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In this episode, Thomas Sage Pedersen sits down with Maria Elena De La Garza, Executive Director of the Community Action Board, to explore what it means to lead with grace, authenticity, and service. Maria shares her journey from growing up in her family’s restaurant to leading one of the most community-rooted organizations in Santa Cruz County. Through stories of faith, mentorship, and the power of showing up, she reminds us that true leadership begins with healing ourselves and walking with our people—fiercely, humbly, and with love.

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The room gets loud when stakes are high—threats, rumors, pressure, even your own inner commentary. We sat down with DeAndre James, executive director of the Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley to map a saner path through the chaos: turn down the noise, clarify the facts, and move with integrity even when power says “wait.” From an all-night food mission in the mil tary that drew bogus warnings to the green light on a new wellness center in Watsonville, this conversation shows how courage and patience can coexist.

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Ever noticed how the mightiest sequoias require fire to release their seeds? This morning's reflection explores how today's political turmoil—regardless of where you stand—offers similar potential for transformation when approached with warrior-like resilience.

The current political landscape didn't emerge overnight. It's been building for decades through grassroots movements, reminding us that meaningful change requires patience and persistence. As a Sagittarius, I've developed a deep appreciation for fire's dual nature: its destructive power alongside its generative potential. What if we viewed our current societal discomfort through this lens?

When feeling overwhelmed by the news cycle, I've found strength in stopping to ask: "What would be a world worth fighting for?" This simple question shifts focus from what we resist to what we create. Rather than dismissing empathy as weakness, I've discovered it's actually the foundation for understanding something far greater. By channeling compassion amid chaos, we open ourselves to possibilities that remain hidden when operating from fear alone.

The obstacles we face today aren't just challenges to overcome—they're invitations to reimagine how we might do things differently. Take a moment today to rest, breathe deeply, and consider: what beauty might emerge from this current fire? What seeds within you are waiting for these exact conditions to germinate into something magnificent?

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Imagine transforming your life through fitness and faith. Join us for an engaging conversation with fitness extraordinaire Nativo Gonzalez, who opens up about his journey from podcasting to personal growth and wellness. Nativo shares the poignant reasons behind ending his beloved podcast, "Paid the Cost," and the joy he found in passing his equipment to a trusted friend for future meaningful endeavors. 

He reflects on the invaluable lessons learned from diverse guests, including a transformative moment with Pastor Jerry Morales that deepened his understanding of identity and spirituality.

Discover the trials and triumphs of maintaining discipline in fitness and nutrition. Nativo shares humorous and heartfelt stories about meal prepping, adapting to a new physique, and setting a positive example for family and community.

 Learn about the blessings of following one's passion, the balance of priorities, and the enduring support from loved ones. This episode is packed with words of wisdom and inspiration, encouraging listeners to embrace health and wellness, live in the moment, and become part of something greater.

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Have you ever wondered how journalism and PR can coexist in harmony, or how the lessons from Star Wars might apply to real-life professions? 

Join us on Speak for Change as I chat with my dear friend Ashley Drew Owen, who takes us through her fascinating journey from the newsroom to the world of public relations. Ashley shares the ethical tightrope she walks to maintain her journalistic integrity while thriving in PR, and we have a bit of fun drawing parallels between these two fields and the light and dark sides of the Force.

The episode isn't just about professional transitions; it's also a heartfelt exploration of personal storytelling and its immense power. We reflect on the simple, early joys of sharing personal stories with friends and delve into the profound connections such sharing fosters.

From overcoming fears of imperfection to the therapeutic benefits of writing, we explore numerous facets of creativity and confidence.

 Our conversation touches on the creative process in both personal and professional realms, celebrating achievements, nurturing curiosity, and embracing actions that lead to progress. We also dive into the enriching world of performing arts and the unique ways they enhance empathy and human understanding.

 Wrapping up with a discussion about the inspiring connections between food, community, and kindness, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and themes that resonate deeply with the human experience.

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What does freedom mean to you? Join us as we unravel the concept of freedom through the unique perspectives of friendship and art. Our collaborative project, "The Shapes and Sounds of Freedom," springs from an unlikely yet profound friendship with Yayah. 

Our journey began with backyard gatherings filled with music, dance, and deep conversations, all of which shaped our understanding of energy and freedom. We share these heartwarming anecdotes and how they led to a multidisciplinary artistic venture that celebrates authentic expression.

Listen in on an intimate conversation with two musicians who open up about their creative journeys and the power of vulnerability. We discuss how shedding inhibitions and embracing new environments, like the experimental art venue Indexical, has been transformative. 

This episode also delves into the complexities of navigating red flags versus obstacles in relationships and projects. We explore the healing power of music and poetry, and the necessity of facing discomfort for personal growth and liberation.

Finally, we touch on the emotional intensity of the classical music world and the cathartic power of laughter. We reflect on our own experiences of balancing personal commitments with professional demands and the importance of honest communication. 

Through personal stories and candid discussions, we underscore the significance of authenticity and the joy of creating art with others. Don't miss out on this heartfelt exploration of personal growth, artistic liberation, and the beauty of genuine human connections.

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Can sound transform your everyday life into a symphony? Join us on Speak for Change as we explore the extraordinary creative world of Bora Yoon, an interdisciplinary artist and musician. 

From her early days with classical instruments to her passion for choral and experimental music, discover how influential artists like Ani DiFranco, Tori Amos, and Björk shaped her journey. 

Bora opens up about her unique approach to music, the significance of archetypal personas, and how dream language deeply influences her performances.

Dive into the captivating interplay between sound, noise, and music as Bora elucidates the concept of perfect pitch and its magical ability to turn mundane sounds into compelling musical compositions.

 We discuss the fusion of sound design and music composition, drawing parallels to surrealist films and the evocative power of sound memories. This episode brings to light the challenges creative individuals face, from economic hurdles to personal limitations, and how these obstacles can sometimes fuel innovative artistry.

Experience the eclectic world of orchestral percussion and experimental notation through Bora's lens, highlighting her piece "Parhelion" created for the Cabrillo Festival. The conversation touches on the intricate process of integrating diverse musical elements, the influence of astrology, and the spiritual impact of natural phenomena on her work. We reflect on the evolving arts landscape, the importance of diverse musical identities, and the need for an inclusive music theory curriculum. 

This episode is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about the boundless possibilities of creative expression in music.

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What sparks creativity in the mind of a Grammy-nominated composer? Join us as we sit down with Anna Clyne, whose journey into the world of music and composition unfolds in this captivating episode. 

From receiving her first piano at age seven to her master’s studies that fueled her passion for composition, Anna’s path is a testament to the transformative power of music. Discover how her early exposure to diverse musical genres shaped her unique approach, and how integrating visual art into her compositions, notably in "Night Ferry" and her ongoing project "Palette," has pushed the boundaries of contemporary music.

Ever wondered how an unexpected technical glitch can inspire musical genius? Anna shares the allure of composing music by hand and the serendipitous moments that breathe life into her work.

 Hear about the world premiere of "The Gorgeous Nothings" at the BBC Proms, an exquisite piece inspired by Emily Dickinson's poetry. Anna also opens up about "Within Her Arms," a moving tribute to a loved one, and offers a glimpse into her peaceful yet creatively charged life in the picturesque Hudson Valley.

As we delve deeper, Anna's reflections on personal beliefs, mindfulness, and the preciousness of life add profound layers to her artistic narrative. Her love for the banjo and the whimsical idea of composing a banjo concerto showcase the depth and breadth of her musical interests. This episode is filled with rich insights, from her experiences with Japanese calligraphy to lively debates over Marmite, painting a vivid portrait of an artist constantly in pursuit of creative expression. Don't miss this enriching conversation with Anna Clyne.

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Ever wondered how a simple mix-up could change the course of a musician's life? Join us on Speak for Change as Andy Hudson, a talented clarinetist and educator, recounts the amusing story of how he ended up with a clarinet instead of the saxophone he originally desired.
 
Through a blend of humor and passion, Andy shares his remarkable evolution from reluctantly playing the clarinet to discovering his profound love for the bass clarinet, an instrument he now champions for its marimba-like range and versatility in the orchestra.

Experience the captivating world of contemporary and experimental music as Andy takes us through a memorable performance of an Alvin Lucier piece in a Chinese restaurant. Discover the power of music in unconventional venues and the importance of connecting with young audiences through new stories and compositions. 

Through collaborations with composers like Yvonne Rodriguez, whose works explore themes of migration, Andy illustrates how contemporary music can foster empathy and enrich our understanding of classical repertoire, ultimately bridging cultural gaps and enhancing humanity.

Explore the significance of play, experimentation, and community engagement in shaping the future of orchestral music. Andy highlights the challenges and triumphs of integrating new voices into traditional orchestra settings, celebrating the Cabrillo Festival's role in promoting innovation. 

From the transformative power of bringing orchestral music to local communities to the dedication of musicians interpreting contemporary works, this episode emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, accessibility, and the joy of continuous artistic exploration. Tune in for an inspirational journey that underscores how music can drive personal and collective transformation.

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Curiosity isn't just a trait—it's a guiding force for a more fulfilling life. What if you could harness its power to transform your personal and creative endeavors? Join us as we sit down with the multi-talented Kimberly Gomes, who takes us through her inspiring evolution from a reserved child to a solo-traveling, poetry-writing, and world-exploring creative dynamo. 

Kimberly's transformative graduation trip to Europe marks the beginning of her lifelong journey toward self-discovery and artistic expression. She opens up about her initial struggles with homesickness and how her father's solo travel adventures became a significant motivator for her independent pursuits.

Kimberly's story is about more than travel—it's a testament to the power of creativity as a tool for emotional processing and personal growth. She underscores the importance of viewing creativity as a personal necessity rather than a competitive endeavor. 

Through her experiences, Kimberly illustrates the value of comparing oneself to past versions rather than others, thereby fostering a supportive community that celebrates collective success. In a heartfelt discussion, she delves into the impact of significant life changes, like ending a long-term relationship, and how such moments can lead to the discovery of new passions, such as music and songwriting.

Fear can paralyze, but it can also propel us toward greatness when managed with self-compassion. Kimberly shares valuable insights on navigating fear without settling, emphasizing the transformative realization of our agency over our lives. Practical advice on solo travel, particularly for women, underscores the importance of starting small and expanding one's comfort zone gradually.

 The episode wraps up with a deep dive into astrology, where Kimberly shares how understanding her astrological chart has helped her balance pragmatism with trust. Tune in for a dose of inspiration, actionable tips, and a reminder that the journey of self-discovery is ongoing and ever-evolving.

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