A Change is a Chance

In this episode, I talked with director of Harvard's Making Caring Common, Dr. Richard Weissbourd. Focused on developing empathy and a sense of justice in children, while reframing how adults perceive student success, Dr. Weissbourd explained both how quality educational institutions are often privileges and that with such academic pressures, students often feel overstressed. In his work to improve the educational experience for students in multiple ways, Dr. Weissbourd demonstrated Making Caring Common's range of programs, from focusing college admission culture on quality over quantity, to ensuring all students have adult role models in their lives. As a graduating senior myself, our conversation enlightened me on the role education is meant to play in our lives versus how it often pans out. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I was joined by influential youth organizer and current New Media Deputy for the Mayor of LA, Victor Shi, about the current state of youth activism in America and the ongoing fight for youth voices in politics. From discussing structural barriers against youth influence, to understanding widespread youth apathy and the dominant narrative of social media, Victor helped me see a broader path for youth power and the immense influence we can have over politics today. He is an inspiration for many youth activists like me who have taken his words and these lessons to make real changes with our resilience and votes. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I interviewed the Director of the Children's Orchestra Society, Yeou-Cheng Ma. A violin prodigy herself, Yeou-Cheng explained how she teaches music through life lessons and values, rather than just practice. Through COS, a non-profit that teaches classical music to youth through life lessons and values, Yeou-Cheng builds students of character and passion, preparing them for a lifelong journey of self-expression and engagement. We discussed the impact from the lack of creativity and freedom today, and she explained how the Children's Orchestra Society works to combat that through music. I immensely enjoyed the anecdotes of kids who found their way through music and am in awe of the many paths the orchestra has opened up for kids in the last 6 decades. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I talked with Ms. Alastair Boone, executive director of the Oakland and Berkeley newspaper, Street Spirit, which focuses on telling stories by and about local people facing homelessness, while allowing all profits to go to those very people. I, personally, have never taken the necessary time to understand this crisis in our country, but Ms. Boone helped me to see the human within the issue, the fear-mongering lies of the media, and just how much it takes to be kind. I learned so much from our conversation and I believe I'll walk through the city of Oakland with a different lens now. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I spoke with Mr. Rob Shriver, the former leader of the Office of Personnel Management in the Obama and Biden administrations, and a current leader in the organization, Democracy Forward, a national legal non-profit that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, public education, and regulatory engagement. We discussed the current state of America, from how the Trump administration has terrorized the bureaucracy, to the impacts of the Big Beautiful Bill, and our crumbling democracy. But, in the midst of all of these alarming circumstances, we discussed the power of hope and channeling it through action, education, policy, and campaigning. Mr. Shriver and his work at Democracy Forward are proof that it is possible to fight back against oppression if you're only willing to take action. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I spoke with Ms. Anuradha Mittal, the founder and executive director of the non-profit, the Oakland Institute, a policy think tank known for its research on land rights, development justice, and anti-neocolonialism. From land grabs, to climate justice and corporate greed, we dove into major climate political issues and the lies and misconceptions surrounding each. We discussed how real climate solution-building requires the inclusion of marginalized groups, and how both the youth and the public are placated by manipulative language coming from the wealthiest and most powerful. Overall, our discussion went far beyond climate change itself, expanding to social hierarchy, corporate power, privilege, and more. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I discussed with Mrs. Kym Johnson, co-founder of the NIA Endowed Scholarship, an organization that provides students with the opportunity to attend private school, and CEO of BANANAS Inc, a non-profit that works to provide affordable early education and child care for families in need. As the Department Of Government Efficiency (DOGE) ravages government programs that support education and families with young children, we need groups like Mrs. Johnson's to fight back. In our conversation, we tackled belonging within schools, social justice in curriculum, economic disparities in education, and how we can fight for educational equity too. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I spoke with Dr. Wil Burns, founder of American University's Institute for Responsible Carbon Removal, an organization that researches and advises on carbon removal technology through policy, society, education, and social justice. We discussed the future of climate change and what we must do as a planet to prevent our demise. Unfortunately, the world is nowhere near safety from climate disasters, but luckily, organizations like Dr. Burns' Institute are creating solutions that we all must play a part in. From the value of educational media to the power of climate political advocacy, our conversation tackled what must be done to fight the climate crisis and to resist the current administration. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I talked with renowned civil rights lawyer, Jon Greenbaum, where we discussed the 2024 Election, what we can expect in the next 4 years, and the consequences of a second Trump presidency. Mr. Greenbaum explained to me the areas that would see the most impact, from immigration, to basic civil rights and the lack of checks and balance in our government. While the majority of our time focused on these potential short term perils, Mr. Greenbaum also reiterated the importance to have hope and keep fighting. Tune in now to learn more!

In Episode 39, I talked with Tara Murtha, Director of Impact and Engagement at the Women’s Law Project in Pennsylvania. We discussed the current state of reproductive autonomy in America, the origins of this fight, and the legacy the issue might have on our nation after this pivotal election. Ms. Murtha explained just how essential these rights are and also why the efforts to dismantle these rights are outrageous from legal, social and political perspectives. From coast to coast political conflicts, to interpersonal kitchen table conversations, the issue of reproductive rights is in the forefront of our interactions, and Ms. Murtha enlightened me on its cruciality. All I can say is that everyone must join in on this fight for a woman’s basic right to choose. If you don't think it should be that simple, tune in now to hear why. And if you do believe in this basic right to choose, learn how you can help!

In this episode, I talked with Penn Carey Law School Professor, Kermit Roosevelt III, about his ideas for a new American narrative that better embodies the ideals and struggles of today. In his book, “The Nation that Never Was”, Professor Roosevelt explains how the 1776 founding of America we all know does not actually represent the creation of the nation we live in now. Rather, it is the Civil War and its valiant abolitionists who built today’s America and forged the equality we so often invoke today. Our conversation went from reframing American history, to how this year’s politics will help shape this story, and how activism will play a role in all of this. Tune in now to learn more.

Jonathan Zimmerman, Professor of History of Education at the University of Pennsylvania joins me in this episode to discuss how American political discourse has become a world of toxicity. Professor Zimmerman explained the intricate roots of such culture wars, from reframing American history to defining secularity in schools. From talking with him, I learned how the country has become conditioned to this behavior, from how my own biases have limited my ability to converse to those with differing opinions, to how social media has exacerbated these conversations for adults and children alike. As we discussed solutions, Professor Zimmerman showed me how these changes must start in school, where we can condition students to be thinkers who are capable of having difficult conversations and desire an understanding of all perspectives. Is this balance achievable in America? Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I talked with Maggie Tokuda-Hall, author of many award-winning literary works, ranging from fantasy novels to picture books. She recently visited my school to talk about her books, how they related to social justice, and the true importance of books in a child's life. During our conversation, I got to hear her unique perspective on the writer's process, the duties of a minority writer, and the fight against book bans. Her insights made me laugh as much as they made me think deeply, and I learned so much. Tune in now to learn more.

It's not a surprise that more than 70% of Gen-Z are concerned about climate change but only 30% are actively engaged in climate activism. This episode dives into what one group of young climate activists in the Bay Area have created, how it has inspired many others to find their community and use their voices. Finn Does is a current co-chair of BAYCS and he talks about their work, inspiration and challenges, and what he views as a systemic issue at hand -- the tokenization of youth voices. From queer ecology, climate mental health, mushrooms to BIPOC climate organization, their monthly workshops and annual summit offer far beyond the typical Climate 101 discussions. BAYCS has a special event coming this Sunday, April 28th - Reclaim Our Future: Climate Solutions for People and Planet. Please visit BAYCS at www.baycs.org and support this student-run organization that has also helped me in my activism journey! 

In this episode, I talked with film-maker and activist Jon Osaki, who has dedicated his time to educating audiences on Asian-American history and identity. Mr Osaki has produced three documentary films, revealing the truths behind Japanese incarceration, shattering the Model Minority Myth, and activating Afro-Asian solidarity respectively. We talked about the history of Asian-American discrimination, what it means to belong, the cruciality of solidarity, reclaiming our own American identity, and so much more. Mr Osaki's words and advice are motivational and I feel even more fire within me to tell my story, and help share AANHPI contributions to American culture. Tune in now to learn more.

In this episode, I talked with an alumnus of Head-Royce School (my high school), Quinn Lewis, who recently graduated from Harvard, and wrote her thesis about corporate lobbying and why these companies have such a strong pull on our governments with regards to climate action. Everyone has heard the term corporate lobbying, but Quinn brought to light just how intertwined this term is with climate, and offered some solutions for the average person to combat this imbalance of power. From the paper industry in Sweden and fossil fuels in the US, to consumer behavior and the supply and demand sides of advocacy, the conversation was as inspiring as it was eye opening. It is amazing seeing our generation rise up as Quinn has.

Adriana Cosgriff is a former US Department of State Program Manager and Lecturer at the Harvard Chan C-CHANGE Youth Summit of Climate, Equity, and Public Health, a program I attended this past summer. My interview with Adriana left me with hope and optimism as we discussed the numerous ways youth can tap into programs and grants to aid them in their cause. We discussed how the divisive legislative branch does not reflect the demeanor of program management, nor does it bring light to the power these programs have in activism. As youth activists, we protest, we march, we share and we educate, but it is also important to learn about various programs that could potentially become our allies, and help us move closer to our goal. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I interviewed Deepa Sood, CEO of Citizen Grown, a company focused on democratizing cannabis industry. Cannabis has always been a rather controversial topic, but there are long-forgotten truths behind its stigmas and the actual positive effects it can have on people and communities. A long history of propaganda has buried this sprouting industry deep in negative association and unjust enforcement, but for us to reclaim its legitimacy and give back to those affected by past injustices, we have to push through the stigma and bring cannabis and its benefits to the forefront. This is a topic that I know very little about, but Ms. Sood truly helped me understand just how closely cannabis and social injustices are intertwined. While we, the youth, absolutely should not be using the product, there's still so much we can do to make sure that the benefits of cannabis are reaped by communities in need, rather than big rich pharmaceuticals, looking for the next big money maker. Tune in now to learn more!

This is the 30th episode of A Change is a Chance, so I thought it was a good time to bring it back to the reason this podcast was created: a young desire to make change! It is very fitting that this episode features Ella Niederhelman, someone who has been driving change through activism since 6th grade! Ella is a senior in high school who has worked in environmental journalism as well as interning at climate focused Pre-College programs. Listeners, you will all be inspired by her passion and dedication to fighting climate change. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I discussed with Professor john a. powell, the director of the Othering and Belonging Institute at UC Berkeley, about the problems with the term DEI, how human nature perpetuates those problems, and just how deep the institutionally racist structures in America really are. I learned from him what it takes to build transformational bridges across different ideals, and saw how vast the gradients of discrimination and "othering" really are. Professor powell explained how for the human race to change, it requires not just shifts in ideals, but in the way we treat each other as well. Our conversation was truly eye opening and Professor powell has helped see racism in the U.S. in a new way, one based in human connection. Tune in now to learn more!

Part of a special series on A Change is a Chance focusing on youth climate activism, Episode 28 features guests from Plastic Tides' Global Youth Mentorship (GYM) Program. Plastic Tides is a non-profit ocean conservation organization looking to inspire action through education and empowerment towards a plastic-free future. I learned about Plastic Tides through an interview with its co-founder, Christian Shaw, in Episode 12. This year, I became a Youth Leader to work with other change makers to help inspire action against plastic pollution. In this episode, the panel interview features Ella Katsner, a Youth Leader focusing on eliminating plastic utensils; Lawrence Mayaki, a multi-faceted Youth Mentor working on eco-education; and JD Whitman, the GYM Program director, as well as a marine plastic specialist. We dive into the importance of the GYM Program and why this generation of youth, my generation, can and must be the ones fighting the obstacles to a cleaner future. From greed and obstinacy, to community engagement and environmental justice, our conversation represented many perspectives, and was both inspiring and encouraging. Please tune in now to join the movement!

In this episode, I talked with Mr. Torrealba, the Member Mobilization and Engagement Organizer of the non-profit Climate Justice Alliance, an organization dedicated to inspiring change in frontline communities, building resilient, equitable economies, and exposing false promises posed as “solutions”. I talked with him about environmental or climate justice, the intersection between the environment and social justice, that focuses on how environmental conditions are spread around the world. He explained to me how environmental injustices have affected people based on race and class, all the ways they can perpetuate, from an interpersonal way to an institutional one, and how government involvement is correlated to the propaganda spread about it and the myths of individualism spread through them. Our conversation was enlightening and I would say that I have a new view of the world after it. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I talked with Mr. Rajendran Dandapani, the President of Zoho Schools of Learning, an alternate course of higher education, free to all, that focuses on what comes after school. We talked about how higher education lacks the necessary preparation for one's career path, despite the high cost and selectivity. We also discussed how Zoho Schools is providing opportunities for the more impoverished communities and what a good educator truly looks like. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I talked with Ms. Alison Lingane, the co-founder of the non-profit organization, Project Equity, where she and her co-workers help businesses transition into employee-owned businesses. Despite this being the first time I had heard of employee ownership, I learned so much from her, from the structural benefits of employee ownership itself, to Project Equity's standout successes. Ms. Lingane outlined why employee ownership is an effective way to fight poverty and socioeconomic inequity. Tune in to learn more!

In this episode, I talked with Ms. Shadille Estepan, the Communications and Creative Manager at Born This Way Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by Lady Gaga, focused on helping youth to build a kinder, braver world. Our conversation went over the teen mental health crisis, to the programs Born This Way Foundation has to counter it, and how parents can help brighten their kids' future. It was rather amazing to learn about how much support we, as the youth, have at Born This Way Foundation and I can't wait to check out and get involved with some of their programs. Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I interviewed Ms. Anika Ballent, the Director of Education at Algalita, a non-profit organization that fights the plastic problem through youth education, research, legislation and beyond. We discussed the incredible projects that Algalita has taken on, as well as why education is so crucial to solving our environment problems. Learning about things like gyres, nurdles, and so much more was invigorating, and I can't wait to see what they do next.  Algalita is also a special organization to me because they were kind enough to name me a Stay Stoked Winner last year and believed in the work I was doing to help educate youth on plastic pollution.  Tune in now to learn more!

In this episode, I talked with Dr. Emily Creegan, a soil/ecosystem regeneration scientist and teacher, about one of her specialties, composting. She explained how despite common belief, composting is actually a very feasible way to mitigate climate change. From alarming statistics about the methane in our world, to the many ways composting can protect our environment, I learned so much! Tune in now to learn more.

In this episode, I talked to Lana Wong, the Director of Communications for the Education Commission, a current Board member for Shout Mouse Press, and team leader for the Shootback project. Ms. Wong talks about representation for marginalized and under-represented communities, and why it's critically important. We discussed representation through a camera, through books, and the urgency of educational access to youth across the world. Tune in now to learn more.

In this episode, I talked with Ms. Renee Yang, co-founder of TeachAAPI, an organization fighting for AAPI representation in schools around the country, about teaching AAPI-inclusive curriculum in K-12, why it's necessary, and how we can help. She explained to me the urgency of Asian representation and how her organization is working towards in-school Asian history, especially elementary school, around the country. Tune in now to learn about why our stories are worth sharing.

In this episode, I talked with Mr. David McGuire, founder of Shark Stewards, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting sharks. He explained to me why sharks are not only uninterested in humans, as a mere 10 shark attacks occur on average, but also help the ocean produce 50% of the air we breathe. We went over how important these apex predators are to the marine ecosystem, and the creatures that live there. Our conversation gave me a new sense of urgency to help these incredible creatures from the dangers of trophy hunting, commercial fishing, and the shark fin soup industry. Listen now to understand these creatures yourself and do your part in ensuring their survival in the future.

Brian Copeland, a writer, actor, comedian, and many more, joins A Change is a Chance to discuss the most polarizing issues of our time: Critical Race Theory, voter suppression, Covid-19, alternative facts, and the fight for democracy.  Mr. Copeland also gives us a hint on his next big project! 

This episode was my second interview with Ms. Rebecca Prince-Ruiz, the founder of Plastic Free July. We discussed current events like COP26, the documentary Seaspiracy, and the 2021 Plastic Free Foundation Impact Report. We also talked about Ms. Prince-Ruiz's book, "Plastic Free", and her plans for the future. Learning Ms. Prince-Ruiz's opinions was enlightening, including the hope that she provided. Please take a listen to understand what's going well in our fight against plastic pollution and areas that need more work and attention from all of us.

In this episode, Mr. Nick and Mr. Hans Schippers, two brothers from Parley for the Oceans, who specialize in upcycling, green education, and , talked with me about the plastic dangers that industries hide in plain sight, green-washing, and the myth of recycling. We also discussed the amazing work the Schippers brothers have done with SCHroadtrip (Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii), Parley for the Oceans, and the Parley AIR Station at Bishop Museum in Oahu. Listen to learn the truth about recycling. 

This episode is the second part of the 2 part series with Hip-Hop for Change, an organization that empowers and teaches youth to speak up and fight through hip-hop, as well as unlearning and relearning the role of BIPOC in history. Ms. Stephanie Liem, Mr. Marlon Richardson, and I discussed the importance of Afro-Asian Solidarity, what it is, and why cross-group solidarity is critical in fighting white supremacy. The interview moved me in many ways. It was enlightening and quite personal as well. Please give it a listen and I hope it inspires you too. 

This episode is the first part of a 2 part series with Hip-Hop for Change, an organization that empowers and teaches youth to speak up and fight through hip-hop, as well as unlearning and relearning the role of BIPOC in history. I talked with Ms. Stephanie Liem, the Communication Director, and Mr. Marlon Richardson, the Education Director, about what Hip-Hop for Change is, what its missions are, and how the organization works towards those missions. In the second part of this interview series, you'll hear my interview with Ms. Liem and Mr. Richardson on the importance of Afro-Asian Solidarity, what it is, and why it's needed to fight white supremacy. Stay tuned for the next part, coming out soon.

This episode, I talked to Mr. Hank Dearden, the Founder of Forest Planet, an organization that plants trees across the globe to create sustainable food sources and save ecosystems.  Mr. Dearden discusses the greater impact of reforestation and shares specific examples of projects where Forest Planet have successfully restored food sources and ecosystems for villages. It was an enlightening conversation and has opened my eyes to think beyond just planting a tree to reduce CO2. 

Mr. Christian Shaw is the co-founder of Plastic Tides, an organization that reduces plastic in a totally different way. Instead of beach clean-ups and an effective plastic free month, Plastic Tides takes the approach that kids should be making this change. They implement this idea by having mentors guide kids on a change-making journey.

Ms. Rebecca Mattos and Mr. Hideki Kimukai from Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii, an organization that keeps the coastlines of Oahu clean and so much more, talk to me about the true beauties of Hawaii. Hawaii is filled with many beautiful sights from the magnificent beaches and reefs to the breathtaking scenery, but as I have learned, the genuine, deeper beauty is seeing people like Ms. Mattos and Mr. Kimukai fighting to keep the environment and ecosystems of Hawaii thriving and clean.

Mr. Will Barrett is the Director of Clean Air and Advocate of the American Lung Association. Mr. Barrett specializes in smart growth and clean fuel policies. He's also part of the committee that makes the State of the Air Report, "a report card of the air quality". Along with that, this is the 10th episode of A Change is a Chance. Thanks to everyone who has stayed with me this far and I look forward to making more episodes to educate you.

Mr. Brent Leary is a Black business owner and technology influencer.  He is here to teach us about diversity in the workplace, unique challenges that Black businesses face, and what we can do as citizens to help ensure equality in opportunities for minorities and diversity in positions of power. 

In this episode, Mr. Greenbaum answers my questions about why it is so critical to vote, the impact of voter apathy and voter suppression on our democracy, the outdated role of the Electoral College and how young and future voters can get engaged now! 

Mr. Dave Smith, a technology research analyst and musician, talks to me about his encounters with racism as a Black-American, the Black Lives Matter movement, and this uncomfortable conversation around race that we need to bring to the forefront.

Plastic Free July is an amazing challenge for people to participate in. Ms. Rebecca Prince-Ruiz, the founder of the Plastic Free July Foundation, is here to talk to us about Plastic Free July, what it's like to be plastic free, and how you can join in the challenge.

Mr. Robert Bisset is here to talk to us about some current projects the GEF (Global Environment Facility) is undertaking to improve the environment. We will be going discussing climate change, international waters, and deforestation.

Dr. Victoria Howard is the Health Promotions Specialist at the American Lung Association in Northern California. She is here to educate us on the dangers of vaping and the many myths behind the e-cig industry. 

Learn about all the ways to reduce carbon pollution to help keep the planet habitable.

In this episode, I am interviewing Mr. David Gottfried, the Father of the Global Green Building Movement . He will be teaching us about the LEED standard and his Green Building Council. We will find about the initial goals of the Council, Mr. Gottfried's books and podcast, and how you can limit your usage of CO2.

Learn about how Ms. Obenchain got interested in science and how you can help make a difference in climate change.  I have had Ms. O as a Science Teacher since I was in Kindergarten at Saklan. She has inspired me year after year.  She has taught me that reading and learning isn't enough, you need to get out there and make things happen.  I hope this podcast is the start of a movement.  Thanks Ms O!