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Finding a Way Podcast Ep 11 - Andrew Jones on District Works and Place-keeping with Purpose 🌍✨

What if our cities were designed with care and culture at the center?In this episode of Finding a Way, we sit down with Andrew Jones, CEO of District Works, whose team is transforming public infrastructure into spaces that nourish connection, dignity, and belonging. From managing public restrooms for transit systems to curating vibrant cultural activations, District Works is reimagining what public space can be; responsive, inclusive, and rooted in community.

Raised in Oakland and driven by a deep commitment to equity, Andrew shares his journey from entrepreneur to urban systems leader. We explore how mentorship, intention, and innovative place management are creating more humane, joyful cities one block at a time.

This is a conversation about rethinking what we share, reclaiming space for care, and making the everyday extraordinary.

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#DistrictWorks #UrbanDesign #CommunityInfrastructure #PublicSpaceMatters #FindingAWayPodcast #SocialImpact #BayAreaChangemakers #FindingAWayMedia #AndrewJones #PlaceMaking #placekeeping #urbanplanning #positivechange CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:39 - Check-in03:02 - Overview of District Works05:43 - Andrew's Journey to Today11:36 - Recognizable Projects14:21 - Path to Achievement20:42 - Memorable Events24:30 - Oakland's Cultural Narrative29:30 - Cultural Preservation Strategies35:00 - Economic Challenges in Oakland38:02 - Grounding Techniques44:15 - Current Excitements47:18 - Andrew Jones' Vision for Community Improvement51:30 - Needs of Oakland57:05 - Understanding Ikigai59:35 - Alternative Education Paths01:03:20 - Andrew Jones' Presidential Vision for Earth01:08:50 - Actionable Steps Forward01:16:31 - Key Takeaways from Andrew Jones01:21:40 - Closing ThoughtsCollecting visions for a brighter future!Watch & listen on: https://bit.ly/m/findingawaypodcast

🎙️ Finding a Way Podcast Ep 10 - Diana Garcia Beardsley on Building Family Centered Communities

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What does it look like to shape policy from the ground up—with care, compassion, and community at the center? In this episode, host Gem sits down with Diana Garcia Beardsley, a lifelong advocate for children, families, and equity, to explore how meaningful change begins when policy is driven by lived experience.Now serving as Senior Policy Administrator at First 5 Alameda County, Diana brings over a decade of experience across public health, philanthropy, education, and early childhood systems. Her work is rooted in justice and her path reflects a deep commitment to those often left out of the conversation.

We dive into what it takes to shift systems thoughtfully and sustainably: listening to communities, centering equity, and creating policies that are both visionary and actionable. From addressing childcare access and educator pay to scaling community-led solutions, Diana shares powerful insights on what it really means to advocate for and alongside families.This episode is a reminder that change doesn’t start in a boardroom; it starts with people who care enough to do the hard work of transformation, together.

✨ Tune in to hear how Diana is helping build a future where every child and caregiver can thrive; and why smart, compassionate policy might just be our most radical tool for change.

🔔 Subscribe for more stories of leaders, learners, and doers who are finding a way forward, one bold step at a time.

#FindingAWayPodcast #DianaGarciaBeardsley #PolicyForPeople #EarlyChildhoodEquity #First5AlamedaCounty #SystemsChange #SocialImpact #CommunityPower #ChildcareAdvocacy #LatinasInLeadership #FindingAWayMedia #podcastforpositivechange

🔗LINKS🔗 :

Connnect with Diana https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianagarcia0/

First 5 - https://www.first5alameda.org/

The awesome free library resource - https://www.hoopladigital.com/ (I told ya'll I was gonna remember! )CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:30 - Career Path and Purpose04:10 - Necessary Changes for Improvement11:40 - Personal Journey and Growth14:40 - Overcoming Challenges in Your Journey18:07 - Understanding Measure C19:40 - Community Listening Sessions Overview27:17 - Vision for a Brighter Future30:24 - Activating Neighborhoods for Change40:45 - Dreams for this Lifetime 42:50 - Importance of First 5 Programs47:40 - If Diana Garcia was President of the World49:50 - Common Frustrations and Concerns54:00 - Actionable Steps for Change56:20 - Staying Grounded in Life57:50 - Role of Public Libraries59:20 - Importance of Intergenerational Community Spaces1:05:25 - Final Thoughts: a Message for the Audience

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Finding a Way Podcast Ep 9: Chef Nigel Jones — Building Authentic Community, One Bite at a Time

What happens when food nourishes more than just our bodies? In this episode, host Gem sits down with Chef Nigel Jones—restaurateur, cultural storyteller, and community leader—to explore how food can be a force for connection, identity, and local change.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica and raised in the Bay Area, Chef Nigel left a corporate career to open Kingston 11 and Calabash, two Oakland restaurants rooted in bold flavors and Black joy. His mission? To create spaces that feel like home—especially for people of African descent—and use culture, cuisine, and conversation to strengthen community ties.

We dive into his journey from self-taught chef to advocate, his leadership of a coalition of 400+ local businesses, and how he uses food, music, and civic dialogue to inspire action. Through everything, Chef Nigel reminds us of the power of showing up locally, leading with intention, and honoring our differences as strengths.

✨ Tune in for a rich conversation about food, identity, and the joy of building community from the block up.

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#FindingAWayPodcast #ChefNigelJones #Kingston11 #Calabash #OaklandEats #BlackOwnedBusiness #FoodAndCulture #CommunityLeadership #SocialImpact #CivicEngagement #FindingAWayMedia

CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:24 - Chef Nigel's Busy Day06:14 - Chef Nigel Jones: Culinary Journey10:34 - Entrepreneurship: Behind the Scenes16:50 - Early Life and Community Impact20:30 - Business Ownership and Community Engagement27:10 - Engaging with Mayoral Candidates30:11 - Cultural Assimilation34:10 - Chef Nigel's Vision for the Future43:00 - Staying Focused on Work44:52 - Driving Positive Change48:16 - Favorite Dish to Cook51:58 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways54:57 - Outro

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Finding a Way Podcast Ep 8 with Keith Carson: Legacy, Leadership, and the Power of Community

What does it mean to serve your community for over three decades—and still believe the best is yet to come? In this powerful episode of Finding a Way, host Gem sits down with Keith Carson, longtime Alameda County Supervisor and dedicated public servant, for a conversation about purpose, perseverance, and people-first leadership.

From his early days growing up in South Berkeley to representing District 5 and serving more than 1.7 million residents, Keith’s journey is rooted in equity, access, and action. Whether knocking on 20,000 doors in his first campaign or spearheading efforts around health care, housing, and economic justice, he’s never lost sight of who he’s fighting for—or why it matters.

We explore how Keith’s background growing up around activism and mentorship shaped his leadership style. We also dive into how he navigated challenges with grace and grit, and what it takes to build trust and drive lasting change. With stories that span from the halls of government to the heart of the community, Keith reflects on a lifetime of public service—and the legacy he’s still writing.

✨ Tune in for an authentic, deeply inspiring conversation about building systems that serve everyone, leading with humility, and believing in the power of people.

🔔 Subscribe to Finding a Way for more stories from those shaping a future rooted in compassion, justice, and collective impact.

#FindingAWayPodcast #KeithCarson #AlamedaCounty #CommunityLeadership #PublicService #EquityInAction #BayAreaChangemakers #LegacyOfImpact #SocialJusticeLeadership #CommunityPower #ResilientLeadershipCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:49 - Current Projects and Activities06:35 - Early Life Influences in Berkeley20:00 - Berkeley, CA as an Activism Hub24:05 - Journey to Political Career35:30 - Collaborative Design Approach42:24 - Proud Accomplishments in Service49:07 - Lesser-Known Facts About Keith Carson57:40 - Future Plans for Keith Carson1:00:20 - Vision for a Better Future1:10:26 - Staying Grounded in Life1:17:10 - If You Were President of the World1:19:03 - Actions for Positive Change1:21:53 - Final Thoughts and Reflections

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Finding a Way Podcast Ep 7 - Shomari Carter and How Community Connection Can Change Everything 🌟

What happens when we center relationships in our approach to change? In this episode of Finding a Way, our host Gem sits down with Shomari Carter—social entrepreneur, systems thinker, and bridge-builder—to explore how deep community connection is the foundation for lasting transformation.

Raised in West Oakland, Shomari brings a rare blend of lived experience and institutional insight to his work. Having served in executive roles across government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors, he now works as a liaison between communities, businesses, and policymakers—making sure real voices shape real solutions. Whether he’s launching housing initiatives, supporting public health efforts, or creating opportunities for lifelong learning, Shomari’s focus remains the same: build trust, share power, and uplift people.

In this conversation, we unpack what it means to show up with intention, why small gestures matter, and how fostering collaboration across silos can unlock collective impact. Shomari shares practical insights on navigating complex systems with compassion—and how to reimagine community not just as a place, but a practice.

✨ Tune in to hear how leadership grounded in love, listening, and local wisdom can reshape what’s possible.

🔔 Subscribe for more stories from changemakers who are finding a way to move us all forward.

#FindingAWayPodcast #ShomariCarter #CommunityLeadership #SocialImpact #WestOakland #SystemsChange #BridgeBuilder #CollectiveImpact #PublicHealth #HousingJustice #PurposeDrivenWork #EconomicEmpowerment #CommunityHealing #FindingAWayMediaCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:20 - Who is Shomari Carter05:53 - Shomari's Journey to Success15:04 - Working for an Elected Official20:50 - Challenges in Public Service23:06 - The $500 Story: A Lesson Learned27:05 - Leaving a Lasting Impact30:40 - Staying Grounded in Your Work34:04 - Learning from Everyone37:58 - Importance of Revisiting Notes38:52 - The I Am Planner: Organizing Your Life42:20 - Connecting with People and Passions46:03 - Understanding Your Audience51:20 - President of the World52:58 - Societal Changes for a Better Future54:37 - Focus Areas for Community Improvement1:00:00 - How to Get Involved in Your Community1:03:40 - Exploring Archery Class1:07:52 - Community Involvement Opportunities1:07:52 - Building a Distributed City1:12:14 - Primary vs. Secondary Research1:14:30 - City’s Approach to IoT1:17:00 - Importance of Practical Skills1:21:14 - Creating a Bright Future1:23:17 - Mindset Shift for Success1:23:51 - Final Thoughts and Reflections

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Finding a Way Podcast Ep 6 - Dr. Chris Wachira – Bridges to Progress Through Science and Wine 🍷✨

What does it take to pioneer a new path where culture, craft, and community meet? In this episode of Finding a Way, host Gem sits down with Dr. Chris Wachira, the visionary founder of Wachira Wines, to explore how her Kenyan roots, scientific background, and deep love for connection have shaped her journey into winemaking and entrepreneurship.

From growing up in Kenya to working in neuroscience clinical outcomes at Stanford, Chris’s story is one of curiosity, courage, and reinvention. After discovering a passion for wine, she launched Wachira Wines, becoming the first Kenyan American winery in the U.S., and later opened Karibu Wine Lounge—Alameda’s first Black-owned tasting room. Now, she's building an ecosystem that celebrates culture, fosters inclusion, and opens doors for underrepresented creators in the beverage industry.

Join us as we follow the Doctor’s journey from health care to hospitality, and explore her vision for a brighter future for us all. Whether in the clinic or the cellar, Dr. Chris brings intention, innovation, heart and artistry to everything she does.

🍷 Grab a glass of your favorite beverage and tune in for a rich conversation on purpose-driven entrepreneurship, building bridges between cultures, and making space for others to rise.

✨🔔 Subscribe to Finding a Way for more stories from changemakers who are blending passion, purpose, and community to shape a more inclusive world.

#FindingAWayPodcast #WachiraWines #KaribuWineLounge #KenyanAmericanWinery #WomenInWine #BlackOwnedBusiness #FindingAWayPodcast #SocialImpact #PurposeDrivenLeadership #WineAndCommunity #RepresentationMatters #DrChrisWachira #kenyanwinemaker #​wachirawines #karibubywachira #passionforwine #blackwinemakers #alamedawinetasting #winery #california #blackownedbusinesses #winelovers #winetasting CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:34 - Personal Check-In03:02 - Current Projects09:52 - Sipping on Dr Chris Wine11:20 - Transitioning from Healthcare to Wine Industry17:04 - The Wachira Group: Tackling Wine Industry Inequities21:04 - Passion for Wine24:48 - Desired Impact in the Community27:30 - Building Community Connections28:41 - Challenges in the Wine Sector31:55 - Vision for the Future34:59 - Leadership Aspirations38:05 - Coping Strategies for Tough Times42:57 - Future Plans for Dr. Chris​ Wachira44:34 - Favorite Wine Selections45:03 - The Art of Tasting Wine46:33 - Finding ​K​aribu and ​W​achira Wines

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with changemakers shaping a better future! 🔔Finding a Way Podcast Ep5 - Alem Belay on the Power of Self-Discovery & Creative ExpressionRediscover the joy of creativity with Alem Belay as she shares her inspiring journey of transformation, resilience, and rediscovery through art. 🎨 In this episode of "Finding a Way," host Gem dives into Alem's multifaceted world as a stylist, creative director, and artist, exploring how she channels her Ethiopian heritage and personal experiences into her work. From navigating the challenges of traditional expectations to embracing her artistic passions, Alem reveals how she used the pandemic as a launching pad for self-discovery and community-driven solutions.This conversation highlights the power of art to spark positive change, foster mental health awareness, and connect cultures. Alem discusses her vision for a brighter future—one rooted in creativity, and honoring the balance between personal growth and collective impact. Learn how she’s shaping a new narrative through her designs, her tribute to family history, and her commitment to breaking barriers and inspiring fellow creatives.If you're inspired by stories of ingenuity, entrepreneurship, and cultural storytelling, this episode is for you. Join the movement for positive change by subscribing to the channel and sharing your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s continue building a community that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and change-makers like Alem Belay. Subscribe now!#self-discoverythroughart #creativeselfexpression #art #fashion #bayareamusic #kia #nbaallstar2025 #selfcare #emotionalintelligence #alembelay #findingawaypodcast #findingawaymedia #alemsworld

🔗Links🔗

https://www.instagram.com/alemsworld/

https://www.tiktok.com/@alemsworldd

CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:40 - How are you today01:14 - Who is Alem Belay01:54 - Journey into Fashion03:26 - Inspiration from the Arts06:04 - Imagining Your Success07:34 - Current Projects08:24 - Background Influence on Work10:12 - Experiences in Ethiopia11:32 - Understanding Happiness15:59 - Ongoing Work19:11 - Work Challenges23:24 - Education's Impact on Creativity25:18 - Favorite Projects28:16 - Additional Highlights28:20 - NBA All-Star Weekend37:08 - Advice for Aspiring Creators38:01 - Vision for a Brighter Future39:08 - Self-Care Practices42:09 - If You Were President of the Earth44:10 - Connection to Ethiopia45:44 - Exploring Afrofuturism49:00 - Staying Inspired51:40 - Overcoming Creative Fears54:30 - Achievements for Our Lifetime57:10 - Importance of Your Inner Child59:35 - Final Thoughts

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🔔Finding a Way | Episode 4: Jackie Keliiaa – Using Comedy to Heal, Connect, and Represent

How do you balance art, identity, and purpose—while still making people laugh? In this episode of Finding a Way, host Gem sits down with stand-up comedian, writer, actor, and producer Jackie Keliiaa to explore how humor can be a powerful tool not just for storytelling, but for creating meaningful, joyful lives.

Rooted in her community and inspired by her culture, Jackie shares what it’s like to navigate the entertainment industry as a Native woman, balancing her creative passions with everyday responsibilities and the desire to make a real impact. From her roots in Hayward California to her work on Spirit Rangers and her own platform, Good Medicine Comedy, Jackie is redefining success on her own terms—one punchline at a time.

We dive into everything from family and entrepreneurship to cultural representation and the importance of self care.

🎙️ Tune in for a fun, thoughtful conversation about living fully as an artist, staying true to yourself, and finding joy in the process.

🌟 Subscribe to Finding a Way for more stories from people who are showing up, speaking out, and shaping a brighter future!

#FindingAWayPodcast #GoodMedicineComedy #NativeAmericanComedy #ComedyAsResistance #StorytellingForChange #CulturalHealing #SpiritRangers #CityIndians #NativeWriters #RepresentationMatters #JackieKeliiaa #JackieComedy

🔗Links🔗

https://jackiecomedy.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2pNJ7ADVphm4bxhnx7hCAw

https://open.spotify.com/show/3rZOWh2Vt6SBDeSzcLrDxE

https://www.instagram.com/jackiecomedy/

⏰ Timestamps ⏰00:00 - Intro02:11 - Day Job05:17 - Early Life11:13 - Inspiration for Urban Planning14:05 - Claiming Personal Experiences16:50 - Balancing Work and Passion19:13 - Background and Cultural Influence22:46 - Historical Memory of the Bay Area25:05 - The Bay Area's New Family30:25 - City Indians34:43 - Jackie Keliiaa's Vision for a Brighter Future39:04 - Self-Care Practices46:13 - Importance of Meditation48:13 - Taxes Suck49:29 - The Unsexy Side of Artistry53:41 - If You Were President of the World01:00:19 - Quality of Life Improvements01:02:24 - Gem's Experience in Hatfield01:06:24 - Good Medicine Comedy01:08:14 - Inspiration for the Name01:10:16 - Origins of Good Medicine Comedy01:11:56 - Book: We Had a Little Real Estate Problem01:15:10 - Final Thoughts

Finding a Way | Episode 3: Bosko Kante – Empowering Creatives through Tech and Entrepreneurship How do creativity, technology, and community come together to shape a better future? Bosko Kante has been answering that question throughout his groundbreaking career. From producing iconic tracks like the theme for In Living Color and collaborating with legends like E-40 and Kanye West, to inventing the revolutionary ElectroSpit TalkBox, Bosko has continuously pushed the boundaries of music, innovation, and entrepreneurship.In this episode of Finding a Way, Bosko shares his musical journey of innovation and leadership—from pioneering music technology to building Hiiiwav, an incubator that empowers Black creatives to launch startups and explore emerging tech frontiers. As a multifaceted innovator with a deep understanding of engineering, business development, and design, Bosko is redefining what’s possible for artists and entrepreneurs alike.Tune in as Bosko discusses the importance of collaboration, community-driven solutions, and cutting-edge tools like AI to drive real, lasting impact. With a vision rooted in diversity, inclusion, and creative freedom, he’s inspiring a new generation to transform challenges into opportunities.🔔 Subscribe to Finding a Way to hear more stories from global change-makers who are creating a more vibrant, innovative world—one idea at a time.#FindingAWayPodcast #FindingAWayMedia #BoskoKante #Incubator #Hiiiwav #BlackEntrepreneurs #BlackinTech #BlackinAI #AIStartup #AIFunding #EconomicEmpowerment #Music #Grammys #Talkbox #supportblackbusiness #blackbusinessowner #musicproduction #Bayareamusic🔗Links 🔗https://hiiiwav.org/https://www.instagram.com/BoskoLive/?...⏰ Timestamps ⏰00:00 - Intro00:29 - What's on your mind?01:53 - Bosko’s Background05:43 - Chilling Effect of War on DEI08:56 - Steps to Change the Environment10:28 - Plundering of the US Economy11:55 - Birth of Hiiiwav17:33 - The Talkbox28:57 - Early Life Experiences30:26 - Math Games & Music31:50 - Early Music Experiences34:34 - Learning through Associations40:19 - Early Adoption of Technology41:04 - First Paid Music Gig42:59 - Taking Music Seriously48:52 - Relationship with E-4052:39 - Exciting Future Projects54:19 - Essential AI Tools for Creatives59:28 - What's Next for Bosko59:50 - Vision for a Brighter Future01:02:40 - Achieving Collective Goals01:05:50 - Bosko as President of the Universe01:09:30 - Important Messages for the Audience01:11:04 - Final Thoughts

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with changemakers shaping a better future!Finding a Way | Episode 2: Lydia Idem – Fueling Africa’s Future Through Venture CapitalIn this episode of Finding a Way, we sit down with Lydia Idem, a powerhouse in global finance and venture capital. As COO of LoftyInc Capital and founder of FM Capital Group, Lydia has dedicated her career to empowering entrepreneurs, bridging investment gaps, and driving economic transformation across Africa and the Diaspora.With over 25 years of experience in trading and investment management, Lydia has overseen millions in private and public capital, helping businesses scale and communities thrive. She shares her incredible journey, from making her first investments in high school to managing funds that fuel Africa’s most promising startups. Along the way, she’s been featured in FORBES, Yahoo! Finance, and CNNMoney, recognized as a leading force in the financial world.Join us as Lydia unpacks the realities of venture capital in emerging markets, the power of strategic investments, and the lessons she’s learned navigating the complex world of finance entrepreneurship. She brings fresh perspectives on self care, navigating cultural nuances, managing egos, and leveraging her financial acumen for long-lasting, impact-driven growth.#empoweringafricanstartups #investinnigeria #venturecapital #empoweringafricandiaspora #africandiaspora #lydiaidem #findingawaypodcast #loftyinc #africanentrepreneurs #africaunite #investingforimpact #startupfunding #womeninfinance #blackfounders #economicempowerment🔗Links 🔗https://loftyinc.vc/https://www.fmcapitalgrp.comFollow Lydia on Socials!Twitter: @faithmightStockTwits: @faithmightInstagram: @faithmightClubhouse: @faithmight Facebook: fb.com/fmcapitalgrp⏰ Timestamps ⏰00:00 - Start00:38 - Lydia's Career and Expertise04:34 - Prayer and Meditation Journey07:57 - Finding Your Path in Life11:20 - Journey into Finance14:08 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome16:43 - Transitioning to Venture Capital24:13 - Changes Over 5 Years27:05 - Zuckerberg and Dorsey in Africa28:51 - Lydia's Athletic Background34:35 - Current Projects and Initiatives41:10 - Meaningful Work Impact41:43 - Challenges in Professional Life50:38 - Strategies for Overcoming Challenges52:16 - Lydia Idem's Vision for Africa's Future56:25 - Passion for venture capital58:36 - Modernization vs. Westernization01:04:04 - Importance of local production1:09:19 - Repatriation Insights1:10:57 - Business Strategies in Africa01:13:42 - If Lydia ruled the world1:18:54 - Key Takeaways1:19:20 - Closing Remarks