A Change is a Chance

In this episode, I talked with renowned civil rights lawyer, Jon Greenbaum, where we discussed the 2024 Election, what we can expect in the next 4 years, and the consequences of a second Trump presidency. Mr. Greenbaum explained to me the areas that would see the most impact, from immigration, to basic civil rights and the lack of checks and balance in our government. While the majority of our time focused on these potential short term perils, Mr. Greenbaum also reiterated the importance to have hope and keep fighting. Tune in now to learn more!

In Episode 39, I talked with Tara Murtha, Director of Impact and Engagement at the Women’s Law Project in Pennsylvania. We discussed the current state of reproductive autonomy in America, the origins of this fight, and the legacy the issue might have on our nation after this pivotal election. Ms. Murtha explained just how essential these rights are and also why the efforts to dismantle these rights are outrageous from legal, social and political perspectives. From coast to coast political conflicts, to interpersonal kitchen table conversations, the issue of reproductive rights is in the forefront of our interactions, and Ms. Murtha enlightened me on its cruciality. All I can say is that everyone must join in on this fight for a woman’s basic right to choose. If you don't think it should be that simple, tune in now to hear why. And if you do believe in this basic right to choose, learn how you can help!

In this episode, I talked with Penn Carey Law School Professor, Kermit Roosevelt III, about his ideas for a new American narrative that better embodies the ideals and struggles of today. In his book, “The Nation that Never Was”, Professor Roosevelt explains how the 1776 founding of America we all know does not actually represent the creation of the nation we live in now. Rather, it is the Civil War and its valiant abolitionists who built today’s America and forged the equality we so often invoke today. Our conversation went from reframing American history, to how this year’s politics will help shape this story, and how activism will play a role in all of this. Tune in now to learn more.

Jonathan Zimmerman, Professor of History of Education at the University of Pennsylvania joins me in this episode to discuss how American political discourse has become a world of toxicity. Professor Zimmerman explained the intricate roots of such culture wars, from reframing American history to defining secularity in schools. From talking with him, I learned how the country has become conditioned to this behavior, from how my own biases have limited my ability to converse to those with differing opinions, to how social media has exacerbated these conversations for adults and children alike.

As we discussed solutions, Professor Zimmerman showed me how these changes must start in school, where we can condition students to be thinkers who are capable of having difficult conversations and desire an understanding of all perspectives. Is this balance achievable in America? Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I talked with Maggie Tokuda-Hall, author of many award-winning literary works, ranging from fantasy novels to picture books. She recently visited my school to talk about her books, how they related to social justice, and the true importance of books in a child's life. During our conversation, I got to hear her unique perspective on the writer's process, the duties of a minority writer, and the fight against book bans. Her insights made me laugh as much as they made me think deeply, and I learned so much. Tune in now to learn more.

It's not a surprise that more than 70% of Gen-Z are concerned about climate change but only 30% are actively engaged in climate activism. This episode dives into what one group of young climate activists in the Bay Area have created, how it has inspired many others to find their community and use their voices. Finn Does is a current co-chair of BAYCS and he talks about their work, inspiration and challenges, and what he views as a systemic issue at hand -- the tokenization of youth voices. From queer ecology, climate mental health, mushrooms to BIPOC climate organization, their monthly workshops and annual summit offer far beyond the typical Climate 101 discussions. BAYCS has a special event coming this Sunday, April 28th - Reclaim Our Future: Climate Solutions for People and Planet. Please visit BAYCS at www.baycs.org and support this student-run organization that has also helped me in my activism journey! 

In this episode, I talked with film-maker and activist Jon Osaki, who has dedicated his time to educating audiences on Asian-American history and identity. Mr Osaki has produced three documentary films, revealing the truths behind Japanese incarceration, shattering the Model Minority Myth, and activating Afro-Asian solidarity respectively. We talked about the history of Asian-American discrimination, what it means to belong, the cruciality of solidarity, reclaiming our own American identity, and so much more. Mr Osaki's words and advice are motivational and I feel even more fire within me to tell my story, and help share AANHPI contributions to American culture. Tune in now to learn more.

In this episode, I talked with an alumnus of Head-Royce School (my high school), Quinn Lewis, who recently graduated from Harvard, and wrote her thesis about corporate lobbying and why these companies have such a strong pull on our governments with regards to climate action. Everyone has heard the term corporate lobbying, but Quinn brought to light just how intertwined this term is with climate, and offered some solutions for the average person to combat this imbalance of power. From the paper industry in Sweden and fossil fuels in the US, to consumer behavior and the supply and demand sides of advocacy, the conversation was as inspiring as it was eye opening. It is amazing seeing our generation rise up as Quinn has.

Adriana Cosgriff is a former US Department of State Program Manager and Lecturer at the Harvard Chan C-CHANGE Youth Summit of Climate, Equity, and Public Health, a program I attended this past summer. My interview with Adriana left me with hope and optimism as we discussed the numerous ways youth can tap into programs and grants to aid them in their cause. We discussed how the divisive legislative branch does not reflect the demeanor of program management, nor does it bring light to the power these programs have in activism. As youth activists, we protest, we march, we share and we educate, but it is also important to learn about various programs that could potentially become our allies, and help us move closer to our goal. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I interviewed Deepa Sood, CEO of Citizen Grown, a company focused on democratizing cannabis industry. Cannabis has always been a rather controversial topic, but there are long-forgotten truths behind its stigmas and the actual positive effects it can have on people and communities. A long history of propaganda has buried this sprouting industry deep in negative association and unjust enforcement, but for us to reclaim its legitimacy and give back to those affected by past injustices, we have to push through the stigma and bring cannabis and its benefits to the forefront.

This is a topic that I know very little about, but Ms. Sood truly helped me understand just how closely cannabis and social injustices are intertwined. While we, the youth, absolutely should not be using the product, there's still so much we can do to make sure that the benefits of cannabis are reaped by communities in need, rather than big rich pharmaceuticals, looking for the next big money maker. Tune in now to learn more!