Podcasts about mission district

Robin Zander hosted a Snafu webinar for the Sidebar community on non-sales selling—think self-promotion for career transitions, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and product people. The goal: learn to "sell yourself" without the ick factor.   Participants shared fears: follow-ups feel intimidating, sales feels slimy, and success seems like a numbers game. Robin reframed it: selling is really about enrollment—being a chief evangelist for your work, not begging for attention.   Drawing on stories from his childhood pumpkin patch, his time as a personal trainer (where desperation lost him clients), and opening Robin's Cafe in San Francisco (raising $40k, serving multiple stakeholders, training staff with Danny Meyer's principles), he showed the difference between selling from need vs. service. Long-term success comes from genuine connection, curiosity, optimism, and passion.   Attendees explored their "authentic attitude" and reflected on times self-promotion felt good versus slimy. Exercises included mapping all the people who benefit from your work—employees, customers, managers, mentees, community—and practicing generosity in selling (a "Miracle on 34th Street" mindset: help customers even if it means sending them elsewhere).   In Q&A, Robin tackled: Asking for promotions as modeling for others, especially women and minorities Persistence in follow-ups (yes, emailing Mark Benioff 53 times counts) Relationship-based enterprise selling Avoiding fear-based AI marketing by knowing who you serve and what problem you solve Recommended reading: Setting the Table (Danny Meyer), Unreasonable Hospitality (Will Guidara), The New Strategic Selling.   Robin also shared upcoming Snafu conference details (March 5, Oakland Museum of California) and reminded everyone: Snafu = situation normal; all fucked up. 00:00 Start 01:06 Audience Fears About Selling Robin Zander welcomes 93 participants to the webinar Notes the session is interactive with exercises planned Encourages participants to drop questions in chat or interrupt him Last 15–20 minutes reserved for questions Robin introduces himself briefly Focuses on storytelling as a tool for self-promotion Shares experience as a community builder Runs a conference called Responsive since 2016 (not Snafu) Tools, structures, and company cultures for resilient organizations Two-day event each September on the future of work Focus on building resilience in organizations Observations on rapid change Technology and work-life changes happening at a fast pace Questions about resilience in individuals Traits needed in careers, personal relationships, professional relationships Ability to stay resilient through change Robin frames his expertise Emphasizes his strength in asking questions and fostering honest conversations Labels himself a reluctant salesperson Not the world's leading expert on self-promotion or selling Key lessons from research and interviews Two buckets matter in business and life: Example: Sidebar community forming coalitions for learning and action Operational excellence: being competent and at least as good as others Promotion/enrollment/sales: standing up, saying what you want, building coalitions Started interviewing people about influence and persuasion Started a weekly newsletter called Snafu Written by hand, not AI Shares lessons from his life and others about self-promotion and resilience Focus on courage to take action: raising hand, offering something valuable Core characteristics of self-promotion and selling yourself Connecting with others: art of connection Courage to ask: inspired by Amanda Palmer's TED Talk and book The Art of Asking Opposes traditional "always be closing" sales mentality Advocates for simply asking for what you want Current work mostly involves storytelling for large companies Clients include Supersonic, Airbnb, Zappos, and others 12:25 Service as the Core Principle Robin introduces the concept of storytelling for self-promotion Stories used to: Get promotions Build coalitions Propel career or organizational growth Emphasizes turning personal, career, or company stories into "commercials" Focus of today's talk: self-promotion with impact Core principle: service Showing up from a place of helping others Through helping others, also helping oneself Distinguishes between sleazy salespeople and effective self-promoters Childhood anecdote: Robin's pumpkin patch Tended plants all summer, learned responsibility and care Harvested pumpkins and sold them using a small red tin box labeled "money" Ran "Robin's Pumpkin Patch" for five to seven years At age five, father had him plant pumpkin seeds Engaged neighborhood kids for fun, collaborative promotion Explained product (pumpkins) enthusiastically to potential buyers Used scarecrow costumes and creative gestures to attract attention Lessons learned from pumpkin patch: Authentic enthusiasm creates value Helping people do what they were already inclined to do Early experience of earning and serving simultaneously Self-promotion is most effective when it's service-driven, not manipulative Applying childhood lesson to career and business Asking for a raise Persuading companies to choose one service over another Promoting oneself or others (e.g., Evan, web developer) Key principle: approach self-promotion from delight and service, not need or fear Authentic enthusiasm as foundation for: Interactive exercise for participants Not influenced by sleep deprivation or stress Could be inspired by childhood or adult experiences Opposite of fear; personal and unique for each participant Question posed: what is your authentic attitude when self-promoting? Examples shared from participants: Curiosity Passion Inspiration Service to others Observation Possibility Insight Value Helping others Creativity Belief in serendipity Optimism Key takeaway from exercise and story Promoting from delight, enthusiasm, and service Promoting from need or fear Two versions of self-promotion: Effective self-promotion aligns with authenticity and enthusiasm, creating value for others while advancing oneself 18:36 Gym Job and Needy Selling Robin shares the next story and sets up the next exercise Gym culture is sales-heavy Initial motivation: love of fitness, desire to help people Quickly realizes environment incentivizes personal trainers to sell aggressively Timeframe: ~20 years later, at age 20, moved to San Francisco First post-college job: personal trainer in gyms Early experience at gyms Key lesson from early failure Selling from need feels gross Promoting oneself from fear or desperation leads to poor results Recognizes similarity to unwanted sales calls received personally First authentic success in self-promotion Worked at Petro and World's Gym in San Francisco, Pilates instructor Owner confronted Robin after two weeks: no clients, potential clients being lost to others Threatened termination by Friday if no clients acquired Robin froze under pressure, approached clients but with needy, desperate energy Outcome: fired by Friday, left gym Encounters man in pain on Valencia Street, offers help as personal trainer Approach comes from genuine care, desire to serve Leads to three-year working relationship, consistent sessions, good income Next client: world-famous photographer Michael Light at UCSF swimming pool Client comes from natural connection, not pushy salesmanship Dichotomy observed: Pushy, need-based self-promotion → freeze, poor results Service-oriented self-promotion → natural connections, sustained relationships Exercise for participants Prompt: identify two moments: One time self-promoting felt slimy → what were you doing? One time self-promoting felt good → what were you doing differently? Two-minute reflection / chat participation Participant reflections/examples Slimy examples: Interviewing for a job during layoffs, giving desperate energy Selling P&L at a hyperscaler Selling computers and printers in UK post-college Sales emails getting ghosted Feeling inauthentic or performative, taking advantage of someone Good examples: Offering services out of care and love rather than ROI Showing impact of work to junior child Knowing services add real value and solve a challenge Being clear on what the other person needs Key takeaway Self-promotion feels different depending on intent and knowledge Slimy → desperate, inauthentic, unclear value to recipient Authentic → service-driven, clear value, connection-focused Effective self-promotion combines knowing your value and serving others, not just pushing for personal gain 25:35 Miracle on 34th Street Lesson Feeling good in self-promotion comes from genuinely helping, solving problems, and sharing information Santa Claus hired at Macy's to hold kids and give candy canes, but real goal: persuade parents to buy from Macy's Santa instead sends parents to competitor to truly serve them Macy's manager initially furious Outcome: customers feel genuinely served, return praising Macy's, become loyal fans Robin references Miracle on 34th Street (original version) Key insight: providing real value, even if it benefits someone else, eventually returns value to you "Put enough bread across the water, eventually good things come back" Participant reflections Slimy: knowing audience expects judgment, catering to them for approval Good: giving the gift of knowledge, providing service freely Takeaway: authentic self-promotion is rooted in service, generosity, and sharing expertise, not manipulating for immediate gain 27:45 Starting Robin's Cafe Through Service Robin shares a major professional turning point: opening Robin's Cafe in 2016 No restaurant experience beyond college busing tables Opened in three weeks, eventually grew to 15 employees by 2018 Worked in multiple industries: Pumpkin patch, personal trainer, circus performer Opened a café/restaurant in Mission District, San Francisco Courage and conviction came from clear focus on service to others Employees: create a great workplace, go-giver culture Investors: $40k raised from friends/family, provided value and potential return Landlords (ODC, nonprofit dance center): wanted success of business to support community Customers: diverse—tech workers, kids in dance classes, local community Robin himself: financial sustainability, learning, personal growth Key audiences served by Robin's Cafe Approach to challenges Used Danny Meyer's Setting the Table as a service-focused framework for employees Philosophy: "giving in order to get paid" Examples: spouse, kids, dog, manager, peers, mentees, clients, community, customers, extended family, mentors Served multiple stakeholders during crises: break-ins, flooding, city permitting, neighborhood issues Exercise: identify all the people who benefit from your work or success Key idea: the more stakeholders served, the easier self-promotion becomes, because it comes from service, not need or pressure Show up thinking: does this serve the person I'm talking to? Principle: selling yourself from a place of service Consider multiple stakeholders simultaneously Audience question: elaborate on applying this service mindset specifically to asking for a promotion Tying service to self-promotion in career advancement Result: asking for a raise, applying for jobs, pitching clients—all easier and more authentic 38:11 Promotion As Service Asking for a promotion from a place of service Example: doing the role already, deserving recognition, asking for what you believe you've earned. Personal perspective: advocating for yourself is a form of service to yourself Recognize other stakeholders in the process: Modeling courage and advocacy for the next generation Authority enables ideas to be taken more seriously Stories gained from new responsibilities enhance value to clients or teams People you mentor, especially women or underrepresented groups The organization: your promotion can make it stronger Your family or children: showing them what it looks like to advocate Concrete examples Outcome: trajectory of career positively influenced, demonstrated courage, modeled behavior Asking first time for a manager role Later asking for VP title as a director Courage and small steps Courage = acting despite fear, not absence of fear Practice by taking incremental steps toward what scares you Avoid masking or hesitation; direct action builds confidence and results Persistence and follow-up Busy people require patience and multiple nudges Example: Mark Stubbings emailing Mark Benioff 53 times before a yes Persistence = respectful, consistent follow-ups Role modeling for women and minorities Demonstrates that asking is a normal, expected, and service-oriented act Many don't ask for promotions or raises due to upbringing or cultural norms Modeling advocacy teaches the next generation, including children, to speak up Service mindset in practice Approach self-promotion by asking: is this good for the other person? Keep intention aligned with service, not desperation Books for guidance: Setting the Table – Danny Meyer: service-driven sales and employee culture Unreasonable Hospitality – Will Guidara: lessons from the restaurant world on giving value and delight Key takeaways for promotion and asking Serve yourself, your mentees, your organization, and your broader audience Take small, courageous steps to ask for what you deserve Follow up respectfully and consistently; don't assume silence = no Self-promotion becomes easier and authentic when rooted in service, not fear or need Snafu Newsletter Weekly newsletter written by Robin Covers influence, persuasion, and modern workplace dynamics A resource for ongoing learning and practical insights 56:55 Where to Find Robin Robin's newsletter covers influence, persuasion, and modern work. Snafu Conference Responsive Conference Robin Zander on social medias  

For several weeks, a red pay phone sat outside a tattoo parlor in San Francisco's Mission District — with a sign reading ‘Call a Republican.' If you picked it up, a blue pay phone with the sign ‘Call a Democrat' in the conservative city of Abilene, Texas would ring. This project, created by a company called Matter Neuroscience, aimed to connect Americans from vastly different backgrounds via the old-fashioned phone.  Links: What Happens When Democrats in San Francisco Call Up Republicans in Texas? It's Pretty Cordial | KQED Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Whole Foods meet-cute, a bold first move, pasta on a first date, and a labradoodle vs. Maltese showdown. Lupe thought her Mission District date with Greg went great — so why did he vanish afterward? We're breaking it all down.

Today on the show: Haiti Action co-founder, Robert Roth joins us live from a protest on the streets of San Francisco. Folks are in the streets in support of the continued availability of Temporary Protective Status for Haitians living in exile in the US. TPS is slotted to end tomorrow/cutoff cold by Trump: And Flashpoints senior producer Miguel Gavilan Molina is in San Francisco's Mission District at Historic Dolores Park, reporting on the people's growing resistance to ICE and blatant trump Racism The post Protests In The Streets For Temporary Protected Status, Scheduled to End Tomorrow By Trump Admin appeared first on KPFA.

Logan Ivey from Tech startup Matter Neuroscience joins the program talking about the social experiment that involves an old pay phone placed in majority Democratic city in San Francisco's Mission District, and another in Abilene, Texas, a majority Republican city. Matter Neuroscience is focused on boosting happiness and believes people fundamentally enjoy talking. The idea is to encourage conversation between people who may be different from social media. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to Snafu with Robin P. Zander. In this episode, I'm doing something a little different: I step into the guest seat for a conversation with one of my good friends, Andrew Bartlow, recorded for the People Leader Accelerator podcast alongside Jessica Yuen. We dive into storytelling, identity, and leadership — exploring how personal experiences shape professional influence. The conversation begins with a reflection on family and culture, from the Moroccan textiles behind me, made by my mother, to the influence of my father's environmental consulting work. These threads of personal history frame my lifelong fascination with storytelling, persuasion, and coalition-building. Andrew and Jessica guide the discussion through how storytelling intersects with professional growth. We cover how early experiences — like watching Lawrence of Arabia at a birthday sleepover — sparked curiosity about adventure, influence, and human connection, and how these interests evolved into a career focused on organizational storytelling and leadership. We explore practical frameworks, including my four-part story model (Setup → Change → Turning → Resolution) and the power of "twists" to create momentum and memorability. The episode also touches on authentic messaging, the role of vulnerability in leadership, and why practicing storytelling in everyday life—outside high-stakes moments—builds confidence and executive presence over time. Listeners will hear lessons from a lifetime of diverse experiences: running a café in the Mission District, collaborating with BJ Fogg on behavioral change, building Zander Media, and applying storytelling to align teams and organizations. We also discuss how authenticity and personal perspective remain a competitive advantage in an age of AI-generated content. If you're curious about how storytelling, practice, and presence intersect with leadership, persuasion, and influence, this episode is for you. And for more insights on human connection, organizational alignment, and the future of work, check out Snafu, my weekly newsletter on sales, persuasion, and storytelling here, and Responsive Conference, where we explore leadership, work, and organizational design here. Start (0:00) Storytelling & Identity Robin introduces Moroccan textiles behind him Made by his mother, longtime practicing artist Connects to Moroccan fiancée → double meaning of personal and cultural Reflection on family influence Father: environmental consulting firm Mother: artist Robin sees himself between their careers Early Fascination with Storytelling Childhood obsession with Morocco and Lawrence of Arabia Watched 4-hour movie at age 6–7 Fascinated by adventure, camels, storytelling, persuasion Early exposure shaped appreciation for coalition-building and influence Identity & Names Jess shares preference for "Jess" → casual familiarity Robin shares professional identity as "Xander" Highlights fluidity between personal and professional selves Childhood Experiences & Social Context Watching Lawrence of Arabia at birthday sleepover Friends uninterested → early social friction Andrew parallels with daughters and screen preferences Childhood experiences influence perception and engagement Professional Background & Storytelling Application Robin's long involvement with PeopleTech and People Leader Accelerator Created PLA website, branding, documented events Mixed pursuits: dance, media, café entrepreneurship Demonstrates applying skills across domains Collaboration with BJ Fogg → behavioral change expertise Storytelling as Connection and Alignment Robin: Storytelling pulls from personal domains and makes it relevant to others Purpose: foster connection → move together in same direction Executive relevance: coalition building, generating momentum, making the case for alignment Andrew: HR focus on connection, relationships, alignment, clarity Helps organizations move faster, "grease the wheels" for collaboration Robin's Credibility and Experience in Storytelling Key principle: practice storytelling more than listening Full-time entrepreneur for 15 years First business at age 5: selling pumpkins Organized neighborhood kids in scarecrow costumes to help sell Earned $500 → early lessons in coalition building and persuasion Gymnastics and acrobatics: love of movement → performance, discipline Café entrepreneurship: Robin's Cafe in Mission District, SF Started with 3 weeks' notice to feed conference attendees Housed within a dance studio → intersection of dance and behavioral change First experience managing full-time employees Learned the importance of storytelling for community building and growth Realized post-sale missed opportunity: storytelling could have amplified success Transition to Professional Storytelling (Zander Media) Lessons from cafe → focus on storytelling, messaging, content creation Founded Zander Media (2018) Distributed small team, specializes in narrative strategy and video production Works with venture-backed companies and HR teams to tell stories internally and externally Provides reps and depth in organizational storytelling Why Storytelling Matters for Organizations Connects people, fosters alignment Enables faster movement toward shared goals Storytelling as a "powerful form of connection" What Makes a Good Story Robin: frameworks exist, but ultimately humans want: Education, entertainment, attention Sustained attention (avoid drift to TikTok, distractions) Framework examples: Hero's Journey (Joseph Campbell) → 17 steps Dan Harmon's 8-part structure → simplified version of Hero's Journey Robin's preferred model: 4-part story structure (details/examples forthcoming) The Power of the Twist, and Organizational Storytelling Robin's Four-Part Story Model Core idea: stories work best when they follow a simple arc Setup → Change → Turning (twist/reveal) → Resolution Goal: not rigid frameworks, but momentum, surprise, payoff The "Turning" (Twist) as the Sticky Moment Pixar example via Steve Jobs and the iPod Nano Setup: Apple's dominance, market context, long build-up Choice point: Option A: just reveal the product Option B (chosen): pause + curiosity Turning: the "tiny jeans pocket" question Reveal: iPod Nano pulled from the pocket Effect: entertainment, disruption, memorability Key insight: The twist creates pause, delight, and attention This moment often determines whether a story is remembered Why Flat Stories Fail Example (uninspiring): "I ran a cafe → wanted more marketing → now I run Xander Media" Improved arc with turning: Ran a cafe → wanted to do more marketing → sold it on Craigslist → built Xander Media Lesson: A reveal or risk creates narrative energy The Four Parts in Practice Setup The world as it is (Bilbo in the Shire) Change Something disrupts the norm (Gandalf arrives) Turning Twist, reveal, or surprise (the One Ring) Resolution Payoff and return (Bilbo back to the Shire) How to Use This as a Leader Don't force stories into frameworks Look at stories you already tell Identify where a disruption, surprise, or reveal could live Coalition-building lens Stories should move people into shared momentum Excitement → flow → aligned action Storytelling Mediums for HR & Organizations Employer brand ≠ separate from company brand Should be co-owned by HR and marketing Brand clarity attracts the right people, repels the wrong ones Strong brands are defined by: Who they are Who they are not Who they're for and not for HR vs Marketing: The Nuance Collaboration works only if: HR leads on audience and truth Marketing supports execution, not control Risk: Marketing optimizes for customers, not employees HR understands attraction, retention, culture fit Storytelling at the Individual Level No one is "naturally" good or bad at storytelling It's reps, not talent Practical advice: Know your ~15 core stories (career, company, turning points) Practice pauses like a comedian Notice when people lean in Opinionated Messaging = Effective Messaging Internal storytelling should: Be clear and opinionated Repel as much as it attracts Avoid: Corporate vanilla Saying a lot without saying anything Truth + Aspirational Truth Marketing and storytelling are a mix of: What is actually true What the organization is becoming Being "30% more honest" builds trust Including flaws and tradeoffs Example: budget brands, Southwest, Apple's office-first culture Why This Works Opinions create personality Personality creates stickiness Stickiness creates memory, alignment, and momentum Authenticity as the last real advantage We're flooded with AI-generated content (video, writing, everything) Humans are extremely good at sensing what feels fake Inauthenticity is easier to spot than ever One of the few remaining advantages: Be true to the real story of the person or organization Not polished truth — actual truth What makes content feel "AI-ish" AI can generate volume fast Books, posts, stories in minutes What it can't replicate: Personal specificity Why a story matters to you What an experience felt like from the inside Lived moments Running a café Growing into leadership What lasts: Personal story lesson learned relevance to this reader relevance to this relationship What content will win long-term Vulnerability Not oversharing, but real experience Personal perspective Why this matters to me Relevance Why it should matter to you Outcome Entertainment Insight Shared direction The risk of vulnerability (it can backfire) Being personal doesn't guarantee buy-in Example: inspirational talk → employee openly disagrees Emotional deflation Self-doubt Early leadership lesson: You can do your best People will still push back Leadership at higher levels gets harder, not easier Bigger teams → higher stakes Better pay Benefits Real expectations First "real" leadership pain points: Bad hires Mismatched expectations Disgruntled exits Realization: Conflict isn't failure It's a sign you've leveled up "Mountains beyond mountains" Every new level comes with new challenges Entrepreneurship Executive leadership Organizational scale Reframe setbacks: Not proof you're failing Proof you're progressing Authenticity at the executive table Especially hard for HR leaders Often younger Often earlier in career Often underrepresented Anxiety is normal The table doesn't feel welcoming Strategy: Name it "This is new for me" "I'm still finding my voice" Own it Ask for feedback Speak anyway Authenticity ≠ no consequences Being honest can carry risk Not every organization wants change Hard truth: You can't change people who don't want to change Sometimes the right move is leaving Guiding advice: Find people who already want what you offer Help them move faster Vulnerability as a competitive advantage Almost any perceived weakness can be reframed New Nervous Different When named clearly: It builds trust It creates permission It signals confidence Getting better at storytelling (practical) It's not talent — it's reps Shyness → confidence through practice Start small Don't test stories when stakes are highest Practice specifics Your core stories Your pitch Energy matters Enthusiasm is underrated Tempo matters Pauses Slowing down Letting moments land Executive presence is built Incrementally Intentionally Practice, Progress, and Learning That Actually Sticks Measure growth against yourself, not "the best" The real comparison isn't to others It's who you were yesterday MrBeast idea: If you're not a little uncomfortable looking at your past work You're probably not improving fast enough Important distinction: Discomfort ≠ shame Shame isn't a useful motivator Progress shows up in hindsight Looking back at past work "I'd write that differently now" Not embarrassment — evidence of growth Example: Weekly newsletter Over time, clearer thinking Better writing Stronger perspective Executive presence is a practice, not a trait Storytelling Selling Persuasion Presence Core question: Are you deliberately practicing? Or just repeating the same behaviors? Practice doesn't have to happen at work Low-stakes environments count Family Friends Everyday conversations Example: Practicing a new language with a dog Safe Repetitive No pressure Life skills = leadership skills One of the hardest lessons: Stop trying to get people to do what they don't want to do Daily practice ground: Family dynamics Respecting boundaries Accepting reality These skills transfer directly to work Influence Communication Leadership Why practice outside of high-stakes moments When pressure is high You default to habits Practicing in everyday life: Builds muscle memory Makes high-stakes moments feel familiar How to learn (without overengineering it) Follow curiosity Pick a thread A name A book An idea Pull on it See where it leads Let it branch Learning isn't linear It's exploratory Learning through unexpected sources Example: Reading a biography Leads to understanding an era Context creates insight The subject matters less than: Genuine interest Sustained attention Career acceleration (simple, not flashy) Always keep learning Find what pulls you in Go deeper Press the gas Where to find Robin Ongoing work lives in: Snafu (weekly newsletter on sales, persuasion, and storytelling) https://joinsnafu.com  Responsive Conference (future of work, leadership, and org design) https://responsiveconference.com   

Welcome to Art is Awesome, the show where we talk with an artist or art worker with a connection to the San Francisco Bay Area. Today, Emily chats with Christine Wong Yap, a visual artist working in printmaking, social practice, and community-based art.Christine discusses her latest project "Bay Windows/Ventanas," a trilingual public art installation featuring lanterns created with Chinese-speaking women in Chinatown and Spanish-speaking women in the Mission District. The lanterns, displayed at five locations through March 11th, explore themes of mental health, belonging, and immigrant experiences through traditional paper-cutting techniques.About Artist Christine Wong Yap:Christine Wong Yap is a visual artist and social practitioner who works in community engagement, drawing, printmaking, publishing, textiles, and public art. Through her hyperlocal participatory research projects, she gathers and amplifies grassroots perspectives on belonging, resilience, and mental well being. Last year, she received a a Creative Power Award from the Walter & Elise Haas Foundation and Creative Capital Award. She has served as Neighborhood Visiting Artist at Stanford University (Stanford, CA) and Creative Citizenship Fellow at the California College of the Arts (San Francisco, CA). She has developed projects with the Chinese Culture Center of San Francisco, For Freedoms, the Library Foundation of Los Angeles, the Othering and Belonging Institute at UC Berkeley, Times Square Arts, and the Wellcome Trust, among others. She holds a BFA and MFA in printmaking from the California College of the Arts. She was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she has lived since spending a decade in New York City from 2010 to 2021.Visit Christine's Website:  ChristineWongYap.comFollow Christine on Instagram:  @ChristineWongYapFor more about Christine's Bay Windows project and upcoming scavenger hunt CLICK HERETo learn about The Creative Capital Award CLICK HERE--About Podcast Host Emily Wilson:Emily a writer in San Francisco, with work in outlets including Hyperallergic, Artforum, 48 Hills, the Daily Beast, California Magazine, Latino USA, and Women's Media Center. She often writes about the arts. For years, she taught adults getting their high school diplomas at City College of San Francisco.Follow Emily on Instagram: @PureEWilFollow Art Is Awesome on Instagram: @ArtIsAwesome_Podcast--CREDITS:Art Is Awesome is Hosted, Created & Executive Produced by Emily Wilson. Theme Music "Loopster" Courtesy of Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 LicenseThe Podcast is Co-Produced, Developed & Edited by Charlene Goto of @GoToProductions. For more info, visit Go-ToProductions.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, host Susanne Stadler, architect and AHWGO Executive Director, welcomes Lydia Bransten, Executive Director of The Gubbio Project, for a compelling conversation about building community through compassion and sanctuary. The Gubbio Project is a pioneering daytime shelter housed in St. John the Evangelist Church in San Francisco's Mission District. Since its founding, Gubbio has offered a radical form of sanctuary: a safe place for unhoused neighbors to rest during the day, no questions asked. In this episode, we explore how Lydia's background in arts and theater informs her approach to building community and creating dynamic, engaging environments for healing. We discuss the origins of the Gubbio Project and its namesake—the Italian town where St. Francis famously found mutual understanding with a wolf by bringing it into the community rather than treating it as a monster. Lydia shares powerful insights about destigmatizing visible poverty, the crucial role of low-barrier spaces in our public health infrastructure, and what happens when housed and unhoused neighbors come together in shared spaces. We examine why sanctuary matters, how the church's mission aligns with harm reduction principles, and why expensive solutions like increased policing often fail to address the root issues. From recaptured food programs to partnerships with the Department of Public Health, The Gubbio Project demonstrates what's possible when we choose community care over criminalization. This conversation challenges us to rethink our relationship to public space, safety, and what it means to truly welcome our most vulnerable neighbors into the fold. "When you start to be treated like you deserve better, you suddenly want better. You can start to envision better: What does better look like?" — Lydia Bransten At Home With Growing Older is proud to host At Home, On Air — a radio hour offering connection, community and knowledge to our participants. Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/RO3XAuNe9JI Takeaway Resources: https://athomewithgrowingold.com/2025/12/06/at-home-on-air-a-conversation-with-lydia-bransten/ Learn more, support our work, and register for the next LIVE episode of At Home, On Air: www.athomewithgrowingolder.org.

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Te'Sean Glass is chef de cuisine of True Laurel, a cocktail bar in San Francisco's Mission District where he takes a farm-to-table approach to dishes such as chicken katsu topped with Caesar salad and patty melts. Originally from St. Augustine, Florida, Glass grew up in a family of enthusiastic family cooks, but he had a dream early on of running his own restaurant. His first job in a professional kitchen was as a teenager working for Meals on Wheels, where he learned about preparing high-volume food on a budget made for off-premises dining—lessons that would be useful at pretty much any restaurant. From there he worked at The Ice Plant, a bar in St. Augustine, and went on to culinary school at Johnson & Wales University in Miami. His ambition eventually landed him in San Francisco, where he started working in fine-dining restaurants including Saison and Ernest. In the podcast, Glass discusses his journey from St. Augustine to San Francisco and offers advice for young chefs about following their dreams. 

Today Dr. Ashley interviews Dr. Deborah Ma, PhD, L.Ac, acupuncturist and owner of Puzzlesf.com a acupuncture clinic out in in the Mission District of San Francisco. We talk about how Chinese Meridians, reorienting the chi flow, and how a new technique called "cheek acupuncture" can be beneficial for those experiencing pain. We discuss the importance of understanding where the pain is coming from and that most of the time, the pain we feel is not the same location as the cause.Acupuncture is a great tool in recovery. You can reach Dr. Ma at her website puzzlesf.com Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_productsDid you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswNAre you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.comHere's the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-callSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Listen in as I join Erin and Ange of Bitch Talk to chat with H.P. Mendoza about all things Mission District. We wax poetic about H.P.'s home hood, spinning yarns about the infamous neighborhoo'd's past, present, and future. We recorded this podcast at Zeitgeist in (duh) The Mission in November 2025. Photo by Wally Gobetz

Send us a textWelcome to our second neighborhood basic bitch! This time we're collaborating with San Francisco podcast - Storied: San Francisco and talking all things Mission District. This is our third to welcome multi-hyphenate, San Francisco born and raised, and Mission resident H.P. Mendoza on to the podcast. As we enjoyed the backyard of the bar Zeitgeist, H.P. gives us his experiences on growing up around the Mission, hopping on busses to sneak in to movie theaters, how multi-culti living in this part of the City was just a couple of decades ago, and also his current mainstays in the neighborhood. All of us round robin about some of our now favorite and missed businesses (and people) in the Mission. RIP KitKat! There is also a tangent about that Google Glass incident that happened in 2014 (not 2004 as we all thought) in the lower Haight neighborhood of the City. It was a pivotal time in San Francisco. Thanks so much for listening! You can listen to our first neighborhood basic here.Follow Storied: San Francisco on IG, Threads, and SubstackListen to our past episodes with H.P. Mendoza here, here, and here. Follow H.P. Mendoza on IG and YouTubeArtwork photos by: Wally Gobetz, 48Hills, and SF Muni Transit OperationsSupport the showThanks for listening and for your support! We couldn't have won Best of the Bay Best Podcast in 2022 , 2023 , and 2024 without you! -- Fight fascism. Shop small. Use cash. -- Support Bitch Talk here! Subscribe to our channel on YouTube for behind the scenes footage! Rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts! Visit our website! www.bitchtalkpodcast.com Follow us on Instagram, Threads, and Substack Listen every Monday at 7 am on BFF.FM

Orange marigolds, sugar skulls, skeleton face paint, and altars lined with photos and candles have become familiar elements for commemorating Day of the Dead, the ritual practice of honoring the deceased that has become a cultural phenomenon. Many of the traditions go back thousands of years to the indigenous peoples of Mexico, but others have roots in the United States, where the some of the first Día de los Muertos celebrations took place in 1972 with an altar in front of the Galería de la Raza in San Francisco's Mission District. We'll talk about the essence of this holiday and how the traditions, iconography and meaning continue to evolve. Guests: Liv Styler, artist and writer; her piece, “Memento (Me)mori(as),” is part of the SOMArts exhibit "Día de Los Muertos 2025: We Love You" Luisa Navarro, boutique owner, Mexico in My Pocket; author, "Mexico's Day of the Dead" Rio Yañez, artist and curator, co-curator, "Día de Los Muertos 2025: We Love You" at SOMArts Dr. Belinda Hernandez Arriaga, executive director and founder, ALAS, Ayudando Latinos A Soñar; licensed clinical social worker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Love Island's Huda Mustafa publicly apologized to Olandria Carthen after laughing during a livestream where a racial slur was used, clarifying her reaction as awkwardness and pledging donations to racial justice groups. San Francisco's Mission District is mourning KitKat, a beloved store cat from Randa's Market, after it was tragically struck and killed by a Waymo self-driving car. Kim Kardashian sparked controversy by trying to convince Sarah Paulson that the 1969 moon landing was faked, citing misinterpreted Buzz Aldrin remarks and fueling fresh online debate. Drake trolled Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers on Instagram after the Blue Jays' Game 5 World Series win, celebrating Toronto being one victory away from its first title since 1993.Sydney Sweeney dazzled in a sheer silver gown at Variety's Power of Women event, where she was honored for her achievements and delivered an empowering speech about strength and perseverance. Hosts: Charlie Cotton & Deven Rall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Storykeeper on Words on a Wire, host Tim Z. Hernandez sits down with poet, performer, and educator Darren J. de Leon to explore his new collection The Hoops and Crosses of Mt. Vernon (Hinchas Press, 2025). Blending poetry and fiction, de Leon's debut offers vivid portraits of life in San Bernardino's working-class neighborhoods and the formative tensions of growing up between danger and possibility.De Leon reads from his stories “Kmart” and “This Street Does Not Go Through,” weaving memories of skateboarding under the glow of a department-store sign with reflections on inheritance, family, and survival. He discusses how his years teaching youth “in risk” shaped his desire to write for young adults—those on the edge of choices that can determine their futures. For de Leon, language itself becomes liberation: “There are no laws in poetry, only the word.”The conversation traces his journey from the Mission District classroom to San Francisco's electrifying 1990s spoken-word scene, where he co-founded the avant-garde ensemble Los Delicados. With Hernandez, de Leon revisits that era's fusion of poetry, politics, punk energy, and Afro-Cuban rhythm that redefined Latinx performance art.The episode closes with de Leon's powerful reading of a coming-of-age poem about youth, desire, and self-discovery—an echo of the book's central themes: voice, risk, and the freedom to define one's own story.

Welcome back to Snafu w/ Robin Zander.  In this episode, I'm joined by Simone Stolzoff – author of The Good Enough Job and the upcoming How to Not Know – and our opening keynote speaker at Responsive Conference 2025. We explore what it means to have an identity beyond your job title, why rest is essential for high performance, and how ritual and community offer grounding in an age of uncertainty. Simone shares how Judaism and Shabbat have shaped his views on balance, the role of “guardrails” over boundaries, and how we can build more durable lives – personally and professionally. We talk about the future of religion, the risks and opportunities of AI, and why books still matter even in a tech-saturated world. Simone also offers practical writing advice, previews his next book, and explains why embracing uncertainty may be the most valuable skill of all. Simone will be speaking live at Responsive Conference 2025, September 17–18, and I can't wait for you to hear more. If you haven't gotten your tickets yet, get them here.   Start (00:00) Identity Beyond Titles (01:07.414) What identities do you hold that aren't listed on your LinkedIn? Simone's Answer: Ultimate frisbee player – “the entirety of my adult life” Aspiring salsa dancer – taking intro classes with his wife Former spoken word poet – “It was the most important thing to me when I was 19 years old.” New father – navigating life with a five-month-old "I encourage people to ask: what do you like to do, as opposed to what do you do?" Shabbat as a Sanctuary in Time (01:58.831) Robin references Simone's TED Talk, focusing on Shabbat as a metaphor for boundary-setting and presence. Simone expands: Shabbat offers a weekly rhythm to separate work from rest. Emphasizes the idea of "sacred time" and intentional disconnection from screens. Shabbat is a “sanctuary in time,” paralleling physical sanctuaries like churches or synagogues. Relates this to work-life balance, noting that intentions alone aren't enough – infrastructure is needed. "We have intentions… but what actually leads to balance is structural barriers." Boundaries vs. Guardrails (04:44.32) Cites Anne Helen Petersen's metaphor: Boundaries = painted lane lines Guardrails = physical barriers that actually keep you on the road There are calls for more guardrails (structural protections) in modern life. Examples: Airplane mode during playtime with his kid Attending yoga or activities where work can't creep in "Individually imposed boundaries often break down when the pressures of capitalism creep in." Religion, Ritual & Community (06:48.57) Robin asks how Judaism has shaped Simone's thinking around work and life. Simone reflects: Religion offers a “container” with a different value system than capitalism. As organized religion declined, people turned to work for identity, meaning, and community. Religion can offer rituals to process uncertainty — e.g., mourning rituals like sitting shiva. Religious or community spaces offer contrast: they don't care about your career success. "Religion is sort of like a container… with a value system that isn't just about growth charts." "It can be refreshing to say: Day 1, do this. Day 7, go for a walk." Personal journey: Simone reconnected with Judaism in his 30s as he built his own family. Once, went out of obligation, then rejected it, and now see beauty in ritual and intergenerational wisdom. The Future of Religion & Community (09:12.454) Robin theorizes a future rise in spiritual and communal gatherings: Predicts new spiritual movements or evolutions of old ones Notes a hunger for meaningful in-person connection, especially post-AI and amid tech saturation "There's a hunger... as AI and screens define how we relate, people want to gather in person." "I don't tend to make predictions, but I think this one's inevitable." Simone agrees... but offers data as contrast: Cites the decline in religious affiliation in the U.S. 1950s: 3–4% unaffiliated Today: Nearly 1 in 3 identify as “Nones” (no religion) Notes reasons: Rising wealth tends to increase secularism The internet creates alternate identity spaces "I do believe there is inevitability in the growth [of spirituality]... But the data points the opposite way." Simone reflects on the factors behind declining religious affiliation: Doubt now builds community – the internet has enabled people to connect around leaving religion as much as practicing it. Political entanglement – many young Americans, especially, are alienated by the perceived overlap between right-wing politics and Christianity. Yet despite this secular trend, the need for meaning, ritual, and purpose remains universal. “There still is this fundamental need to find meaning, to find purpose, to find ritual… even if it's not in the forms we're used to.” A Church in the Mission (13:07.182) Robin shares a formative experience from 2016: That year, he launched both Robin's Café and the first Responsive Conference. When he walked into the theater space that would become his café, he encountered a young, diverse Christian revival group – live music, dancing, and energetic worship happening in a Mission District theater. This juxtaposition – a traditional spiritual gathering inside a modern, “hip” venue – left a lasting impression. “It felt like a revival meeting in the South… except it was full of people my age and younger, partying on a Saturday morning – and it just happened to be church.” You Are More Than Your Work (14:51.182) Robin segues into the idea of multiple identities: He recalls how reading The 4-Hour Work Week helped him embrace not defining himself solely by his entrepreneurial work. Even on tough days running a business, movement and fitness have been a grounding force – something he does daily, independent of career performance. Quotes from Simone's TED Talk: “Some people do what they love for work; others work so they can do what they love. Neither is more noble.” Robin asks Simone to share the origin of this line and how it connects to the poet Anis Mojgani. Simone recounts a pivotal conversation during college: As a poetry and economics double major, he was wrestling with career path anxiety. He interviewed his favorite poet, Anis Mojgani, asking: “Do you believe in the idea, ‘Do what you love and never work a day in your life'?” Mojgani's response: “Some people do what they love for work. Others do what they have to so they can do what they love when they're not working. Neither is more noble.” This countered Simone's expectations and left a deep impression. He highlights two cases for cultivating a broader identity beyond work: Business Case: High performance requires rest. People with “greater self-complexity” — more identities outside of work — are more creative, more resilient, and more emotionally stable. Moral Case: Investing in other parts of ourselves makes us better citizens, community members, and humans. Singular identity (especially career-based) is fragile and susceptible to collapse — e.g., pandemic layoffs. Solely work-based identity also sets unrealistically high expectations that can lead to disappointment. “You're balancing on a very narrow platform… You're susceptible to a large gust of wind.” Robin reflects on how the Responsive Manifesto intentionally avoids prescribing one path: It's not anti-work or anti-grind. Recognizes that sometimes hard work is necessary, especially in entrepreneurship. Shares how his friend's newsletter, Just Go Grind, embraces the idea that seasons of hustle are sometimes required. “Everyone figuring out their own boundaries is actually the goal.” Work Isn't Good or Bad – It's Complex (18:34.436) Simone adds that society tends to polarize the narrative around work: Some say “burn it all down”, that work is evil. Others say, “Do what you love, or it's not worth doing.” His book The Good Enough Job argues for a middle way: It's not hustle propaganda. It's not a slacker's manifesto. It's about recognizing that we spend a huge portion of our lives working, so it matters how we approach it, but also recognizing we're more than just our jobs. He introduces the concept of temporal balance: “There's a natural seasonality to work.” Sometimes, long hours are necessary (e.g., startup mode, sales targets). But it should be a season, not a permanent lifestyle. What's the Role of Books in the Age of AI? (22:41.507) Robin poses a forward-looking question: In an age when AI can summarize, synthesize, and generate information rapidly, what's the role of books? Especially nonfiction, where facts are easier to reproduce. Simone responds with both uncertainty and hope: Human storytelling as a moat: His work relies on reporting, profiling, and character studies — something LLMs can't yet replicate with nuance. He doesn't know how long this will remain defensible, but will continue to lean into it. Books are more than information: Books have utility beyond facts: they are entertainment, physical objects, and cultural symbols. Quotes the vibe of being surrounded by books: there's even an untranslatable word (possibly German or Japanese) about the comfort of unread books. A vinyl-record future: Books may become more niche, collectible, or artisanal, similar to vinyl. But they still hold society's most well-formed, deeply considered ideas. The human touch still matters: A typed note that looks handwritten isn't the same as a note that is handwritten. People will crave authenticity and human creation, especially in a tech-saturated world. “You can appreciate when something has a level of human touch, especially in an increasingly tech-powered world.” He closes with a self-aware reflection: “I don't claim to know whether my career will still exist in five years… which is why I picked this topic for my second book.” “Created by Humans” (25:49.549) Robin references a conversation with Bree Groff, who imagined a world where creative work carries a “Created by Human” tag, like organic food labeling. “I think we'll see that [kind of labeling] in the next few decades – maybe even in the next few years.” As AI-generated content floods the market, human-made work may soon carry new cultural cachet. Simone shares a turning point: after submitting an op-ed to The New York Times, his editor flagged a bad metaphor. En route to a bachelor party, he opened ChatGPT, asked for new metaphors, chose one, and it made the print edition the next day. “Maybe I've broken some law about journalism ethics... but that was the moment where I was like: whoa. This sh*t is crazy.” The Home-Buying Crash Course Powered by AI (27:57) Robin's breakthrough came while navigating the chaos of buying a house. He used ChatGPT to upskill rapidly: Structural questions (e.g., redwood roots and foundation risk) Zoning and legal research Negotiation tactics “The rate of learning I was able to create because of these tools was 10 to 100 times faster than what I could've done previously.” How to Live Without Knowing (29:41.498) Simone previews his next book, How to Not Know, a field guide for navigating uncertainty. In an age of instant answers, our tolerance for the unknown is shrinking, while uncertainty itself is growing. “We're trying to find clarity where there is none. My hope is that the book offers tools to live in that space.” The “Three Horsemen of Delusion”: Comfort – we crave the ease of certainty. Hubris – we assume we know more than we do. Control – we believe certainty gives us power over the future. Robin asks how Simone finds his stories. His answer: chase change. Whether internal (doubt, transformation) or external (leaving a cult, facing rising seas), he seeks tension and evolution. Examples: A couple questioning their marriage An employee leading dissent at work A man leaving his religious identity behind A nation (Tuvalu) confronting its own disappearance “The story you find is always better than the one you seek.” Want to Be a Writer? Start Writing. (36:50.554) Robin asks for writing advice. Simone offers two pillars: Ask These Four Questions: What's the story? Why should people care? Why now? Why you? “Only you can tell the story of buying a café and selling it on Craigslist.” Build the Practice: Writing is not just inspiration—it's routine. Schedule it. Join a group. Set deadlines. “Writing is the act of putting your ass in the chair.” Robin applauds Simone's book title, How to Not Know, for its playfulness and relevance. He asks how Simone's own relationship with uncertainty has evolved through his research. Simone reflects on how writing his first book, The Good Enough Job, softened his stance, from a hot take to a more nuanced view of work's role in life. Similarly, with his new book, his thinking on uncertainty has shifted. “Uncertainty is uncomfortable by design. That discomfort is what makes us pay attention.” Simone once championed uncertainty for its spontaneity and freedom. But now, he sees a more complex dance between certainty and uncertainty. “Certainty begets the ability to become more comfortable with uncertainty.” He gives the example of a younger self traveling with no plan, and the maturity of seeing how some people use uncertainty to avoid depth and commitment. Durable Skills for an Unstable Future (43:57.613) Robin shifts to the practical: In a world where stability is fading, what should we teach future generations? Simone shares three core “durable skills”: Learn how to learn – Adaptability beats certainty. Tell compelling stories – Human connection never goes out of style. Discern control from chaos – Use a mental decision tree: What can I control? If I can't control it, can I prepare? If I can't prepare, can I accept? “Often we're more uncomfortable with uncertainty than with a certain bad outcome.” He cites research showing people are stressed more by maybe getting shocked than actually getting shocked. AI as Editor, Not Author (47:23.765) Robin circles back to AI. Simone explains how his relationship with it has evolved: He never uses it for first drafts or ideation. Instead, AI serves as a “sparring partner” in editing – great at spotting drag, less useful at solving it. “People are often right about something being wrong, but not about the solution. I treat AI the same way.” Simone defends creative friction as essential to craft: rewriting, deleting, struggling – that's the work. The Chinese Farmer & the Fallacy of Forecasts (50:27.215) Robin expresses cautious optimism – but also fears AI will widen inequality and erode entry-level jobs. He asks what gives Simone hope. Simone counters with the “Parable of the Chinese Farmer,” where events can't be judged good or bad in real time. His conclusion: we don't know enough to be either pessimistic or optimistic. “Maybe AI ushers in civil unrest. Maybe a golden age. Maybe yes, maybe no.” He's most hopeful about the growing value of human touch – gifts of time, love, and effort in an increasingly automated world. Where to Find Simone (53:44.845) Website: thegoodenoughjob.com Newsletter: The Article Book Club (monthly articles not written by him, thousands of subscribers) Robin reminds listeners that Simone will be the opening speaker at Responsive Conference 2025, September 17–18.   People Mentioned: M'Gilvry Allen Anne Helen Petersen Anis Mojgani  Bree Groff  Tim Ferriss Steven Pressfield Ernest Hemingway Justin Gordon   Organizations Mentioned:   Responsive Conference Zander Media Asana, Inc X, The Moonshot Factory (formerly Google X)  Waymo,  Jewish Community Centers (Boulder & Denver)  Robin's Cafe Amazon Google / Alphabet    Books & Newsletters The Good Enough Job  How to Not Know (upcoming book) The 4‑Hour Workweek Just Go Grind  Article Book Club   

Growing up is tough… but some siblings are pushed to take on more, and grow up faster. Ellie Lopez captures that feeling many of us know too well, in her poem, ‘Ballad of the Eldest Daughter.' Here she is reading it LIVE on the streets of San Francisco's Mission District as part of the Flor Y Canto Literary Festival back in June. 

Residents of San Francisco's Mission District are criticizing local officials over the city's response to sex work in the neighborhood. For more, KCBS Radio news anchors Margie Shafer and Eric Thomas spoke with KCBS Insider Phil Matier.

San Francisco's Saikat Chakrabarti is wealthy, naive, and running for Nancy Pelosi's House seat on socialist vibes platform. Newsom races to the bottom in his redistricting battle with Texas Governor Greg Abbott. David applies his “Ten-Second Rule” to the fraudster behind the California secession movement. Music by Metalachi.Email Us:dbahnsen@thebahnsengroup.comwill@calpolicycenter.orgFollow Us:@DavidBahnsen@WillSwaim@TheRadioFreeCAShow NotesGov. Reagan signs the Mulford Act, banning public carrying of loaded firearms without a permit The Editors: California's Lucky EscapeTexas redistricting move would ‘trigger' new California maps, Newsom saysExclusive: Schwarzenegger ready to fight Newsom on redistrictingMeet the Fraudster Who Wants to Make California Its Own CountryHow a fizzled recall attempt actually helped Mayor Karen BassTech millionaire challenger to Nancy Pelosi draws huge crowd at SF campaign kickoffCoffee shop owner fires back amid suitsSheridan Karras, California Policy Center researcherCalifornia parents fleeing union-run schoolsCalifornia kids deserve this new chance for academic success — even if their leaders disagree

Ten years have passed since the fire that disappeared the apartments and businesses at 22nd and Mission Streets, and killed Mauricio Orellana. Many people continue to suspect landlord arson. Slumlord Hawk Ling Lou inherited the buildings in the 1990s, and owns the now-empty lot, plus about 20 other buildings in San Francisco (some under family members' names). On May 15, 2025, despite overwhelming community dissent the Planning Commission granted Hawk Ling Lou the permission to build market-rate luxury condos on the space. If they're ever built, they'll be sold to hypothetical newcomers and investors from outside the Mission. Alejandra Rubio grew up in the Mission and has been following the story of the block since she was a teenager. Now a fellow at Galeria de la Raza, she's archiving the memories of people living in the area through a series of art and a zine, so the history of the block doesn't vanish. Download the zine https://alejandrarubio.art/22nd-and-mission-series-of-events Alejandra's website www.alejandrarubio.art Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alejandraaaa415/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@alejandraaaa415 Al Jazeera article on the fire (Toshio, with Prisca Carpenter, Kentaro Kaneko, and Clio Sady) https://web.archive.org/web/20160117083725/http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2015/4/2/hot-rental-market-sparks-suspicions-of-landlord-arson-in-san-francisco.html Sad Francisco episode on 22nd and Mission, with Christen Cioffi https://episodes.fm/1653309103/episode/ZWVlYTI1MWUtYzk0YS00ZmRkLTgzMjMtYTIxNmYzMTVjZWJj

Ruby Neri, also known by her graffiti name Reminisce, emerged as a prominent figure during the golden era of San Francisco's graffiti scene in the 1990s. She immersed herself in the Bay Area's graffiti culture, painting, shoplifting and hanging alongside figures such as KR, AMAZE, Barry McGee (TWIST), Margaret Kilgallen (RIP) & Alicia McCarthy; all of whom helped define the street graffiti & art scene of the time. Rather than a classic throw-up, her graffiti focused on riderless horses that appeared across the Mission District. Her horses became iconic and are considered a classic amongst the Bay Area scene.By the mid-1990s, Neri shifted from graffiti to studio practice, pursuing an MFA at UCLA and exploring new media; particularly ceramics. Over time, she grew tired of the adjacent phenomena that come with the culture of graffiti. She moved away from graffiti to sculptural vessels and figurative ceramic forms. Her ceramic works, often marked by vibrant sprayed glazes and stylized female figures, maintained a connection to her past as Reminisce. In recent years, Neri has returned to painting, bringing her career full circle. Today, Neri's work bridges the raw immediacy of graffiti with the refinement of fine art. She is a key figure in the evolution of Bay Area art from underground to institutional recognition.

Sights + Sounds brings you a peek into the upcoming Flor Y Canto Literary Festival in San Francisco' Mission District.

Get ready to drool: Dungeness crab rolls, sumac-spiced chicken, coconut bread pudding—and those are just the appetizers. In this episode, Chef Preeti Mistry, host of the James Beard–nominated podcast Loading Dock Talks, dishes on what makes the San Francisco Bay Area the most exciting, flavor-packed, and deliciously diverse food scene in the country.  Together, we dig into the Bay's secret sauce: unparalleled produce, deep immigrant roots, and chefs who blend it all into unforgettable meals. Never one to mince words, Preeti also slices into so-called “California cuisine” and shares their behind-the-scenes take on Top Chef hosts Padma Lakshmi and Tom Colicchio. Come for the food, stay for the juicy stories—just don't forget to bring your appetite. Bay Area bites you'll crave after this episode: - Truffle garlic noodles at Gigi's - Mac 'n' cheese and fried chicken at Minnie Bell's Soul Movement - Falafel and the Pali Cali (sumac-braised chicken) at Reem's California - Al pastor tacos at Taqueria Cancun - Porcini truffle ravioli at Bi-Rite Market - Dungeness crab rolls, Mission District burritos, and more Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group.

Happy Pride

Until the mayor saw that ABC7 was reporting on it and made a few calls - which neighborhood is next?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know your muscles can make sound? Or that your heart and lungs are musical instruments just waiting to be played? Well every Wednesday in the Mission District, people from artist and tech communities let go of assumptions about each other and their own bodies to create together.

Enjoy this fun bonus episode with Karen Tartt, who shares her expertise with a phenomenal and tasty migraine friendly cocktail she created. Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS, Dr. Danielle Tolman, PT and Karen are also joined by Christine Moyer from the podcast Unsteady and Unfiltered. First, prepare the "shrub"Woody Pear Shrub -1 ⅓ cup Pear Juice* -⅔ cup Cane Sugar -1 cup White Distilled Vinegar -2 large sprigs of Rosemary -4 bunches of Thyme -3 Bay Leaves Measure and add all ingredients into a pot on your stove. Cover and turn heat to high. Bring liquid to a boil. Turn down the heat, take off the lid and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off the heat and let cool to room temperature. Pour the contents of the pot into a sealable container and store in the fridge for several hours or overnight. In the morning, strain steeped herbs out of the liquid using a wire mesh strainer or a nut milk bag. Store finished shrub in a sealable container in the fridge until use for up to a month. *Be mindful of the ingredient label when selecting a pear juice. You'll want to find one that uses ascorbic acid (powdered Vitamin C) as the color protectant instead of lemon juice. Knudsen Juice is a widely available brand that is safe, although I'm sure there are many that are also okay.Pear Cocktail-1 ¼ oz 40% Clear Spirit (vodka, gin, blanco tequila, etc.) -2 oz Woody Pear Shrub -Soda Water -Ice *Measure ingredients into a Collins glass over ice. Using a spoon, gently stir to incorporate all ingredients. Garnish with additional herbs (rosemary, thyme & bay). About KarenIn March of 2019, after 18 months of searching for answersto the seemingly mysterious symptoms Karen had been experiencing, she was diagnosed with Chronic Vestibular Migraine. Post diagnosis, she learned about the ⁠Johns Hopkins Migraine Diet⁠ through Dr. David Buchholz's book, ⁠“Heal Your Headache”⁠, and started to undergo the tedious elimination process to figure out her personal migraine triggers. In May of 2020, during the Covid pandemic quarantine, Karen launched a blog focused on migraine-friendly cocktails for the at-home bartender, Tartt Drinks. This creative outlet, along with an online audience of fellow migraineurs, provided a space for her to explore the cocktails, flavorsand spirits that were missing from the lives of those affected by migraine. Her migraine-friendly cocktails have since been featured in the Bombay Sapphire Artist Showcase, ⁠Speed Rack⁠ Trading Cards, ⁠Dizzy Cook⁠'s first book release party, ⁠Miles for Migraine⁠ ⁠Social Events⁠ and an upcoming cocktail book. She currently resides in San Francisco, CA and works at ⁠Wildhawk⁠ in the Mission District. She's currently researching gas chromatography analysis in spirits to more clearly define what makes a spirit migraine-friendly. She's also studying different ways to create more complete citrus alternatives.Karen can be reached for consultations and inquiries at ⁠clearspiritandmind@gmail.com⁠.Hosted by:

The wisdom and the work continues in this powerful episode of Latinas from the Block to the Boardroom, host Theresa E. Gonzales speaks with Dr. Angela Gallegos Castillo and Program Director Carlos Izaguirre from Instituto Familiar de la Raza (IFRSF). Together, they discuss the deep roots of community-based healing, cultural preservation, and collective empowerment through indigenous traditions and mental health (Wellness)  advocacy in the Mission District of San Francisco, California,  for over 46 years. Instituto Familiar de la Raza's powerful interconnected medical network with UCSF and other California Non-profits is a statement to community strength, local and state healthcare recognition and organizing for health and wellness resources to keep communities safe and healthy. You can listen to some of their wellness programs online through their YouTube Channel. Key Highlights: • The origin and mission of Instituto Familiar de la Raza – a 46-year legacy of healing. • How cultural identity and ancestry are essential to individual and collective resilience. • The Promotoras model: Building peer-led support systems grounded in community wisdom. • Advocacy for bilingual, bicultural healthcare professionals and culturally responsive services. • The importance of reclaiming ancestral healing practices alongside modern systems. This conversation reminds us that healing begins with remembering who we are and where we come from. By embracing indigenous traditions and collective strength, Instituto Familiar de la Raza offers a model for community resilience and empowerment. Gracias to Robert Lopez for Audio Engineering and Co-production. If your'd like to learn more about sponsorship or to help support for Latinas from the Block To Boardroom Podcast, you can join us here and a monthly subscriber or reach out to discuss how we can help your marketing and media strategy with podcasting, here: Info@latinasb2b.com. Follow us: IG@Latinasb2b LI@Theresalatinasb2b YouTube@Latinasb2b Threads@Latinasb2b Gracias,  Theresa E. Gonzales  Latinasb2b.com Founder/CEO/Executive Producer  c/o 5-E Leadership & Marketing LLC All rights reserved. 

In this episode, Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS and Dr. Danielle Tolman talk with Karen Tartt about managing life with vestibular migraine symptoms in various settings. Her expertise in developing migraine-friendly cocktails will blow your mind! About KarenIn March of 2019, after 18 months of searching for answersto the seemingly mysterious symptoms Karen had been experiencing, she was diagnosed with Chronic Vestibular Migraine. Post diagnosis, she learned about the Johns Hopkins Migraine Diet through Dr. David Buchholz's book, “Heal Your Headache”, and started to undergo the tedious elimination process to figure out her personal migraine triggers. In May of 2020, during the Covid pandemic quarantine, Karen launched a blog focused on migraine-friendly cocktails for the at-home bartender, Tartt Drinks. This creative outlet, along with an online audience of fellow migraineurs, provided a space for her to explore the cocktails, flavorsand spirits that were missing from the lives of those affected by migraine. Her migraine-friendly cocktails have since been featured in the Bombay Sapphire Artist Showcase, Speed Rack Trading Cards, Dizzy Cook's first book release party, Miles for Migraine Social Events and an upcoming cocktail book. She currently resides in San Francisco, CA and works at Wildhawk in the Mission District. She's currently researching gas chromatography analysis in spirits to more clearly define what makes a spirit migraine-friendly. She's also studying different ways to create more complete citrus alternatives.Karen can be reached for consultations and inquiries at clearspiritandmind@gmail.com.Hosted by:

David Blumenfeld is the co-founder of Next Rivet, a proptech advisory firm that helps real estate businesses leverage digital technology to solve real business challenges. With experience leading business development at Westfield Labs—the innovation arm of Westfield Shopping Centers—David has a deep understanding of how to bridge the gap between traditional real estate operations and emerging technologies. At Next Rivet, he focuses on building tailored technology roadmaps and overseeing successful implementation, ensuring that technology delivers measurable impact, not just flashy concepts.     Make sure to download our free guide, 7 Questions Every Passive Investor Should Ask, here. Key Takeaways Proptech is not about chasing buzzwords—it's about identifying business problems first and applying the right tools to solve them. The biggest failure in tech implementation comes from unclear business requirements, not from the technology itself. AI is not a stand-alone solution but an ingredient that enhances existing tools and processes. Operational efficiencies, lease management, and tenant experience are key focus areas where technology can provide immediate ROI. Success comes from doing the upfront work: define your goals clearly, then explore solutions.     Topics What Is Proptech and Why It Matters Proptech (property technology) spans digital leasing tools, building management systems, smart locks, energy efficiency tech, tenant experience platforms, and more. The slow adoption rate in real estate offers an opportunity for forward-thinking operators to gain an edge. Focus should always be on solving operational challenges—not on adopting tech for tech's sake. Avoiding the “Deck on the Desk” Problem Many consulting firms hand over a giant report without real action steps. Next Rivet helps clients move from strategy to implementation, working directly with vendors and ensuring real results. Their approach is tech-agnostic—choosing the right tools for the job, not locking clients into a specific vendor. Where Most Owners Should Start with Tech Focus on basic operational systems: lease digitization, renewal tracking, building management systems. Use AI as a layer within these systems to streamline lease abstraction, document review, and operations. Prioritize energy efficiency tools that can produce real cost savings (e.g., HVAC optimization, smart metering). Technology Across Asset Classes Retail: Enhance shopper experience through frictionless parking, special tenant offers, and real-time inventory insights. Office: Provide infrastructure that allows tenants to customize their tech stack while the building remains future-proof. Multifamily: Combine leasing, operations, and tenant engagement into seamless digital experiences. How to Vet and Choose Tech Solutions Wisely Clearly define business needs before engaging vendors. Develop tight business and technical requirements—just like architectural plans for a building. Avoid jumping into tools just because they're AI-powered or new; focus on real benefits and usability.    

The Roxie Theater, a San Francisco landmark in the Mission District, is one of the oldest continuously operated cinemas in the United States, with its history tracing back to the early 1900s. Recently, The Roxie kicked off the public phase of their fundraising campaing, Forever Roxie, in order to purchase their buidling, invest in technology upgrades, and expand their programming. As the premier theater destination for both hosts of Hit Factory, we want to get the word out to listeners and ask for your support in ensuring that The Roxie remains a cherised and thriving institution in San Francisco for the long haul. We sat down for a breif conversation with film producer, former punk drummer, and Roxie board member Henry S. Rosenthal to learn more about the Forever Roxie campaign, to talk movies and the state of cinema more broadly, and cast light on why The Roxie's efforts to guide their own future as the owners of their building extends beyond San Francisco's film community and could become a roadmap for independent film exhibition all over the country. The Roxie is more than a theater. It is a home alive with engagement and inspiration where filmmakers, artists, and audiences forge a creative community through workshops, conversations, collaborative projects and fierce programming that place The Roxie at the forefront of independent film. Please donate what you can to help bring this quintessential SF film instituion into the future! Donate to Forever Roxie & Find More Ways to Support HERE.Help spread the word on your own with the Forever Roxie Social Media Toolkit.Follow The Roxie on Instagram for more updates. 

Walking can help us connect with the present. Today, we get lost, and find our way, on San Francisco's Crosstown trail. Then, we hear about the impact of having more people on the streets of the Mission District. Taking the long way: San Francisco's Crosstown Trail Tenderloin crackdown puts new pressures on the Mission

San Francisco's sanctuary policies have been contested repeatedly since they were first enacted in the 1980s following an immigration raid at a Mission District dance club that left dozens of people detained for hours — some U.S. citizens. So what can the history of challenges against the city's sanctuary policies tell us about President Donald Trump's threats to it today? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

San Francisco's Elixir dates its history back to 1858, when it opened in the city's Mission District along a plank road at the corner of what is now 16th and Guerrero. The bar still has its Gold Rush-era look and feel, thanks to careful restoration work led by owner H. Joseph Ehrmann. We'll talk with head bartender Nick Madden and general manager Shea Shawnson on this week's WhiskyCast In-Depth. In the news, English Whisky is a step closer to getting its own geographical indicator status, though not without some objections. Campari is considering layoffs because of declining Cognac sales, and Suntory Holdings is reporting a slight gain in 2024 sales. We'll have the details, along with the week's tasting notes and much more. 

A crash into an occupied parklet in San Francisco's mission district over the weekend is raising questions over the city's new policies on pursuits. For more on this, KCBS Radio news anchor Margie Shafer was joined by KCBS Insider Phil Matier.

Today, Senator Scott Wiener and San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie spoke in the Mission District about the new SAFE Streets Act, which aims to combat illegal fencing, or the sale of stolen goods. The neighborhood has long seen legitimate vendors disrupted by illegal sales. For more, KCBS Radio news anchors Patti Reising and Bret Burkhart spoke with KCBS insider Phil Matier.

In this episode, we explore Boy From the North Country, the powerful self-help memoir by Dr. Durant. With the intensity of a car chase, Dr. Durant shares his journey from the volatile backroads of rural Northern New York to the vibrant but challenging world of gay San Francisco. Part memoir, part psychological insight, this story unpacks how trauma shapes us, how mindfulness can aid in healing, and how even the Grateful Dead played a role in his survival. Key lessons you'll learn: All research is me-search. We are who we are because of our trauma. And yes, a boy from rural NY can grow up to be an amazing gay man Join us as we uncover this tale of resilience, wisdom, and finding hope against all odds. About Jason Dr. Jason Durant is a gay man, psychologist, and author living in Manhattan and Hillsdale, NY. Dr. Durant's life experience growing up as a gay kid on a farm in rural New York State provided fodder for both laughter and tears. His progression through life and his work as a psychotherapist offer him a unique perspective on life as gay man learning to live with the trauma of growing up as an isolated queer kid. His adventures in San Francisco's bohemian enclaves of the Castro, the Mission District and in the hills of Northern California's golden triangle bend the narrative of the traditional healing story into a winding tale built on learning self acceptance through self exploration, music, and even psychedelics. Taken together, this unique and inspiring story was lived by only one person, just as all lives are and this is why he is the man best situated to tell this story. Connect With Jason Website Instagram Facebook Hey Guys, Check This Out! Are you a guy who keeps struggling to do that thing? You know the thing you keep telling yourself and others you're going to do, but never do? Then it's time to get real and figure out why. Join the 40 Plus: Gay Men Gay Talk, monthly chats. They happen the third Monday of each month at 5:00 pm Pacific - Learn More! Also, join our Facebook Community - 40 Plus: Gay Men, Gay Talk Community Break free of fears. Make bold moves. Live life without apologies

Here's a special mix from Chuck Da Fonk, recorded live at Mothership SF in the Mission District of San Francisco. Just a few days before New Years, Chuck took to the decks for an all night affair. This Part 1 of the performance at the bar / club - 2 hours to be exact - starts off slow with some churning funk, before moving through balearic house, into some high tempo latin grooves and concludes in the realm of disco / funk. Tune into new broadcasts of FSQ, Thursdays from 6 - 8 PM EST / 11 PM - 1 AM GMT. (Friday)For more info & tracklisting, visit: https://thefaceradio.com/fsq///Dig this show? Please consider supporting The Face Radio: http://support.thefaceradio.com Support The Face Radio with PatreonSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/thefaceradio. Join the family at https://plus.acast.com/s/thefaceradio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on the show: Indigenous activists on the move, bracing for a massive DaACA deportation: We'll speak  with Sandra De Anda, L.A Rapid Response, Orange County, and we'll also be joined again by Roberto Hernandez, to give us background on an emergency summit called in the Mission District of San Francisco The post Flashpoints – December 6, 2024 appeared first on KPFA.

Foreign Cinema, a unique dining gem in San Francisco's Mission District, has delighted guests since 1999 with its California-Mediterranean cuisine and nightly outdoor film screenings. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, it also regularly hosts musicians, artists, and creatives. Co-owners and chefs Gayle Pirie and John Clark, celebrated figures in San Francisco's culinary scene, have earned multiple James Beard nominations. Their story is one of passion—for each other, San Francisco, and food. What better way to honor Foreign Cinema's 25th anniversary than a Thanksgiving Day special with Gayle and John? Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. Meet Gayle Pirie and John Clark!

Episode 450 / Bob Linder Bob Linder received his MFA from Stanford University, his BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute and attended the Skowhegan School of Painting & Sculpture. He lives and works in Los Angeles, California.  Bob is currently the Program Director for gallery Michael Benevento, Los Angeles. Consistent among exhibiting artists is a willingness to take risks, a total commitment to unique practices, and the precise and thoughtful execution of ideas. He is also a co-founder of the art-damaged, post punk, noise project, Total Shutdown.  Bob previously served as Head Curator at The David Ireland House at 500 Capp Street, where he curated challenging, relevant, and forward-thinking exhibitions and public programs. Prior to joining 500 Capp Street, Linder co-owned and directed CAPITAL, a contemporary art gallery located in the Mission District of San Francisco, where he programed more than thirty exhibitions with a focus on emerging and mid-career artists.  Sound and Vision is supported by the New York Studio School. For 60 years students have come to study drawing, painting, and sculpture in the historic building on 8th Street in New York City. The school's full-time programs: a two-year MFA and a three-year in-person or virtual Certificate program, prioritizes learning through creating with a dedicated faculty of active artists. The programs cultivate studio skills, materials knowledge, and self-development methods. Whether you are an aspiring artist or an experienced artist, the rigor, community, and intense art practice taught at the New York Studio School will prepare you for a lifetime of artmaking. The priority application deadline for programs starting fall 2025 is January 15, 2025 - apply today at nyss.org.  

  In this exciting episode of Everyday Conversations on Race, host Simma Lieberman brings together Karen Waukazoo, a Rosebud Sioux tribe member and advocate for American Indians, and Jennifer Ngure, a Kenyan-born wellness coach, to discuss the profound ways culture connects and heals communities. Karen and Jennifer share their personal journeys of overcoming addiction, mental health challenges, and cultural shocks. They reveal surprising commonalities between Native American and Kenyan cultures, emphasizing the importance of community, traditional healing practices, and the role of cultural festivals. Tune in to learn how these two diverse backgrounds converge in their mission to foster resilience and well-being.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 01:37 Karen Waukazu's Journey and Cultural Advocacy 08:05 Jennifer Ngure's  Story and Wellness Advocacy 15:00 Cultural Healing and Community Importance 18:48 Challenges and Similarities in Cultural Practices 26:33 Youth Leadership and Cultural Revival 28:40 Connecting Cultures and Shared Experiences 31:02 Understanding the Mission District 32:12 Exploring Carnival and Its Origins 33:38 The Importance of Cultural Awareness 34:50 Personal Experiences with Cultural Differences 40:54 Challenges and Support in Immigrant Communities 44:46 Addressing Mental Health and Substance Abuse 47:42 The Issue of Missing Persons 51:54 Final Thoughts and Recommendations   Guests Bio: Karen Waukazoo (Lakota) is the Interim Project Director of the CRDP Project at Friendship House. Influenced by her parents' dedication to the Native American Health Center and the Friendship House Association of American Indians programs and the local community, she chose to follow in their footsteps by serving the Bay Area's American Indian population in her own way. Knowledgeable of both sides of treatment and recovery, Karen has worked in many capacities at the Friendship House program – from a youth volunteer, to the Director of the Oakland Lodge Program, Intake Coordinator to her current position.  In her over 15 years of service, she has made it her goal to advocate for quality treatment services for American Indian men, women and children affected by substance abuse and alcoholism. Respect and compassion, as well as knowledge all remaining at the forefront.    Jennifer is a seasoned wellness coach, registered nurse, and advocate for culturally informed self-care, with over 18 years of experience in the healthcare field. As the founder of Nimo Wellness LLC based in Boston, she dedicates her work to empowering middle-aged women in the African diaspora as they navigate pivotal life transitions. Born and raised in Kenya, Jennifer brings a unique blend of medical expertise and cultural heritage to her practice, helping women manage stress, build resilience, and reconnect with their true selves. Her signature programs, including the RenewHER Essence Wellness Retreat, dynamic workshops, and the forthcoming Mid-Life Transitions Coaching Program, are designed to create inclusive, nurturing spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported. Jennifer's holistic, evidence-based approach celebrates the richness of cultural identity and community, promoting emotional, mental, and social well-being.      Click here to DONATE and support our podcast All donations are tax deductible through Fractured Atlas. Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Breaking Bias with Anu Gupta How Can Art Eliminate Racism? Growing Up Biracial in a White World: Desiree Chang's Journey of Identity and Race Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating

How can art bring people together in a world divided by race and culture? In this episode of "Everyday Conversations on Race," we explore how creativity can break down walls and build genuine relationships across cultures. Meet two artists who use their craft to challenge boundaries and connect communities. Carlos “Kookie” Gonzalez, a Chicano artist and former gang member, shares his journey from the streets of San Francisco to becoming a renowned muralist. Carlos reveals how he turned his life around through art and now brings people together through community murals that tell the stories of struggle, pride, and resilience. Discover how he engages young people to see art as a path to a better future, rather than a life on the streets. Click here to DONATE and support our podcast Laurie Marshall, an artist and educator, joins Carlos to discuss her "Singing Tree" project, which has united over 24,000 people from 52 countries in creating murals that envision a world of peace and understanding. Laurie describes how this collaborative process invites people to create something bigger than themselves and reimagine what's possible when diverse voices come together. Together, Carlos and Laurie explain how art can do more than just decorate walls—it can change minds, shift perspectives, and unite people who might never have met otherwise. They share actionable ideas on how anyone, regardless of background or skill level, can use art to spark conversations, dismantle stereotypes, and create new stories that connect us all. Tune in to hear powerful stories of transformation and learn how you can use art to bridge divides and build a more connected world.   Guests Bio: Laurie Marshall For 3Laurie Marshall,5 years, Author, Innovator and Artist Laurie Marshall has empowered youth and adults through creative collaboration. She practices Peace Building through Art, inspired by Nature. A visionary educator, she has served mostly low-income children, families and their schools as an Arts Integration and Project Based Learning specialist. Her mission is to nurture creativity, a love of learning, and a collaborative spirit.  She is the founder of Unity Through Creativity Foundation  and the Singing Tree Project. Carlos “Kookie” Gonzalez was born in the San Francisco Mission District in 1959. He has been drawing and painting since childhood, and is a muralist, activist, visual artist, retired probation officer, and musician. As a young man, he was required to perform community service that involved working with muralists, and he quickly fell in love with the craft. Gonzalez attended San Francisco State University (SFSU) from 1983 to 1991, where he was a member of La Raza Student Organization. With La Raza, Gonzalez protested for multiple causes including solidarity in El Salvador and fighting for migrant farmworkers. He continues to work on private commissions and a mural project for affordable housing in the Mission District. Gonzalez's work reflects the street life, activism, music, and struggles of life as a Chicano/Latino in the Mission District.    Click here to DONATE and support our podcast Simma Lieberman, The Inclusionist helps leaders create inclusive cultures. She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator. Simma is the creator and host of the podcast, “Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People.” Contact Simma@SimmaLieberman.com to get more information, book her as a speaker for your next event, help you become a more inclusive leader, or facilitate dialogues across differences. Go to www.simmalieberman.com and www.raceconvo.com for more information Simma is a member of and inspired by the global organization IAC (Inclusion Allies Coalition)    Connect with me: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Website    Previous Episodes Growing Up Biracial in a White World: Desiree Chang's Journey of Identity and Race Will Music Transcend Racial Divides? Racial Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis and Death Loved this episode?  Leave us a review and rating  

Four years ago, we had Thomas McNaughton on the show, talking about his new concept, Flour + Water Pizzeria in the Mission District in San Francisco. Since the pandemic, he and his co-Chef/Culinary Director, Ryan Pollnow, moved and expanded the operation, tweaking the recipe, and deciding to set up a commissary in the new store that will ultimately support additional stores. Meanwhile, they operate a sit-down pizzeria in front and a slice shop in the back. That's where I met Pollnow, to talk about the evolution of their pizzeria, and how they nailed one of the best gluten free slices I've ever had. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/pizzacity/support

My newsletter: https://simonowens.substack.com/   One of the great things about being a college journalism major today is that it's incredibly easy for professors to build their own news sites and allow students to experience every aspect of the publishing process. Not that long ago, journalism students had few avenues for publication outside their college newspaper.   Lydia Chavez took advantage of this dynamic while teaching at UC Berkeley. In 2008, she and her colleagues launched Mission Local, a local news blog that covered San Francisco's Mission District. It quickly gained traction within the community, and in 2014 Lydia spun it out into its own independent news organization. Today, it's fully sustained by a mix of large and small donors.   In our interview, Lydia walked me through how she incorporated the site into her journalism curriculum, why she spun it out from the university, and whether she thinks Mission Local's model can be replicated across the US.  

If you're looking for a summer read, look no further!  Real Americans by Rachel Khong is like getting 3 books in one, it spans over 50 years and several countries from the perspective of 3 generations of a Chinese family. It asks the question, who and what determines who you are and what life you get to live? Rachel was a complete joy to speak with, she's currently based in LA but spent many years here in San Francisco editing the iconic food magazine Lucky Peach 2011-2016). She also founded a workspace for female and non-binary writers in the Mission District, called The Ruby.  Real Americans is her 2nd book following Goodbye Vitamin (which we also recommend). Follow Rachel @rrrrrrrachelkhong on Instagram, or find her at https://www.rachelkhong.com/   Co-hosting with me this week is our pal in Mississippi Sarah-Soonling Blackburn!  You can follow Sarah @sarahsoonling on Instagram, and you can get a copy of her book, Exclusion and the Chinese American Story, wherever you get books. As I always mention, you can write to us at: ⁠infatuasianpodcast@gmail.com⁠, and please follow us on Instagram and Facebook @infatuasianpodcast  Our Theme: “Super Happy J-Pop Fun-Time” by Prismic Studios was arranged and performed by All Arms Around  Cover Art and Logo designed by Justin Chuan @w.a.h.w (We Are Half the World) #sanfrancisco #asianamericanwriter #asianauthor #chineseamerican #summerreads #malaysianamerican #asianpodcast #asian #asianamerican #infatuasian #infatuasianpodcast #aapi #veryasian  #asianamericanpodcaster #representationmatters

In their 50th episode, Jason and Brett talk to Rachel Khong (Real Americans) about cooking eggs, mugwort baths, growing into the person who could write this book, and how friction allows for change. Rachel Khong is the author of Goodbye, Vitamin, winner of the California Book Award for First Fiction, and named a Best Book of the Year by NPR; O, The Oprah Magazine; Vogue; and Esquire. Her work has appeared in The New York Times Book Review, The Cut, The Guardian, The Paris Review, and Tin House. In 2018, she founded The Ruby, a work and event space for women and nonbinary writers and artists in San Francisco's Mission District. She lives in California.**BOOKS!** Check out the list of books discussed on each episode on our Bookshop page:https://bookshop.org/shop/gaysreading | By purchasing books through this Bookshop link, you can support both Gays Reading and an independent bookstore of your choice!Join our Patreon for exclusive bonus content! Purchase your Gays Reading podcast Merch! Follow us on Instagram @gaysreading | @bretts.book.stack | @jasonblitmanWhat are you reading? Send us an email or a voice memo at gaysreading@gmail.com

This Valentine's Day, KQED community engagement reporter Carlos Cabrera-Lomeli joins us to talk about growing up in San Francisco's Mission District — and one particular mural that he loves and remembers dearly. Episode Transcript This episode was produced by Maria Esquinca, Alan Montecillo and Ericka Cruz Guevarra

It's the winter solstice in the Northern hemisphere - the longest night of the year. Come along as we gather with a group of strangers and walk through the glowing streets of the Mission District in San Francisco, carrying boomboxes and speakers, creating something unique and beautiful together. Support Nocturne by donating at www.patreon.com/nocturnepodcast Season of Night Credits Nocturne is produced by Vanessa Lowe. Music Nocturne theme music by Kent Sparling Find out more about Unsilent Night and musician, Phil Kline. Episode art by Magdalena Metrycka Support Nocturne by donating at www.Patreon.com/nocturnepodcast Nocturne is a proud member of Hub and Spoke audio collective.