Erika Strauss Chavarria is the founder of Columbia Community Care, a start up food and supply bank for those in need in Howard County. In twelve months, this organization has transformed from a start-up collecting in a parking lot to a service many residents rely on for their everyday needs.  In this interview, we discuss the unserved needs of one of the richest counties in American. We also discuss Erika's motivations to serve and the need for additional community support. This week’s featured business from The 3rd is a black owned carry out and delivery food business. Based out of Laurel, Food Under the Influence is open until 2am. You can find their menu on instagram and facebook @food_undertheinfluence and they are on Twitter @food_influence1. Be sure to support and get some delicious food from Food Under the Influence. 

Leadership in Service with Erika Strauss Chavarria

A biweekly podcast with Maryland focus and Howard County roots, exploring the policies, people, and stories that affect the state of Maryland. Each episode we’ll talk to newsmakers and everyday people in order to elevate the conversation and find out what matters most.

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On June 10, 2022, Rushern Baker suspended his campaign for Governor. Ten days later, he's on our show to tell you what he thinks about the 2022 Primary, why public financing needs some tweaks, and how Maryland's next Governor should declare a state of emergency for Baltimore City. He even gives some hints about who he may be endorsing for Governor over the next seven days. This is not one you will want to miss. 

The Most Important Person in Maryland Politics - Rushern Baker

Candace and Tom go back to the hyper-local for this interview with Howard County Board of Education candidate Jacky McCoy. They discuss everything from what it was like to be educated in the "capital of the south" to her grandson's curriculum in Howard County schools. These races don't always get the coverage they deserve, so please make sure to tune in for this important interview.

Changing the Lens with Howard County Board of Education Candidate Jacky McCoy

Candace and Tom continue their Maryland gubernatorial interviews with Democrat John King, Jr. This is Dr. King's third time on the show and he joined us hot off the release of a new poll showing him tied for second place. Tune in to hear his prescriptions for Maryland, why he's not running away from CRT, and the "three-legged stool" of housing policy!

Improving the Struggle with John King, Jr.

Candace and Tom start their round of interviews with candidates for Governor with former US Labor Secretary and DNC Chair Tom Perez. Tom provided a detailed, and often wonky, review of his plans for Maryland and how his experience on the national stage will help him get "stuff" done.

Getting "S" Done with Maryland Gubernatorial Candidate Tom Perez

Candace and Tom celebrate FIVE YEARS of podcasting by hosting a live interview with Howard County Council District 4 candidate Janssen Evelyn. He addressed why housing is one of his top priorities and the way in which art infuses itself into his life. Janssen also recounts some stories from the field as he works to become the first person of color to represent Downtown Columbia on the County Council.

Leadership in Service with Erika Strauss Chavarria

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