robert graduated from Stanford University and Stanford Law School and is an Assistant Professor at Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science.Robert has extensive experience in public policy, legal advocacy, mediation, and litigation involving complex social justice, civil rights, human health, environmental, education, and criminal justice matters. He has influenced the investment of over $43 billion in underserved communities, working at the intersection of equal justice, public health, and the built environment. He served as chairman of the Citizens’ School Bond Oversight Committee for five years, helping raise over $27 billion to build new, and modernize existing, public schools as centers of their communities in Los Angeles. He has helped communities create and preserve great urban parks and preserve access to beaches and trails. He has helped diversify support for and access to state resource bonds, with unprecedented levels of support among communities of color and low-income communities, and billions of dollars for urban parks. He served on the Development Team for the National Park Service Healthy Parks, Healthy People Community Engagement eGuide.Robert served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and an attorney with the NAACP Legal Defense & Education Fund. He received the President’s Award from the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice for helping release Geronimo Pratt, the former Black Panther leader, from prison after 27 years for a crime he did not commit. He represented people on Death Row in Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi. Stanford Law School called him a “civil rights giant” and Stanford Magazine “an inspiration.” Robert served on the Justice and Peace Commission for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles under Cardinal Roger Mahony. He is an immigrant who came to the U.S. from Guatemala at age four.Mr. Garcia’s PublicationsOrganization The City Project, a non-profit legal and policy...

TOPICHow High-Wage Jobs Affect Affordable HousingIN THIS EPISODE[01:22] Mike announces the Infinite Earth Lab training program.[02:52] Mike explains this episode of Infinite Earth Radio.[03:25] Dr. Chris Benner is introduced.[04:23] Chris shares his background and what draws him to issues of economic and social equity and inclusion.[06:40] Chris gives the importance of education for disadvantaged populations for our economic future.[07:09] Chris explains a study of job growth in the San Francisco Bay Area.[09:54] Chris gives information about the next study and how people can get access to it.[10:34] Chris shares the report findings of a lack of housing affordability is causing displacement of residents and long commutes.[12:53] Chris explains the report data of a significant number of low-wage jobs are being created but no new affordable housing units are being created.[15:04] What are the policy implications? What can we do to fix this problem of no new affordable housing?[18:18] Do you see any indication that there’s a movement to create inclusionary zoning or some kind of development incentives to create more affordable housing?[19:54] Are San Franciscans changing how they think of themselves since the city’s character seems to be changing and it now seems to be a city that people can’t afford to live in?[21:52] Chris explains, within a regional context, how residents are needed to have the basis for the sales tax to buy goods.[23:15] Chris shares how he was made aware of the dynamic of people in poor communities who are shopping in other places that are benefiting from the tax dollars being spent there.[24:28] Mike brings up the fact, and Chris agrees, that the poor pay more in regard to commuting time, cost of commuting, and quality-of-life and economic implications.[26:20] Chris explains how the job, inequality, and political crises play out in the context of housing affordability and the overall quality of life in the Bay Area.[30:14] Chris shares where people can go to learn more about his work.[31:14] Chris provides one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[32:26] Chris explains the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[33:24] Chris shares what the world looks like 30 years from now. GUEST BIODr. Chris Benner is the Dorothy E. Everett Chair in Global Information and Social Entrepreneurship, Director of the Everett Program for Digital Tools for Social Innovation, and Professor of Environmental Studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz. His research focuses on the relationships between technological change, regional development, and structures of economic opportunity, focusing on regional labor markets and the transformation of work and employment patterns. He is the author of multiple books including Just Growth: Inclusion and Prosperity in America’s Metropolitan Regions, co-authored with Manuel Pastor (Professor of Sociology and American Studies and Ethnicity at the University of Southern California), which helps uncover the processes, policies and institutional arrangements that help explain how certain regions around the country have been able to consistently link prosperity and inclusion. His most recent book, also co-authored with Manuel Pastor is titled Equity, Growth, and Community: What the Nation Can Learn from America’s Metro Areas. Benner’s work has also included providing research assistance to a range of organizations promoting equity and expanded opportunity, including the Coalition on Regional Equity (Sacramento), Working Partnerships USA (San Jose), the California Labor Federation, and the Congress of South African Trade Unions among others. He received his Ph.D. in City and Regional Planning from the University...

TOPICThe Story of Turkey Creek: Self-Determination and Resilient CommunitiesIN THIS EPISODE[01:46] Derrick Evans is introduced.[01:55] Derrick shares his background, which led to the Turkey Creek Community Initiatives.[14:46] Derrick reflects on what it felt like when he first moved to Boston and what kept him there.[22:31] Derrick talks about the impact of Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita on Gulfport and on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.[31:59] Is the Gulf Coast Fund what Derrick meant by resilient communities?[32:48] Derrick discusses his definition of climate change.[36:03] Derrick agrees that people in Gulf Coast communities saw the climate changing.[37:34] Derrick describes the documentary film “Come Hell or High Water” and mentions the impact it’s had on Turkey Creek.[43:43] Derrick tells about the things that communities can do to make themselves better prepared to withstand or recover from climate impacts.[46:35] If environmental-protection responsibility gets pushed back to the states, what will that mean in terms of work with Gulf Coast communities around resilience and Mississippi DEQ? Are there good working relationships there?[49:08] Derrick adds his closing thoughts.[56:06] Derrick provides one change that would lead to more resilient, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[56:31] Derrick states the action that listeners can take to help build a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable future.[56:43] Derrick shares what resilient Gulf Coast communities look like 30 years from now.GUEST/ORGANIZATION Derrick Christopher Evans is the director of Turkey Creek Community Initiatives and a managing advisor to the Gulf Coast Fund for Community Renewal and Ecological Health. Since 2001 he has worked to help protect and revitalize his coastal Mississippi community and sister communities throughout the region. Prior to that he taught civil rights history at Boston College and social studies in the Boston Public Schools.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“My community went from being entirely undeveloped—swamplands—to being sort of a pastoral, forested, agricultural type of thing where people were subsistence farmers and fishermen to a community that was the site of multiple coastal timber-industry employments and facilities.”“This is what, pretty much, TCCI’s m.o. has always been was to recognize the very long list of community ailments and challenges, turn those into an equally long, if not longer, list of possible prescriptions or remedies, including things that we had never thought of before, like coastal ecological restoration, which now is bearing fruit nearly twenty years later; historic preservation; even looking at a historic longstanding, uncleaned, EPA-toxic cleanup site and saying, you know what, that’s a historic site as well as a headache. Let’s use some creative visioning to frame this in such a way that it makes our circle bigger. When you have that list of possible solutions, it attracts from within the community and from without the community potential contributors to the problems that need to be solved.”“I had a teacher once—the greatest teacher I ever had—who told me that is was no accident that the overwhelming majority of the most impactful ‘spokespeople’ for the race—the black race—historically, like, Frederick Douglass, Dr. DuBois, even Louis Farrakhan, and so forth and so on, had spent formative time and years in and around Boston, Massachusetts.”“I remember when Hurricane Katrina hit, and my first thought was that this event is either going to…finish off Turkey Creek and its sister communities or open a door for their survival and transformation, particularly as the most not only impacted but instructive places on what not to do again.”“We’re not resigned to injustice, we’re not resigned to the structuring of...

TOPICHow Climate Change is Impacting Low-Income CommunitiesIN THIS EPISODE[01:56] Rachel Cleetus is introduced.[02:20] Rachel shares her background.[02:54] Rachel mentions what motivates her to do the work that she does.[03:44] Rachel defines the term “climate change.”[05:13] Rachel describes “climate equity” and “climate justice.”[06:38] Rachel differentiates between climate equity and climate justice.[07:46] Rachel explains the concept and some of the major findings in the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS)’s “Surviving and Thriving in the Face of Rising Seas” report (find the report in the Resources below!).[11:05] Rachel tells us about the case studies mentioned in the report, specifically Dorchester County in Maryland.[13:57] Rachel shares where people can go to learn more about the report.[14:55] Rachel shares what the phrase “resilient communities” means to her.[16:52] Rachel explains some of the biggest barriers to enabling vulnerable communities to become more resilient in the face of climate-related disasters, and what preventative measures people can take.[21:10] Rachel gives her thoughts on how other areas in the world impacted by weather can be more resilient with support from the U.S. and other neighboring nations.[24:14] Rachel conveys what communities and local governments can do to make themselves better prepared to withstand or recover from climate impacts.[28:57] Rachel provides one change that would lead to more resilient, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[29:19] Rachel states the action listeners can take to help build a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable future.[30:03] Rachel shares what our coastal communities will look like 30 years from now.GUEST Rachel Cleetus is the lead economist and climate policy manager with the Climate and Energy program at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS). She designs and advocates for effective global warming policies at the federal, regional, state, and international levels. These policies include market -based approaches (such as cap-and-trade programs) and complementary, sector-based approaches (such as efficiency, renewable energy, and clean technology research and development). She also analyzes the economic costs of inaction on climate change.Prior to joining UCS, Dr. Cleetus worked as a consultant for the World Wildlife Fund, performing policy-focused research on the links between sustainable development, trade, and ecosystems in Asia and Africa. She also worked for Tellus Institute in the energy and environment program, under the mentorship of Steve Bernow. Dr. Cleetus holds a Ph.D. and an M.A. in economics from Duke University and a B.S. in economics from West Virginia University.The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet’s most pressing problems. Joining with citizens across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.Learn More about Rachel and the Union of Concerned ScientistsTAKEAWAY QUOTES“For me, climate change is one of the biggest threats we face as humanity, and it’s touching every aspect of our life. It’s not just an environmental problem; it is an economic problem, it’s a social problem, it’s a justice issue, because the impacts are already playing out around the world, and they are disproportionately affecting communities of color and low-income communities. So, for me, this work has always been about how do we make a better future for our kids and grandkids, and how do we do it in a way that’s inclusive, that brings people in to work towards a common...

TOPICOne Year of Spurring Innovation for the Future of Sustainability and EquityIN THIS EPISODE[01:19] Kate Meis is introduced.[02:04] Kate reflects on her feelings of how the podcast has been doing over the past year.[03:04] Mike adds to the conversation with his own perspective of the podcast.[03:33] Kate explains how she sees the recent election impacting sustainability and equity efforts.[07:46] Mike comments how he thinks sustainability efforts will play out over the next four years.[08:49] Kate mentions what advocates are paying attention to in the sustainability space.[10:49] Kate talks about the membership survey.[14:10] Mike shares his thoughts about the survey results.[15:55] Kate speaks about some of the themes found in the survey results.[18:24] Mike mentions what he learned from the survey.[19:29] Kate tells of the split between urban and rural areas that she saw in the election.[21:18] Mike conveys that the suburban and rural voters feel disrespected by the urban voters.[22:02] Kate shares what’s being done to foster more innovation and progress at the local level.[23:38] Mike describes what’s coming up for “Infinite Earth Radio”.[27:37] Kate adds her thoughts on an upcoming plan for “Infinite Earth Radio”.[27:58] Kate shares some words of encouragement.GUEST Kate Meis is the Executive Director of the Local Government Commission (LGC). Kate is a champion for local governments, a recognized leader in local climate change adaptation, mitigation and clean energy efforts, and an ardent coalition builder. She obtained a Masters of Science degree in Community and Regional Development from the University of California, Davis, and has a Sociology Bachelor’ s degree from California State University, Sonoma.ORGANIZATIONFor over 35 years LGC has connected cutting-edge leaders from across the nation. Together they are advancing transformative policies and implementing innovative solutions for sustainable communities. LGC works to build livable communities and local leadership by connecting leaders via innovative programs and network opportunities, advancing policies through participation at the local and state level, and implementing solutions as a technical assistance provider and advisor to local jurisdictions. With roots in California and a national reputation, LGC offers inspiration, information, and partnership for local and regional champions dedicated to building thriving communities that integrate civic engagement with environmental, social and economic priorities.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“Our mission, really, is to get the word out about great projects and policies that can be scaled and implemented in communities across the nation, with the goal of improving those communities, making them more livable and sustainable, so to be able to reach the number of folks we’ve reached through these podcasts has been really rewarding.”“…the next four years will really determine whether or not we’re able to deliver on the Paris Agreement, so the next four years are going to be critical. So that is why we’re concerned about the signals we’re getting from the administration, but that said, climate-change leadership has always happened at the subnational level, so at the level of cities, regions, and states.”“No matter what happens with the new administration, we are seeing strong signals that states are going to continue to lead, that cities are going to continue to lead…We are seeing leadership continue, and that’s going to be critical moving forward.”RESOURCESSign up to attend the FREE training – Equitable Development in Practice– Tuesday, December 13, 2016 at [1:30] Eastern<a href="https://www.newpartners.org/"...

TOPICWhat You Eat Can Help Save the PlanetIN THIS EPISODE[01:47] John Roulac is introduced.[02:23] John tells about his background and how he became so passionate about the environment and regenerative agriculture.[03:35] John defines regenerative agriculture.[05:53] John discusses why more is needed than just reducing the creation of carbon.[08:44] John speaks to the common argument of needing big agriculture because the planet’s population is growing and people can’t be fed without modern farming approaches.[14:48] John explains the purpose of his article called “Starbucks, Destroyer of the Seas.”[17:38] John discusses the bee population, technology, and nature.[19:37] John describes his company, Nutiva.[21:18] John mentions what needs to happen to ramp up regenerative agriculture.[24:49] John shares how people can learn more about Nutiva and his work, and where to buy his products.[25:23] John expresses his thoughts on the impacts of not eating meat.GUEST John W. Roulac is the founder and CEO of Nutiva, the world’s leading organic superfoods brand of hemp, coconut, chia, and red palm superfoods. John founded Nutiva in 1999 with a mission to nourish people and planet. Through his leadership, Nutiva has become the fastest-growing superfoods company on the planet, with a 55 percent annual growth rate since 2002, and has for five years in a row been named one of Inc. magazine’s fastest-growing companies in America. This growth keeps bringing John closer to his dream of a world that places people above profits—one where people everywhere have access to wholesome, organic foods.Learn More about John hereLearn More about John’s workFind John on FacebookORGANIZATIONNutiva® is the world’s leading brand of all-organic hemp foods, coconut oil, red palm oil and chia seeds. We’re a values-driven brand, dedicated to “Nourishing people and planet.” In a world where the industrialized food system has led us down a tangled path, where food choices have been reduced to the lesser-of-evils, and where distrust reigns, we are the champions of the greater good. Tireless seekers of pure and delicious foods that will nourish our bodies and our planet, we have devoted ourselves to a dream, a vision, a mission. We will revolutionize the way the world eats! And in so doing we will bring nourishment and balance, health and well being, sustainability and community to people and planet.We know change is hard, but we want to make it easy. We went out looking for the kind of foods that packed a powerful amount of nutrition into every bite, so that you could make small changes to big effect. We found superfoods—nutrient-dense powerhouses that can also be grown and processed in a sustainable way. These are foods that are truly good for you and for the planet. They’re foods like hemp and coconut, chia and red palm. They’re organic, full of vital nutrition, easy to use and delicious additions to your diet.We say food doesn’t have to be a choice between the lesser of evils.We say let food lead us to a better world.We say super people deserve superfoods.We say, come join us in our mission.Together, we can change the world.Learn More about Nutiva Nutiva’s Real Food Manifesto TAKEAWAY QUOTES“I think it’s part of our fixation with technology. We’re so into, like, that wind and solar will carry the day, or some new battery technology. And these are obviously important, and we need to stop burning...

TOPICRetirees Improving Communities for an Optimistic FutureIN THIS EPISODE[02:09] Paul Johnson is introduced.[02:46] Paul tells about his journey and how he personally became involved in the CivicSpark Encore program.[04:47] Paul gives details about the Encore program.[06:52] Paul shares how an Encore fellow is funded and who supports the program.[07:40] Paul describes what makes a good candidate for the program.[08:44] Paul answers the question of what a nonprofit needs so that it would make sense to get an Encore fellow.[18:58] Paul tells where nonprofits or late-career professionals can go to learn more about the Encore program.[11:31] Paul explains how the Encore program overlaps with the CivicSpark program.[12:47] Paul talks about the work that he’s done as a fellow working with agencies or organizations.[15:16] Paul comments on the chance to interact with and mentor CivicSpark fellows.[16:54] Paul conveys the lessons he’s learned while doing this work.[17:57] Does Paul see himself continuing this work?[18:46] Paul provides one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[19:34] Paul states the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[21:21] Paul discusses what the Encore program looks like 15 or 20 years from now.GUEST Paul Johnson is the President of Paul Everett Johnson and Associates (PEJ), a small business that provides consulting services to develop successful self-sustaining clean energy programs. Paul has over 40 years experience developing and managing clean energy programs and policies in the public, private, and nonprofit sector. During this period, he had 30 years of increased management experience at the US Department of Energy, capped by two years as the Acting Deputy Director of the Seattle Regional Office of DOE. Since 2005, he has served as President of PEJ and conducted a wide variety of consulting projects around the country. From 2007 until 2011, Paul served as the Executive Director of the San Joaquin Valley Clean Energy Organization, a non-profit organization focused on increasing the level of clean energy activity in the eight counties of the San Joaquin Valley. For the past few years Paul has worked to develop an Encore Climate Fellows program within the Encore program in several locations in the West to help communities be more resilient to deal with climate change.ORGANIZATIONEncore Fellowships are designed to deliver a new source of talent to organizations solving critical social problems. These paid, time-limited fellowships match skilled, experienced professionals with social-purpose organizations in high-impact assignments. During the fellowship period (typically six to 12 months, half- to full-time), Fellows take on roles that bring significant, sustained impact to their host organizations. While they are working, Fellows earn a stipend, learn about social-purpose work and develop a new network of contacts and resources for the future.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“The Encore program is dedicated to leveraging human capital of very seasoned, adult experience to adult professionals to improve communities in this country and around the world…A program like this—strengthening nonprofits right on the front lines of dealing with environmental and climate challenges—it just seemed like a great opportunity, and I jumped into the program and have been working in the program in a number of capacities for about four and a half years.”“The key component of the program that I work on is the Encore Fellowship Network, which refer to themselves as the proof point for the Encore concept. And the Encore Fellowship Network has been around since 2009, and they currently work with partner organizations in 13 different locations around the U.S. and Canada...

TOPICFood Justice and Self-EmpowermentIN THIS EPISODE[01:35] Justin Garoutte is introduced.[01:57] Justin describes where the Conejos Land Grant Region is and why it is important.[03:05] Justin tells who predominately lives in the region now.[03:25] Justin shares his background and how he came to be the Executive Director of Conejos Clean Water.[04:36] Is food justice and food security a big issue in this region?[05:37] Justin relays how receptive people are to growing their own food.[06:24] Justin talks about the Conejos Clean Water organization and its background.[07:36] Justin speaks of the things that he’s currently working on.[10:01] How is Conejos Clean Water funded?[10:41] Justin discusses how many people live in his region, the number of acres, and what the overall economy looks like.[12:10] Is the water from the Valley supplying any other regions?[13:09] Justin discusses if there is any financial support for the region from people downstream.[15:07] Justin shares how people can learn more about Conejos Clean Water and their work.[15:33] Justin conveys how people can support Conejos Clean Water.[16:38] Justin provides one change that would lead to safer, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[17:26] Justin states the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[18:02] Justin shares what the Conejos Land Grant Region will look like 30 years from now.GUEST Justin Garoutte is the Executive Director of Conejos Clean Water. Justin is an Antonito native who recently returned home to give back to his community and be closer to family. His family has been farming and ranching in Conejos County for multiple generations. At an early age, he was fascinated with traveling and took the first opportunity to get out and see the world. He was one of sixteen Americans chosen to be a citizen ambassador for the U.S. Department of State LINC Program in Tunisia in 2005. His experience in northern Africa inspired him to study abroad again, and he received a scholarship for a full-year of study in Germany on the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) program.After returning from Germany and graduating high school, he headed off to Colorado College on scholarships from the Daniels Fund, Hispanic Annual Salute, and CC Presidential Fund. While at Colorado College, he explored his interests, including courses in Native American and Mexican American Literature. After another year abroad in Göttingen, Germany, Justin graduated cum laude with a BA in German Language and Culture in 2012. Immediately after graduating, he embarked on what would turn out to be a three-year journey to Germany and other European countries. While in Germany, he taught English at the University of Bremen and German for high school exchange students from the United States, Thailand, and China. In addition, he returned to Colorado College in 2014 to teach a month-long, intensive German Theatre course and direct Das letzte Feuer, a German theatrical production by Dea Loher.Upon his latest return from Europe, Justin founded Valleybound, the Antonito School and Community Garden, which serves as an empowering educational space, offering a variety of activities for youth and adults alike. Educating and empowering community remains his main focus. Currently, he coordinates and teaches literacy and healthy choices at Guadalupe Elementary and serves as a mentor to at-risk youth throughout Conejos County.ORGANIZATIONThe mission of Conejos Clean Water (CCW) is to build public awareness and encourage advocacy and education around environmental, social, economic, and food justice issues in the Conejos Land Grant Region. CCW...

TOPICFinance Strategies, Sustainable Development, and Future BenefitsIN THIS EPISODE[01:11] Shalini Vajjhala is introduced.[02:10] Shalini tells about the moment when the idea of re:focus partners came into existence.[05:27] Shalini shares what re:focus partners is and the work it takes on.[06:56] Does Shalini have a favorite project or a project she thinks was particularly innovative or successful?[09:20] Shalini discusses the progress of her favorite project and how it is being financed.[11:05] Shalini explains if the majority of RE.bound projects are in post-catastrophe situations.[16:24] Is there a catastrophe bond currently in place?[17:22] Shalini elaborates on the financial flow of the catastrophe bonds.[19:00] Shalini discusses the insurance policy transaction.[21:40] Has the insurance industry been receptive or supportive?[23:10] How does this work impact low-income communities?[27:48] Has re:focus developed any reports about the results of Hurricane Katrina?[28:55] Shalini shares where people can learn more about re:focus partners.[29:17] Shalini provides one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[29:52] Shalini states the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[30:35] Shalini shares what disaster preparedness and community resilience look like 30 years from now.GUEST/ORGANIZATION Shalini Vajjhala is the Founder and CEO of re:focus partners. Shalini has an interdisciplinary background with over a decade of experience in green design, engineering, economics, and policy. Before starting re:focus partners, Shalini served as Special Representative in the Office of Administrator Lisa Jackson at the US Environmental Protection Agency. In this position, she led the US-Brazil Joint Initiative on Urban Sustainability (JIUS) announced in March 2011 by Presidents Obama and Rousseff. The JIUS was a signature initiative of the June 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), demonstrating how environmental protection can serve as a driver for economic growth and job creation in building the greener economies and smarter cities of the future.Previously, Shalini served as Deputy Assistant Administrator in the Office of International &amp; Tribal Affairs at the US EPA and as Deputy Associate Director for Energy and Climate at the White House Council on Environmental Quality. She joined the Obama Administration from Resources for the Future, where she was awarded a patent for her work on the Adaptation Atlas.Shalini received her Ph.D. in Engineering and Public Policy and B.Arch in Architecture from Carnegie Mellon University.re:focus partners are social entrepreneurs with expertise in public policy and sustainable development. They design integrated resilient infrastructure systems — including water, waste, and energy projects —and develop new public-private partnerships to align public funds and leverage private investment for vulnerable communities around the world.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“My work has taken a number of really interesting turns over the last few years, most of which look much more coherent in hindsight than I could have ever planned them out to be, but the common thread is actually working with communities on designing both policy systems and actual infrastructure services for the most vulnerable.”“A lot of environmental mandates are really difficult to comply with for cities that are really trying to do the right thing. So take, for example, a city like Philadelphia that was dealing with a failing stormwater system—the systems that are designed to manage sewers and storm flows—and Philly did something really creative:

Stay engaged with the social and environmental justice dialogues started at the 2016 National Funding and Resources Training Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities – Learn How HERE&nbsp;TOPICTransitioning Out of a Toxic, Unsustainable IndustryIN THIS EPISODE[02:09] An introduction to José T Bravo. [02:32] José describes the mission and goal of Just Transition Alliance. [03:40] What are the goals of the Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families Coalition and Californians for a Healthy &amp; Green Economy (CHANGE)? [04:35] José explains what green chemistry is. [05:38] José tells why the gathering at the 2016 National Training &amp; Resources Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities was significant. [06:29] José shares if measurable progress is being made in addressing the environmental and public-health challenges that vulnerable communities are facing. [07:33] Was there an avenue for the voice of impacted communities and workers to be a part of the TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) reform process? [08:22] José explains the message he brought to the Summit, from his stakeholder perspective. [10:16] José states what he was hoping to accomplish when he co-lead at the Summit. [11:08] José shares about the consumer campaign that Just Transition Alliance is helping to lead. [13:32] José conveys why we should all be working toward addressing the disproportionate impact of pollution and health threats to vulnerable communities and workers. [14:35] José provides one change that would lead to safer, more sustainable, and more equitable communities. [15:51] José states the action listeners can take to help build a more safe, equitable, and sustainable future. [16:29] José shares what chemical and toxic exposure looks like 30 years from now.GUEST/ORGANIZATION José T Bravo is the Executive Director of the Just Transition Alliance. José is a leader in Californian and national chemicals policy reform work, and Green Chemistry as a member of Safer Chemicals Healthy Families and Californians for a Healthy and Green Economy (CHANGE). CHANGE is an alliance of health, environmental, labor, resource organizations and EJ organizations throughout California. Also, José is on the steering committee of the State Alliance for Federal Reform of Chemicals Policy (SAFER). SAFER is an alliance of organizations in key states working to create a pre-market testing system and regulation for all chemicals. José works directly with Environmental Justice (EJ) Communities and Labor (Organized and Unorganized). His work in social justice issues is rooted in his upbringing in the Southern California farm fields alongside both his parents. José has also worked on immigrant rights issues since his days as a student organizer in the 80s to the present. José has participated in the EJ movement since 1990 and over the years he has gained recognition as a national and international leader in the movement. José also serves on the board of Communities for a Better Environment.The Just Transition Alliance was founded in 1997 as a coalition of environmental justice and labor organizations. Together with frontline workers, and community members who live along the fence-line of polluting industries, the Just Transition Alliance creates healthy workplaces and communities. They focus on contaminated sites that should be cleaned up, and on the transition to clean production and sustainable economies. The Just Transition Alliance is a 501(c)3 organization based in San Diego, California.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“For the first time, we were able to go and talk about what a regional economy looks like, what a safe job should look...

Stay engaged with the social and environmental justice dialogues started at the 2016 National Funding and Resources Training Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities – Learn How HERE&nbsp;TOPICWorker Training and Workforce DevelopmentIN THIS EPISODE[02:05] Introduction of Sharon Beard.[02:22] Sharon describes the Worker Education and Training Program at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).[03:38] Sharon tells why there was a need for the Minority Worker Training Program at NIEHS.[06:56] Sharon identifies some of the most successful outcomes of the Minority Worker Training Program.[09:04] Sharon conveys the purpose of the 2016 National Training &amp; Resources Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities.[10:50] Sharon answers the question of why it was important for NIEHS to co-sponsor an event like the 2016 National Training &amp; Resources Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities.[11:43] Sharon gives her response to the criticism that federal dollars could be better spent elsewhere than in job training and workforce development.[14:37] Sharon explains if the target of the Environmental Career Worker Training Program is those who have been in the criminal justice system.[16:37] Sharon gives information about the hourly wage of those who come through the program.[18:26] Sharon tells if there are any people, of the thousands who have been helped, who stick out in her mind.[20:02] Sharon communicates her hopes of what is accomplished at the National Training &amp; Resources Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities and what the ongoing impact will be.[25:21] Sharon discusses one change that would lead to more effective, more dynamic, better-funded environmental worker training.[27:38] Sharon states the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable workforce.[29:12] Sharon gives information on how people can reach her program.[30:25] Sharon shares what federally supported environmental workforce development and employment opportunities look like 30 years from now.GUEST/ORGANIZATION Sharon Beard is an Industrial Hygienist in the Worker Education and Training Program of the Division of Extramural Research and Training (DERT) at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), National Institute of Health (NIH) in Research Triangle Park, NC. As an industrial hygienist, Sharon is responsible for coordinating, evaluating, and improving the nation-wide worker education and training program especially in the area of the Minority Worker Training Program (MWTP) initiative. She uses her background in industrial hygiene to provide expert review, guidance, and leadership in managing a multi-million portfolio of worker training grants in the area of hazardous waste, emergency response, and nuclear weapons/radiation reaching communities all over the US. She has also worked within in DERT assisting with efforts to facilitate and coordinate translational research through the Partnership for Environmental Public Health (PEPH) Program. The PEPH program is an umbrella program that brings together scientists, community members, educators, health care providers, public health officials, and policy makers in the shared goal of advancing the impact of environmental public health research at local, regional, and national levels.Building on her environmental and occupational health experience acquired while working in the Environmental Restoration and Industrial Hygiene &amp; Safety Departments at Westinghouse Savannah River Company in SC, she is currently a member of the NIEHS Science Advisory Committee, HHS Environmental Justice Working Group and the Brownfields Federal Partnership Interagency...

Stay engaged with the social and environmental justice dialogues started at the 2016 National Funding and Resources Training Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities – Learn How HERE&nbsp;TOPICThe Workforce Development ComponentIN THIS EPISODE[01:52] Introduction of Khalil Shahyd.[02:06] Khalil describes the Urban Solutions Program at Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).[03:27] Khalil shares the purpose and goal of the 2016 National Training and Resources Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities.[04:12] Khalil answers the question of why workforce development is such an important component at the Summit.[05:59] Khalil identifies some of the sessions he’s developing for the Summit in the workforce development track.[07:21] Khalil expresses what he thinks of the workforce development that’s occurring now.[08:44] Khalil discusses how his hometown of New Orleans is doing in regard to the Summit’s theme of moving communities from surviving to thriving, after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.[13:17] Khalil tells how energy inequality presents itself.[15:30] Khalil explains the connection between the reality of energy inequality and workforce development.[16:48] Khalil talks about the importance for people from vulnerable communities to attend the Summit.[17:56] Khalil provides one change that would lead to energy equity and more sustainable urban communities.[19:21] Khalil states the action listeners can take to build a more equitable, energy-efficient, and sustainable future.[20:56] Khalil shares what urban communities look like 30 years from now.GUEST/ORGANIZATION Khalil Shahyd, PhD is a Project Manager for the Urban Solutions Program at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). Khalil’s work focuses on the Energy Efficiency for All Project, which aims to increase utility-funded energy efficiency programs in the affordable multifamily housing sector. He coordinates with NRDC’s affordable housing partners to advocate for efficiency investments in the EPA’s Clean Power Plan. As part of the LEED Neighborhood Development initiative, Shahyd also promotes the expansion of “green” communities in New Orleans. Prior to joining NRDC, he worked domestically and internationally in urban and rural community development and in economic and environmental justice organizing. He holds a master’s degree in sustainable international development from Brandeis University and is based in NRDC’s Washington, D.C. office.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“The Urban Solutions Program—we work, as the name suggests, with cities and municipalities to make cities, neighborhoods, communities, much more sustainable, walkable, and equitable. Our vision is working with cities where more than 70 percent of our population actually lives, also accounts for more than 70 percent of our carbon emissions that induce climate change, and so we feel that if we can tackle these issues at the urban scale then we can have a large impact in addressing climate change.”“As you all know, our cities are also one of the leading sources, or scales, or locations, that are driving our rising inequality, both nationally but also around the world. Much of the gap in wealth, gap in income, gap in affordability, that is happening across our nation is really concentrated in our cities most heavily. And so we feel that attacking climate change and inequality have to be paired together, they have to come in tandem, particularly as we see cities being the major driver of each of those.”“The goal of the Summit is really to…highlight what’s working in communities and to highlight those leaders at the local level that are actually driving that positive change and to be able to bring those...

Stay engaged with the social and environmental justice dialogues started at the 2016 National Funding and Resources Training Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities – Learn How HERE&nbsp;TOPICOpportunities Through Alternative EnergyIN THIS EPISODE[02:17] Introduction of Gilbert Campbell.[03:08] Gilbert describes Volt Energy.[04:29] Gilbert conveys his thoughts on the potential to create economic opportunities in the renewable-energy sector.[05:21] Gilbert relates why he’s involved in the 2016 National Training and Resources Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities.[06:31] Does Volt Energy’s business model address the seeming lack of focus on providing solar-power access to lower-income communities?[07:29] Gilbert shares if he thinks energy efficiency could be a strategy to reduce poverty and move communities from surviving to thriving.[08:06] Gilbert relates why it’s important for those who care about economic and environmental inequality to attend the Summit.[08:45] Gilbert provides one change that would lead to more energy-efficient, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[09:10] Gilbert states the action that listeners can take to help build a more energy-efficient, equitable, and sustainable future.[09:24] Gilbert shares how widespread solar and alternative energy will be and how widespread access will be for low- and moderate-income folks 30 years from now.GUEST Gilbert Campbell is a co-founder of Volt Energy, a renewable energy project development firm that builds, operates, and maintains state-of-the-art solar energy systems for commercial, industrial, government and educational institutions.Gilbert was recently named to EBONY magazine’s 2014 Power List, which recognizes influential achievements by African Americans annually. Additionally, under Gilbert’s leadership, Volt Energy is largely recognized as an emerging national renewable energy development firm. Volt is a 2014 recipient of Amtrak and The Washington Wizards Pioneer Award, honoring companies that have made a positive impact in their community. Gilbert is a member of The American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE), an Advisor to the US Department of Energy’s Minorities in Energy Initiative, and an Advisory Board Member of The Center for Energy Research and Technology at North Carolina A&amp;T. Gilbert also serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater Washington Boys and Girls Club and is on the Ambassador Board for KIPP DC. Gilbert graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B.B.A in Finance from Howard University and has done post-graduate leadership training at Harvard University.ORGANIZATIONVolt Energy is one of the largest minority owned solar energy development firms that builds, operates, and maintains state-of the-art solar energy systems for commercial, industrial, government and educational institutions. Volt Energy offers its clients solar energy at significant savings through a solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which requires no upfront costs. Volt Energy draws on the experience of its diverse project team of professionals in project finance, engineering, land use law, project management and business development to deliver quality solar solutions for its clients.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“Volt Energy, at its core, is a renewable-energy firm, and we really focus on innovative finance solutions…where we can bring solar, with no upfront cost, or it could be electric-vehicle charging stations, or it could be a combination of energy storage, where we’re helping organizations reduce their energy load, carbon footprint.”“The solar industry…is growing twelve times faster than national economy. However, there’s room for improvement. When you look at...

Stay engaged with the social and environmental justice dialogues started at the 2016 National Funding and Resources Training Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities – Learn How HERE&nbsp;TOPICStrengthening and Revitalizing CommunitiesIN THIS EPISODE[01:47] Introduction of Mustafa Ali.[02:22] Mustafa explains the purpose of the 2016 National Funding and Resources Training Summit to Revitalize Vulnerable Communities.[03:25] Mustafa gives the dates and location of the Summit.[03:46] Mustafa tells who the primary audience is for this Summit.04:22 Mustafa shares how listeners can learn more about the Summit.Interested in attending? Register HERE![04:41] Is there an intent to do this Summit annually?[07:13] Is this a culminating event for this administration to lift up the many resources it has developed to support the revitalization of vulnerable communities?[08:20] What are the biggest unmet needs vulnerable communities and those living with environmental burdens face?[09:46] Mustafa talks about the change he has observed in the EPA’s approach to working with environmental justice and vulnerable communities.[11:53] Mustafa shares what kind of response he’s getting from the business community.[13:50] Mustafa addresses his viewpoint of the notion that community revitalization has become a focal point of EPA’s environmental justice efforts.[15:22] Mustafa describes the Environmental Justice 2020 Action Agenda.[17:32] Mustafa speaks to the intent of the Action Agenda of eliminating childhood lead poisoning, and ensuring everyone has access to safe drinking water.[18:37] Mustafa explains how the Summit relates to the Environmental Justice 2020 Action Agenda.19:12 Mustafa again shares how listeners can learn more about the Summit. Register HERE![19:48] Mustafa gives his idea of what the outcome will be if the Summit is successful.[22:19] Mustafa shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable and less vulnerable communities.[22:47] Mustafa expresses the action listeners can take to be supportive of the goals of the Summit.[23:57] Mustafa states what environmental justice communities look like 30 years from now.GUEST/ORGANIZATION Mustafa Ali has been a national speaker, trainer and facilitator on social and environmental justice issues for the past 17 years. During that time, Mustafa has worked with communities on both the domestic and international front to secure environmental, health, and economic justice. He currently serves as Senior Advisor to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy on Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“It’s pretty simple. It’s actually just a few words is what the real meaning, the foundation and goal and vision for this [the Summit] is, and that’s moving vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving, which is really grounded in the environmental justice movement, the social justice movement, civil rights, sort of the economic justice movement. All those various movements are all pointing in a similar direction, and it’s about strengthening and revitalizing communities, giving voice to the visions and the opportunities that exist in our most vulnerable communities.”“When we say ‘vulnerable communities,’ we are talking about low-income communities, we’re talking about...

New to this series? Catch up, starting with Part 1 of our Climate Adaptation Series HERE.&nbsp;TOPICBuilding Support and CommunicationIN THIS EPISODE[01:57] Steve answers the question of how to build a support and communication network for the cap and trade program and other programs to fight climate change.[05:30] Kate describes if the environmental justice community is a group that needs to be brought on board to continue support for cap and trade.[06:52] Jonathan speaks to the involvement of the environmental justice community to support cap and trade.[08:08] Steve talks about the reduction of emissions in markets.[09:49] Steve discusses communities that are exposed to pollution and how this impacts life expectancies.[11:02] Jonathan weighs in on the discussion of pollution.[16:07] Steve joins in on the topic of pollution.[17:26] Jonathan talks about the image of the climate movement and the largest factor of pollution.[19:17] Steve adds to the topic of pollution.[19:33] Jonathan speaks to getting a new brand for fighting climate change.[19:56] Kate mentions a branding campaign to communicate the need for change.[21:28] Mike mentions the need for rethinking how communities and cities are built.[22:05] Jonathan identifies the biggest leverage point that would make a difference in climate impacts.[23:21] Steve identifies the biggest leverage point that would make a difference in climate impacts.GUESTS Kate Meis is the Executive Director of the Local Government Commission (LGC). Kate is a champion for local governments; a recognized leader in local climate change adaptation, mitigation and clean energy efforts; and an ardent coalition builder. She obtained a Masters of Science degree in Community and Regional Development from the University of California, Davis, and has a Sociology Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Sonoma.Jonathan Parfrey is the Executive Director and Founder of Climate Resolve, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, founded in 2010, that is dedicated to creating practical solutions to meet the climate challenge while making Southern California more livable and prosperous today and for generations to come by inspiring people at home, at work, and in government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution, as well as prepare for climate change impacts.Steve Frisch is President of Sierra Business Council and one of its founding members. Over the last 20 years, Sierra Business Council has leveraged more than $100 million of investment in the Sierra Nevada and its communities through community and public-private partnerships. Sierra Business Council also manages the Sierra Small Business Development Center focusing on advancing sustainable business practices and linking new and expanding businesses to climate mitigation and adaptation funding.ORGANIZATIONS For over 35 years LGC has connected cutting-edge leaders from across the nation. Together they are advancing transformative policies and implementing innovative solutions for...

New to this series? Catch up, starting with Part 1 of our Climate Adaptation Series HERE.&nbsp;TOPICFinding Equity Around Funding and FinancingIN THIS EPISODE[02:15] Jonathan tells about the dynamic in Maryland, where the worst impacts are being felt by people who are not politically powerful.[05:43] Steve tells how he’s bringing the vulnerable populations into addressing climate-change resilience.[10:50] Steve describes if he’s been able to utilize funding in a way that addresses resiliency at the community level.[14:14] Jonathan weighs in on the subject of cool roofs.GUESTS Kate Meis is the Executive Director of the Local Government Commission (LGC). Kate is a champion for local governments; a recognized leader in local climate change adaptation, mitigation and clean energy efforts; and an ardent coalition builder. She obtained a Masters of Science degree in Community and Regional Development from the University of California, Davis, and has a Sociology Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Sonoma.Jonathan Parfrey is the Executive Director and Founder of Climate Resolve, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, founded in 2010, that is dedicated to creating practical solutions to meet the climate challenge while making Southern California more livable and prosperous today and for generations to come by inspiring people at home, at work, and in government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution, as well as prepare for climate change impacts.Steve Frisch is President of Sierra Business Council and one of its founding members. Over the last 20 years, Sierra Business Council has leveraged more than $100 million of investment in the Sierra Nevada and its communities through community and public-private partnerships. Sierra Business Council also manages the Sierra Small Business Development Center focusing on advancing sustainable business practices and linking new and expanding businesses to climate mitigation and adaptation funding.ORGANIZATIONS For over 35 years LGC has connected cutting-edge leaders from across the nation. Together they are advancing transformative policies and implementing innovative solutions for sustainable communities. LGC works to build livable communities and local leadership by connecting leaders via innovative programs and network opportunities, advancing policies through participation at the local and state level, and implementing solutions as a technical assistance provider and advisor to local jurisdictions. With roots in California and a national reputation, LGC offers inspiration, information, and partnership for local and regional champions dedicated to building thriving communities that integrate civic engagement with environmental, social and economic priorities.Climate Resolve is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, founded in 2010, that is dedicated to creating real, practical solutions to meet the climate challenge while building a better city for Angelenos. Their mission is to make Southern California more livable and prosperous today and for generations to come by inspiring...

New to this series? Catch up, starting with Part 1 of our Climate Adaptation Series HERE.&nbsp;TOPICEffectively Communicating Climate Change Issues to Diverse AudiencesIN THIS EPISODE[02:32] Jonathan explains the messages (and messengers) he uses that resonate with community members.[04:02] Steve describes the messages that resonate with community members in the Sierra Nevada.[06:59] Steve speaks about how the the impacts of years-long drought, millions of dead trees, and wildfires are changing the conversation in the Sierra Nevada.[08:21] Jonathan shares his viewpoint of the climate impacts in the regions where he works.[10:35] Steve speaks about a communication strategy to make a difference.[11:57] Steve discusses how to communicate climate change in a way that people can understand how it impacts them.GUESTS Kate Meis is the Executive Director of the Local Government Commission (LGC). Kate is a champion for local governments; a recognized leader in local climate change adaptation, mitigation and clean energy efforts; and an ardent coalition builder. She obtained a Masters of Science degree in Community and Regional Development from the University of California, Davis, and has a Sociology Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Sonoma.Jonathan Parfrey is the Executive Director and Founder of Climate Resolve, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, founded in 2010, that is dedicated to creating practical solutions to meet the climate challenge while making Southern California more livable and prosperous today and for generations to come by inspiring people at home, at work, and in government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution, as well as prepare for climate change impacts.Steve Frisch is President of Sierra Business Council and one of its founding members. Over the last 20 years, Sierra Business Council has leveraged more than $100 million of investment in the Sierra Nevada and its communities through community and public-private partnerships. Sierra Business Council also manages the Sierra Small Business Development Center focusing on advancing sustainable business practices and linking new and expanding businesses to climate mitigation and adaptation funding.ORGANIZATIONS For over 35 years LGC has connected cutting-edge leaders from across the nation. Together they are advancing transformative policies and implementing innovative solutions for sustainable communities. LGC works to build livable communities and local leadership by connecting leaders via innovative programs and network opportunities, advancing policies through participation at the local and state level, and implementing solutions as a technical assistance provider and advisor to local jurisdictions. With roots in California and a national reputation, LGC offers inspiration, information, and partnership for local and regional champions dedicated to building thriving communities that integrate civic engagement with environmental, social and economic priorities.Climate Resolve is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit,...

TOPICThe Local Impacts of Climate ChangeIN THIS EPISODE[02:05] Introduction of co-host Kate Meis.[03:17] Introduction of Steve Frisch.[03:53] Introduction of Jonathan Parfrey.[04:30] Steve describes his organization, Sierra Business Council.[05:56] Jonathan describes his organization, Climate Resolve.[08:53] Jonathan explains the governance of jurisdictional-boundary issues.[10:47] Steve and Jonathan discuss how to bring people together to think about issues of governance and building resiliency.[15:55] Steve and Jonathan speak about the opportunities to bring regions together to mobilize a unified voice around change.[21:21] Jonathan relates how he’s been able to locally engage people, as well as some of the efforts of The Path to Positive.GUEST BIOSKate Meis is the Executive Director of the Local Government Commission (LGC). Kate is a champion for local governments; a recognized leader in local climate change adaptation, mitigation and clean energy efforts; and an ardent coalition builder. She obtained a Masters of Science degree in Community and Regional Development from the University of California, Davis, and has a Sociology Bachelor’s degree from California State University, Sonoma.Jonathan Parfrey is the Executive Director and Founder of Climate Resolve, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, founded in 2010, that is dedicated to creating practical solutions to meet the climate challenge while making Southern California more livable and prosperous today and for generations to come by inspiring people at home, at work, and in government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution, as well as prepare for climate change impacts.Steve Frisch is President of Sierra Business Council and one of its founding members. Over the last 20 years, Sierra Business Council has leveraged more than $100 million of investment in the Sierra Nevada and its communities through community and public-private partnerships. Sierra Business Council also manages the Sierra Small Business Development Center focusing on advancing sustainable business practices and linking new and expanding businesses to climate mitigation and adaptation funding.ORGANIZATIONSFor over 35 years LGC has connected cutting-edge leaders from across the nation. Together they are advancing transformative policies and implementing innovative solutions for sustainable communities. LGC works to build livable communities and local leadership by connecting leaders via innovative programs and network opportunities, advancing policies through participation at the local and state level, and implementing solutions as a technical assistance provider and advisor to local jurisdictions. With roots in California and a national reputation, LGC offers inspiration, information, and partnership for local and regional champions dedicated to building thriving communities that integrate civic engagement with environmental, social and economic priorities.Climate Resolve is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, founded in 2010, that is dedicated to creating real, practical solutions to meet the climate challenge while building a better city for Angelenos. Their mission is to make Southern California more livable and prosperous today and for generations to

TOPICWater Conservation with Inland Empire Utilities Agency and Santa Ana Watershed Project AuthorityIN THIS EPISODE[01:39] Introduction of Arya Moalemi.[02:25] Arya describes the CivicSpark program.[02:47] Arya tells about working on water issues in Southern California.[03:24] How much acreage is within the Inland Empire?[03:54] Arya elaborates on his work addressing water issues in Southern California.[05:35] Arya explains the challenge of Southern California drying out.[06:17] Arya shares the goal of the agencies he’s working with.[06:39] What does the future of water in Southern California look like?[07:40] Arya describes the impact of his work.[09:52] Arya shares when he decided he wanted to become a CivicSpark fellow.[11:21] Arya tells if he anticipates having an ongoing, networking relationship with the other CivicSpark fellows.[12:39] Arya explains what he’ll be doing after his CivicSpark fellowship ends.[13:11] Arya describes if his CivicSpark skills will make him a stronger job candidate and better professional.[14:01] Arya describes if his CivicSpark experience will make him a stronger job candidate.[14:36] Arya shares the advice he would give to someone who is interested in becoming a CivicSpark fellow.[15:12] Arya comments on the focus group of CivicSpark fellows looking at water issues and water infrastructure.[15:43] Arya shares where people can learn more about the CivicSpark program.[16:12] Arya shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[16:24] Arya states the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[17:11] Arya comments on the fact that there’s a demand and not enough supply of walkable places where people can live.[18:16] Arya says what the water-system resilience in Southern California looks like 30 years from now.GUESTBefore earning his masters’ degree in City Planning and Regeneration at the University of Glasgow in Scotland, Arya Moalemi went to the University of California, Irvine and received his degree in International Studies. He has lived in Le Mans and Lyon, France and has since lived in Montreal, Canada. He is passionate about the field of urban planning.ORGANIZATIONCivicSpark is a Governor’s Initiative AmeriCorps program dedicated to building capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management issues in California, administered by the Local Government Commission in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. The mission of CivicSpark is to build capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management needs.Each year, CivicSpark recruits 68 fellows—48 Climate Action Fellows, and 20 Water Action Fellows—who contribute over 65,000 hours to help California communities respond to climate change and water management needs. In collaboration with local government staff, CivicSpark fellows implement a needed climate or water-focused project, while also building long-term capacity to ensure the work is sustained after their service year is completed. Local governments get dedicated project support from a focused team of enthusiastic emerging professionals who receive specialized professional development and sector training.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“With IEUA [Inland Empire Utilities Agency], for example, I really appreciate how they have a really strong goal—and it’s the same as SAWPA [Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority] as well—of trying to be as self-sufficient as possible. And so that is putting a huge emphasis on groundwater storage and groundwater management as much as they possibly can because...

TOPICAddressing Climate Change at the Los Angeles County Health DepartmentIN THIS EPISODE[01:26] Introduction of Sergio Avelar and Teresa Perez.[02:06] Teresa gives a description of the CivicSpark program.[02:41] Have the CivicSpark fellows just graduated from college, with a bachelor’s degree?[02:56] Sergio describes the projects he’s been working on.[04:08] Sergio explains what a cool roof is.[04:29] Sergio tells how to make a cool roof.[05:07] Teresa describes the project she’s been working on.[05:51] Teresa gives an example of how the public health impacts of climate change can be reduced.[06:26] Are there health impacts of climate change that are more long term or more chronic?[07:21] Teresa tells about the impact she hopes her work makes.[08:05] Sergio shares the impact he hopes his work makes.[09:31] Sergio describes the collaboration between the City of L.A. and the partner organizations to work on projects.[10:57] Teresa tells about the moment when she decided she wanted to become a CivicSpark fellow.[11:35] Sergio tells about the moment when he decided he wanted to become a CivicSpark fellow.[12:40] Are there a lot of people applying to be CivicSpark fellows?[13:18] Teresa shares what she expects to do after she completes her fellowship.[14:05] Sergio explains what he expects to do after he completes his fellowship.[15:05] Teresa describes how the CivicSpark-fellow experience impacted her and how it will serve her in the future.[15:52] Sergio describes how the CivicSpark-fellow experience impacted him and how it will serve him in the future.[17:13] Teresa shares the advice she’d give to anyone who’s interested in becoming a CivicSpark fellow.[17:46] Sergio shares the advice he’d give to someone who’s interested in becoming a CivicSpark fellow.[18:43] Teresa tells where people can go to learn more about the CivicSpark program.[19:04] Teresa and Sergio share one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[19:38] Teresa and Sergio tell the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[20:10] Sergio and Teresa share what Los Angeles County Health Department’s efforts to address climate change look like 30 years from now.GUESTSSergio Avelar is from Los Angeles, CA and has experience working in education, local government, and sustainability. He graduated from the graduating from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies.Teresa Perez is from Whittier, California and graduated from California State University Long Beach with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science and Policy. She is passionate about educating the community in what it means to be sustainable and why it is important to live with an environmentally conscious mind. She is eager to learn about the dynamics in the public sector and how to work with a large number of people to create positive and effective change.ORGANIZATIONCivicSpark is a Governor’s Initiative AmeriCorps program dedicated to building capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management issues in California, administered by the Local Government Commission in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. The mission of CivicSpark is to build capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management needs.<img src="https://infiniteearthradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/partners_lgc.jpg" height="45"...

TOPICEnvironmental Justice, Equity, and Livability in CaliforniaIN THIS EPISODE[01:52] Introduction of Cyrus Keller.[02:31] Cyrus shares how working with CivicSpark compares with other job positions he has held.[03:29] Cyrus explains his role in the CivicSpark program.[04:44] Cyrus tells what excites him the most about the CivicSpark program.[07:22] Cyrus describes the impact the CivicSpark program is having.[08:45] Cyrus shares his thoughts on the values and work ethic of millennials.[09:47] Cyrus explains a project that exemplifies the value CivicSpark creates.[10:56] Cyrus shares how the program impacts the fellows and the communities that they’re working in.[12:14] Cyrus describes the types of projects being worked on in Northern California.[16:38] Cyrus discusses the ethos of sustainability, equity, and livability in the Bay Area.[20:57] Cyrus shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[21:13] Cyrus tells the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[21:36] Cyrus shares what the Bay Area and California will look like 30 years from now.GUEST Cyrus Keller is a career professional and social activist. He has over thirty years of combined experience in aerospace, technology and software, and education. His professional experience includes working with both the public and private sectors, enterprise customers, federal, state, and local government agencies, and managing global and virtual teams in a number of settings from start ups to Fortune 50 corporations. Combined with a lifetime of engagement in a wide range of community, social, and international issues, he brings a unique insight to the process of social change, activism, and organizing, as well as a wealth of managerial and training experience, to the CivicSpark and Encore programs.ORGANIZATIONCivicSpark is a Governor’s Initiative AmeriCorps program dedicated to building capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management issues in California, administered by the Local Government Commission in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. The mission of CivicSpark is to build capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management needs. Each year, CivicSpark recruits 68 fellows—48 Climate Action Fellows, and 20 Water Action Fellows—who contribute over 65,000 hours to help California communities respond to climate change and water management needs. In collaboration with local government staff, CivicSpark fellows implement a needed climate or water-focused project, while also building long-term capacity to ensure the work is sustained after their service year is completed. Local governments get dedicated project support from a focused team of enthusiastic emerging professionals who receive specialized professional development and sector training.CivicSpark also includes retired professionals who share their project management expertise with the next generation. Encore Fellows serve as regional coordinators, providing day-to-day guidance for CivicSpark fellows and also act as project managers for the teams.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“I think more than 50 percent of the program [CivicSpark] this year are women, and of the fellows that I am working with, there are three that are men and four that are women, and that’s unusual for me. In most of my career, men have dominated the space…But it’s unusual for me in more the science and technical fields that I’ve had experience in to find that many women. So that’s really a sort of a refreshing and rewarding change, that many women in this program.”“I think probably the most exciting thing for me was the coming to the realization that a lot of the community organizing I did actually does fall

TOPICSupporting the Development of Sustainable PracticesIN THIS EPISODE[01:45] Introduction of Mackenzie Bolger.[02:16] Introduction of Mike Kloha.[02:45] Introduction of Bree Swenson.[03:20] What is the sustainability indicators project?[03:57] Mike Kloha gives more details of the project.[04:59] How many people are involved in this project?[05:47] What kind of project report will be issued?[07:19] When the project is complete, how will people access the information?[08:48] What impact are Bree, Mackenzie, and Mike hoping to see from the work they’re doing as CivicSpark fellows?[10:02] Could this work produce healthy competition between municipalities?[10:41] Mackenzie, Bree, and Mike share when they decided they wanted to become a CivicSpark fellow.[12:41] Bree, Mike, and Mackenzie describe how they feel about the ability to have a significant impact on issues of sustainability and climate change.[16:28] Could municipal governments have a significant impact on sustainability if the right set of resources were in place?[17:32] Bree shares what’s next for her in her career and how the CivicSpark experience impacted her.[18:18] Mackenzie describes what’s next for her in her career and how the CivicSpark experience impacted her.[19:13] Mike explains what’s next for him in his career and how the CivicSpark experience impacted him.[21:00] What advice would be given to anyone who’s interested in becoming a CivicSpark fellow?[22:34] Where can people find out more about the CivicSpark program?[23:04] What is one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities?[23:23] What action can listeners take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future?[23:58] What will Southern California communities look like 30 years from now?GUESTSMike Kloha is from San Diego and is a graduate of the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) with a degree in Environmental Policy and a minor in Urban Planning. He is a former NCAA athlete in cross country and track. Mike developed a great interest for sustainable urban planning, and has also worked in local government for over a year. He hopes to learn more about the sustainability needs of Los Angeles and to actively be a part of addressing those needs throughout the region.Mackenzie Bolger is a 2015-2016 CivicSpark Americorps Fellow located in Los Angeles, California. In 2015, she graduated with honors from Arizona State University’s School of Social Transformation with a Bachelor’s degree in Justice Studies and a minor in Sustainability. She is committed to transforming Southern California into a socially just, environmentally healthy, and economically vital region that will model sustainability for the rest of the world.A Southern California native, Bree Swenson graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a major in Anthropology and a focus on Global Health and Environment. She has worked on distributed energy policy, energy efficiency, and land use policy in St. Louis, DC, and Los Angeles and hopes to use her passion for environmental sustainability to continue this work in her hometown.ORGANIZATIONCivicSpark is a Governor’s Initiative AmeriCorps program...

TOPICAdvancing Racial, Social, and Environmental EqualityIN THIS EPISODE[01:23] Introduction of Robert Garcia.[02:30] Robert explains when he realized fighting for civil rights would be his life’s work.[04:00] Robert describes the victory of the Bus Riders Union versus the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority.[06:15] Robert shares why Title VI of the Civil Rights Act is an important tool in the battle for environmental justice.[10:47] If those who receive federal funding violate the agreement of Title VI, what can the federal government do?[14:43] Robert explains why The City Project is focused on equal access to natural resources.[19:23] Robert discusses his efforts to restore the Los Angeles River.[23:30] Robert shares what it was like for The City Project to be involved in creating new national monuments.[27:10] How will the communities with newly restored natural areas benefit from the investment and the restoration and not become displaced?[31:56] Robert shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[32:23] Robert describes the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[32:42] Robert explains what California, our national parks, and our natural resources and monuments look like 30 years from now.GUEST Robert García is a civil rights attorney who engages, educates, and empowers communities to seek equal access to public and natural resources. He is the Founding Director and Counsel of The City Project, a non-profit legal and policy advocacy organization in Los Angeles, California. Robert graduated from Stanford University and Stanford Law School and is an Assistant Professor at Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science.Robert has extensive experience in public policy, legal advocacy, mediation, and litigation involving complex social justice, civil rights, human health, environmental, education, and criminal justice matters. He has influenced the investment of over $43 billion in underserved communities, working at the intersection of equal justice, public health, and the built environment. He served as chairman of the Citizens’ School Bond Oversight Committee for five years, helping raise over $27 billion to build new, and modernize existing, public schools as centers of their communities in Los Angeles. He has helped communities create and preserve great urban parks and preserve access to beaches and trails. He has helped diversify support for and access to state resource bonds, with unprecedented levels of support among communities of color and low-income communities, and billions of dollars for urban parks. He served on the Development Team for the National Park Service Healthy Parks, Healthy People Community Engagement eGuide.Robert served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and an attorney with the NAACP Legal Defense &amp; Education Fund. He received the President’s Award from the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice for helping release Geronimo Pratt, the former Black Panther leader, from prison after 27 years for a crime he did not commit. He represented people on Death Row in Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi. Stanford Law School called him a “civil rights giant” and Stanford Magazine “an inspiration.” Robert served on the Justice and Peace Commission for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles under Cardinal Roger Mahony. He is an immigrant who came to the U.S. from Guatemala at age four.Mr. Garcia’s PublicationsMr. Garcia’s Major CasesORGANIZATIONThe City Project, a non-profit legal and policy advocacy team in Los Angeles, California. The City...

TOPICThe Experience and Work of the CivicSpark Fellowship ProgramIN THIS EPISODE[01:44] Introduction of Mikael Matossian.[02:22] Mikael describes the CivicSpark program.[03:14] Mikael shares what he’s been working on for the City of Santa Monica.[04:44] Mikael elaborates on the reduction of Santa Monica’s carbon emissions.[05:57] Mikael explains if the new plan he’s working on has a particular target and date?[06:59] Mikael shares the impact he hopes his work will bring about.[08:24] Is the report going to be available in other languages?[09:00] Mikael explains when he decided he wanted to become a CivicSpark fellow.[10:54] Does Mikael’s experience as a CivicSpark fellow make graduate school more valuable to him?[12:17] Mikael describes his experience as a CivicSpark fellow.[14:00] Mikael shares if he would become a CivicSpark fellow again.[15:24] Mikael describes the advice he would give to someone who’s interested in becoming a CivicSpark fellow.[17:51] Mikael explains that CivicSpark is still a new program but is expanding.[18:46] Mikael shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[19:13] Mikael describes the action listeners can take to build a more equitable and sustainable future.[19:53] Mikael explains what the City of Santa Monica looks like 30 years from now.GUESTMikael Matossian is a 2015-2016 CivicSpark AmeriCorps fellow in the City of Santa Monica’s Office of Sustainability and the Environment, working on various climate action and energy initiatives. Mikael graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2015 with his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in energy systems at Carnegie Mellon University. His main research interests include the introduction of energy efficiency practices and renewable energy technologies in the Republic of Armenia.ORGANIZATIONCivicSpark is a Governor’s Initiative AmeriCorps program dedicated to building capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management issues in California, administered by the Local Government Commission in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. The mission of CivicSpark is to build capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management needs.Each year, CivicSpark recruits 68 fellows—48 Climate Action Fellows, and 20 Water Action Fellows—who contribute over 65,000 hours to help California communities respond to climate change and water management needs. In collaboration with local government staff, CivicSpark fellows implement a needed climate or water-focused project, while also building long-term capacity to ensure the work is sustained after their service year is completed. Local governments get dedicated project support from a focused team of enthusiastic emerging professionals who receive specialized professional development and sector training.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“I’m working on climate action and energy projects. So, I have three major projects, the first one being a final report or a view of the city’s last climate-action plan… that has 15 measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions community wide of the city by 2015, compared to a 1990 level as a baseline…fortunately, we actually did achieve 15%—we kind of surpassed that. We’re at a 21.8% reduction from 1990 levels.”“The city [Santa Monica], really, for decades has been kind of a bold leader in sustainability and taking innovative action. It was the first city in 1994 to adopt a sustainable city plan of that size, a really comprehensive plan, to look at how we’re going to enhance, protect our resources, preserve...

TOPICForests and Our Water SupplyIN THIS EPISODE[02:19] Introduction of Laurie A. Wayburn.[02:39] Laurie shares when she realized forest and natural-resource conservation would be her life’s work.[04:28] Laurie elaborates on what she means by “wealth” in her quote, “Nature is central to our emotional, physical, and spiritual wealth and well-being…Nature is where our wealth comes from.”[06:23] Laurie describes the Pacific Forest Trust and what their mission is.[08:35] Laurie shares the extent of the drought and water crisis western states are facing and if there is a connection between the drought and frequent wildfires.[12:12] Laurie confirms the accurate description of California’s water availability and population.[12:29] Are there regional inequities in terms of accessing available fresh water sources in California, and are there really water wars happening in the West?[14:25] What are the challenges in California of preserving the relationship with those with the water supply? What is being done to preserve that relationship?[17:17] Laurie explains what could be done for the landowners in order to compensate them in a way that would preserve the water supply.[20:34] Laurie addresses the EPA’s waters of the United States rule of which water bodies, including wetlands, need to be protected.[23:17] Why is the concept of a water fee or tax—which could accumulate into a very large fund—so controversial?[27:22] Laurie shares where people can learn more about her work.[28:03] Laurie shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[28:22] Laurie describes the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[28:36] Laurie explains what the forests in California look like 30 years from now.GUESTLaurie A. Wayburn is the Co-founder, Co-CEO and President of the Pacific Forest Trust. Ms. Wayburn is an accomplished forest and conservation innovator who advises policymakers at the state, regional, national, and international levels. She pioneers new approaches to develop sustainable resource economies using her deep experience in the fields of conservation, ecosystem services, and sustainability. A preeminent authority on the climate and ecosystem benefits of forests, she leads efforts enacting climate change policies that unite conservation and sustainable management with market-based approaches. She has received several highly prestigious honors bestowed for her leadership and is a frequent speaker, writer, and media commentator on working forest conservation.Prior to co-founding Pacific Forest Trust with Constance Best in 1993, Ms. Wayburn worked internationally for 10 years in the United Nations Environment Program and Ecological Sciences Division of UNESCO. She later served as Executive Director of the Point Reyes Bird Observatory and was the Founder and first Coordinator of the Central California Coast Biosphere Reserve. Ms. Wayburn is a graduate of Harvard University and currently serves on the Northwest BioCarbon Initiative Steering Committee, the American Forest Policy Steering Committee, and the Land Trust Alliance Advisory Council.ORGANIZATIONThe mission of the Pacific Forest Trust is to sustain America’s forests for their public benefits of wood, water, wildlife, and people’s well-being, in cooperation with landowners and communities.For more than 20 years, Pacific Forest Trust has epitomized innovation, daring, and a savvy understanding of market forces to create new economic incentives that reward private forest owners for conserving their lands and practicing sustainable forestry.They are a visionary think-and-do tank of scientists,...

TOPICBringing New Economic Opportunities to Disadvantaged CommunitiesIN THIS EPISODE[02:04] Introduction of Trevor Wilson and Mitchelle De Leon.[03:05] Trevor and Mitchelle share what the CivicSpark AmeriCorps program is all about.[04:13] Mitchelle shares the moment he decided he wanted to become a CivicSpark fellow.[05:10] Trevor shares the moment he decided he wanted to become a CivicSpark fellow.[06:08] Trevor describes the application process.[07:27] Mitchelle explains his application experience.[07:41] Trevor describes his experience of what it’s like to be in the program.[09:13] Mitchelle shares his experience of being in the program.[10:37] Mitchelle explains the project he’s working on.[11:51] Trevor shares the project he’s working on.[12:53] Mitchelle and Trevor tell what’s next for each of them.[14:28] Trevor and Mitchelle describe how the CivicSpark experience has impacted them and how it will serve them in the future.[16:40] Trevor and Mitchelle share the advice they would give to someone who is interested in becoming a CivicSpark fellow.[18:57] Mitchelle and Trevor share one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[19:59] Trevor and Mitchelle describe the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[20:53] Trevor and Mitchelle explain what California-San Joaquin Valley looks like 30 years from now.GUESTS Mitchelle De Leon recently graduated from California State University, Bakersfield with a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a concentration in Finance. During college, he engaged his fellow students on environmental justice issues in Kern County. He aspires to work on policies on state and federal levels, ensuring fair and equitable solutions to climate change. In 2016, he plans to start a nonprofit organization focused on building youth leaders’ capacity to address climate changeTrevor Wilson grew up in the middle of Michigan and moved on to Michigan State University, where he received a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations. He focused on renewable energy policy and sustainability. Trevor’s senior thesis paper was on Germany’s energy transition to renewables, leading him to a summer internship with an environmental protection organization in Berlin, Germany.ORGANIZATIONCivicSpark is a Governor’s Initiative AmeriCorps program dedicated to building capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management issues in California, administered by the Local Government Commission in partnership with the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. The mission of CivicSpark is to build capacity for local governments to address climate change and water management needs.Each year, CivicSpark recruits 68 fellows—48 Climate Action Fellows, and 20 Water Action Fellows—who contribute over 65,000 hours to help California communities respond to climate change and water management needs. In collaboration with local government staff, CivicSpark fellows implement a needed climate or water-focused project, while also building long-term capacity to ensure the work is sustained after their service year is completed. Local governments get dedicated project support from a focused team of enthusiastic emerging professionals who receive specialized professional development and sector training.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“Fellows complete eleven months of service, working on a variety of climate-change-related projects, from developing climate action plans, increasing electric-vehicle...

TOPICSmall Businesses, Climate Change, and PreparednessIN THIS EPISODE[02:37] Introduction of Michael Green.[03:09] Michael explains what the Climate Action Business Association (CABA) is and what its mission is.[03:51] Michael shares how the organization got started and how long it’s been around.[05:35] How long has Michael been working at CABA?[05:48] Michael describes how he personally came to this work.[08:11] Michael shares a basic summary of what CABA does and how it serves businesses.[11:11] Michael explains what the Businesses Acting on Rising Seas (BARS) initiative is.[14:55] Is there a threat of rising seas or flooding to the businesses in the Massachusetts area?[16:20] How is it that GE is moving into a place where they’re at risk of sea rising?[18:11] Michael explains how CABA’s guide helps businesses outline an approach to decrease the risk of going out of business due to consequences of climate change.[20:47] Michael shares where people can learn more about CABA and BARS.[21:33] Are there resources on the website that will help small businesses learn what kind of steps they need to take to be resilient against climate change?[22:18] Michael shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[23:01] Michael describes the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[24:05] Michael explains what Massachusetts looks like 30 years from now.GUESTMichael Green is the Executive Director of the Climate Action Business Association (CABA). He came to CABA as a seasoned advocate for climate policy and environmental action. Since 2012, he has served as a representative to the United Nations focusing on international climate science and policy. As an activist, he has played strategic roles in several of the largest national, as well as international, campaigns dedicated to fighting climate change. In his role at CABA, Michael manages staff and oversees the development of all program areas. He sits on the Board of Boston area non-profits as well as a policy advisor to national business associations on topics ranging from energy policy to climate adaptation. Michael is a Northeastern University graduate with degrees in international affairs and environmental studies, course work at the University of Edinbrough’s MSc Program in Environmental Protection and Management, and Harvard Business School’s CORe Program.ORGANIZATIONCABA’s mission is to help solve the climate crisis by organizing local business leaders to be more effective advocates for climate change action within our communities, at the business, and at local, state, regional, national and international levels. CABA envisions a new economy based on a strong, cooperative local business community, working together to create and maintain a resilient and sustainable future that is responding to climate change, with business leaders helping to achieve collective agreements at all levels of governance.CABA provides participating businesses with the resources and tools needed to work within the business on climate change and sustainability efforts, and within the coalition on broader policy initiatives. The coalition members set policy priorities, and create opportunities for business owners to leverage voice in policy. CABA welcomes all independent businesses looking to be effective policy advocates and offer resources to this collective effort. CABA’s work focuses on 3 main areas: internal sustainability, political advocacy, and building community.CABA’s summer campaign is called Businesses Acting on Rising Seas (BARS). For eight weeks, the CABA team will educate local businesses across the state of Massachusetts about the impacts of rising sea levels. CABA will engage into face-to-face conversations with business...

TOPICThe Shared-Use Strategy of TransportationIN THIS EPISODE[02:33] Introduction of Susan Shaheen.[02:56] Susan explains what shared-mobility services are.[03:46] Susan describes the societal and individual benefits of shared-mobility services.[05:48] Susan shares if car-sharing services are being universally accessed or if they are more concentrated in certain areas.[07:10] Is anyone currently making car-sharing services available to other parts of the population?[07:42] How is the Zipcar model—individuals sharing a car—expanding, and what is the market acceptance?[10:38] Susan shares the benefits of shared-mobility services to municipalities and society.[12:34] Are these shared-mobility services putting cab companies and their drivers out of business, and is there any data about these services driving down wages for those drivers?[14:35] Are all communities being served by shared-mobility services?[16:30] Are shared-mobility services impacting the need for public transportation, as well as the investments that would result in the reduction of vehicle-miles traveled?[20:29] Susan shares where people can learn more about her work.[21:31] Susan shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[22:17] Susan describes the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[22:34] Susan explains what our communities look like 30 years from now.GUESTSusan’s interest in environmentally- and socially-beneficial technology applications led her to focus her doctoral research on carsharing, linked to public transit in the mid-1990s. Today, she is an internationally recognized expert in mobility and the sharing economy and co-directs the Transportation Sustainability Research Center (TSRC) of the Institute of Transportation Studies at the University of California (UC), Berkeley. She is also an adjunct professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering at UC Berkeley. She has authored 57 journal articles, over 100 reports and proceedings articles, four book chapters, and co-edited one book. Her research projects on carsharing, smart parking, and older mobility have received national awards.ORGANIZATIONThe Transportation Sustainability Research Center (TSRC) was formed in 2006 to combine the research forces of six campus groups at UC Berkeley: the University of California Transportation Center, the University of California Energy Institute, the Institute of Transportation Studies, the Energy and Resources Group, the Center for Global Metropolitan Studies, and the Berkeley Institute of the Environment. Since TSRC was founded, it has been a leading center in conducting timely research on real-world solutions for a more sustainable transportation future. In addition to performing research informed by a diverse array of perspectives, TSRC also engages in education and outreach to promote its core values of sustainability and equity, to ensure that we are able to meet the transportation needs of the present without compromising future generations.TSRC conducts research on a wide array of transportation-related issues, addressing the needs of individuals as well as the public. Research efforts are primarily concentrated in six main areas: Advanced vehicles and fuels, Energy and infrastructure, Goods movement, Innovative mobility, Mobility for special populations, and Transportation and energy systems analysis.TSRC uses a wide range of analysis and evaluation tools, including questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, automated data collection systems, and simulation models to collect data and perform analysis and interpretation of the data. The center then develops impartial...

TOPICThe Multi-Generational Housing Model MovementIN THIS EPISODE[02:49] Introduction of Rachel Ginis.[03:30] Rachel describes what an accessory dwelling unit is.[04:05] Rachel explains how she become an advocate and champion of accessory dwelling units.[06:51] Rachel shares the benefits for individuals who create accessory dwelling units.[08:52] Is the multi-generational housing form a good thing in society?[10:30] Rachel describes the obstacles that are involved with this model.[13:07] Rachel explains the regulatory environment surrounding accessory dwelling units.[19:47] Rachel talks about the rise in the cost of housing and creating affordable communities.[23:28] Rachel shares how people can learn more about her work.[24:26] Rachel explains what people can do to introduce accessory dwelling units in their communities.[26:15] Rachel shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[26:31] Rachel describes the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[26:44] Rachel explains what communities look like 30 years from now.GUESTRachel F. Ginis is the Executive Director of Lilypad Homes. Rachel held on to her home as a single working mom by temporarily turning the master bedroom into a lovely junior apartment. That experience led her to develop an innovative model for flexible housing and to successfully advocate for its adoption in California. Rachel is a third-generation designer, following in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother. She received her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Maryland where she studied housing patterns as a reflection and influencer of society. She has been in high-end residential design for over twenty years, is a LEED accredited designer, and a general contractor. Rachel has a passion for small, efficient spaces and believes the home plays a critical role in financial and personal well-being.ORGANIZATIONLilypad Homes is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating flexible housing that offers more affordable housing options for homeowners and renters. We do this by supporting and facilitating the creation of second units or in-law apartments that meet individual homeowner needs. Lilypad offers services to help homeowners assess their home’s suitability for a second unit, and to assist them through the financing, design, permitting, and construction process.Lilypad Homes was created for many reasons: to provide much-needed housing, to make homeownership more affordable, to house loved ones, caregivers and people who work in the community, and to create resilient, self-sufficient communities capable of housing critical service providers. While all of these are true and vital reasons they do not actually explain how Lilypad Homes got its start. The idea for Lilypad germinated in 2000 when Rachel Ginis, the organization’s founder, became a single parent. As a residential designer, she did not earn enough money to remain in her home in Marin County (California). Rachel determined to temporarily repurpose the master bedroom into a lovely little living space. The income from that 230 square foot efficiency apartment allowed her to hold onto her home, keeping her daughter in school just down the road from her father’s house. Because Rachel’s daughter was 4 years old at the time, she did not feel that taking on a roommate was a viable option; she needed to secure their privacy. She also needed to ensure she could meet the monthly mortgage. Privatizing a bedroom was a sensible solution and created a reliable income stream from a little-used room.Rachel created Lilypad to empower other women going through...

TOPICAddressing the Economy, Climate Change, and the Challenge of Global UnsustainabilityIN THIS EPISODE[01:39] Introduction of Joel Makower.[01:56] Introduction of Mark Mykleby.[02:29] Where can listeners buy a copy of the book, “The New Grand Strategy: Restoring America’s Prosperity, Security, and Sustainability in the 21st Century”?[03:22] What is grand strategy, and have we had grand strategies in the past?[05:38] Why did we stop using grand strategy?[07:25] Is the Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe after World War II considered one of the grand strategies?[08:23] Why was the Pentagon interested in a new grand strategy?[09:57] Why wasn’t the plan embraced by the Pentagon or the Obama administration?[11:24] What are the three pools of pent-up demand currently seen in our society, and how will tapping into them make us safer?[16:28] What would need to happen to tap into these three pools of demand?[21:44] How do we move forward in getting this grand strategic plan in place? Are there people who could drive this within the business community that would then drive the politics in Washington to be more supportive?[27:09] How could a grand strategy affect the conversation about climate change?[30:45] How would a grand strategy address the growing income inequality and lack of social mobility? How does this help the working class and disenfranchised communities of color?GUESTSJoel Makower is chairman and executive editor of GreenBiz Group, Inc., a media and events company focusing at the intersection of sustainable business and clean technology. He also serves as a senior fellow at the Strategic Innovation Lab at Case Western Reserve University. A former nationally syndicated columnist, Makower is author of more than a dozen other books, among the earliest books on corporate environmental responsibility and corporate social responsibility. In 2012, he was awarded the Hutchens Medal by the American Society for Quality, which cited “his ability to tell compelling stories that both inform and inspire business leaders toward profitable action.” In 2014, he was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the International Institute of Sustainability Professionals. The Associated Press has called him “The guru of green business practices.”Mark Mykleby is a founder and co-director of the Strategic Innovation Lab at Case Western Reserve University. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps following his graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1987. Designated as a qualified F/A-18 pilot in December 1990, he served in five fleet fighter squadrons from 1991 to 2006. In 2007, Mykleby was assigned to the U.S. Special Operations Command, where he developed strategy for the Special Operations Forces. From 2009 until 2011, he served as a special strategic assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In that capacity, he coauthored with Navy Captain Wayne Porter A National Strategic Narrative, a concept and vision for a 21st century grand strategy for the nation. Mykleby retired from the Marine Corps in 2011. From 2011 until 2014, he served as a senior fellow at the New America Foundation, working alongside Patrick Doherty to develop the framework for a new U.S. grand strategy.ABOUT THE BOOK “The New Grand Strategy” tells the story of a plan, born within the Pentagon, to recapture America’s greatness at home and abroad by elevating sustainability as our new strategic imperative. It aligns our enduring national interests of prosperity and security with a new framework that addresses pressing economic, social, and environmental issues at home, tapping into a trillion-dollar market demand for walkable communities, regenerative agriculture and resource

TOPICEnhancing Resilience of Human and Natural CommunitiesIN THIS EPISODE[01:27] Introduction of Louis Blumberg.[01:57] Louis describes the moment when he realized combating climate change would become the focus of his career.[03:29] Louis explains what ecosystem services are.[04:37] What are some of the other natural solutions to climate change?[05:26] Louis describes the comprehensive suite of natural climate-change solutions he’s working on.[06:28] How do these natural climate-change solutions impact low-income, people-of-color, and indigenous communities?[07:29] Does working with the people in other countries translate to low-income, people-of-color, indigenous communities in California and on the West Coast?[08:20] Are there any leading-edge innovators or implementers when it comes to natural climate-change tools?[09:52] Is there anybody in the private sector supporting your work?[11:21] Louis explains the three-prong approach of using nature to address climate change.[12:41] Are there any large-scale projects using nature to actually restore carbon?[14:10] Is the decrease in forest cover an international issue or a domestic issue?[15:01] Are urban forestation programs going to make a significant difference, or should we be focused on larger international projects to reforest large areas?[16:38] How can people learn more about your work and support it?[17:16] Louis shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[18:22] Louis describes the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[18:48] Louis explains what California and the West Coast look like 30 years from now.GUESTLouis Blumberg, is the Director of the California Climate Change Program of the Nature Conservancy’s California Chapter where he leads a multidisciplinary team developing a comprehensive suite of natural climate solutions including strategies to reduce and avoid greenhouse gas emissions from forest and other natural lands, and to enhance resilience of human and natural communities from the escalating impacts of climate change.Follow Louis on TwitterORGANIZATIONThe Nature Conservancy – protecting nature, for people today and future generations. Founded in 1951, the Conservancy is the world’s leading conservation organization. The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Our vision is a world where the diversity of life thrives, and people act to conserve nature for its own sake and its ability to fulfill our needs and enrich our lives.The Forests 4 Climate Network consists of several nonprofit organizations working together to fight one of the world’s worst climate change problems: deforestation. Through tropical forest credits, these organizations believe jurisdictions across the world can limit greenhouse gas emissions by saving and restoring forests.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“We see that nature is a very powerful tool to address climate change; and by using nature, you often are able to accomplish—make progress, at least—in all three key strategies; and those are (1) reducing or avoiding the emissions of greenhouse gas; (2) restoring carbon to the earth; and (3) reducing climate-magnified risk and enhancing resilience of both human and natural communities.”“In California, there are two Native American tribes. Both of those tribes have been able to produce forest carbon credits and sell them on the market, and…they’re using the revenue to buy back adjacent cutover timber land that was part of their ancestral land base. This is a great way to protect and restore their cultural heritage while protecting the environment and fighting climate...

&nbsp;TOPICHistory of an Unlevel Playing FieldIN THIS EPISODE[01:41] Introduction of Morgan Grove.[02:05] Morgan explains what the Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES) is.[03:13] Who is participating in the Baltimore Ecosystem Study?[04:07] Morgan shares what his role is on the BES team.[05:06] Morgan describes some of the sub-projects he’s working on.[07:40] Morgan shares the connections between economic and social inequality and diminished access to nature.[15:20] Morgan talks about health disparities and other quality-of-life indicators.[17:42] What have been the most unexpected findings from the BES so far?[19:36] Morgan explains how we can overcome the misunderstanding of white people to the persistence of the disempowerment of African Americans throughout history.[23:35] Morgan shares where to learn more about the BES.[24:27] Morgan shares where to find his book, “The Baltimore School of Urban Ecology.”[24:58] Morgan shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[25:12] Morgan describes the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[25:49] Morgan explains what Baltimore city and the Chesapeake Bay looks like 30 years from now.GUESTMorgan Grove is a social scientist and Team Leader for the USDA Forest Service’s Baltimore Urban Field Station. Morgan has worked in Baltimore since 1989, with the Forest Service since 1996, and has been a Co-Principal Investigator in the Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES) since its beginning in 1997.Learn More about Morgan HereORGANIZATIONThe Baltimore Ecosystem Study is a long-term ecological research project. It is funded by the National Science Foundation to learn how an urban area works as an ecological system. We want to know the ecological interactions in the whole range of habitats — from the center city of Baltimore, out into the surrounding rural areas. We are conducting research on the soil, the plants and animals on land and in the streams, the water quality, and condition of the air in and around Baltimore. For that information to make sense, we are also studying how families, associations, organizations and political bodies make decisions that affect ecological processes. In other words, we are treating the whole collection of urban, suburban and rural areas as an ecological system that includes people and their activities. This is a really unusual approach to ecology because it combines with social sciences, physical sciences, and education to understand a big metropolitan area as an ecological system. Saying that an urban area is a system just means that we are concerned with the interactions between wild and domestic organisms, people and their organizations, and the natural and built environment all affect one another. It is these relationships that determine the quality of the environment we experience in the places where we live, work and relax. The research project is long-term, because conditions in the past affect the urban environment we experience now, and we also need to be able to say what environmental effects the things we are doing now in and around our cities will affect the environment in the future. This information can help people, including individuals, families, organizations and government agencies, to make decisions that have the environmental effects that they want.The Baltimore Ecosystem Study (BES) seeks to• Pursue excellence in social-ecological research in an urban system;• Maintain positive engagement with communities, environmental institutions, and government agencies;• Educate and inform the public, students, and organizations that have need of...

TOPICProviding Turnkey Sustainability ProgramsIN THIS EPISODE[01:18] Introduction of Barbara Spoonhour and Dustin Reilich.[01:52] Barbara shares how the Home Energy Renovation Opportunity (HERO) program started, what the goals were, and how the program works.[03:29] What does PACE stand for?[04:50] Barbara and Dustin describe the early years of the program.[06:45] Was Renovate America on board with HERO from the very beginning?[07:50] Dustin explains that the money that would have gone to utilities is being used to create jobs.[08:55] Is there an opportunity for individual households to reduce their carbon footprint as a result of the HERO program?[09:30] Is the program available to multi-unit houses, apartment buildings, etc.?[10:26] How did the HERO program ramp up so quickly?[11:40] How is the program different today than when it started in 2011?[12:46] Barbara shares the specific, measurable outcomes she wants to achieve.[14:31] Dustin explains how the expansion is going.[15:59] Are there aspects of HERO that are designed to deal with issues of environmental justice, racial justice, income inequality?[18:25] Is there any effort to target lower income communities?[19:43] Barbara and Dustin share when they realized their career focus was working on issues of sustainability.[22:14] Barbara and Dustin share if they ever imagined this program would become so big so fast.[24:55] Dustin share how people can learn more about HERO and how they can get involved.[25:50] Barbara and Dustin share one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[27:35] Barbara and Dustin describe the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[29:26] Barbara and Dustin explain what Western Riverside County, California, and our country look like 30 years from now.[30:46] Barbara explains what motivated WRCOG to reach beyond local governments to have this program statewide in California.GUESTS Barbara Spoonhour, Director of Energy and Environmental Programs, has been with Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) since 2001. Ms. Spoonhour has over 10 years of experience in local government and over 15 years in implementing environmental programs. She oversees the energy efficiency and water conservation program for Western Riverside County, referred to as HERO (Home Energy Renovation Opportunity). The HERO program expanded statewide in 2014 and currently has over $1 billion in approved projects. In addition, Ms. Spoonhour oversees the Western Riverside Energy Leader Partnership, which is a public-private partnership with Southern California Edison that promotes jurisdictional leadership for the promotion of energy efficiency.Dustin Reilich is the Senior Director of Municipal Development for Renovate America – HERO Financing. The HERO (Home Energy Renovation Opportunity) program provides turnkey Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program management designed for municipalities. The HERO program includes a full set of program deliverables that incorporate best practices utilized by other municipalities. This ensures each program builds on the experience of other programs, while at the same time allowing municipalities to modify the program to meet unique requirements.ORGANIZATION<img...

TOPICThe Impact of Trade Deals in AmericaIN THIS EPISODE[02:36] Introduction of Rodney North.[03:13] Rodney shares about when he became passionate about fair trade.[04:27] Rodney explains the mission of Fairtrade America.[05:54] Rodney describes the coffee-focused project Fairtrade America is involved in.[07:45] Is there a corollary within the tea industry for those who don’t drink coffee?[09:24] Why is fair trade an important issue for working-class and lower-income Americans?[10:24] How would you define “fair trade”?[13:33] Rodney explains NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement).[16:15] How do trade deals impact the environment, working-class Americans, and our communities?[18:52] Is it possible to structure a trade deal when the cost-of-living imbalance is so great on a global scale?[23:03] If people don’t understand the value of organized labor and being paid a fair wage, are they able to understand what’s happening with the undermining of workers in other parts of the world?[26:07] Where can listeners learn more about Fairtrade America?[26:48] Rodney shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[27:40] Rodney describes the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[28:52] Rodney explains what trade looks like 30 years from now.GUESTRodney North is Fairtrade America’s Director of Marketing and External Relations. Rodney oversees Fairtrade America’s marketing, public relations and advocacy efforts to increase awareness and support for equitable business practices involving smallholder farmers and other stakeholders. He has worked in the fair trade foods movement longer than all but a handful of individuals in the nation and has been deeply involved in communicating the fair trade story to diverse constituencies. Prior to his role at Fairtrade America, Rodney worked for Equal Exchange, a worker-owned cooperative and market leader in the fair trade and organic food movements. North joined the pioneering company in 1996, serving in various positions, including for the past 15 years in media relations and public advocacy roles. He earned the nickname The Answer Man because of his extensive knowledge of fair trade, the global food industry, small farmer co-operatives, socially responsible and sustainable business practices, and how business models intersect with human development. At Equal Exchange, North was also one of the co-operative’s 120 worker-owners. He was a two-term director of the enterprise’s Board of Directors, and he served as Vice Chair for three years. North has also volunteered with the Fair Trade Federation (membership screening committee), and for four years was an advisor to the board of directors of La Siembra, a Canadian worker co-operative and 100% fair trade, 100% organic food company.ORGANIZATIONFairtrade America is a national, nonprofit organization committed to helping smallholder farmers and workers around the world get a fairer price for their products, access to international markets, and funds for community development that will enable them to lead better lives, and invest in their communities. Fairtrade America is a member of Fairtrade International, which comprises 25 such organizations around the world and three producer networks that together establish international Fairtrade standards. Fairtrade International is unusual among ethical certifications due to the large governance role played by its members in the global south. Participating farmer producer groups hold half the votes in the Fairtrade International General Assembly and more than one-third of the seats on the Fairtrade International board of directors. The Fairtrade Mark is the most recognized and trusted ethical label worldwide, found on products sold in over 120 countries...

TOPICThe Next Frontier in Community EnergyIN THIS EPISODE[01:39] Introduction of Alex DiGiorgio.[01:57] Alex describes what Marin Clean Energy (MCE) is.[03:45] What is Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), and how does it work?[06:53] Do the consumers get to choose the mix of energy they’re receiving?[09:17] How many different choices do consumers have?[10:33] What is the price difference between the lowest option and the highest option?[12:17] Can the cost be lowered if more people join?[13:52] How is MCE doing with their opt-out rates?[15:14] Who is the opposition?[16:00] How widely spread are CCAs (in California)?[17:30] Is there anything outside of California that is comparable to the CCA concept?[18:22] Alex explains the success of sourcing alternative renewable energy at a lower price.[21:18] Alex shares how a CCA impacts low-income communities and how it creates more equitable outcomes.[24:57] Will the Clean Energy Incentive Program help make CCAs available everywhere?[27:24] Alex shares how listeners can learn more about CCAs.[28:50] Alex shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[29:46] Alex describes the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[30:10] Alex explains what the energy field in California looks like 30 years from now.GUESTAs MCE Clean Energy (MCE)’s Community Development Manager, Alex DiGiorgio collaborates with stakeholders throughout MCE’s service area to advance sustainable development and expand access to competitively-priced renewable energy. By cultivating partnerships with residents, businesses, local leaders, and community groups, Alex helps MCE customers determine which resources they wish to support through their electricity purchases. Alex received his law degree from UC Berkeley’s Boalt Hall, where he earned certificates of specialization in energy regulation and environmental law.ORGANIZATIONMCE’s mission is to address climate change by reducing energy-related greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy supply and energy efficiency at stable and competitive rates for customers while providing local economic and workforce benefits.MCE makes it possible for you to take advantage of cleaner energy that’s better for the environment without doing anything at all. When you sign up for PG&amp;E service in Marin County, unincorporated Napa County or the cities of Benicia, El Cerrito, Richmond and San Pablo, you are automatically enrolled in our standard Light Green 50% renewable energy program, which comes from sources like solar, wind, bioenergy, geothermal, and small hydroelectric. Or, you can sign up for Deep Green 100% renewable energy from Green-e Energy certified, non-polluting sources. PG&amp;E will continue to deliver your energy through their standard power lines, and their repair and maintenance teams in the familiar blue trucks still provide the same reliable service you’re used to — rain or shine.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“Community-choice programs allow cities and counties to join together and then offer an alternative energy-supply portfolio to all of the electricity consumers within their jurisdiction. That’s really what CCA is: it’s the public option for energy administered at the local level.”“If CCA’s can keep their opt-out rates low—and better yet, if they can get their opt-up rates high—then…that should help to both stabilize rates and reduce them.”“Community-choice programs—and some of these are called something different. They’re sometimes called municipal-choice programs, but they’re essentially the same thing. They’re often operated very...

TOPICReducing Single-Occupancy-Vehicle (SOV) CommutingIN THIS EPISODE[01:13] Introduction of Steve Raney.[01:59] What is Joint Venture Silicon Valley?[02:45] Steve explains the goals of the Bay Area Mobility as a Service project.[04:11] Why is it challenging to decrease single-occupancy-vehicle (SOV) miles traveled in areas that were designed and built for single-occupancy vehicles (SOV)?[05:13] Steve describes what congestion pricing is and why it’s important to reducing carbon emissions.[07:56] Steve shares what Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is and how it works.[09:34] Steve explains how the software on your smartphone helps you connect with different commuting options.[10:31] Where can people go to learn more about the Bay Area MaaS program, as well as the concept of Maas?[12:10] Are there other industries working to combine compatible fields into one brand?[13:02] Steve describes the Bay Area Maas project.[15:47] How can MaaS be used to create more equitable commuting policies and conditions for low-wage workers?[18:27] Steve shares how he became involved in this work.[19:16] How can people learn more about Joint Venture Silicon Valley?[19:30] Steve shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[20:10] Steve describes the action listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[20:39] Steve explains what the San Francisco Bay Area looks like 30 years from now.[21:22] Steve shares his thoughts about the rise of Uber and Lyft.GUESTSteve Raney leads Joint Venture Silicon Valley’s Mobility as a Service project. Previously, Steve led autonomous vehicle commercialization studies for Nissan and Google and he led the EPA’s “Transforming Office Parks into Transit Villages” Study. He is the parent of MTC’s Climate Innovations grant program. Steve has 5 university degrees.Learn more about Steve hereORGANIZATIONEstablished in 1993, Joint Venture Silicon Valley provides analysis and action on issues affecting our region’s economy and quality of life. The organization brings together established and emerging leaders—from business, government, academia, labor and the broader community—to spotlight issues and work toward innovative solutions.Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is Joint Venture Silicon Valley’s umbrella term for our Silicon Valley commute-focused project to improve options besides driving alone. MaaS dissolves the boundaries between different transport modes, providing a more customer-centered, seamless experience while improving the efficiency of the entire transport system. Bay Area employers provide a range of customized employee programs to facilitate commuting: transit passes, Wi-Fi motor coach service, last mile shuttle buses from transit, payroll subsidies and more.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“We focus on difficult challenges, in areas like economic development, transportation, energy, communications infrastructure, hunger, and climate change; and I think we’re a pretty compassionate organization.”“[The drive-as-you-go insurance] is one of the one’s that’s relatively viable politically. It’s not at all a tap-in putt in golf, but it’s something that is more worthwhile to pursue to get something enacted.”“We’re trying to internalize the negative externalities of pollution and carbon and congestion and create a more efficiently functioning mobility market with better choices.”“We know that higher-income workers are more likely to drive alone, so that kind of a policy is a progressive transfer of wealth from high-income folks to low-income folks. So that kind of

TOPICEqualizing the Balance of PowerIN THIS EPISODE[01:48] Introduction of Veronica Eady.[02:14] Veronica explains when she realized being an environmental justice advocate would be her life’s work.[03:59] What is a community benefits agreement?[05:20] Do community benefits agreements work in equalizing developers and communities?[07:50] Why are community benefits agreements important for equitable reinvestment or development?[11:33] Are there other examples of a good environmental benefits agreement, and is an environmental benefits agreement the same as a community benefits agreement?[13:40] Veronica describes the elements of obtaining a community benefits agreement.[16:21] Where can we learn more or get advice about a community benefits agreement?[18:17] Veronica explains about the Conservation Law Foundation and the work that is done there.[19:27] Veronica shares how listeners can learn more about the Conservation Law Foundation and get in touch with her.[19:55] Veronica shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[20:37] Veronica describes the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[21:27] Veronica explains what the New England region looks like 30 years from now.GUESTVeronica Eady is the Vice President and Massachusetts Director of the Conservation Law Foundation. She is a lawyer whose practice has been focused on issues of environmental justice. Veronica is a former chair of the U.S. EPA’s National Environmental Justice Advisory Council and the principal author of the State of Massachusetts’ environmental justice policy.Check out Veronica’s recent posts on the Conservation Law Foundation websiteContact Veronica via email at [email protected] Conservation Law Foundation protects New England’s environment for the benefit of all people. They use the law, science and the market to create solutions that preserve natural resources, build healthy communities, and sustain a vibrant economy. Their vision is for a healthy, thriving New England – for generations to come.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“Generally speaking, the interests on the community side in a community benefit agreement are wide-ranging. It can be community based organizations; it can be labor unions, faith organizations, or mainstream environmental groups, or any combination of those. But typically those are the types of groups that have an interest in community benefits agreements.”“I’ve seen some community benefits agreements that have been very good, and I have seen some that have not been so good…Over the last 20 years, we’ve seen them change quite a bit, to the extent that in some states, community benefits agreements are mandated by law.“…here in Massachusetts, where I live, our casino gaming law requires a community benefits agreement with the community, and the fact that these community benefits agreements are now more so embodied in a statute and required, that’s really changed what the playing field looks like. So no longer is it community organizations, the environmental groups and such coming together and insisting on their power and their place at the table, the dynamic is a little bit different now because you have the state government, in Massachusetts, for example, saying you have to do this community benefits agreement…it changes the lead of the agreement; it changes the tenor of the agreement…it really has shaken up the playing field and the balance of power.”“[Community benefits agreements] continue to be an...

TOPICGiving People a VoiceIN THIS EPISODE[01:31] Introduction of Dr. Craig Martinez.[01:59] Introduction of Veronica Garibay and Phoebe Seaton.[02:27] Craig describes the California Endowment and its mission.[03:15] Craig explains that health happens in neighborhoods, not just in a doctor’s office.[04:10] Craig shares why this work is important to him.[05:27] What is the geographic description of the San Joaquin Valley, and what are the economic and social conditions there?[07:00] What are the health outcomes overall within San Joaquin Valley?[09:43] Craig shares that there’s a benefit to building healthier communities to get better health outcomes.[11:26] Veronica describes the organization of the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability.[15:23] What steps are needed to give people a voice when they aren’t being heard in their communities?[20:01] Phoebe shares why this work is important to her.[21:22] Veronica shares why this work is important to her.[23:54] Craig shares that the people who produce the food for the country don’t have the most basic quality of life.[25:26] Craig explains how the California Endowment and the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability are working together.[28:10] Phoebe and Veronica explain the partnership of the work they’ve been doing together with the California Endowment.[30:32] Phoebe and Craig share how people can access their work and get in touch with them.[32:03] Craig, Phoebe, and Veronica share one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[32:45] Veronica, Phoebe, and Craig share the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[33:25] Veronica, Phoebe, and Craig explain what the San Joaquin Valley looks like 30 years from now.GUESTSDr. Craig Martinez, joined The California Endowment in May 2012 as a program manager to work towards policy and systems changes that will result in improved neighborhood environments that support health. Prior to joining The Endowment, Dr. Martinez served as a health policy advisor in the Health Policy Office of the Senate Health, Education, Labor &amp; Pensions (HELP) Committee. He is based in The California Endowment’s Los Angeles office.Veronica Garibay is Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability. Veronica immigrated from Michoacan, Mexico at a young age along with her parents and four siblings to the City of Parlier in Fresno County. Veronica grew up in this small farmworker town and graduated from Parlier Unified District Schools. As a first generation student, she attended the University of California, Santa Barbara where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Law and Society in 2008. Upon graduation, Veronica joined the California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc. Community Equity Initiative (CEI) as the programs first Community Worker. While at CRLA Veronica earned a Master of Public Administration from Fresno State.Phoebe Seaton is Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability. Prior to launching Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, Phoebe directed the Community Equity Initiative (CEI) at California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc. and was the Policy Coordinator for issues related to water and land use at California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation. She initiated the CEI to address critical infrastructure and service deficits in low income, unincorporated communities in California. She and her colleagues at CRLA litigated civil rights and fair housing claims and maintained a robust writ practice, litigating against local and state agencies. At CRLA, Seaton also directed the organization’s Delano office and engaged in legal advocacy on Housing and Employment...

TOPICWater Sustainability in Urban AreasIN THIS EPISODE[02:09] Introduction of Dr. Tamim Younos.[02:44] Tamim describes the scope of the problem of the water crisis and the number of Americans who lack access to safe drinking water.[05:37] Tamim shares about water testing.[08:04] Are certain geographic areas or populations more likely to be impacted by the lack of proper water infrastructure?[09:30] What kind of implications does the lack of access to clean water and wastewater facilities have on families and communities?[10:54] What are some common health issues related to lower-quality drinking water?[12:40] Tamim explains what the Green Water-Infrastructure Academy is doing about the problem of unsafe drinking water.[17:38] Tamim describes the obstacles of getting a broader knowledge of the policies that are needed.[20:11] How can people learn more and support the Green Water-Infrastructure Academy’s work?[20:54] Tamim shares what motivates him to do this work and why this work is important to him.[21:45] Tamim discusses the frequency of the issues of poor and lacking water infrastructure in the U.S.[23:19] Tamim shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[24:40] Tamim explains the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[25:17] Tamim shares what water infrastructure looks like 30 years from now.GUESTDr. Tamim Younos is Founder &amp; President of the Green Water-Infrastructure Academy. Dr. Younos earned a doctoral degree in urban and environmental engineering from the University of Tokyo. His research and educational interests include watershed assessment, sustainable water management systems, and water-energy nexus in urban environments. Dr. Younos has authored/co-authored more than 150 publications and has edited five books: “Advances in Watershed Science and Assessment” (Springer 2015) “Potable Water: Emerging Global Problems and Solutions (Springer 2014), “Climate Change and Water Resources” (Springer, 2013); “Total Maximum Daily Load: Approaches &amp; Challenges” (PennWell Books 2005), “Advances in Water Monitoring Research” (Water Resources Publications 2003). Dr. Younos is a former Research Professor of Water Resources and Interim Director of Virginia Water Resources Research Center at Virginia Tech, and a past President of the Cabell Brand Center for Global Poverty and Resource Sustainability Studies, a nonprofit organization.ORGANIZATIONThe Green Water-Infrastructure Academy is a nonprofit organization in Washington, D.C. The mission of the Academy is to enhance human health and quality of life in global urban environments by promoting green water-infrastructure research, education and outreach programs. The Academy promotes a paradigm shift toward a holistic approach for sustainable management of water resources in global urban environments. The Green Water-Infrastructure Academy activities include awarding competitive grants to support green water infrastructure research and development, developing and coordinating partnerships between academia, governmental entities, nonprofits and private sector to support green water infrastructure projects, sponsoring green water infrastructure educational and outreach opportunities, and encouraging policy discussions pertinent to implementation and regulation of green water infrastructures.TAKEAWAY QUOTES“We have public water systems, like the one in Flint, Michigan, and then we have private water systems; and the public water systems serve about 86% of the population, which is about 260 million people in the United States, and the remaining is...

TOPICIntegrated Water Resource and Infrastructure ManagementIN THIS EPISODE[01:43] Introduction of Matthew Naud.[01:54] Matthew explains what his job as the Environmental Coordinator for the City of Ann Arbor entails.[02:42] Matthew shares his personal background and what motivates him to do his work.[03:33] Matthew describes his session at the New Partners for Smart Growth Conference.[04:42] What kind of water or climate-change challenges is Ann Arbor facing, and what’s being done to meet those challenges?[06:10] What’s being done to deal with the increased amount of precipitation, and what are the implications to the community of that increased precipitation?[08:24] Matthew explains why increased rainfall and runoff is a challenge and why the storm-water utility was created.[10:23] Matthew shares the implications of not managing the storm-water runoff.[11:31] In Flint, is the source of the water that is being used part of the problem?[14:00] Are there other communities that have created this storm-water utility and taken this approach that Ann Arbor has?[15:00] How long has Ann Arbor had that system in place?[15:13] Did it face any legal challenges or real political pushback?[16:14] Is funding the rest of the infrastructure equally challenging?[18:49] What is the quantity of water that people can get for a dollar?[19:42] Is there any reason why these approaches that are taken in Ann Arbor not broadly transferrable to other places?[20:25] Do you get many people asking you how you do it and learning from Ann Arbor’s approach?[21:30] Are there any other cities in Michigan that have a storm-water utility?[21:49] Matthew shares where listeners can learn more about he’s doing in Ann Arbor.[22:23] Matthew shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[23:03] Matthew explains the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[23:29] Matthew shares what Ann Arbor looks like 30 years from now.GUESTMatthew Naud has been the Environmental Coordinator for the City of Ann Arbor since 2001. He staffs the City’s Environmental Commission and makes recommendations to the City Administrator, Mayor, and City Council on a broad range of sustainability issues. Mr. Naud is a member of the Urban Sustainability Director’s Network where he serves on the Planning Committee, Innovation Committee, and Small Cities User Group. Mr. Naud was recently appointed to a three year term on the USEPA Board of Scientific Counselors – Sustainable and Healthy Communities Subcommittee. He holds Masters degrees from the University of Michigan in Biology and Public Policy and an undergraduate degree from Boston College.ORGANIZATIONThe city of Ann Arbor is committed to providing excellent municipal services that enhance the quality of life for all through the intelligent use of resources while valuing an open environment that fosters fair, sensitive, and respectful treatment of all employees and the community they serve. Ann Arbor has 114,000 residents, spans 28.6 square miles, and is frequently recognized as a foremost place to live, learn, work, thrive and visit (www.a2gov.org/news). To keep up with City of Ann Arbor information, subscribe for email updates (www.a2gov.org/subscribe), follow us on Twitter (http://twitter.com/a2gov) or become a city fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thecityofannarbor).TAKEAWAY QUOTES“We work a lot with—it’s called the Graham Sustainability Institute and they have a climate center and...

TOPICWater Infrastructure in Rural CommunitiesIN THIS EPISODE[01:39] Introduction of Hope Cupit and Andy Crocker.[02:18] In light of the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, how many Americans lack access to safe drinking water?[03:16] Is it accurate that the number of people who don’t have access to drinking water doesn’t take into account those who may have access to below-standard drinking water?[03:49] Is the lack of water infrastructure disproportionately located in other geographic ways, or are certain populations more likely to be impacted?[05:45] How are investments for new developments justified when distressed communities have been trying for years to get water infrastructure?[08:55] What are the health and economic implications for rural communities that don’t have access to clean water and wastewater facilities?[10:28] What has the Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project been doing to address this problem of inequity in access to water infrastructure?[12:26] Is South Carolina one of the states that you work in?[12:49] How do you get infrastructure to communities that have been trying to get onto municipal water supplies?[14:21] On a national level, what are some of the obstacles that get in the way of being able to get communities what they need?[15:50] How are tribal communities enduring the lack of water infrastructure?[18:02] How can people learn more and support the work that you’re doing at SERCAP?[19:36] Hope and Andy share information about the larger network that SERCAP is part of.[21:09] Does the larger RCAP network have its own website?[21:34] Hope and Andy explain why this work is important to them.[23:00] Andy and Hope share one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[23:25] Hope and Andy explain the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[23:55] Hope and Andy share what the world looks like 30 years from now.GUESTSHope Cupit is the President and CEO of the Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP). She also is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and is a Professor at Virginia Western Community College where she teaches Financial Accounting. In 2007, Mrs. Cupit began her tenure at Southeast RCAP as the Controller, then was promoted to become the Vice President/Deputy CEO and was hired in 2009 as President and CEO for the organization. Mrs. Cupit comes from a background of community leadership and has been actively involved with community economic development efforts for over 25 years. She is devoted to assisting the less fortunate and maintaining the integrity of improving the infrastructure of small rural communities. She enjoys working with these small communities, learning first-hand about the challenges people face in everyday life and advocating on their behalf.Andy Crocker is the Virginia State Manager for Regional Programs at SERCAP.ORGANIZATIONSSoutheast Rural Community Assistance Project, Inc.’s (SERCAP) mission is to improve the quality of life for low-income individuals by promoting affordable water and wastewater facilities, community development, environmental health, and economic self-sufficiency. As a member of the National Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP), SERCAP serves all of the rural citizens of seven southeastern states: Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. To date, SERCAP has brought clean water and wastewater facilities to more than 450,000 residents in our seven state networkIn keeping with their...

TOPICYoung Women and Youth for Smart GrowthIN THIS EPISODE[01:29] Introduction of Zelia Gonzales.[02:03] Zelia explains what motivates her to be an activist in her community.[02:48] Zelia shares the first time she got involved with becoming an activist?.[03:37] Zelia describes the definition of complete streets.[04:25] Zelia shares about advocacy projects she’s been involved with, including the Sacramento Young Feminists Alliance.[06:51] Can you explain what feminism means to you and why you were motivated to start the group?[08:11] How do your parents and other adults react to your activism?[09:41] Can you tell us how the session at New Partners for Smart Growth Conference went and what did you accomplish or try to accomplish during the session?[11:12] What advice would you give to people in communities who want to get more young people involved?[13:53] As communities work on revitalization issues, are there certain areas that resonate more with young people?[15:05] As the younger generation sees more possibility than the older generation, can the urge of the older generation to stifle the idealism and the potential the younger people seek be a turnoff in the process?[16:59] Zelia shares some of the issues that SYFA is addressing.[18:39] Zelia explains how New Partners for Smart Growth Conferences has supported her and made her a better activist.[20:31] Zelia shares where people can go to learn more about SYFA.[20:55] Zelia shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[21:22] Zelia explains the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[21:40] Zelia shares what Sacramento looks like 30 years from now.GUESTZelia Gonzales is a high school senior and political activist for a variety of causes ranging from feminism to fair wages. She has worked for the City of Sacramento for two years and will continue through college and career as a public servant. Her work with the Sacramento Young Feminists Alliance (SYFA) has led her to presenting at the New Partners for Smart Growth Conference.ORGANIZATIONThe Sacramento Young Feminists Alliance (SYFA) strives to unite high school feminists’ coalitions and clubs from all around the Sacramento area. They unite students with the common mission of destroying patriarchy and inspiring all women and people to be who and what they want. SYFA builds solidarity and cooperation between Sacramento area high school feminists, in order to empower young women, through meetings twice a month and facilitating youth led projects and education.Contact SYFA at [email protected] QUOTES“Seeing unjustices around me and recognizing my privilege from a very young age, that allowed me to see the contrast and try to work towards equalizing that out. When I was younger…I saw how they [Zelia’s peers] were treated unjustly through a system, not by any one individual, and as I got older and I could put words to that and I could work on actual topics, I could change that, it really manifested into creating a space for other people to do the same thing.”“I’ve found people that have been really, really supportive and believe that what we are doing with SYFA and what I’m doing individually with all these other organizations really does make a difference, and so it’s really allowed another activist wave to form, which is youth advocacy.”“When you’re engaging with youth, it’s really important to remember that they are not held back by anything—you know, they’re not held back by any of this bureaucracy or preconceived notions about certain people or ideas—and so their ideas may be a lot more innovative and fresh than some

TOPICHow High-Wage Jobs Affect Affordable HousingIN THIS EPISODE[01:31] Introduction of Dr. Chris Benner.[02:29] Chris shares his background and what draws him to issues of economic and social equity and inclusion.[04:46] Chris explains the importance of education for disadvantaged populations for our economic future.[05:14] Chris explains a study of job growth in the San Francisco Bay Area.[07:58] Chris gives information about the next study and how people can get access to it.[08:39] Chris shares the report findings of a lack of housing affordability is causing displacement of residents and long commutes.[10:58] Chris explains the report data of a significant number of low-wage jobs are being created but no new affordable housing units are being created.[13:09] What are the policy implications? What can we do to fix this problem of no new affordable housing?[16:23] Do you see any indication that there’s a movement to create inclusionary zoning or some kind of development incentives to create more affordable housing?[18:00] Are San Franciscans changing how they think of themselves since the city’s character seems to be changing and it now seems to be a city that people can’t afford to live in?[19:58] Chris explains, within a regional context, how residents are needed to have the basis for the sales tax to buy goods.[21:20] Chris shares how he was made aware of the dynamic of people in poor communities who are shopping in other places that are benefiting from the tax dollars being spent there.[23:46] Chris agrees that the poor pay more in regard to commuting time, cost of commuting, and quality-of-life and economic implications.[24:25] Chris explains how the job, inequality, and political crises play out in the context of housing affordability and the overall quality of life in the Bay Area.[28:19] Chris shares where people can go to learn more about his work.[29:12] Chris shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[30:31] Chris explains the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[31:28] Chris shares what the world looks like 30 years from now.GUESTDr. Chris Benner is the Dorothy E. Everett Chair in Global Information and Social Entrepreneurship, Director of the Everett Program for Digital Tools for Social Innovation, and Professor of Environmental Studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz. His research focuses on the relationships between technological change, regional development, and structures of economic opportunity, focusing on regional labor markets and the transformation of work and employment patterns. He is the author of multiple books including Just Growth: Inclusion and Prosperity in America’s Metropolitan Regions, co-authored with Manuel Pastor (Professor of Sociology and American Studies and Ethnicity at the University of Southern California), which helps uncover the processes, policies and institutional arrangements that help explain how certain regions around the country have been able to consistently link prosperity and inclusion. His most recent book, also co-authored with Manuel Pastor is titled Equity, Growth, and Community: What the Nation Can Learn from America’s Metro Areas. Benner’s work has also included providing research assistance to a range of organizations promoting equity and expanded opportunity, including the Coalition on Regional Equity (Sacramento), Working Partnerships USA (San Jose), the California Labor Federation, and the Congress of South African Trade Unions among others. He received his Ph.D. in City and Regional Planning from the University of California, Berkeley.Follow him on Twitter @ChrisBennerChris’ email is <a...

TOPICMaking Sure That Underrepresented Communities Are HeardIN THIS EPISODE[01:57] Topic for this episode is introduced.[02:01] Introduction of Helen Leung.[02:12] Introduction of Amanda Daflos.[02:30] Helen shares her background and what motivates her to work on issues of equity, smart growth, and sustainability.[04:17] Amanda shares her background and what motivates her to work on issues of equity, smart growth, and sustainability.[05:54] Helen tells about LA-Más.[06:48] Amanda tells about the Mayor’s Office of Innovation in L.A. and the Bloomberg Philanthropies.[08:01] Helen and Amanda explain alternative approaches to traditional models of community-engagement initiatives that are ineffective.[12:02] What are some practices to ensure that underrepresented populations are represented in decision making?[14:58] How do we keep current residents from being pushed out as private investment occurs in underrepresented neighborhoods?GUESTSAmanda Daflos serves as the Director of the Innovation Team (i-team) in the Mayor’s Office of Budget and Innovation in the City of Los Angeles. Her team, funded by the Bloomberg Philanthropies Innovation Teams grant, works on key mayoral priorities and collaborates across the City to define pathways to improvement. Amanda previously worked as a Senior Manager at Deloitte Consulting, and has spent the last decade working with on and leading federal, state and local government projects in the US and abroad. Prior to joining Deloitte, Daflos was the Director of Programs for an international non-profit organization where she was responsible for programming and operations in the US, Tanzania, Peru and Nepal. Daflos presently serves as a Deputy to the Los Angeles Honorary Consulate General to Nepal, a role she accepted in the wake of the 2015 earthquake. Daflos holds a Masters of Public Administration from the University of Colorado and a BA from Hamilton College. She is a 2014 graduate of the Leadership Tomorrow program in Seattle and lives in Los Angeles.Helen Leung is Co-Executive Director of LA-Más, a cross disciplinary non-profit community design organization based in Los Angeles. Helen ensures that all LA-Más projects are grounded in community need and policy potential. She is passionate about redefining the intersection of community development and social equity, with a focus in minimizing displacement in gentrifying neighborhoods. A native Angelino and urban planner, Helen has extensive community-based experience working for former Los Angeles Council President Eric Garcetti. Helen holds a Masters in Public Policy and Urban Planning from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.ORGANIZATIONSThe Innovation Team (i-team) in the Mayor’s Office of Budget and Innovation in the City of Los Angeles is a group of “in-house consultants” that work on key mayoral priorities thanks to a $2.55 million, three-year grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies. Los Angeles was one of 14 cities to win the grant, which sponsors the creation of Innovation Delivery Teams that aim to design and implement new approaches for city halls across the nation to improve neighborhoods and residents’ quality of life – relying on data, open innovation, and strong project and performance management. The Los Angeles team focuses on neighborhood revitalization in low-income areas, with the goal of improving the lives of existing residents and minimizing displacement of long-time residents and local businesses.LA-Más is a...

TOPICMaking the Healthy Choice the Easy ChoiceIN THIS EPISODE[1:36] Introduction of Dan Burden.[1:57] Dan shares what motivates him in his work of bike-able, walkable communities.[3:28] Dan explains his role as director of inspiration and innovation at Blue Zones, LLC.[4:07] Dan explains what blue zones are.[4:54] Dan tells about the Blue Zones Project and how people can get their community to be a blue zone project.[5:55] Dan shares where listeners can get more information about Blue Zones, LLC and the Blue Zones Project.[6:12] Dan tells about the Blue Zones Project he’s been working on in Hawaii.[7:56] Are any projects occurring in primarily low-income or minority communities?[9:05] What are the obstacles of having projects occur in low-income or minority communities?[11:09] Dan shares what role the New Partners for Smart Growth Conference has played in raising the interest in walkable, bike-able communities.[11:56] Dan shares if walkable, bike-able communities are more equitable in addition to being healthier and better for the planet.[13:15] What is it about Missoula, Montana that makes it such a great walkable, bike-able community?[14:25] What do we need to do in our cities to start a transition away from an auto-central design to a more people/bike design?[16:20] Dan shares one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[16:44] Dan explains the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[17:07] Dan shares what the world looks like 30 years from now.[17:44] Dan shares the importance of change.[18:10] Dan explains that we live in a “vuca” world.GUESTDan Burden is one of the most recognized names in the development of walkable and bicycle friendly communities. During the past 32 years he has been studying, interpreting and implementing insights and skills of changing human habitat to be focused on people first. Dan is the Director of Inspiration and Innovation at Blue Zones. He has relentless energy and has personally helped 3,500 communities throughout the world make their means of transportation healthier, more active and affordable. Many of Dan’s streets designs and town centers are now celebrated in numerous publications and books and, of course, everyday by the millions of feet utilizing his designs. He joins our podcast to talk through the history, benchmarks, key steps, principles and best practices in making walking and all of active transportation the natural choice in motion.ORGANIZATIONThe mission of Blue Zones is to help people live longer, better lives. Blue Zones works with industry leaders to bring the Blue Zones mission to life. The Blue Zones Project is a systems approach in which citizens, schools, employers, restaurants, grocery stores and community leaders collaborate on policies and programs that move the community towards better health and well-being. It implements long-term, evidence-backed policies and interventions that optimize environments within communities, nudging people towards healthier choices throughout their day. The program is based on the assumption that we spend 90% of our lives in a 20-mile “Life Radius”. Rather than relying on individual behavior change, the program focuses on making the healthy choice the easy choice. Instead of nagging people to exercise, we make walking easier and more desirable than driving. By making wholesome foods more accessible and less expensive than junk foods, people begin to eat healthier naturally. The approach is based on the cornerstone of sustainability. Unlike other health or wellness initiatives Blue Zones Projects address the environment not just the individual,...

TOPICMoving Equity from a Buzzword to a MetricIN THIS EPISODE[3:32] Topic for this episode is introduced.[3:56] Introduction of Joan Valhalla.[4:13] Introduction of Shauen Pearce.[5:04] Shauen and Joan explain why a scorecard tool that ensures benefits to everyone is necessary.[6:44] What are the five categories that are incorporated into the tool?[7:48] Are there a set of underlying principles or values that drive the whole scorecard?[10:33] How is this tool used?[15:04] To what degree was the development community involved in the creation of this tool, and how have they embraced it?[18:13] How can people learn more about the equitable development principles and scorecard tool?[18:55] Why is this work important, and what is the motivation to do this work?[24:52] Shauen and Joan share one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[25:50] Shauen and Joan explain the action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[26:26] Shauen and Joan share what the world looks like 30 years from now.GUESTS Shauen Pearce is the Executive Director of the Harrison Neighborhood Association. She is an educator, organizer, and strategist with training in critical analysis, program development, campaign organizing, and capacity development. Shauen has over 15 years of success in policy and administrative leadership in the public and private sectors. Growing up in a society marked by corruption, violence, and displacement, Shauen is inspired by the struggles and successes of wise elders and visionary leaders. She enjoys the intersections of life, encouraging everyone to think critically and selflessly about embracing justice and harmony through fearless community building.Joan Vanhala is a Coalition Organizer at the Alliance for Metropolitan Stability. Joan joined the Alliance in February 2008. Joan has an accomplished career that includes: expertise in community organizing to achieve lasting results through effective partnerships; leadership development to sustain organizing efforts for long-term community strength; and the inclusion of racial equity as a necessary component of grassroots community development. Her work in leadership development includes creating curriculum and leading classes in organizing, conducting community best practices workshops and providing one-on-one technical support to community leaders. Before joining the Alliance, Joan worked for the Seward and Longfellow neighborhoods to develop and implement restorative justice programs for juveniles. She previously worked as the Native American Educational Services college campus director and a program manager for the Community Leadership Development Program at Family &amp; Children’s Service. As a community organizer for the Phillips neighborhood, Joan led several successful campaigns that resulted in Green Institute/ReUse Center, Midtown Greenway Coalition, Franklin Avenue revitalization, public art projects created by neighborhood youth, and an energized citizen participation process in neighborhood planning and development. Joan has a degree in Community Organizing, Leadership Development: Methods and Practices from Metropolitan State University.ORGANIZATIONSThe Harrison Neighborhood Association is working to create a prosperous and peaceful community that equitably benefits all of Harrison Neighborhood’s diverse racial, cultural and economic groups. We work to foster community awareness to improve the quality of life within our community, to provide a forum for information and communication within our community, to educate residents in the use of effective procedures for resolving problems or initiating...

TOPICRevitalization in Baltimore after Freddie GrayGUESTMel Freeman is the former Executive Director of Citizens Planning &amp; Housing Association, a regional organization whose mission envisions a well-planned Baltimore region with equity among jurisdictions, where citizens respect diversity and have access to responsive government and quality housing in vibrant neighborhoods. Currently, Mel is leading his own consulting firm, Freeman Consulting Group, where he continues to work to advance community-led planning processes that provide residents and organizations with the tools to self-manage change within their own communities. His approach is grounded in the belief that people change neighborhoods themselves not by waiting on others to lead the way.ORGANIZATIONThe Citizens Planning &amp; Housing Association (CPHA) is the catalyst for civic action to bring about a healthy, inclusive Baltimore, with economically vibrant communities and opportunities for all people. The organization does this by bringing together people and neighborhoods to create innovative solutions to challenging, community-wide problems; empowering citizens with information and skills for advocacy and organizing; and championing solutions through legislative and policy reforms. Their programs include Community Association Support and Leadership Training, Policy Research and Legislative Pressure, Citizen Outreach and Organizing, and more.Website – http://www.cphabaltimore.org/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/bmorecphaTwitter – https://twitter.com/bmorecphaTAKEAWAY QUOTES“There is a big fear of the word gentrification, do we have to have other folks who don’t look like us in our neighborhoods to increase the value of our communities?”“There is never enough public money, ever! So private investment needs to happen in these communities.”“We do need change in communities, but we also need to secure the families that are there.”“You can’t get anything done unless you’re out there talking to people, and trying to really understand what their needs are.”“Nobody in their neighborhood uses this train, hundreds of cars drive to this train station and then those people go to work, and those jobs are for them, not for us.”“What we have to do is get out in these communities and talk about what is for them, and not have them constantly thinking that the next thing that happens in their community is not for them, it is for them and they need to know that.”THANKS FOR LISTENING Thanks so much for joining us. Have some feedback or an idea you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave an honest review for Infinite Earth Radio on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are super helpful and greatly appreciated as it helps us expose this show to a wider audience – plus, we read each and every one of them!

TOPICBuilding Strong Neighborhoods and CommunitiesIN THIS EPISODE[2:27] Introduction of Frank Woodruff and Beth McConnell.[3:16] Frank explains if the goals of equitable development and smart growth are at an impasse.[4:35] Beth shares if she sees the issue of smart growth and equitable development as being at odds with each other.[5:25] Beth and Frank give suggestions for how we can move past the impasse.[7:21] Beth gives an example of a place where they think smart growth and equitable development are coming together in a synergistic way.[8:50] Beth explains if her model can be imported to other communities.[9:20] Beth shares the challenge in Philadelphia that the Philadelphia Land Bank seeks to solve.[11:25] Beth shares what needs to happen to streamline the process of reacquiring properties and the role of the Philadelphia Land Bank.[13:01] Frank tells how to encourage private investment in neighborhoods while protecting the public interest.[16:53] Beth shares if she’s encountered a place where people have figured out how to live together.[18:05] Frank and Beth share one change that would lead to smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.[18:54] Frank and Beth share one action that listeners can take to help build a more equitable and sustainable future.[19:12] Beth and Frank share what they think the world will look like 30 years from now.GUESTSFrank Woodruff is the Executive Director of the National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations (NACEDA). Frank joined NACEDA in September 2010, becoming executive director in January 2012. During a time of significant political and economic challenges for community development, Frank saw this as an opportunity to take NACEDA to a new level of success and sustainability. As our country emerges from the great recession, he believes community and economic development will be a critical tool for those communities and neighborhoods that are organized, demanding, and capable of instituting change.Beth McConnell is the Policy Director for the Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations (PACDC). PACDC represents more than 100 member organizations, including nearly 50 community development corporations, who work to develop affordable housing, revitalize commercial corridors, and stabilize Philadelphia’s neighborhoods. Beth works to advance a policy agenda that helps them do their great work.ORGANIZATIONSThe National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations (NACEDA) is a national alliance of community development associations. Its member organizations are champions, stewards, and thought leaders for community development at the state and local level. With 43 association members in 28 states, more than 3,500 community-based organizations are represented by their members.The Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations (PACDC) is dedicated to advocacy, policy development and technical assistance for community development corporations and other organizations in their efforts to rebuild communities and revitalize neighborhoods. Through their policy and advocacy work, they strive to create a more supportive environment for community development activities and to enable members to more effectively meet the needs of lower income residents and advance neighborhood revitalization. In addition, they aim to build the capacity of CDCs through resource and information delivery, a sharing of ideas and practices among CDCs, technical assistance, and promotion of the community development industry. The PACDC’s vision is to see vibrant and diverse...