A Special Conversation with Bob Hotard

When does paying attention become a form of protest? In this episode of The Persistence, host Angélica Cordero sits down with Bob Hotard, a UX designer who turned his skill for human-centered design into real-world activism. From building safe spaces for tough conversations inside AT&T to marching for justice in the streets, Bob’s journey proves that making change doesn’t always require a megaphone—just persistence. Blending personal storytelling, history, and a little wit, this episode challenges what activism looks like today and invites you to find your own way to make an impact.This episode was written by and produced by Angélica Cordero, with a little help from ChatGPT. Our theme song is Don’t Kid Yourself Baby by Fold, used with their blessings. Podcast artwork for The Persistence features Mexican-American activist Jovita Idar and was created by Tamra Collins of Sunroot Studio.Resources For Fellow Wascally WabbitsBooksSocial Change Now: A Guide for Reflection and Connection by Deepa IyerLinksD.I.N.E. EventsDoing Lunch Differently at AT&T by Rachel SimonSupportIt’s free, it’s fast, and it tells the algorithm overlords this work matters. Supporting The Persistence means supporting all of it: the podcast, the posts, the zine, the whole enchilada.Send a post or an episode to a friend, a professor, or that cousin who loves debating politics at dinner.One quick Apple Podcasts review does more than any marketing budget I don’t have.Every coffee, every donation (and paid subscription) literally keeps the mic on and the stories flowing. Collaborate (let’s dream bigger): Educators? Creative? Filmmaker/Podcaster? Org with a mission? Let’s talk.Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and share your thoughts with Angélica by emailing [email protected]’t forget to sign up for host Angélica Cordero’s newsletter, Obsessively Curious!! It includes short insights that connect unlikely histories, recommendations, and details about other ways to interact with the show. Get full access to Obsessively Curious at obsessivelycurious.substack.com/subscribe