SideBar: Optimism In Action - Conversations with Community Leaders Inspiring Positive Change

Boys and Girls Clubs Are the Foundation of Our Future with Ron Johnson

For nearly 60 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) has been a vital part of our community, empowering thousands of children and teens through life-changing programs, mentorship, and support. Today, BGCMC continues that mission by providing Award-Winning programs to hundreds of local youth daily.

The Can't Win Victory Fund are Winners with Kate Barr

The Can't Win Victory Fund helps "cant-idates" run for office in gerrymandered, unwinnable districts. Why? Because the organization believes that we deserve competitive elections that hold our leaders accountable. The organization recruits, trains, and supports candidates who show up, tell the truth, and build trust in communities that feel like their voice no longer counts. In the last election cycle, they supported over 60 "cant-idates" in state-wide elections. The Can't Win Victory Fund builds social networks and makes politics fun. Their long-term success is that the communities they foster keep working together long after the election.

Share a Bear Because You Care with Susie Hanson

Teddy Bears with Heart has gifted over 350,000 stuffed animals to help first responders assist children in crisis. In addition, the organization provides nine hospitals and more than 150 agencies with stuffed animals to comfort those in need. They also sponsor the "Share a Bear Because You Care" program through which supporters can purchase small teddy bears from Teddy Bears With Heart and personally share them with people they encounter in everyday life — a neighbor, a senior, a child having a tough day, a first responder, or someone who just needs a moment of comfort.

Empowering Communities, Restoring Hope, and Delivering Aid with Richard Walden

Richard Walden is the founder, President, and CEO of Operation USA, a Los Angeles-based international disaster relief and development agency helping communities at home and abroad overcome the effects of disasters, disease, violence, and endemic poverty. Since 1979, Operation USA has worked in 101 countries—delivering over $450 million in aid for relief and development projects around the world.

Freeing ourselves and our democracy from patriarchy with Katherine Grainger

Katherine Grainger, co-author of the NY gay marriage law, champion of groundbreaking work to enshrine gender protections in state constitutions across the country, and Managing Partner of Civitas Public Affairs Group, joins guest cohost Vanessa Priya Daniel and Mitch Winick. She ignites our imaginations about what true gender equality could look and feel like in our daily lives, and how we achieve it. With 25 years of policy, legal, and advocacy experience, Katherine Grainger is a unique thought leader challenging cultural and system norms towards a freer future.