Civic Encounter

In this episode of Civic Encounter, Mark Ramos, the Chair of the Los Angeles Democratic Party discusses how his background in union leadership led him to his prominent role in LA politics. He speaks highly of the role of family and community in building a unified political party, discusses the current political climate that led to a Trump win nationwide, as well as what local Democrats can do to protect their communities and change policy.Mentioned in this episode is the annual John F. Kennedy Awards, hosted by the Los Angeles Democratic Party on Thursday, May 22nd, 2025 at the Greek Theatre. The event will see a VIP Reception at 6 PM and the main event will begin at 7:15 PM. For tickets and sponsorships, please visit their website here.

In this episode of Civic Encounter, Corbett Miller, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner (SEP), shares his expertise on mind-body integration and trauma therapy. He discusses how disruptions in the nervous system contribute to anxiety, depression, and substance use—issues that many young adults struggle with today. Corbett also reflects on his experience working with adolescents in residential treatment centers, the unique challenges of mental health in today’s fast-paced world, and how compassionate therapy can empower individuals to build resilience.Below you will find links to the websites mentioned in the episode:Schedule a Free Consultation with Corbett Miller Camden Center⁠⁠Made Mentoring LA⁠The People’s Concern⁠JCI Visions: Blog⁠ Dual Diagnosis Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

In this episode of Civic Encounter, Steve Crosby shares his personal experience recovering from the aftermath of the Pacific Palisades wildfires. He speaks openly about the overwhelming shock of losing his home and cherished memories, and how the support of his neighbors has helped him begin the recovery process. Steve’s story highlights the practical challenges of rebuilding after a disaster and underscores the importance of being prepared and supporting one another during difficult times.

In this episode, JCI Principal Seth Jacobson and host Georgia Lewis talk with Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang about his journey from early ambitions shaped by the Vietnam War era and 1960s race riots to groundbreaking leadership in West Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of community involvement, mentorship, and modernizing government technology to drive meaningful change.California has a strong track record of pioneering new ideas in housing, land use, and individual rights that often influence broader policies nationwide. As a ten-year council member and early founder of the City of West Hollywood, Assessor Prang was at the forefront of many such initiatives, and he continues to champion effective public service by seeking new ways to make government work better for everyone it serves.Learn more about  Los Angeles County LGBTQ+ Elected Officials Association (LACLEO): https://wehotimes.com/assessor-jeff-prang-announces-new-association-of-la-county-lgbtq-elected-officials/Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(02:32) - Assessor Prang’s Trajectory in Public Service(08:32) - Trailblazing in the City of West Hollywood(13:41) - LGBTQ Civil Rights and Community Involvement(15:33) - Affordable Housing and Development Challenges in West Hollywood(19:13) - Assessor Prang on Controversial Projects and Community Engagement’(21:54) - WeHo Civic Engagement and Advocacy(28:50) - Leadership in Public Service and Making a Difference(31:03) - Advice for Aspiring Activists(36:50) - Concluding Thoughts + Wrap-Up

Happy New Year to our dedicated listeners! ✨ We’re excited to kick off 2025 with you and a brand-new episode of Civic Encounter!  In this episode, Marco Santana, a first-generation Mexican American and seasoned public servant, shares his journey from grassroots advocacy to leading impactful homelessness initiatives like the Pathway Home project. He reflects on the challenges of running for office, the power of community-driven solutions, and the importance of local engagement in driving meaningful change. Marco also offers insights for young professionals on aligning their work with their values and creating a positive impact. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Marco Santana (01:18) Marco Santana’s civic background (04:13) Growing up as a first-generation Mexican American (07:48) Choosing governance as a career path (08:25) Advocating for homelessness solutions (10:58) The power of persistence: turning 'no' into 'yes' (17:13) Running for office: building support and canvassing communities (20:28) Policy stance on homelessness and overcoming fearmongering (25:51) Sustaining public interest in civic engagement (29:58) Local action and electoral impact (36:46) Advice for young professionals entering public service (38:59) Late-stage career changes: effecting positive change (42:11) Final reflections and wrap-up

In this episode, host Georgia speaks with David Vela, Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) trustee and dedicated advocate for educational equity. David shares his journey from growing up in LA to becoming the first LGBTQIA+ trustee on the LACCD Board, underscoring his commitment to public service and representation. David discusses his initiatives, like the College Promise program and basic needs centers, which support low-income students. He also highlights his work with Honor PAC, advocating for LGBTQIA+ and Latinx candidates. As he runs for re-election, David emphasizes the importance of resilience in public service and his ongoing mission to make quality education accessible for all. #Vote #PublicService #LACCD #Election2024 #CivicEncounter Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to David Vela (01:30) David Vela on education as a civil right (03:50) David Vela’s journey: transferring to UCLA as an anthropology major (07:24) From pre-med to public policy: a career pivot at Pepperdine (11:32) Balancing political and personal identities in Los Angeles (15:50) Advocating for queer spaces in LA (19:22) Legislative and social challenges for LGBTQIA+ communities (23:57) Addressing student financial barriers in Los Angeles (26:17) Revolutionizing access: free tuition, housing, and transportation for community college students (33:54) Honor PAC: electing queer political candidates (38:56) Concluding thoughts: the power of democratic participation

In this episode, JCI’s Georgia Lewis interviews Mayly Tao, a young Asian American entrepreneur who shares her journey of embracing her cultural heritage while navigating the challenges of business ownership. Mayly begins by recounting her parents’ story of fleeing Cambodia, falling in love in Los Angeles, and working tirelessly to create a safe space for Cambodian refugees. As the niece of Ted Ngoy, famously known as “The Donut King,” Mayly reflects on her decision to take over and revamp her family’s donut shop after graduating from UCSD with a degree in communications. She discusses the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, including the challenges of managing a business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayly also shares insights from her journey as an author and entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of staying connected to her roots while forging a path forward. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Mayly Tao, “The Donut Princess” (01:38) AAPI identity and representation   (04:50) From Cambodia to Santa Monica: the Asian diaspora (09:50) Donut King Ted Ngoy empowers fellow entrepreneurs and meets his wife  (11:45) Forming the Donut King brand identity (12:16) The power of marketing communications  (13:56) Building a life as immigrants in the United Status (17:27) How heritage taught Mayly her core values (18:42) Managing high stress levels in a hustle culture   (21:24) Delivering food donations to healthcare workers  (23:17) Giving back to local communities through volunteer work  (26:34) Mayly’s podcast “Short and Sweet” features powerful cultural narratives (28:32) Teaching the ancient dialect Teochew on TikTok (31:47) “The Donut King” documentary tells a classic American Dream story  (34:32) Mayly Tao on writing “An American Dream with Sprinkles”  (37:38) Cambodian-American representation in American media  (41:58) Final reflections and wrap-up

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Catherine Sellman. Following the success of our previous episode, Catherine dives deeper into her experiences and expertise, offering strategies for navigating life's personal and professional challenges with optimism, individuality, and risk management. Catherine reveals how embracing the hero's journey can transform your approach to career and personal growth. Discover the importance of storytelling, building personal libraries, and fostering inclusive communities as tools for resilience and self-discovery. Catherine emphasizes the power of taking charge of your agency, preparing for uncertainty, and redefining the second half of life for women. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Catherine Sellman (04:54) Cultivating optimism in the face of uncertainty  (15:26) Building a library of diverse experiences  (20:38) Spending alone time in wilderness  (22:53) Research on stress management  (31:05) Exploring new hobbies  (38:15) Managing priorities in risky environments  (47:23) Reflections on “The Hero’s Journey” by Joseph Campbell  (55:29) Concluding advice + wrap up

In this episode, Catherine Sellman and JCI's very own Georgia Lewis delve into balancing corporate life, motherhood, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. They emphasize resilience, strength, and mentorship in overcoming challenges and achieving success. Catherine, a successful hedge fund manager and mother, highlights the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and adaptability. Together, they discuss the significance of mentorship and intergenerational connections in empowering women, emphasizing the value of connecting with people from different generations for growth and learning. Tune in for valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities women face in balancing multiple roles in today's complex world. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Catherine Sellman (04:54) Cultivating optimism in the face of uncertainty  (15:26) Building a library of diverse experiences  (20:38) Spending alone time in wilderness  (22:53) Research on stress management  (31:05) Exploring new hobbies  (38:15) Managing priorities in risky environments  (47:23) Reflections on “The Hero’s Journey” by Joseph Campbell  (55:29) Concluding advice + wrap up 

In this latest episode of Civic Encounter, we talk with Nurit Katz, UCLA's Chief Sustainability Officer, as she shares insights into sustainability advocacy and the butterfly effect, emphasizing the power of collective action. Nurit discusses pivotal moments in her career journey and reflects on UCLA and LADWP's sustainability initiatives, including transitioning to 100% renewable energy by 2035. Nurit also highlights the role of small actions in addressing global challenges and offers advice on choosing a career in sustainability. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about personal growth, pandemic experiences, and the intersection of sustainability and environmental impact. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Nurit Katz (04:18) Leading sustainability advocacy at UCLA   (07:04) Keeping campus beautiful through facility management  (08:42) LADWP transitions LA towards a sustainable future  (11:47) Small actions and making sustainable choices  (18:22) Focusing on the positive efforts you can make  (21:02) Filling the biodiversity blind spot in sustainability management  (24:36) Wrapping up

In this episode of Civic Encounter, JCI’s newest associate, Georgia Lewis, sits down with Willie Pelote, a trailblazer in California’s labor movement and a key leader in the trade union AFSCME. In this compelling two-part series, we explore the transformative legislation and impactful initiatives championed by Pelote. He shares how his upbringing in a nurturing educational environment, despite historical challenges, shaped his commitment to social justice. Highlighting the significance of celebrating Black history every day, Pelote delivers powerful insights, including his iconic mantra: "If you do not know how to use power, you don't deserve it." Tune in to discover his strategies for harnessing individual and collective power to drive meaningful change across communities and society as a whole. Timestamps (01:28) Advocating for Black communities through service (09:56) Representing Black voices in policy  (13:48) Fighting for what you believe in  (17:19) Making the best of each day  (25:21) Advice to young activists (32:41) Wrapping up 

In this two-part episode, JCI’s newest associate, Georgia Lewis, interviews Willie Pelote—a distinguished figure in California’s labor movement and public affairs. With nearly 40 years of experience, Pelote has served as California Political and Legislative Director for AFSCME’s 1.4 million members, Sergeant-At-Arms for the California Legislature, and advisor to Willie Brown, then Speaker of the Assembly. Appointed by Governor Gray Davis in 1999 to the State Task Force on Diversity, Pelote’s influence spans labor advocacy, legislative strategy, and public service. Now the founding principal of Pelote Strategic Advisors, he shares his journey as a Black leader in America, the ongoing importance of recognizing Black History daily, and actionable insights into community relations, public affairs, and government engagement. Tune in to learn from his powerful legacy and transformative strategies for advocacy and public service. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Willie Pelote  (01:18) Reflections on Black History month  (06:04) Family and friends inspired Willie’s resilience   (10:13) Honoring black leaders that changed history  (20:23) Advocating for black communities through internships 

In this episode of Civic Encounter, we spotlight Manjusha Kulkarni, Executive Director of the AAPI Equity Alliance and a leading advocate for gender equity, racial justice, and community empowerment. A TIME100 and Bloomberg 50 honoree, Manju has shaped global conversations through her work with institutions like the United Nations and her leadership in the Stop AAPI Hate movement. Join us as we explore her impactful journey, the intersection of activism and empowerment, and her commitment to building a more equitable society for all. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Manjusha Kulkarni, founder of Stop AAPI Hate (02:28) Pulling inspiration from social activists  (08:00) Challenges of promoting gender equity in Los Angeles    (12:15) Advocating for women’s health resources and domestic violence prevention   (17:16) Balancing conflicting priorities  (21:03) Advice for young female activists  (26:06) Wrapping up 

In this latest episode of Civic Encounter, JCI delves into the intricacies of the Electoral College system with Elizabeth Cavanagh, Chair and CEO of the Making Every Vote Count Foundation (MEVC). Elizabeth, who also serves as Director of the Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) Program at American University Washington College of Law, brings her extensive legal expertise to offer invaluable insights into the complexities of electoral reform. Tune in as we collaborate with MEVC to shed light on the future of our electoral process. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Elizabeth Cavanagh (03:12) Why we need electoral reform  (05:28) Educating the voting public on the electoral system  (07:14) Evaluating the benefits of alternative voting systems  (10:53) Combatting distrust and disengagement among American voters (14:16) Sparking conversations through media coverage and strategic partnerships (16:46) Most Americans want to switch to a national popular vote system  (19:04) Taking a nonpartisan approach to advocacy  (21:05) Concerns about electoral reform reach back to the Founding Fathers  (23:00) Growing threats to our election system  (26:20) Changing voters’minds  (28:38) Concluding thoughts + wrap up

In this latest episode of Civic Encounter, JCI hosts Bella Mendoza and Mahomed Khan as they engage in a dialogue on the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Drawing from their close working partnership and Mahomed’s profound background in the Middle East, this thoughtful dialogue offers unique insights and perspectives on a pressing global issue. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Mahomed Khan (02:28) A call for ceasefire in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict  (03:48) Root causes of the conflict depend on perception  (08:40) Media coverage shapes American sentiment through sensationalism  (12:30) How protests change the narrative surrounding the conflict  (14:37) Thoughts on the two-state solution  (17:21) Role of religion in the land dispute  (21:30) Concluding thoughts + wrap up 

In this latest episode of Civic Encounter, JCI sits down with Jamiah Hargins, to discuss his non-profit initiative Crop Swap LA, dedicated to installing water-recycling front yard microfarms. Join us as we explore Jamiah's impactful journey and his dedication to cultivating positive change from farm to table. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Jamiah Hargins (02:05) Crop Swap LA dismantles harmful food systems   (04:45) “The edges approach” describes sustainable habits  (06:38) The evolution of Crop Swap LA  (08:04) The COVID crisis opened doors for community engagement  (09:32) Challenges of establishing a nonprofit from the ground up   (11:16) Raising endowments for urban farming in LA  (12:38) Catering to underserved communities  (13:28) Taking pride in your accomplishments  (14:24) Intergenerational connection through gardening  (16:18) Favorite thing about running a nonprofit  (18:26) How to get involved in Crop Swap LA  (19:21) Favorite fruits and vegetables  (20:00) Wrapping up  

In this latest episode of Civic Encounter, JCI interviews Wanda Love, a council member in the city of Gardena and the head of the Gardena Valley Chamber of Commerce. Previously, JCI has worked with Wanda on the Power Saver Rewards grant program, where she led outreach in southern Los Angeles to teach residents how to save money on electricity during Flex Alerts. Listen in to learn more about Wanda's journey to becoming an elected official! Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Wanda Love  (01:26) Becoming a Gardena council member (02:46) Reflecting on accomplishments for constituents  (05:50) Addressing constituent concerns  (08:27) Helping people save money on utilities (10:55) Impact as the Head of the Gardena Valley Chamber of Commerce  (14:06) Connections to other chambers in the South Bay (18:54) Discussing favorite parts of South Central LA  (23:13) Additional thoughts on politics and politicians  (25:07) Staying focused on serving the community  (26:25) Wrapping up

In this latest episode of Civic Encounter, JCI interviews Phlunté Riddle, a candidate for the CA State Assembly seat in District 41, which includes northeast LA and parts of San Bernardino County. Phlunté was also the first Black woman to be sergeant, lieutenant, then adjutant to the Chief of Police in the Pasadena PD. Phlunté is an inspiring leader who has a clear vision for improving the well-being of her constituents through affordable housing, public safety, and resources from both the government and community-based organizations. Listen in to hear the full conversation. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Phlunte Riddle (05:26) Becoming the first Black woman to be sergeant in Pasadena PD  (08:52) Applying emotional intelligence to everyday work  (12:27) Setting legislative priorities for the Altadena region  (21:06) Advocating for mental health services in California  (25:22) Providing trauma-informed care for the formerly incarcerated  (28:29) Social work is part of public safety  (30:10) A final message to District 41  (32:46) Wrapping up 

In this latest episode of Civic Encounter, JCI interviews Tom Soto, an entrepreneur and one of the first Latino environmental impact investors. Throughout his career, Tom has participated in and encouraged green business development by diverse investors, and was influential in drafting the precursor to the UN's Sustainable development goals. Tom also served as Team Lead for The Executive Office of the President’s Transition Team for the White House Council on Environmental Quality for President Listen in to learn more about Tom's professional journey in green investing. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Tom Soto  (20:09) Prospects for clean energy in LA  (23:12) Leaning into regulatory compliance   (25:14) Discussing proudest accomplishments  (27:03) Wrapping up 

In this episode of Civic Encounter, JCI interviews Emmy-winning filmmaker Jeff Werner and former lawyer-turned-producer Frank Connelly about their documentary Those Who Serve. The film explores the lives of three veterans with psychological wounds who commit crimes after returning home, raising profound questions about justice and accountability when offenders are also victims. Tune in for a powerful conversation on social impact storytelling and the complexities of justice for veterans. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Jeff Werner and Frank Connelly  (05:31) Defining social impact in the entertainment industry  (10:50) Learning on the job while making a documentary  (15:21) Films are powerful tools of change  (20:35) Practicing sensitivity in storytelling (23:58) Advocacy for U.S. veteran rehabilitation  (26:44) Helping veterans re-enter social life  (32:15) On film screenings and audience reactions  (37:58) Wrapping up 

In Civic Encounter's latest episode, public affairs professional Ken Chawkins’ explores how candidates have promoted themselves for the upcoming 2024 US Presidential Election. Listen in to our conversation as we discuss the differences between governing and campaigning, how social media has impacted elections, and our country's political landscape as we prepare to cast our votes. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Ken Chawkins  (02:50) Reflections on Biden’s campaign  (06:27) Political attitudes in the digital age  (13:21) Democrats and Republicans sell different political images  (15:11) Media and AI exacerbate selective consumption  (20:01) Teaching young people to news literacy  (23:24) Combatting confirmation bias with empathy  (29:42) The importance of seeking political knowledge   (34:34) Predicting frontrunners in the Republican debate  (39:15) Republicans frame America as worse off under Democrats  (43:12) Working across the aisle to improve the economy  (46:39) Discussing the Republican party rebrand and internal governance (51:40) Role of religion in shaping candidate worldivews  (58:48) Republicans respond to a person of color candidate  (1:00:20) Current attitudes towards Biden and Harris  (1:02:58) Staying informed on election news  (1:06:00) Wrapping up 

In this episode of Civic Encounter, we interview Martha Davis, a leader and expert in environmental policy in California. Martha served as the Executive Director of the Mono Lake Committee from 1983 to 1996, Executive Director for Californians and the Land from 1998-2000, and Executive Manager for Policy Development at the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) from 2000-2017. She currently provides consulting services to the Water Foundation, where she shares her knowledge of environmental policy and effective public communications practices. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Martha Davis (02:20) Going to school at UC Davis   (03:20) Working for the Mono Lake Committee  (04:55) Bringing LA’s attention to Mono Lake damage  (08:28) Garnering public support for Mono Lake   (09:30) Problem-solving issues in the ecosystem as a team  (11:12) Educating the public on local policy  (13:11) Overcoming resistance to renewable energy  (15:44) Infrastructure for capturing rainwater in LA  (17:46) Saving an endangered Mono Lake  (19:11) On climate change and healing  (22:02) Learning solidarity from mentors  (24:51) Advice for environmental advocacy  (26:32) Wrapping up

In this episode of Civic Encounter, we speak with Sabrina Steele, Executive Director of Corporate Communications at the Aerospace Corporation. Sabrina shares her journey into the aerospace industry and her mission to make STEM more inclusive by championing women and people of color. She reveals innovative strategies for simplifying complex aerospace concepts for diverse audiences and emphasizes the value of networking and mentoring to empower the next generation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on communication, inclusivity, and leadership in STEM. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Sabrina Steele (01:29) From journalism to aerospace industry  (04:04) Space workforce 2040 pledge  (07:37) Involving women in aerospace  (10:13) Targeting marketing messages  (15:20) Managing sales and tech development  (16:51) Asserting leadership as a woman in tech  (19:53) Building a network of mentors  (24:24) Proudest moment of career  (25:18) Wrapping up 

In this episode of Civic Encounter, we’re joined by Rhonda Smith, Executive Director of the California Black Health Network, to discuss her impactful work advancing health equity for Black Californians. Rhonda shares insights from her expansive career, offers advocacy advice, and outlines key goals for achieving health equity. Don’t miss this powerful conversation on driving change in public health and beyond. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Rhonda Smith (01:58) Reflecting on career journey  (05:21) Learning about health disparities for minorities  (11:51) Designing a successful health advocacy campaign  (13:00) Starting a health advocacy training program  (14:15) Understanding and dismantling systemic inequity  (17:34) California Black Health Network’s 40th year as 501(c)(3) nonprofit  (20:59) Honoring beloved mentors during Women’s History Month   (22:20) Advice for breaking into health advocacy careers  (23:58) Wrapping up 

In this episode of Civic Encounter, recorded the day after the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision leak, we speak with West Hollywood City Councilmember John Erickson. We discuss the urgency of local politics, the fight for reproductive rights, and the significance of this historic moment. Tune in for a timely and impactful conversation. Timestamps (00:00) Episode overview  (01:21) A brief legislative history of reproductive rights  (03:30) Poor protections for reproductive rights  (05:17) Contrasting realities for democratic and republican majority states  (07:55) Same-sex marriage also under threat (09:57) Bills supporting reproductive care for women  (12:03) Introduction to John Erickson (13:30) John discusses his upbringing in Wisconsin  (16:42) Pursuing higher education in English and women’s studies  (19:17) Working with Abbe Land, mayor of West Hollywood (21:37) Leading communications at Planned Parenthood  (25:35) Gaining the trust of constituents and neighbors  (29:47) Addressing climate change as the most pressing issue  (31:42) Challenges of being involved in local politics  (35:00) What West Hollywood stands for  (38:06) Securing funding and attention as a small county  (45:54) Becoming a reproductive haven state  (49:41) Updating state laws, reducing traffic, addressing sexual harrassment  (53:18) Creating safe roads in LA, improving public transportation    (1:00:08) Pride West Hollywood and Saturdays in the park (1:02:33) Proudest moments of career (1:05:08) Wrapping up 

In this episode of Civic Encounter, Kayla and Jill break down the critical role of a county supervisor and its impact on local communities. They’re joined by Lindsey Horvath—former West Hollywood mayor, current city councilmember, and County Supervisor candidate for District 3—who shares her vision for the district and her journey in public service. Tune in to explore the stakes of the upcoming election and the importance of local leadership. Timestamps (00:00) Introduction to Lindsey Horvath  (06:14) The race for County Supervisor candidates for District 3 (09:00) The significance of unincorporated areas in Los Angeles  (18:06) What inspired Lindsey to go into public service   (23:20) Serving on Glendale YMCA, various public organizations  (25:35) Challenging values learned from Catholic school  (32:32) Addressing political divides through civil dialogue  (39:00) Advocating for local government perspectives  (41:46) Being of service at times of crisis  (45:21) Desired goals as County Supervisor  (51:27) Overcoming obstacles as a woman in politics  (55:05) Wrapping up