In this episode of Better, host Mark Brand reflects on a powerful conversation with farmer, organizer, and food justice leader Karen Washington.

Together they unpack why “food deserts” is the wrong language for the right problem, and why Karen insists we call it what it is: food apartheid.

Mark and Madison explore what true leadership looks like, making complex issues accessible without watering them down, and how Karen’s decades of community organizing, urban farming, and movement-building have reshaped how we think about land, power, and who gets to eat well.

They dive into: Why food is never “just food,” but history, policy, dignity, and power How communities can build ecosystems of trust that don’t rely only on government. The role of youth and elders in driving change together What it takes to move from feeling overwhelmed to believing in and building universal access to food.

If you’ve ever wondered how to turn outrage into action, and how ordinary people can do extraordinary things for their communities, this episode is your invitation.

karenthefarmer.com

In this episode of Better, host Mark Brand interviews with Hope Blooms Manager of Social Business and Innovation, Kolade and artist, author, and community leader Keonte Beals for a powerful conversation about self‑love, healing, and the transformative impact of community. This episode explores how safe spaces, mentorship, and representation can turn barriers into bridges and dreams into real careers.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Hope Blooms & Uniacke Square
• Self‑Love as Daily Practice
• From Pain to Purpose
• Connection, Collaboration & Community Ripples

About Hope Blooms
Hope Blooms is a community‑driven organization in Uniacke Square that nurtures young leaders through gardening, food, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.

Resources & Links

• Learn more about Hope Blooms
• Explore the work of Keonte Beals

This podcast is proudly supported by East Coast Credit Union.

At East Coast Credit Union, we’re proud to support community voices and meaningful conversations. The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on this podcast are their own and don’t necessarily reflect those of East Coast Credit Union.

In this episode of Better, host Mark Brand casts ahead to his interview with Hope Blooms Manager of Social Business and Innovation, Kolade and artist, author, and community leader Keonte Beals for a powerful conversation about self‑love, healing, and the transformative impact of community. This episode explores how safe spaces, mentorship, and representation can turn barriers into bridges and dreams into real careers.

In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:

• Hope Blooms & Uniacke Square
• Self‑Love as Daily Practice
• From Pain to Purpose
• Connection, Collaboration & Community Ripples

About Hope Blooms
Hope Blooms is a community‑driven organization in Uniacke Square that nurtures young leaders through gardening, food, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.

Resources & Links

• Learn more about Hope Blooms
• Explore the work of Keonte Beals

This podcast is proudly supported by East Coast Credit Union.

At East Coast Credit Union, we’re proud to support community voices and meaningful conversations. The thoughts and opinions shared by guests on this podcast are their own and don’t necessarily reflect those of East Coast Credit Union.