Capstone Conversation by Jared Asch

Uniting the East Bay Against HungerIn this episode of the Capstone Conversation, host Jared Asch discusses food security in the East Bay with Haley Salarez of the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties and Janette Kennedy of Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa. Haley explains the Food Bank's mission to advocate for social safety net programs like CalFresh and how they serve 390,000 clients monthly. Janette describes how Loaves and Fishes provide hot meals without intake requirements, serving 4,000 meals daily, a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels. The conversation highlights challenges such as food insecurity exacerbated by inflation, limited kitchen capacity, and constraints from federal funding cuts. They also discuss collaborative efforts to map food distribution gaps and improve outreach and services. The role of government and community involvement in supporting these initiatives is emphasized, along with upcoming projects like a capital campaign for a new kitchen at Loaves and Fishes. Finally, they encourage community support through donations, volunteering, and advocacy.

From Labs to Legislation: In this episode of the Capstone Conversation, host Jared Asch interviews Dr. Julianne McCall from the California Council for Science and Technology (CCST). McCall discusses her extensive academic background and her current role in CCST, a non-profit organization providing science and technology advice to California policymakers. The conversation addresses the placement of legislative fellows in the Capitol and how these experts aid in crafting data-driven policies on various topics, including energy, climate, and health. McCall highlights key projects, such as managing wildfire impacts, advancing clean energy, and integrating AI in policy and conservation efforts. The discussion also touches on CCST's partnerships with national labs and its efforts to enhance health data accessibility to inform better policymaking. The episode underscores the importance of evidence-based decision-making and the role of scientists in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for California.

In this Capstone Conversation episode hosted by Jared Asch, Todd Pray, the Chief Strategic Partnerships Officer at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab (LBNL), discusses his role and the lab's mission. Todd highlights the lab's history, its foundational figures, and its evolution over time, including the lab's ties with other national labs and its focus on team science to address critical issues in health, security, energy, and the environment. The conversation explores how the lab engages with businesses, universities, and other research institutes to foster economic development, commercialize technologies, and support local innovation. Todd details the LBNL's efforts in Cyclotron Road and provides examples of successful companies. The episode concludes with a discussion on the application of AI in science, community support for the lab, and an overview of the economic impact the lab has had on the East Bay region.

In 'The Capstone Conversation,' host Jared Asch interviews Elizabeth Redman Cleveland from the City of Berkeley. The discussion delves into Elizabeth's role in promoting economic development and sustainability within Berkeley through her background in economic development strategy consulting. The conversation highlights key partnerships with UC Berkeley, innovative policy support for life science companies, and the benefits of fostering a diverse economic ecosystem. They also address challenges, including the homelessness crisis and infrastructure needs. The episode emphasizes leveraging AI and modern tech tools for future development and concludes with Elizabeth's enthusiasm for a continued focus on sustainability and innovation.

In this episode of the Capstone Conversation, host Jared Asch discusses the transformation and future of Benicia, a charming town in the Greater East Bay, with City Manager Mario Giuliani and David Batchelor of the Benicia Community Foundation. Mario shares his unique career path from lifeguard to city manager, exploring the city's rich history and community culture. The conversation highlights Benicia's economic challenges, a recent fiscal crisis, and how the community responded by partnering with local nonprofits to maintain cherished events. They delve into the successful passage of Measure F, a sales tax initiative for road improvements, and discuss future housing developments to balance the needs of retirees and new families. The discussion addresses the contributions of the Valero refinery to the city's budget and the importance of philanthropic efforts in Solano County to support local nonprofits and economic development. The episode concludes with an optimistic outlook on Benicia's future and its potential as a thriving community in the Bay Area.

Go Behind the Anchor Desk with long-time Bay Area media veteran Dan Ashley of ABC7 News.

This episode looks at how the news media is evolving and seeking to tell the stories in our communities.

In this episode of the Capstone Conversation, host Jared Asch explores the importance of arts in the Greater East Bay, focusing on Livermore Valley Arts. Joined by Chris Carter, CEO, and Ruth Eggerman, Marketing Director, the discussion covers the organization's mission, operations, and the economic and cultural impact of their theaters, the 500-seat Bankhead Theater and the Boswell Arts Center. They highlight how the arts contribute to community development and local economies, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The conversation also touches on the challenges smaller arts organizations face, the importance of investment from local communities and corporations, and the wide range of programs offered to engage diverse audiences, including lower-income students. Upcoming performances and the overall vibrancy of Livermore's downtown are also discussed.