in our tribe

Episode 94 | Season 10 with Giselle Garcia, Program Director at NorCal Resist, in a conversation rooted in community, humanity, and the values that sustain collective growth. Giselle shares how the strength of an organization comes from the people behind it—the commitment of her team, the support they give one another, and the shared belief that communities thrive when we move together. Through her leadership, she reminds us that true impact is built through trust, mutual aid, and staying grounded in the people we serve. She speaks on hope and humanity not as abstract ideas, but as something deeply personal—forces that continue to guide her work, her purpose, and her way of showing up for others. From mutual aid to community building, Giselle reflects on resistance not only as action, but as a way of living with intention, dignity, and compassion. This conversation is about more than leadership. It's about creating spaces where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to keep moving forward together. 🎧 Episode 94 — Season 10 — is live. #InOurTribePodcast #GiselleGarcia #NorCal Resist #Community #MutualAid #Leadership #Humanity #Resistance #Hope #YDN #CrecienteLeadership

Episode 93 | Season 10 with Cathy Rodriguez in a conversation rooted in leadership, community, and the power of connection. As President & CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Cathy shares how strong, connected communities are the foundation for thriving businesses across the Sacramento region. From her upbringing to her leadership today, her journey reflects resilience, purpose, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Cathy speaks on the strength and impact of Latinx small businesses, emphasizing how they are not only contributors—but essential drivers—of Sacramento's economic and cultural growth. She highlights the importance of networking, building relationships, and creating spaces where collaboration leads to collective success. This conversation goes beyond titles. It's about leadership in action—about showing up, bringing people together, and understanding that we are always stronger when we move as a community. 🎧 Episode 93 — Season 10 — is live. #InOurTribePodcast #CathyRodriguez #Sacramento #CommunityLeadership #LatinxBusiness #StrongerTogether #Networking #YDN #CrecienteLeadership

Episode 92 | Season 10 with Francisco Castillo in a conversation rooted in authenticity, community, and purpose. From his childhood in Nicaragua and San Francisco to his work today as a community advocate and government relations leader in Sacramento, Francisco shares a journey shaped by family, service, and staying true to who he is. His story reflects a deep commitment to uplifting others while navigating spaces where representation and voice matter. Francisco opens up about embracing his identity, including his decision to come out on social media, and how that moment became a catalyst for deeper connection, advocacy, and impact within the LGBTQ+ community. He speaks to the power of visibility, the importance of supportive spaces, and what it means to live authentically—both personally and professionally. Grounded in humility and driven by purpose, Francisco reminds us that community-building starts with courage, honesty, and showing up as your full self. 🎧 Episode 92 — Season 10 — is live. #InOurTribePodcast #FranciscoCastillo #LGBTQ #CommunityLeadership #Authenticity #Sacramento #YDN #CrecienteLeadership

Recorded live at The Rink Studios as part of the Inspiración Speaker Series, we kick off Season 10 with a powerful opening conversation. Our first guest, Félix Contreras—NPR journalist and co-creator of Alt.Latino and Tiny Desk Concerts—joins us for a dialogue rooted in culture, identity, and storytelling. Widely respected for amplifying Latino voices in music and media, Félix shares insights from his journey and the impact of creating spaces where stories can be heard and celebrated. From his early influences to shaping national conversations through NPR, Félix reflects on the importance of representation, the evolution of Latino music, and the responsibility that comes with storytelling at scale. This conversation explores how culture, media, and community intersect—and why preserving authentic voices matters now more than ever. Grounded in purpose and driven by passion, Félix reminds us that storytelling is not just about visibility—it's about legacy, connection, and creating pathways for others. 🎧 Episode 91 — Season 10 premiere — is live. #InOurTribePodcast #FelixContreras #AltLatino #TinyDesk #NPR #InspiracionSpeakerSeries #Storytelling #LatinoVoices #YDN #CrecienteLeadership

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:5a4650f3-fc91-49f4-90cc-0b6c6ae82d4f-3" data-testid= "conversation-turn-8" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Episode 90 features Chaez Boswell, owner and operator of The Rink Studios, in a conversation grounded in gratitude, purpose, and people-centered leadership. With an extensive background in youth development, Chaez brings a human-first lens to the entertainment and concert events industry—an industry not often known for prioritizing internal growth. He shares how he takes a non-traditional approach to developing his team, investing in people, leadership, and well-being behind the scenes while navigating a fast-paced, high-demand environment. Deeply grateful for life and proud to be part of the momentum along Del Paso Boulevard in Sacramento, Chaez reflects on building something bigger than events—contributing to a community, creating opportunity, and showing that how you treat people matters just as much as what you produce. As the final episode of the season, this conversation closes us out with a powerful reminder: leadership rooted in humanity creates impact that lasts well beyond the moment. 🎧 Episode 90 — the season finale — is live. #InOurTribePodcast #ChaezBoswell #TheRinkStudios #ConcertEvents  #TeamDevelopment #YouthDevelopment #DelPasoBoulevard #Sacramento #YDN

Episode 89 features Ashanti Branch—Founder and Executive Director of Ever Forward Club—in a conversation centered on healing, connection, and youth mental health. A former math teacher raised in Oakland by a single mom, Ashanti saw too many students ready to drop out—not because they lacked ability, but because they didn't feel safe, seen, or heard. Those moments shaped his life's work. Now a nationally recognized leader, Ashanti is the creator of the award-winning #MillionMaskMovement, engaging over 75,000 participants worldwide to help young people explore and express their emotions. A 2023 U.S. Surgeon General's Medallion recipient, Fulbright Fellow, and 4x TEDx speaker, his work as an "emotional locksmith" reminds us that emotional literacy saves lives. 🎧 Episode 89 is live.  

Episode 88 features Dr. Tina Torres, Creciente Fellow and Director of the K–16 Collaborative at Sacramento State, in a conversation rooted in truth, growth, and transformation. A high school dropout and teenage mom, Dr. Torres didn't begin her college journey until she was 30. She came up in difficult environments, often without steady support and in spaces where she felt out of place. Those experiences didn't stop her—they shaped her. Now a doctor and education leader, Dr. Torres reflects on resilience, gratitude, and the support of her husband, while sharing a message for anyone striving for more: progress is possible, and change is earned step by step. Her story is a reminder that leadership can rise from the hardest beginnings. Episode 88 is live. #InOurTribePodcast #DrTinaTorres #Creciente #CrecienteFellow #LatinxLeadership #Resilience #SacState #YDN #Sacramento

Join us for a powerful conversation with  Juan Novello, a nationally recognized Latinx leader, Vice President of the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, among other leadership roles, and a proud Senior Fellow of the Creciente Latinx Leadership Program by YDN. Juan shares his journey, from his childhood and immigration to the U.S. to navigating life as a DACA recipient and becoming a proud U.S. citizen —and how those experiences shape his approach to leadership, power, and community today. We talk about identity, responsibility, and what it really means to lead institutions while staying rooted in the people they serve. Thoughtful, real, and deeply human. #InOurTribePodcast #JuanNovello #SacHispanicChamber #LatinxLeadership #YDN #Creciente #Sacramento

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Misty Avila, Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer of the James B. McClatchy Foundation, whose work is bringing "sunshine" to California's Central Valley. ☀️ With over 15 years supporting nonprofits, Misty shares her journey from community organizing to funding initiatives that strengthen local journalism, multilingual education, and nonprofit leadership. She reflects on how leadership, relationships, and storytelling are central to creating lasting community impact. #InOurTribePodcast #JBMF #MistyAvila #Leadership #CommunityImpact #Storytelling #Education #JBMFoundation #CentralValley #NonprofitLeadership #JBMF

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Rudy Corpuz Jr., founder of United Playaz, a violence-prevention and youth leadership organization serving San Francisco's SoMa community. Since 1994, United Playaz has supported the city's hardest-to-reach youth through street outreach, case management, in-school services, recreational programs, and support for incarcerated young people. What began as Rudy's effort to create a safe after-school space has grown into a powerful movement transforming lives in one of San Francisco's most challenged neighborhoods. In this episode, Rudy shares his journey, the roots of United Playaz, and how community, accountability, and second chances can change the future for an entire generation. #UnitedPlayaz #RudyCorpuzJr #Creciente #YDN #InOurTribePodcast #YouthDevelopment #CommunityImpact #ViolencePrevention #SoMaSF

Join us for a powerful conversation with Carlos Kandia, a Sammie Award Winner and Artist of the Year recognized by the Midtown Association in Sacramento, California. A multi-genre singer, percussionist, dancer, actor, business owner, nonprofit leader, teacher, and father, Kandia has built an artistic career spanning over 15 years. Originally from Colombia, he has shared the stage with internationally acclaimed artists such as Julieta Venegas, Enanitos Verdes, Tony Vega, Charlie Aponte, and La Sonora Dinamita, among many others. With more than 2,000 live performances and appearances in major festivals and productions from Broadway to Buenos Aires, Kandia continues to inspire through music, education, and community impact. In this episode, Kandia opens up about his creative journey, the balance between art, entrepreneurship, and family, and how he uses his platform to elevate Latin culture and empower the next generation.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Armoni Easley, a Social Impact Entrepreneur and Empowerment Facilitator with over 16 years of experience making a difference in communities. As the Co-founder of Project Optimism, Inc., Armoni has helped shape the lives of thousands of youth through mentorship and leadership programs that foster growth, resilience, and purpose. Building on that success, he founded Easley Done & Company, delivering high-impact workshops, keynote speeches, and consulting services across California with the same energy and dedication, whether in large auditoriums or intimate settings. In this episode, Armoni shares his journey, insights on leadership and empowerment, and the strategies that have allowed him to create meaningful social impact. #Leadership #SocialImpact #Empowerment #Mentorship #ProjectOptimism #Podcast #Creciente #YDN #youthdevelopment

In this episode of In Our Tribe, we're honored to welcome Lydia Ramirez, EVP and Chief Operating Officer at Five Star Bank. A corporate trailblazer and inclusive thought leader, she shares her journey through the financial sector, her passion for empowering women in leadership, and her commitment to creating space for Latinx voices. Named one of ALPFA's 50 Most Powerful Latinas and a member of the Program Advisory Committee for YDN's Creciente Latinx Leadership Program, she brings insight, heart, and purpose to every conversation. This episode is a powerful reflection on resilience, representation, and leading with intention.

In this episode of In Our Tribe, we welcome Sergio Robles — Vice Mayor of Elk Grove, Senior Fellow of YDN's Creciente Latinx Leadership Program, and member of the National Guard. Sergio opens up about his path to leadership, the lessons he's learned along the way, and the importance of creating space for Latinx voices in our communities. It's a thoughtful and uplifting conversation about service, resilience, and leading with heart.

We are so excited to share in this episode the important work that Afripeace from Sacramento is doing to provide life transforming experiences for youth through a cultural exchange program. The Youth Peace and Cultural Education Program aims to promote global education and conflict resolution among the youth through exchanges between US and African youth. The year- long conflict resolution orientation and cultural immersion program culminates in a 4 week summer trip to a select African country by 10-15 students with 2 teachers as guides. A special thank you to Dr. Ernest Uwazie, Founder and CEO of Afripeace and Julius Austin, Afripeace Board of Director for your leadership and mindfulness. 

This episode is for all of our fellow hip-hop heads and aficionados! Paul WIllis has been in the lab in Boston assembling his latest and greatest work, titled Hip Hop Leadership. Hip Hop Leadership is an album, book, and curriculum that focuses on 10 core values of hip hop leadership. We are proud to endorse Hip Hop Leadership as an absolute must have for youth developers, and leaders world-wide. Listen in and get involved! for more information go to https://hiphopleadershipbook.com/

In episode 78 Adrian sits down with Clarissa Laguardia, Executive Director of The California Center for Civic Participation to chat about the importance of youth voice and leadership in the civic arena., Clarissa also shares her lens on leading during these interesting times and the importance of creating and staying in community.  

For the third installment of the Creciente Leadership Inspiración Series, Adrian is joined by author, actor, and owner of the largest collection of Chicano Art: Cheech Marin. Adrian and Cheech discuss his history with the arts, the importance of the Chicano Movement, and how we make sure we show up for ourselves and our community. 

In this episode of in our tribe Adrian sits down with leadership extraordinaire Doni Blumenstock to discuss her journey as a leader of leaders and what is needed now more than ever to lead in this brave New World.

Have you heard about the amazing work being done by The Central Valley Journalism Collaborative (CVJC) that is fighting to protect the first amendment by building a vibrant local free press? CVJC Executive Director, Alma Martinez and Executive Editor, Joe Kieta join Adrian to discuss how they are bringing real news back and engaging the community in their efforts to ensure the people of the Central Valley have a source for real and diverse news.

In episode 74 we are joined by two of Sacramento's Cohort 3 Changemakers and Senior Fellows of Creciente, a YDN Latinx leadership program. Tune in to hear what Monica and Armando have to say about creating and inspiring change throughout the Sacramento region and what being recognized for their efforts means to both of them. ¡Adelante! 

In episode 83 we are joined by Creciente Latino/Latinx Leadership Program Fellow Alex Cadenas. We know you will enjoy Alex's story on how his upbringing and professional development has prepared him to be a trusted resource for the Latino community and all Californians. We need more leaders like Mr. Cadenas. 

Hello awesome people! We decided to practice a little mental health this week as we prepare for the news of our nation's election results. Please take good care of yourselves and your loved ones during this time. Here is a short message from our host Adrian on how he will be doing his best to take care of his mental health this week.  See you soon and thank you for being a valued listener of the in our tribe podcast- A YDN production.

In another special live recorded episode of in our tribe we sit down with Author Julissa Arce as part of our Inspiración Speaker Series. Julissa and Adrian discuss her story, her thoughts on the state of Latinx/Latine people, and the extraordinary times we live in with many challenges and opportunities. 

And we are back for another insightful season of the in our tribe podcast!  We are kicking off season 8 with an episode we recorded live as part of the  inspiración Speaker Series with the bestselling author of Solito, Javier Zamora. In this episode Mr. Zamora sits down with Adrian to share more of his heroic story of his nine week migration to the USA through El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, and eventually the Sonoran Desert. This journey happened when he was barely nine years old. In this  conversation Javier shares also his views on the difficulties of being an immigrant and dealing with the cold realities of assimilation.  Thanks for tuning in to in our tribe season 8…. Let's go! 

To close out our season of stellar Youth Developers and Changemakers we're joined by Dr. Addie Ellis, author of the book Black Butterfly: Essays on isms and lived experiences in a race-centric nation, and the call to action. Dr. Ellis walks us through the three parts of her book and what it looks like to take off our masks and show up, exactly as we are. We couldn't have asked for a better final episode of season seven, we'll be back in your ear soon. 

In this episode we're joined again by two YDN Legends, Chaez Boswell (Season 6, Episode 57) and Anthony Vincent (Season 2, Episode 16). We get down into the weeds about passion driven entrepreneurship and the risks and rewards of doing what you love. Our friends give us some excellent gems in this one, like "don't mistake effort for results", working to inspire others to follow their own path, and the meditation of doing the dishes.

Everyone has something to offer and we need everyone involved to develop our communities. In this episode of in our tribe we reconnect with Ron Dwyer-Voss, a black-belt in Asset-Based Community Development and the Chief Executive Officer and Lead Consultant of Pacific Community Solutions, Inc. Together we dive into the importance of inclusion, equity, relationships, and culture in Community Development. Highlight of the episode? "Most of the solutions that you have a grant to find or implement will work better and more sustainably if those solutions are tied to the web of the community." 

In Episode 67 of in our tribe we sit down with Carlos Santini, the CEO of Mizzen Education, to connect on the events and experiences that define Youth Development in our lives and in the lives of young people now. The world has changed but young people still need the same Supports and Opportunities, so let's talk about what do practitioners need to do to learn and grow alongside the people they serve and build community with their allies within the lab that is Youth Development Programming.

In season 7 episode 66, Woodland Joint Unified School District Superintendent Elodia Lampkin and Board President Rojelio Villagrana share the highlights of creating the "Woodland Community Call to Action: Our United Aspiration for Youth". Tune in to find out how the community of Woodland plans on making their city the place to be for youth and their families in the next decade.  The District and the City jointly approved the Call to Action on April 20, 2023, you can read more about it on the district website. 

In this episode, Felix Contreras discusses his journey to National Public Radio's Alt. Latino. A seasoned voice in music journalism, takes us behind the scenes of his journey covering Latinx artists and stories in the music industry. Gain a unique perspective on the challenges, triumphs, and untold stories that shape the narrative of Latinx musicians.From groundbreaking stories to the evolving landscape of musical narratives, this episode explores the dynamic intersection of culture, identity, and the ever-evolving soundscape. Tune in for an engaging exploration of the stories that resonate and the voices that continue to shape the soundtrack of Latinx culture.  

In this episode, Linda Farleyl discusses The Girl Scouts. Her extensive experience takes us on a journey through the rich history and impactful initiatives of the organization. Learn how this renowned organization has been shaping young minds and instilling leadership skills for generations. Whether you have a connection to the Girl Scouts or are passionate about leadership education, this episode offers valuable insights into the transformative journey of girls becoming empowered leaders. Tune in to gain inspiration and actionable strategies for teaching leadership in today's ever-changing world. Join us as we delve into the transformative power of the Girl Scouts organization and the invaluable lessons it imparts on building leaders of tomorrow.   

In this episode, Tina Garcia and Maria Segoviano, who are apart of Nueva Epoca's Cohort IV. Tina and Maria share their inspiring journeys as Latinas in the leadership community. Learn how they've embraced change, navigated challenges, and carved out paths for themselves in their personal and professional lives. They provide valuable insights into breaking barriers, fostering diversity, and the importance of representation in various industries. Our guests share personal stories, tips, and strategies on overcoming self-doubt and embracing their true potential. This episode is a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and the strength found in unity. Tune in to be inspired, motivated, and gain practical insights into self-growth and leadership from these remarkable Latina leaders.

In this episode, Dr. Steve Olmos discusses Visions In Education. He talks about the mission to redefine public education as we offer tuition-free, personalized learning opportunities. Dr. Olmos touches on how Visions In Education can empower homeschooling families with the resources and support they need to succeed. Tune in to this week's episode to hear more about what Visions In Education can offer your students! Listen here!

Welcome back to in our tribe! We kick off Season 7 with author of Bridge the Gap: Breakthrough Communication Tools to Transform Work Relationships From Challenging to Collaborative, Katie McCleary. In this episode she talks about challenges she had to face when deciding to co-write a book. Katie touches on practicing not being reactive to a situation but to be responsive, leaning into curiosity, and many more gems! Order Bridge the Gap on Amazon here!

In this episode of in our tribe, Kerry and Jason talk about the CIty of Lincoln and it's small town community feel. They talk about the growth of the community and what that means for the youth of Lincoln. Kerry and Jason talk about the Youth Development Plan and what it will look like for the young people of Lincoln. 

On this episode, Monica, current member in Nueva Epoca's Cohort 4, speaks on her role as a Youth Coordinator at Sac Kids First. She talks about the origin of the organization and what they strive for to support the youth in the Sacramento region. Monica is very passionate about what she does and it clearly shows in this episode! To learn more about Sac Kids First click here and check out their Facebook page Sac Kids First Coalition and IG @sackidsfirst. 

In this episode of in our tribe our YDN team discusses our 4 day, 10 hour work week. We disect what had worked for us and what kind of bumps that may come along with this approach. We also talk about how we use the extra day off. If you would like more information about the benefits of a 4/10 work week, click here!

In this episode of in our tribe Chaez Boswell, one of the producers of the Sacramento Sol Blume Music Festival, talks about how this festival came to life in 2018 at Cesar Chavez to now, 2023 at Discovery Park. Chaez speaks on how the team plans to continue making improvements from the festivals before and who we should expect to see on the main stages! Mark your calendars becasue this R&B, Alt. R&B and Hip-Hop Springtime Festival comes to Sacramento April 29th, and 30th. To learn more about the Sol Blume Music Festival & to buy your tickets, click here!

In this episode of in our tribe Artie & Julie from the Fresno Developing Regions Inclusive and Vibrant Economy Initiative speak about their roles as the Initiative Director & Program Officer for Racial Equity and Inclusion. They talk about the potential Fresno has for growth in various areas of the city, what their goals are to get there, and how the DRIVE Initiative helps Fresno reach their fullest potential.

In this episode of in our tribe Jason and Jose, from Lutheran Social Services, talk about homelessness surrounding college students. They talk about different programs that can help students in a time of need and the services their program provides. They touch on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and how college campuses go about making students feel wanted and like they belong. To learn more about Lutheran Social Services and who they are, click here!

On the fourth episode of this season we are joined by Trina Camping. Trina discusses the 745.5 Square One, a Maker's Space in the Woodland Public Library. She discusses everything Square One has to offer such as a woodshop, electronics, textiles, etc. and how much of an impact it has in the Woodland community. To find out more about Woodland Public Library's Square One click here!

On the third episode of this season Dwight Taylor Sr., Personal & Professional Development Coach and Author of Domain Your Day, speaks about the power of effective communication and how the importance of building bridges instead of barriers. To take Dwight's online course, click here!

On the second episode of this season Dr. Stacey, founder of The Race and Gender Equity Project, speaks on what kind of leadership is not sustainable in the long run and how restful leadership helps do less so you can do more. To help Dr. Stacey's work please fill out the Restful Leadership Survey.

In this episode of in our tribe we are honored to welcome Juan Novello and Cathy Rodriguez to discuss the state of the Latinx community in the Sacramento Region. 

In the 50th episode of in our tribe, we are honored to be joined by Tina Dyer to discuss the power of holding space in difficult moments. Listen to the newest episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Stitcher! 

In Episode 49 of in our tribe, Alma Elizabeth López joins us to shine a light on the function and offerings of Brown Issues.  

In Episode 48 of in our tribe, we are joined by Julius Austin to have a real transparent conversation regarding the Sacramento Promise Zone led by the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency.

In Episode 47 of in our tribe, we are joined by Sara Bernal to discuss her work as Program Manager for The West Sacramento Urban Farm Program, a program of the Center for Land Based Learning.

Heads up, in this episode we discuss very real topics. This episode contains explicit language and the content may be triggering, including violence, abuse and use of marijuana In Episode 46 of in our tribe, we are honored to be joined by Henry Ortiz to have a transparent discussion on his experiences with resiliency. Listen to the newest episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Stitcher!