In this episode, we explore the growing resistance against a controversial $44 million police training facility planned in San Pablo, known by critics as "Cop City." The project includes a 20-lane shooting range and VR training zone, funded in part by $11 million from COVID relief funds—sparking outrage among residents, many of whom were unaware of the development.

We hear from frontline organizers, including a prison education advocate and Ethan, a high school student who became politically active online. Together, they discuss how Block Hop Campus activists are building long-term community power through canvassing, public meetings, and weekly protests. The episode highlights concerns over police militarization, displacement, and the misallocation of public funds in marginalized neighborhoods.

In this episode, we take on Big Tobacco in Richmond.

We interview Dr. Raymond Chimezie, PhD, CHES — a Behavioral Health-Risk Prevention and Education Advocate — on what parents and teachers should know.

No amount of tobacco use by children is safe. Dr. Chimezie explains how nicotine harms brain development and how second-hand smoke affects children's health.

He also reveals how companies like Philip Morris and British American Tobacco are targeting our youth through billions in marketing and rebranding.

Listen to an insightful conversation with Paula White, Senior Manager of Urban Watershed Stewardship at The Watershed Project, a Richmond-based organization dedicated to connecting communities with their local watersheds.

Paula shares how The Watershed Project advances environmental stewardship through education, hands-on restoration, and policy advocacy. From coastal cleanups to habitat restoration using bioswales—their work strengthens urban ecosystems while addressing challenges like flooding, sediment buildup, and maintaining green spaces.

Hear about the restoration of Rheem Creek, upcoming Wildcat Creek events, and how data collection and storytelling help drive impactful change. Want to get involved? Learn how volunteering can make a difference in your backyard!

Discover how the Children’s Art Studio Richmond is transforming lives through art. This episode highlights the studio’s role as a community resource driving economic change, providing access to quality arts education, and fostering a sense of belonging for Richmond’s children.

In conversation with Maria Tuttle, the studio’s leader, we explore:

• Her roots in education, writing, and art, and how they shape her approach to serving Richmond’s youth.

• The benefits of arts programming for children aged 2-5 and the studio’s unique teaching methods, including open-ended exploration, teacher-guided instruction, and collaborative learning.

• The studio’s greatest achievements, current challenges, and ways the community can support and engage with its work.

Join us for an inspiring discussion about the power of creativity and its impact on Richmond’s future.

In this episode, we spotlight the inspiring journey of NIAD Unidad, the union empowering workers at NIAD Art Center. With deep respect for our guests’ personal and organizational boundaries, we dive into key questions: Why is now the moment to unionize? How are arts and cultural workers across the country succeeding in this movement?

Learn how NIAD Unidad built a coalition with AFSCME Council 57 and Cultural Workers United to drive their union forward. We discuss how the union seeks to create a supportive work environment, address critical gaps in policies and protections, and advocate for workers’ rights.

We also celebrate the legacy of Florence and Elias Katz, founders of the Bay Area Progressive Art Studios movement, and explore how their vision continues to shape inclusive, community-focused art practices. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about solidarity, creativity, and justice in the arts.

Dive into the inspiring world of citizen-led environmental movements with David Helvarg, founder of Blue Frontier. In this episode, Helvarg sheds light on how his organization empowers everyday people to protect our oceans, coasts, and communities through impactful policy initiatives, media education, and hands-on activism.

Tune in to hear about:

• The Ocean Climate Action Plan, a groundbreaking effort with the Center for the Blue Economy that led to $10 billion in ocean and coastal project funding

• Insights on Point Molate’s potential as a green space in Richmond and the importance of local environmental planning

• The $350 billion IRA Climate Law, including $3 billion allocated for greening ports and reducing the shipping industry’s carbon footprint

Discover how grassroots activism is shaping the future of ocean conservation and learn about the crucial role communities play in safeguarding our environment for generations to come.

In this episode, we sit down with Melvin Willis, current Richmond City Councilmember representing District 1, which includes the Iron Triangle and Belding/Woods neighborhoods. Melvin shares his thoughts on the top issues facing voters this election, based on insights from his in-person canvassing efforts. We dive into the progress he envisions for Richmond, from affordable housing and wage increases to rent control and protecting the environment.

With a history of standing up for working families, Melvin has been instrumental in enforcing rent control, raising the minimum wage, and advocating for Richmond’s most vulnerable communities. Tune in to hear why he’s running for re-election, his vision for the future, and why he believes Richmond is on the path to becoming a safer, healthier, and more equitable city for all.

In this episode, we sit down with Sue Wilson, candidate for District 5 in Richmond. Drawing on her deep roots as a community organizer and consultant, Sue tackles key issues on voters' minds. She shares her vision for balancing the city budget, cleaning up toxic sites, improving rent control, and holding corporations accountable to pay their fair share of taxes. We’ll also dive into Sue's plans to enhance public spaces and get a glimpse into what it’s really like to run for office.