Stop & Talk

Jay Buys is the founder and CEO of Visceral, a B Corp-certified creative agency that builds brands and websites exclusively for social change organizations. Working with nonprofits, foundations, and other mission-driven partners, Jay has helped shape a business model that puts people, profit, and planet in conversation rather than opposition. In San Diego and beyond, he is part of a growing movement challenging the idea that business success has to come at the expense of workers, communities, or values. This Episode: What would it take to reimagine business as a force for shared good? Jay and Grant dig into the growing movement to build companies that measure success by more than profit alone. Their conversation explores Certified B Corporations (B Corps), social enterprise, and the wider push for business models that invest in workers, communities, and the future. Jay sees business as a vital community asset—one that can actively contribute to shared prosperity and well-being. In his view, profit itself is not the problem; greed is. What matters most is how a business uses its resources and whether its values are reflected in wages, benefits, accountability, and community impact. They examine the difference between authentic commitment and “purpose washing,” and what it means to run a company that tries to live its values, even when there are tradeoffs. The conversation also looks to the future. Grant and Jay discuss why younger workers are asking different questions about work, what San Diego could become as a hub for business for good, and how emerging technologies like AI are raising fresh ethical challenges. Key Moments: [2:44] What B Corp certification actually means and why Visceral chose that path [8:21] “Profit’s not the thing that we’re mad at — it’s greed.” [13:55] Why “being a good business is good for business” [15:41] What younger workers are demanding from employers and why that matters [28:54] Why Jay believes San Diego could become a leader in business for good Key Terms: Certified B Corporation/B Corp – A certified business that meets standards for social and environmental impact, accountability, and transparency. Purpose-Driven Business – A company that aims to make money while also advancing social or environmental good. Social Enterprise – A revenue-generating business built to address a social issue. Purpose Washing – When a company talks about values or impact without the practices to support those claims. Public Benefit Corporation – A legal business structure that allows a company to pursue public good alongside profit; different from B Corp certification. Mentioned in This Episode: Business for Good San Diego – Local nonprofit advancing policies and practices that support a more inclusive, community-centered economy B Local San Diego – Regional B Corp community helping businesses connect and grow B Corp Certification – Framework and certification process for businesses committed to people, planet, and profit Cause San Diego – Local network supporting socially conscious business leadership Take Action: Support Businesses That Walk the Talk – Look for companies whose practices reflect the values they promote. Spend in Line with Your Values – When possible, choose local, ethical, and community-minded businesses. Ask What Success Should Mean – Consider how businesses might measure success through people and impact, not just profit. Encourage Better Workplaces – Champion cultures that offer fair pay, real support, and a sense of shared purpose. Stay Curious About New Models – Explore the growing movement around B Corps, social enterprise, co-ops, and employee ownership. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys FoundationHosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageProduced by Adam Greenfield, Tess Karesky, Edgar Ontiveros Medina, and Crystal PageEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Coordination by Tess KareskyVideo Production by Edgar Ontiveros MedinaThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPod​cast​.comSpecial thanks to the Prebys Foundation TeamIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share and subscribe.

Gil Alvarado is the Chief Financial and Investment Officer (CFIO) of the Prebys Foundation, where he helps steward a $1.2 billion portfolio with an eye toward both strong returns and strong community benefit. A national thought partner in mission-aligned investing, Gil brings an entrepreneurial mindset to philanthropy—designing funds, partnerships, and investment strategies that help fuel innovation, expand opportunity, and strengthen San Diego’s long-term resilience. This Episode: How can a foundation use the full breadth of its resources to support a thriving region? Grant and Gil unpack how the foundation’s investment strategy works in tandem with its grantmaking to advance health, creativity, and economic opportunity in San Diego. Gil explains how the $50 million Prebys Venture Fund backs early-stage life science and tech companies; why investments in affordable housing, small-business lending, and civic revitalization expand what’s possible for the region; and how patient capital (long-term investment) lets a foundation take the long view on challenges like climate resilience and the blue economy. This episode offers an accessible look at how financial strategy, mission, and community well-being intersect. Key Moments [0:57] What impact investing means at Prebys [3:44] Inside the Prebys Venture Fund and its early investments [7:30] Using capital to expand affordable housing and small-business access [24:16] Why integrating impact into investing is still rare—and what’s changing [42:20] Why even a “small” portfolio can catalyze big change Resources Prebys Impact Investing - Using all of our financial resources to advance an inclusive and equitable future for San Diego Prebys Ventures Impact Fund – Investing in life sciences and health innovation in San Diego Prebys Ventures First Investments – 5 startups advancing medical research and patient care Stop & Talk: Preeti Bhattacharji – Listen to our 2024 episode with Preeti Bhattacharji, Head of Sustainable Investing at J.P. Morgan Chase Private Bank, who talks about impact investing and social impact. Take Action Tips for organizations looking to expand their impact through investments: Leverage Full Portfolios – Consider how endowment investments, not just grant dollars, can advance mission and strengthen local ecosystems. Commit for the Long Term – Use patient, flexible capital to support solutions that require multi-year development. Grow Local Innovation – Back entrepreneurs, researchers, and community builders who are shaping the region’s future. Build Strategic Partnerships – Collaborate with public, private, and community partners to amplify impact and unlock larger opportunities. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Coordination by Tess Karesky Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPod cast .org Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe

Brandon Steppe left a corporate career to start a recording studio in his garage—never imagining that a few persistent neighborhood kids would change his life. Those early studio sessions grew into the David’s Harp Foundation, a nonprofit where justice-involved and opportunity youth in San Diego discover their voices and chart a path forward through music, media, and mentorship. This Episode Can rhythm and relationship change a young person’s life? Brandon shares how vulnerability and honesty became cornerstones of his organization’s culture, starting with a simple practice he calls flashlight first: mentors shine the light on themselves before asking youth to open up. From those early lessons grew a creative community that helps youth connect to support, record songs behind detention walls, and build micro-enterprises that pay real wages and teach real skills. Together with Grant, Brandon explores how art heals, how relationships transform justice, and how community-rooted workforce programs can help young people thrive. Key Moments: [4:05] How one determined teenager changed Brandon’s path [8:28] “Flashlight first”—earning trust through vulnerability [22:54] The importance of relational support [32:52] Creating access and opportunity in the creative economy [43:35] Turning a $1M gift into transformational community-based housing Resources Mentioned in This Episode: David’s Harp Foundation – Empowering youth through music, media, and mentorship Brandon Steppe TEDx Talk – On honesty and human connection Prebys Foundation Workforce Initiative – Supporting career pathways for youth Take Action: Listen First – Practice “flashlight first” in your own conversations. Invest in Creativity – Support programs that give young people tools to tell their stories. See Youth as Talent – Hire, mentor, or collaborate with local young creators. Value Relationship – Support programs that center relational care, not control. Credits:This is a production of the Prebys FoundationHosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Coordination by Tess KareskyVideo Production by Edgar Ontiveros MedinaThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPod​cast​.orgSpecial thanks to the Prebys Foundation TeamIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe

Scott Lewis is CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Voice of San Diego, the pioneering nonprofit newsroom he helped build nearly two decades ago. What began as an experiment in funding professional journalism outside of the old newspaper model is now a national template, proving that communities can sustain independent, fact-driven reporting. Scott is known for his candid, conversational style and his conviction that journalism is about creating a shared story that helps communities face hard truths and imagine better futures. This Episode: What role does local journalism play in sustaining democracy and helping communities rise to their challenges? In this thought-provoking conversation, Scott and Grant trace the story of Voice of San Diego from its early days as a bold experiment to its present role covering the region’s toughest issues—from homelessness and housing to infrastructure, schools, and civic leadership. They explore how journalism can cut through partisanship and apathy by telling stories that matter, how San Diego’s unique civic culture shapes progress (and stalls it), and why shared stories are essential to purpose and belonging. Scott also reflects on the responsibility of local media in a time when national trust is fractured and public funding for journalism is under attack. For him, it comes down to optimism: believing that communities are strong enough to face their biggest problems when they have the facts and the courage to talk about them. Key Moments: [4:28] How San Diego became a model for nonprofit local journalism [9:08] Why Voice chose a candid, conversational style over traditional news “voice” [13:00] The impact of federal cuts to public media and what it means for NPR, KPBS, and local outlets [23:00] The challenges San Diego faces—housing, schools, homelessness—and why naming problems is an act of optimism [38:18] Why journalism is a “tiny investment” with massive community returns Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Voice of San Diego – Nonprofit newsroom pioneering new models for community-supported journalism Politifest – Annual public affairs summit hosted by Voice of San Diego Prebys Foundation Nonprofit News Support – $2 Million to San Diego nonprofit news outlets to strengthen local journalism and civic engagementTake Action: Support Local Journalism – Subscribe, donate, or become a member of a nonprofit news outlet near you. Join the Conversation – Attend events like Politifest to engage directly with civic leaders and ideas. Seek Shared Stories – Talk with neighbors, attend community forums, and stay curious about San Diego’s future. Believe in Solutions – Remember that naming problems is the first step toward solving them. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Coordination by Tess Karesky Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe.

Afira Arrastia-DeVries is the President and CEO of the Monarch School Project, the only K–12 public institution in the U.S. solely dedicated to educating unhoused students. A 2025 Prebys Leadership Awardee, Afira brings a powerful combination of heart, strategy, and passion to her work. As a sociologist, advocate, and leader, she’s reshaping education around support, community, and the radical act of seeing children not for their struggles, but for their gifts. This Episode: What happens when you stop trying to “fix” kids and start believing in them? In this meaningful conversation, Afira shares how Monarch School is redefining what education can look like for unhoused students. Through a strengths-based approach, the school offers not just academics but community, care, and dignity for students and their families. We explore the profound impact of trauma-informed teaching, why children thrive when given space to define themselves, and how systems must change to meet the moment. Afira and Grant also go deep on leadership, advocacy, and why silence is no longer an option in the face of policies that harm the most vulnerable. This is a conversation about courage, truth-telling, and the belief that every child is worthy of joy, safety, and possibility. Key Moments: [5:45] How Afira’s childhood shaped her leadership [16:29] Why a separate school for unhoused youth isn’t segregation, but safety [24:14] What a strengths-based approach looks like in practice [39:01] Why Afira believes advocacy is the job and what fuels her to speak out [47:00] How students are affected by fear and family separation policies Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Monarch School – A unique public-private partnership in San Diego serving unhoused students Opinion: Unhoused youth deserve help and compassion, not cruelty - Afira’s op-ed in the San Diego Union-Tribune McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act – Federal legislation affecting educational access for homeless youth Prebys Leadership Awards – Honoring bold and visionary local leaders Take Action: Honor Kids' Strengths – Ask a child what they’re proud of. Let them lead. Learn About Strength-Based Care – Shift from “What’s wrong?” to “What’s strong?” Support Monarch School – Donate, volunteer, or share their work with others. Speak Up – Challenge policies rooted in blame and scarcity. Lead with love. Be That One Adult – Stability starts with someone showing up. You can be that person. Credits:This is a production of the Prebys FoundationHosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Coordination by Tess KareskyVideo Production by Edgar Ontiveros MedinaThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPod​cast​.orgSpecial thanks to the Prebys Foundation TeamIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe

Mark Cafferty is the President and CEO of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC), where he leads with a mix of realism, resolve, and heart. In this conversation, he shares his experiences of how his values—shaped family, mentorship, and a belief in equity— continue to guide his leadership today. Under Mark’s direction, EDC has taken a bold stance: inclusive growth isn’t just good policy, it’s a business imperative for San Diego’s future. This Episode: What does it take to build an economy that works for everyone? Mark and Grant dive deep into San Diego’s unique economic landscape, from its binational strengths to the increasing threats facing its innovation and research sectors. They explore how the EDC’s goals aim to create more skilled workers, quality jobs, and thriving households, especially for communities historically left behind. They also talk about the importance of values-driven leadership in a time of uncertainty. As diversity, equity and inclusion comes under fire nationally, Mark shares why staying the course is both a moral and economic necessity. Through it all, Mark reminds us San Diego’s competitive advantage is in its people. Note: Jennie Brooks is mentioned as the EDC Chair, which was accurate at the time of recording. The current EDC Chair is Tom Seidler. Key Moments: [11:50] Who’s at the table at EDC and why that matters [21:35] The three 2030 goals: skilled workers, quality jobs, thriving households [29:32] Why diversity and equity are valuable to the economy[37:48] Why San Diego’s binational identity is a key strength [41:45] Resisting the “fire drills” and staying focused on long-term impact Resources Mentioned in This Episode: San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) – An economic development organization that mobilizes business, government, and civic leaders around an inclusive economic development strategy Take Action: Learn More About EDC’s 2030 Goals – Explore how these targets aim to create a more just and prosperous regional economy. Support Small Businesses – Shop local, advocate for fair policies, and help strengthen San Diego’s economic backbone. Speak Up for Inclusion – Be a voice for equity in your workplace or community. As Mark says, “If you’re not for equity, what are you for?” Champion Regional Collaboration – We all have a role to play—business, government, philanthropy, and community alike. Credits:This is a production of the Prebys FoundationHosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Coordination by Tess KareskyVideo Production by Edgar Ontiveros MedinaThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPod​cast​.orgSpecial thanks to the Prebys Foundation TeamIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe

Katelyn Woodside is the Executive Director of the VAPA Foundation, a nonprofit bringing transformative arts education into San Diego’s public schools. A classically trained violinist, longtime educator, and nonprofit leader, Katelyn is advancing a bold vision: healing through expressive arts. Her organization’s award-winning proposal will train teaching artists in expressive arts therapy and place them in 25 schools across the county—reaching nearly 5,000 students with creative tools for connection, confidence, and well-being. This special episode of Stop and Talk was recorded LIVE at the Prebys Sparx Awards Breakfast, where the VAPA Foundation was honored as the grand prize recipient. Katelyn is joined by four outstanding Sparx honorable mention awardees—A Reason to Survive, Coastal Roots Farm, United Women of East Africa, and Youth Creating Change—each bringing powerful, place-based solutions to the youth mental health crisis. This Episode: What if the future of youth mental health isn’t found solely in clinics, but in classrooms, farms, and community spaces led by artists, mentors, and culture keepers? With a growing youth mental health crisis and a shortage of clinical providers, communities are turning to innovative, non-clinical interventions rooted in creativity, culture, and nature. The Sparx award celebrates scalable, collaborative ideas that empower youth with agency and well-being outside the traditional healthcare system. In this episode, Grant speaks with the five Sparx awardees. Together, they share how their work is rooted in cultural identity, creativity, and community connection—meeting young people where they are, and building healing from the ground up. Their work highlights how healing happens when we invest in the assets already rooted in our neighborhoods. Key Moments: [6:38] Grant introduces the vision behind the Sparx Award and prize philanthropy [19:10] Katelyn shares how VAPA’s idea evolved through deep collaboration [23:58] Training artists to heal: the scale and ripple effect of their model [33:56] Honorable mentions present their work: A Reason To Survive (ARTS), Coastal Roots Farm, United Women of East Africa (UWEAST), and Youth Creating Change [43:17] Stan Collins (Youth Creating Change) on equipping youth with emotional literacy and mental health skills to care for themselves and others. [45:41] Eden Mengistu (UWEAST) on bridging generations through culturally rooted programs that open conversations about mental health in the East African community. [48:43] Javier Guerrero (Coastal Roots Farm) on reconnecting tribal youth to land, culture, and healing through ancestral farming practices. [50:49] Lucy Eagleson (ARTS) on creating a “third space” for youth to explore identity through art and grow as community-rooted mental health leaders. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: A Reason to Survive (ARTS) – Lifting young people in the South County region of San Diego to become confident, compassionate, and courageous community builders through the transformative power of creativity. Coastal Roots Farm – Cultivating healthy, connected communities by integrating sustainable agriculture, food justice, and ancient Jewish wisdom. Prebys Sparx– Prebys Foundation’s award program for big ideas to improve mental and behavioral health for San Diego Youth through arts, culture, and nature. Learn more about the award programs.United Women of East Africa (UWEAST) – Providing health services, education and advocacy for the well-being of the East African community, women and families. VAPA Foundation – Enhancing the quality of, and access to, visual and performing arts education for K-12 students in the San Diego Unified School District. Youth Creating Change – Placing young people’s voices and creativity at the center of suicide prevention and mental health programming. Take Action: Champion Community Healing – Support organizations that uplift youth through creativity, cultural connection, and time in nature. Engage with Arts, Culture, and Nature – Experience firsthand how these practices foster healing, connection, and joy. Start the Conversation – Talk with young people in your life about emotions, mental health, and ways to cultivate well-being. Advocate for Prevention – Urge local leaders to invest in non-clinical, community-rooted approaches that meet youth where they are. Share This Episode – Spread the word about creative, community-led solutions by sharing this episode with educators, healthcare providers, or changemakers in your network. Credits:This is a production of the Prebys FoundationHosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Coordination by Tess KareskyVideo Production by Edgar Ontiveros MedinaSpecial thanks to the Prebys Foundation TeamThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPod​cast​.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe

Dr. Paula Cordeiro is a trailblazing educator, leadership expert, and social entrepreneur working at the intersection of business, nonprofits, and global development. A former dean and founder of the Nonprofit Institute at the University of San Diego, she’s reshaping how we think about leadership, wealth building, and the power of purpose-driven enterprises. Through programs like the Global Entrepreneurship Fellowship, she’s connecting San Diego to the world and bringing the best of global innovation home. This Episode: What if nonprofits didn’t just serve communities but built wealth within them? And what if businesses weren’t just engines of profit but vehicles for social good? Paula Cordeiro is championing a new model for leadership—one where empathy and equity are as important as profit margins. From food co-ops and employee-owned companies to certified B Corps and social enterprises, Paula sees a growing movement to blur the traditional lines between nonprofit and for-profit organizations. The goal? Create more sustainable, inclusive, and locally rooted economies. In this conversation with Grant, Paula shares how her upbringing in a vibrant immigrant community shaped her worldview, how Mondragon, Spain, sparked her passion for co-ops, and why she believes San Diego can become a global hub for socially minded business innovation. She also reflects on the power of teaching empathy, and the opportunities to address wealth gaps. Key Moments: [11:20] Defining social enterprise: people, profit, and planet [17:49] The evolving challenges facing nonprofit leaders today [23:43] The case for employee-owned businesses and generational wealth [31:16] How the Global Entrepreneurship Fellowship is building local and global bridges [43:27] Empathy as a core leadership trait—and how it can be taught Key Terms: Social Enterprise: A business—either nonprofit or for-profit—that exists to advance a social or environmental mission. These organizations prioritize impact alongside profit and often reinvest earnings into their mission.B Corporation (B Corp): A private company that has been certified by the nonprofit B Lab as meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Benefit Corporation: A legal business structure recognized in many U.S. states that allows companies to pursue both profit and a broader social purpose. Unlike B Corps, benefit corporations are not certified but are legally bound to consider their impact on society and the environment. ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan): A program that gives workers ownership interest in the company. ESOPs are a way to build wealth for employees and create a more engaged workforce. Co-op (Cooperative): An organization or business owned and operated by a group of individuals for their mutual benefit. Co-ops can take many forms, such as food co-ops, housing co-ops, or worker-owned businesses. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Nonprofit Institute at University of San Diego – A hub for nonprofit leadership and research Mondragon Cooperative – A global model for employee-owned enterprises Pete Stavros TED Talk – A talk on rethinking corporate structures to expand who benefits from a thriving company Take Action: Explore Social Enterprise – Learn how your organization could blend mission with sustainability Support Employee Ownership – Advocate for inclusive business models in your community Invest in Empathy – Build leadership programs that teach listening, reflection, and care Learn from Global Models – Look to places like Rwanda, Spain, and beyond for innovative approaches to business and development Join the Conversation – Share this episode with nonprofit leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers ready to build a better way forward CreditsThis is a production of the Prebys FoundationHosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Coordination by Tess KareskyVideo Production by Edgar Ontiveros MedinaThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPod​cast​.orgSpecial thanks to the Prebys Foundation TeamIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe

Grant Oliphant is the CEO of the Prebys Foundation and a longtime leader in philanthropy and social impact. With decades of experience guiding foundations through moments of transformation, he has a deep understanding of how philanthropy can respond to crises, support nonprofit resilience, and advocate for the society we aspire to reach. This Episode: Nonprofits are facing unprecedented challenges—from shifting political landscapes and funding cuts to increasing demands for services. With federal cuts threatening essential programs, nonprofit leaders are grappling with how to sustain their missions while navigating an evolving philanthropic landscape. In this candid conversation, Grant Oliphant flips the script and takes the guest seat, offering his insights on the role of philanthropy, nonprofits, and each of us as individuals in this moment. He shares how the Prebys Foundation is standing with San Diego’s nonprofit sector, the moral and practical dilemmas organizations face, and why belonging remains at the heart of Prebys' mission. Grant and Crystal also unpack the larger cultural shifts at play, from the erosion of trust in institutions to the censorship of language that directly impacts the people nonprofits serve. As they discuss what’s at stake, they also offer hope—reminding listeners that the nonprofit sector remains one of the most trusted forces for good, and that resilience is built through community and shared purpose. Key Moments: [2:50] How national shifts are affecting nonprofit leaders' mental well-being [9:00] Why Prebys Foundation stands by diversity, equity, and inclusion—without the jargon [16:32] The unique role nonprofits play in shaping America’s social fabric [29:16] How Prebys is responding to federal budget cuts and nonprofit concerns [39:07] The fine line nonprofit leaders must walk between survival and advocacy [55:40] Grant’s advice for nonprofit leaders feeling overwhelmed in this moment Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Federal Impacts on Nonprofits: San Diego County Survey of Nonprofit Results - Research from the Nonprofit Institute on the state of nonprofits in San Diego Challenging Times: How U.S. Nonprofit Leaders are Experiencing the Political Context – Report from the Center for Effective Philanthropy with results from across the U.S. Alexis de Tocqueville’s Democracy in America – A historical perspective on civil society’s role in the U.S. 4 Steps You Can Take:Support Your Local Nonprofits – Donate, volunteer, or advocate for the organizations making a difference in your community. Stay Engaged – Call your representatives, speak up for nonprofit funding, and resist the erasure of critical social issues. Build Community – Connect with peers, partners, and allies across sectors to share strategies, strengthen relationships, and support collective impact. Reconnect with Your ‘Why’ – In challenging times, remembering your purpose can fuel your resilience. Credits: This is a production of the Prebys Foundation Hosted by Grant Oliphant Co-Hosted by Crystal Page Co-produced by Crystal Page and Adam Greenfield Engineered by Adam Greenfield Production Coordination by Tess Karesky Video Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove. Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team. Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast .org If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening.

In this episode, Grant sits down with four motivated leaders who are driving solutions to the Tijuana River sewage crisis. Ramon Chairez, Sarah Davidson, Lesly Gallegos-Stearns, and Kapili Pasa are proving that change isn’t just possible, it is already happening through advocacy, environmental education, and community organizing. Their stories reveal deep, personal connections to the estuary, the ocean, and the communities most affected. From respiratory illnesses to economic setbacks and lost opportunities for youth, they highlight why urgent action is needed and why those in power must be held accountable. Everyone in San Diego County deserves clean air, safe oceans, and a thriving future. Despite the challenges, their message is clear: action is necessary, and change is within reach. With growing community advocacy, legal action, and scientific research, momentum is building. As Kapili puts it, "The alternative is unacceptable." This episode is a call to believe in San Diego’s ability to solve big problems and to be part of the solution. Special Series: This season, Stop & Talk is diving into one of San Diego County’s biggest environmental and health emergencies: the Tijuana River Sewage Crisis. Through this special series, we hear from doctors, advocates, researchers, and others fighting for clean environments, healthy communities, and real solutions. Credits:This is a production of the Prebys FoundationHosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Coordination by Tess KareskyVideo Production by Edgar Ontiveros Medina The Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.com Special thanks to the Prebys Foundation Team If you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening.

Season 2 of Stop and Talk brought us stories of resilience, creativity, and community action across San Diego. Hosts Grant Oliphant and Crystal Page welcomed guests who are tackling complex challenges, from reimagining public spaces to strengthening community mental health and fostering economic equity. Each conversation offered a glimpse into the powerful work happening in San Diego County—and the people behind it.In this special season wrap-up, Grant and Crystal revisit standout moments and reflect on the inspiring themes that emerged. They share insights on the importance of narrative, the impact of place, the role of economics, and what drives collective wellness. Whether you’re new to Stop and Talk or have followed every episode, this recap offers a glimpse into the profound insights shared this season and a look at what’s possible when communities work together for a brighter future.Thank you to all of our fantastic guests this season! Revisit all of Season 2:Episode 1: Micah Parzen - It's About ALL of UsEpisode 2: Diane Moss - Removing Barriers to Good Food Is a Community EffortEpisode 3: Preeti Bhattacharji - Using all a foundations assets to impact social changeEpisode 4: Ramel Wallace - Creativity as Care, Reflection, and ConnectionEpisode 5: Irwin Jacobs - Using What We Have to Strengthen San Diego CountyEpisode 6: Dr. Constance Carroll - The incredible impact of community collegesEpisode 7: Dr. Mary Walshok - When the world wants to see the future, they look at CaliforniaEpisode 8: Dr. Benjamin Maxwell - Community can help youth thrive psychologically and flourishEpisode 9: Dan Yates - The Power of Vulnerability in LeadershipEpisode 10: Amina Sheik Mohamed - Health equity and belonging are key to well-beingEpisode 11: Dr. Isabel Newton - Centering humanity in all aspects of healthcareEpisode 12: Dr. Sindy Escobar Alvarez - The Intersection of Medical Research and PhilanthropyEpisode 13: Omar Blaik - Downtowns should be for everyoneEpisode 14: Carol Dedrich - Fun is a critical component of mental healthEpisode 15: Thelma Virata de Castro - Expressing Yourself is a Powerful ThingCredits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening.

Carol Dedrich, CEO of Girl Scouts San Diego, joins host Grant Oliphant to explore the evolving role of Girl Scouts in shaping the next generation of leaders. Drawing from her rich experiences as a U.S. Army captain and Girl Scout alumna, Carol shares how her journey is intricately connected to the mission of empowering young women in today’s complex world. She reflects on the similarities between military service and Girl Scouts, where camaraderie, resilience, and community play vital roles in both environments.Carol delves into the impactful programs offered by Girl Scouts, from outdoor adventures and STEM education to addressing youth mental health. With a focus on fostering courage, confidence, and character, she discusses how Girl Scouts are equipped to navigate challenges like bullying, social media pressures, and isolation. Supported by partnerships, including the Prebys Foundation, Carol reveals how Girl Scouts are nurturing the mental well-being of girls, ensuring they thrive not just as future leaders but as individuals.Throughout the conversation, Carol emphasizes the importance of mentorship, fun, volunteerism, and adapting to the changing needs of girls in diverse communities. Her vision for Girl Scouts includes expanding access and developing a model that builds valuable skills for the future while fostering well-being.Listen to Carol Dedrich explain how Girl Scouts are helping young girls discover their potential, lead with purpose, and enjoy the journey along the way.Credits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening.