How to Change the World

How do we create real change in a world that feels stuck?

A powerful framework to define decision-making roles - especially when the stakes are high.

In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with renowned facilitator, author, and systems change expert, Adam Kahane to talk about how we move forward when collaboration feels harder than ever.

With decades of experience helping unlikely allies work across deep divides, Adam shares lessons from his new book "Everyday Habits for Transforming Systems" and reflects on the power of radical engagement: showing up, staying curious, and choosing to work together—even when it's uncomfortable.

From navigating burnout to embracing progress that isn't always visible, this conversation offers grounded insight for anyone committed to change.

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Is the Democratic Party facing a messaging crisis — or something deeper?

This episode unpacks the post-election fallout and growing perception that Democrats are out of touch with working-class voters. In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with Javelina's own David Waid — co-founder and VP of political campaigns — and political strategist Justin Plumb to dig into the latest trends in politics and campaigning.

From media bubbles and Hollywood influence to populism, branding, and the internal tug-of-war between progressives and moderates, they explore the complex forces shaping today's political landscape.

They also break down the tools and tactics shaping campaigns today — from AI and hyper-targeted ads to the unexpected power of authenticity — and what it will take to reach voters heading into the 2026 midterms.

If you're trying to understand what's really happening inside political campaigns — or how to build a stronger, more inclusive movement — this conversation is essential listening.

Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube.

A powerful framework to define decision-making roles - especially when the stakes are high.

"It's one of the best ways to make sure your team is ready for whatever comes next."

In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo breaks down one of the most essential tools for changemakers today: the decision tree. At a time when organizations are having to respond quickly in a rapidly changing landscape, Catherine explains why clarity in decision-making is more critical than ever.

You'll hear real-world examples of where the decision tree worked — and where it didn't — and learn how to use it to drive faster, more meaningful action in moments of pressure or uncertainty.

This is the kind of clarity that will help your team not just respond, but respond well.

Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

How can local leadership truly make a difference in a world that needs hope?

In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with Representative Sean Camacho, elected official for Colorado House District 6, covering East Denver, to unpack the disconnect between voters and politicians - and what we can do about it.

A lifelong public servant, Air Force Academy graduate, and lawyer, Sean brings a rare mix of military discipline, legal expertise, and heartfelt commitment to civic duty. Catherine and Sean explore the truth behind common political frustrations: Why does it feel like nothing ever changes? What happens after we vote? And how can regular people influence the decisions that affect our everyday lives?

Whether you're feeling disillusioned with politics or fired up to make a difference, this conversation sheds light on what's really going on behind the scenes - and why showing up matters more than ever.

Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

When people see you everywhere, they start to believe in your legitimacy.

In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with two PR powerhouse - Shanté Micah and Josh Moody, co-founders of visibility intelligence company Good News - to break down what it really takes to get your message in front of the media, and why visibility is essential for changemakers today.

Shanté is a veteran PR strategist and author of PR Power Play, known for helping entrepreneurs and changemakers turn powerful stories into earned media wins. Josh is a systems architect and digital marketing strategist who has built scalable PR tech used by hundreds of founders to boost credibility, drive inbound leads, and expand their influence.

Together, they break down why visibility matters now more than ever - and how to build it intentionally. From pitching smarter to automating the behind-the-scenes grind, this conversation offers practical insights for anyone ready to grow their impact through media.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your reach, this episode will help you trade hustle for strategy - and start showing up where it counts.

Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

What if the way we've been taught to make change is actually holding us back?

In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo is joined by consultant, author, and systems-change strategist Heather Hiscox to explore what's broken in the way changemakers approach impact - and how we can do better. Heather is the founder of Pause for Change and author of No More Status Quo, a powerful call to action for leaders ready to disrupt outdated models and create lasting change through experimentation, empathy, and equity.

Together, Catherine and Heather unpack some of the biggest frustrations changemakers face: slow-moving systems, resistance to innovation, and the pressure to have all the answers. Heather shares her proven approach to overcoming these obstacles by shifting from rigid plans to testable solutions - ensuring that communities are not just consulted, but centered. With stories from her own journey and lessons from the field, Heather offers listeners a practical, people-first framework for doing good better.

This episode is a must-listen for nonprofit professionals, civic leaders, and mission-driven organizations looking to elevate their impact in a rapidly changing world. Tune in for refreshing honesty, actionable takeaways, and a new lens on what it really means to lead change in 2025 and beyond.

In this special rerun of our very first episode from February 2018, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with Jeannette Maré, the Founder of Ben's Bells Project.

She shares the deeply moving story of her son Ben and how simple yet profound acts of kindness helped her navigate the darkest period of her life. Through Ben's Bells, Jeannette has built a nonprofit dedicated to spreading kindness, fostering connection, and inspiring communities to be more compassionate.

This conversation will leave you inspired, reminding us all that kindness isn't just a nice idea—it's a force for real, meaningful change. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform to revisit where How to Change the World all began!

"That's how I think about adaptation, it's not assimilation. You're not giving up the best parts of yourself to fit in or so that people will like you. You're consciously choosing from an empowered place."

What does it mean to create change right where you are? In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with Trystan Reese, author, storyteller, and longtime advocate for trans inclusion, to explore the power of influence in our everyday lives. Trystan shares his personal journey, from going viral as a trans parent to building a career in diversity, equity, and inclusion. With nearly two decades in the trans community, Trystan offers insights on how each of us can use our unique sphere of influence to foster a more just and inclusive world.

Tune in for a conversation on storytelling, advocacy, and the everyday actions that create lasting impact. Watch now on YouTube and Spotify!

"The right story at the right time can change everything."

In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo dives into one of the most essential topics for changemakers right now: storytelling in a crisis. With the Trump administration's attacks on marginalized and historically underrepresented communities, Catherine explains why storytelling is more important than ever in times like this. She also shares the common mistakes to avoid, and how you can craft stories that not only capture attention but drive action.

Your stories shape how people understand the time we're in right now - and most importantly, what they do next. Tune in for clear, actionable tips on how to make sure those stories create real change.

Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

"Remember that we are the majority - and we've got to start acting like it."

In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo welcomes Mini Timmaraju, abortion access advocate and President of Reproductive Freedom for All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), to talk about how Mini is fighting back and moving reproductive rights forward in a time of great opposition. Mini shares with Catherine the personal story that solidified her commitment to abortion advocacy, as well as what success looks like for the abortion advocacy movement now. Listen to hear more about Mini's strategic and storytelling approach to advocacy and building progress amidst opposition, including the importance of sharing stories about both the struggles and the triumphs.

Tune in on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!