Communities Forward

Today's interview is part 2 of our discussion with Charles Bryson, policy catalyst for Trailnet. In the episode, he continues to discuss his ideas for improving how city government can better serve the people in St. Louis, as well as what Trailnet is and how the organization makes a positive impact in the region through access to, and the creation of, walking and biking networks and infrastructure.

Charles Bryson is policy catalyst for Trailnet. Trailnet is a St. Louis nonprofit whose mission is to lead in fostering healthy, active, and vibrant communities where walking, bicycling, and the use of public transit are a way of life. Trailnet believes that everyone should have access to safe low-stress walking and biking connections where we live, work, and play in our communities.

To foster their mission, Trailnet works within the St. Louis region and across the state to respond to the demand for improved walking and biking networks that attract and retain talent, strengthen our economy, and connect people to the places they love.

Charles has extensive experience working in nonprofits and various positions within city government, including as special advisor to former St. Louis mayor Francis Slay, then as director of public safety, and finally as director for the Civil Rights Enforcement Agency.

In part one of our interview, Charles describes his experiences growing up in St. Louis, moving away to begin his professional career, and how these early experiences shaped his journey to become a leader.

Today’s episode is part 2 of our interview with Michael Woods, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Dream Builders for Equity. DB4E works to develop economically sustainable and socially engaged communities by growing equity for youth, businesses, residents, and real estate. You can learn more about the organization by visiting https://www.dreambuilders4equity.org/.

Michael is a St. Louis native and North City resident, is a certified personal trainer, published author, entrepreneur, and mentor. He holds a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Lindenwood University. 

Michael’s passion is unifying all communities towards creating a better future that is informed by the hopes and needs of those who are often forgotten.

In today’s episode, Michael discusses a very personal experience stemming from his decision to sell drugs as a teenager and how his subsequent arrest shaped him as an author, future leader, and mentor to students who also experience substantial life challenges themselves.

Today’s episode is part 1 of our interview with Michael Woods, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Dream Builders for Equity. DB4E works to develop economically sustainable and socially engaged communities by growing equity for youth, businesses, residents, and real estate. You can learn more about the organization by visiting https://www.dreambuilders4equity.org/.

Michael is a St. Louis native and North City resident, is a certified personal trainer, published author, entrepreneur, and mentor. He holds a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Lindenwood University. 

Michael’s passion is unifying all communities towards creating a better future that is informed by the hopes and needs of those who are often forgotten.

In today’s episode, Michael talks about growing up in North County and North St. Louis and how his early life experiences shaped his vision as an author and entrepreneur.

Today’s podcast interview is with Jenny Weber, Interim Executive Director of College Bound. College Bound is a St. Louis nonprofit organization that, through an individualized, holistic, and multi-year commitment, CB empowers students from disadvantaged backgrounds to complete higher education and enter successful careers.

Jenny previously served as VP and Chief Development Officer at College Bound prior to being elevated to the position of Interim ED. Jenny has over ten years of experience serving nonprofit organizations and has spent most of her career in philanthropy focused on education.

Being raised by social worker parents in St. Louis city and county, she had an early orientation to equity and social justice which led her to College Bound in 2016.

In today’s interview, Jenny outlines her leadership journey, as well as how organizations like College Bound positively impact families and communities in the wider St. Louis region.

Hello and welcome to season three of the Communities Forward podcast. After a hiatus at the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023, we are back.

We are launching season three with 2 back to back episodes. The episodes are parts 1 and 2 of our interview with the honorable Webster Groves mayor Laura Arnold. Mayor Laura Arnold was elected to Webster’s City Council in 2018 and elected Mayor in 2022. Mayor Arnold is a retired college professor who earned multiple degrees, including a PhD in political science from the Ohio State University. Her research and teaching focus was on American Government and Politics, especially legislative institutions. Her career included positions at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Webster University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis teaching a wide range of courses.

In episode 2 of our discussion with Dr. Arnold, she discusses the importance of encouraging women to participate in politics. 

Hello and welcome to season three of the Communities Forward podcast. After a hiatus at the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023, we are back. 

We are launching season three with 2 back to back episodes. The episodes are parts 1 and 2 of our interview with the honorable Webster Groves mayor Laura Arnold. Mayor Laura Arnold was elected to Webster’s City Council in 2018 and elected Mayor in 2022. 

Mayor Arnold is a retired college professor who earned multiple degrees, including a PhD in political science from the Ohio State University. Her research and teaching focus was on American Government and Politics, especially legislative institutions. Her career included positions at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Webster University, and the University of Missouri-St. Louis teaching a wide range of courses.

In episode 1 of our discussion with Dr. Arnold, she discusses her experiences growing up in Webster, her journey as a leader, and her entrance into politics.

This week's podcast episode is part 2 of our interview with Cassandra Kaufman of the St. Louis Mental Health Board. In this episode, she continues to describe MHB's programs and how the organization seeks to help address the mental health challenges experienced in the St. Louis region.

This week’s guest is Cassandra Kaufman. Cassandra brings more than 25 years of experience in nonprofit management and leadership in health and human services. She is currently the executive director of the St. Louis Mental Health Board.

Prior to being appointed as executive director, she served as MHB’s deputy director, overseeing strategic investments of the Community Mental Health and Community Children’s Services Funds. Before working at MHB, she served as vice president in the Community Investment Division at the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

Cassandra holds a BA in Communications from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, as well as a MSW and Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from the University of Missouri—St. Louis.

In part one of our two-part interview with Cassandra, she discusses some of the leadership experiences that have shaped her, as well as what the Mental Health Board is and how it seeks to serve the residents of the City of St. Louis.

Today’s guest is the honorable Nikylan Knapper. Ms. Knapper is an administrative judge for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as well as the first Black mayor in the year history of Maplewood, MO.

Judge Knapper’s legal career has spanned more than 16 years and includes stints as a trial lawyer for the U.S. Department of Labor, a solo practitioner, and public defender. Prior to being elected as mayor she served on the Maplewood Richmond Heights school board.

On today’s episode, which is part-2 of our interview, judge Knapper discusses her career in politics, which began with her service for the Maplewood Richmond Heights school board and led to her serving as the first Black mayor of Maplewood, MO.

Today’s guest is the honorable Nikylan Knapper. Ms. Knapper is an administrative judge for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as well as the first Black mayor in the year history of Maplewood, MO. Judge Knapper’s legal career has spanned more than 16 years and includes stints as a trial lawyer for the U.S. Department of Labor, a solo practitioner, and public defender. Prior to being elected as mayor she served on the Maplewood Richmond Heights school board.

On today’s episode, which is part-1 of a 2-part interview, judge Knapper discusses her 16-year journey to become an administrative judge for the USDA.

Today's episode is part 2 of our interview with Chris Krehmeyer, President and CEO of Beyond Housing. In this episode, Chris outlines the path that organizations like Beyond Housing can blaze to create equitable housing and community development opportunities.

Chris Krehmeyer has served as President/CEO of Beyond Housing since 1993. Beyond Housing’s mission is to help entire communities become better places to live.

Beyond Housing fulfills its mission by producing and managing serviced enriched affordable rental housing, operating a Homeownership Center, engaging in a comprehensive Community Building Initiative called 24:1 and leading the region’s Foreclosure Intervention Work. The strategic vision of Beyond Housing is to make entire communities better places to live.

In part 1 of our 2-part interview, Chris outlines the path he followed towards becoming a leader and how Beyond Housing fulfills its mission.

Today’s podcast is part 2 of our interview with Glenn Burleigh, Community Engagement Specialist at the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council (EHOC). Glenn was born in Pine Bluff, AR, and moved to St. Louis in 1997 to attend Saint Louis University. Since 2004, Glenn has been an active part of the Missouri progressive movement and has provided leadership within multiple organizations including Missouri Progressive Vote Coalition, SEIU, CWA, and ACORN.

Today’s podcast guest is Glenn Burleigh, Community Engagement Specialist at the Metropolitan St. Louis Equal Housing and Opportunity Council (EHOC). Glenn was born in Pine Bluff, AR, and moved to St. Louis in 1997 to attend Saint Louis University. Since 2004, Glenn has been an active part of the Missouri progressive movement and has provided leadership within multiple organizations including Missouri Progressive Vote Coalition, SEIU, CWA, and ACORN.

Today’s podcast is part 2 of our 2-part interview with FBI special agent Darren Boehlje. Agent Boehlje works out of the bureau’s St. Louis office. In the interview, special agent Boehlje continues discussing his personal background in law enforcement investigation and how agencies like the FBI seek to help keep communities safe.

Today’s podcast is part 1 of a 2-part interview with FBI special agent Darren Boehlje. Agent Boehlje works out of the bureau’s St. Louis office. In the interview, special agent Boehlje discusses his personal background in law enforcement investigation and how agencies like the FBI seek to help keep communities safe.

Today's interview is the second part of our conversation with Kim Yawitz. We hope that you enjoy the episode.

Registered Dietitian with interests in nutrition public policy and nutrition writing. Featured in Reader's Digest, Everyday Health, SHAPE, Elite Daily, MyFitnessPal Blog, and Simplemost. BS in dietetics, BA in political science, minor in journalism, and MA in communication with an emphasis in political rhetoric. Nearly 3 years experience directing nutrition community outreach program, and three years of community leadership experience on a government-enacted Community Improvement District. Significant public speaking and business administration experience.

Today’s podcast episode is part 2 of our interview with Andrew Bradley. Andrew currently works as Managing Director of Lending- Southern Region for IFF, a mission-driven lender, developer, and consultant that helps communities thrive. Across the Midwest, IFF works at the nexus of facilities and finance to help nonprofits and other service providers to create safe, inspiring spaces that enable them to achieve their missions and support their communities.

Andrew Bradley currently works as Managing Director of Lending- Southern Region for IFF, a mission-driven lender, developer, and consultant that helps communities thrive. Across the Midwest, IFF works at the nexus of facilities and finance to help nonprofits and other service providers to create safe, inspiring spaces that enable them to achieve their missions and support their communities.

During part 1 of the interview, Andrew talks about his experiences navigating life in the St. Louis metropolitan region as an outsider and how serving in a mission based context within a foreign country shaped his views of life and service.

This week's podcast interview is part 2 of our conversation with David Noble, the St. Louis market president for Midland States Bank. As a lender, David’s goal is to be a catalyst in the communities he serves in such a way that communal change and socio-economic movement will occur.

Mr. Noble is a graduate of Saint Louis University, with a bachelor's degree in organizational studies and a master's in urban planning and development.

David Noble is the St. Louis market president for Midland States Bank. As a lender, David’s goal is to be a catalyst in the communities he serves in such a way that communal change and socio-economic movement will occur.

Mr. Noble is a graduate of Saint Louis University, with a bachelor's degree in organizational studies and a master's in urban planning and development.

In today's episode we interview Shannon Koenig, executive director of the Housing Authority of St. Louis County.

Today’s podcast interview is with Galen Gondolfi.

Mr. Gondolfi is Chief Strategy Officer for Justine Petersen, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect institutional resources with the needs of low-to moderate-income individuals and families, helping them to build assets and create enduring change - not just for each individual or family that we assist, but the community as a whole.

And Founder of the Granite City Art and Design District (G-CADD) is a consortium of creative project spaces located on the 1800 block of State Street of downtown Granite City, IL. As an artist-run space, the Granite City Art and Design District works to provide artists, musicians and creative types an opportunity to execute and exhibit projects in an alternative environment, while simultaneously serving the local community and positively impacting the region at large.

During the interview, Galen discusses the impact that cdfi’s can have within a community, as well as how grassroots leaders and artists can shape the future of communities.

Today’s podcast interview is with Daffney Moore. Ms. Moore is the chief of staff for the St Louis Development Corporation. She has extensive experience leading within multiple governmental entities including East St Louis, IL, Dellwood, MO and Berkeley, MO. Ms. Moore is currently pursuing a PhD with a concentration on Local Government Management for Sustainable Communities.

During the interview, Ms. Moore discusses her upbringing in East St Louis, IL, how city government can truly effect community improvement, and her hopes for St. Louis in the future.

Today’s podcast interview is part 2 of our interview with Paul Sorenson of the Regional Data Alliance (www.stldata.org). RDA’s mission is to build shared data infrastructure and support strong data actors who use quality data to improve people’s lives.

Today’s podcast interview is part 1 of a 2-part interview with Paul Sorenson of the Regional Data Alliance (www.stldata.org). RDA’s mission is to build shared data infrastructure and support strong data actors who use quality data to improve people’s lives. The St. Louis Regional Data Alliance (RDA) is housed at the University of Missouri – St. Louis’s Community Innovation and Action Center (CIAC). Over the past three years, the RDA has built a strong data community of over 350 local data practitioners and has developed infrastructure to support data efforts across local governments, social services, public health stakeholders, and education providers. During our conversation Paul talks about what data is, how it can be used to positively impact communities and his path to seeing data as a tool.

Today’s podcast episode is part 2 of our interview with Opal Jones, President and Chief Executive Officer of DOORWAYS, an interfaith non-profit organization in St. Louis, Missouri that provides housing and related supportive services to people living with HIV/AIDS.  DOORWAYS assists over 3,200 individuals annually in 132 counties in Missouri and Illinois.  As the lead executive, Opal oversees this $10 million organization that includes five housing programs and a licensed 24-hour residential care facility.

In today’s episode Opal discusses the misperceptions those living with HIV/AIDS face, how communities can support them and their families, and why housing is one of the best tools for addressing their needs.

Today’s podcast interview is part 1 of a 2-part interview with Opal Jones, President and Chief Executive Officer of DOORWAYS, an interfaith non-profit organization in St. Louis, Missouri that provides housing and related supportive services to people living with HIV/AIDS.  DOORWAYS assists over 3,200 individuals annually in 132 counties in Missouri and Illinois.  As the lead executive, Opal oversees this $10 million organization that includes five housing programs and a licensed 24-hour residential care facility.

In today’s episode Opal discusses the path she has traveled to become leader of Doorways, as well as discusses the purpose of Doorways and how that plays out in practical ways in St. Louis.

Today's episode is part 2 of a 2-part interview with Michael D Francis and Michael "Bare Hands" Beran, creators of "Bare Hands Rescue", a live action show which is currently available for viewing on multiple platforms, including Animal Planet and Discovery+. In "Bare Hands Rescue", Mr. Beran and his staff of experienced technicians, spend their days rescuing and removing wildlife from people's homes and businesses. The interview explores both men's connections to St. Louis, how they both are working to bring opportunities in film and industry to the region, and what it's like to see their project come to fruition after years of hard work and sacrifice.

Today's episode is part 1 of a 2-part interview with Michael D Francis and Michael "Bare Hands" Beran, creators of "Bare Hands Rescue", a live action show which is currently available for viewing on multiple platforms, including Animal Planet and Discovery+. In "Bare Hands Rescue", Mr. Beran and his staff of experienced technicians, spend their days rescuing and removing wildlife from people's homes and businesses. The interview explores both men's connections to St. Louis, how they both are working to bring opportunities in film and industry to the region, and what it's like to see their project come to fruition after years of hard work and sacrifice.

Today’s episode is part 2 of our interview with Alisha Sonnier and Jami Cox of the Black Tea podcast. BlackTea is an audio and visual media organization founded in St. Louis, MO by two young Black women that aims to raise political, social, and cultural awareness while engaging communities in a conversational and entertaining way. During this second interview, Alisha and Jami continue to discuss their journey to make an impact in their communities by serving in multiple volunteer capacities. Later they turn the tables and briefly interview Terrell about his journey as a leader.

BlackTea is an audio and visual media organization founded in St. Louis, MO by two young Black women that aims to raise political, social, and cultural awareness while engaging communities in a conversational and entertaining way. The masterminds behind BlackTea are 20-somethings Alisha Sonnier and Jami Cox (Shout out to Jami! She is a member of the Rise Young Professionals board and a member of Rise's board of directors). During part 1 of a 2-part interview, Alisha and Jami detail the history of BlackTea's creation, as well as their personal journeys to impact the communities they work in.

Today's podcast is part 2 of our interview with Jenny Connelly-Bowen of Community Builders Network of Metro St. Louis. In this second part, she talks about the formation of CBN, her hopes for how the organization will continue to impact the region, and what she has learned in becoming a leader.

On this week's episode, we talk with Jenny Connelly-Bowen, executive director of Community Builders Network of Metro St. Louis. This interview is part one of a two part interview in which she discusses her background and transition from an unrelated career to leadership within one of the region's most impactful organizations dedicated to community engagement. 

On today's podcast, we interview Phillip Sangokoya of BRAND of St. Louis (Business Resource Association for Networking & Development). Phillip discusses BRAND, the impact of growing up with immigrant parents, his passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion training, and what has helped him as he has grown into his leadership potential.

The second part of our interview with Sal Martinez. Enjoy

Sal Martinez is chief executive officer of Employment Connection (https://www.employmentstl.org/) in St. Louis. In today's interview, Sal discusses his journey to become a community leader, as well as what he understands to be the challenges and opportunities for growth in St. Louis.

Today’s podcast is part 2 of an interview with Nikki Doughty. Nikki is the associate director of strategic initiatives at the Institute for School Partnerships at Washington University in St. Louis. In this position, Doughty supports the work of the institute to develop stronger educators, improve student outcomes and address educational inequalities in the region. She also leads an effort to establish Networked Improvement Communities (NIC) through with Washington University and its partners will create, test and scale solutions for shared challenges at schools that lack sufficient resources.

Prior to working at Washington University in St. Louis, Ms. Doughty was the Head of School at City Academy in north St. Louis City.

In today’s episode, Nikki discusses challenges and opportunities related to education in the St. Louis region.

Today’s podcast is part 1 of a 2-part interview where I talk to Nikki Doughty. Nikki is the associate director of strategic initiatives at the Institute for School Partnerships at Washington University in St. Louis. In this position, Doughty supports the work of the institute to develop stronger educators, improve student outcomes and address educational inequalities in the region. She also leads an effort to establish Networked Improvement Communities (NIC) through with Washington University and its partners will create, test and scale solutions for shared challenges at schools that lack sufficient resources.

Prior to working at Washington University in St. Louis, Ms. Doughty was the Head of School at City Academy in north St. Louis City.

In today’s episode, Nikki discusses the state of education in the St. Louis region.

Part 2 of our interview with Michael McMillan, president and ceo of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis. In this episode, Michael talks about the challenges he believes St. Louis will need to overcome to be a better city, as well as opportunities for people to make an impact in their neighborhoods.

On part 1 of a 2 part episode, we talk to Michael McMillan, President and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis. He discusses  upbringing in St. Louis as well as his commitment to making life better for St. Louis and its residents through community-based service and political action. 

On the first episode of the podcast, Terrell interviews Colleen Hafner about the importance of community development organizations within the St. Louis region, as well as the challenges and opportunities experienced by women within the community development industry.

Colleen Hafner joined Rise in 2018 as a Project Manager, but has recently moved into a full-time role as Director of Rise's Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). Prior to joining Rise, Colleen was Asset Manager – Compliance for St. Louis Equity Fund, and Vice President of its affiliate, Gateway Community Development Fund, a certified CDFI. Colleen has over 11 years of experience in the housing and community development finance field.