Stop & Talk

Stop & Talk

Grant Oliphant, Prebys Foundation, Crystal Page

Season 2 of “Stop & Talk” has arrived! This season, dive deep into the themes of purpose and opportunity, guided by the insights of leaders in the arts and culture, sports, philanthropy, finance, and innovation fields. Together, we'll celebrate local achievements and envision what's possible in San Diego County. Let's converse and inspire one another.

The Alternative is Unacceptable

The Alternative is Unacceptable

In this episode, Grant sits down with four  motivated leaders who are driving solutions to the Tijuana River sewage crisis. Ramon Chairez, Sarah Davidson, Lesly Gallegos-Stearns, and Kapili Pasa are proving that change isn’t just possible, it is already happening through advocacy, environmental education, and community organizing. Their stories reveal deep, personal connections to the estuary, the ocean, and the communities most affected. From respiratory illnesses to economic setbacks and lost

Feb 13, • 1:03:33

Tijuana River Pollution: Speaking Up for Patient Health with Dr. Dickson and Dr. Nguyen

Tijuana River Pollution: Speaking Up for Patient Health with Dr. Dickson and Dr. Nguyen

Special Series: This season, Stop & Talk is diving into one of San Diego County’s biggest environmental and health emergencies: the Tijuana River Sewage Crisis. Through this special series, we hear from doctors, advocates, researchers, and others fighting for clean environments, healthy communities, and real solutions to a crisis that’s been dismissed for too long. This episode:For decades, families in San Diego’s border communities have faced a sewage crisis that threatens their health and well

Jan 30, • 1:01:12

Season 2 Wrap-Up

Season 2 Wrap-Up

Season 2 of Stop and Talk brought us stories of resilience, creativity, and community action across San Diego. Hosts Grant Oliphant and Crystal Page welcomed guests who are tackling complex challenges, from reimagining public spaces to strengthening community mental health and fostering economic equity. Each conversation offered a glimpse into the powerful work happening in San Diego County—and the people behind it.In this special season wrap-up, Grant and Crystal revisit standout moments and re

Nov 6, 2024 • 1:23:34

Thelma Virata de Castro: Expressing Yourself is a Powerful Thing

Thelma Virata de Castro: Expressing Yourself is a Powerful Thing

In this episode, host Grant Oliphant sits down with Thelma Virata de Castro, a Filipinx artist, playwright, and community teacher based in San Diego. Thelma's work delves deep into the human experience, with a unique blend of humor and profound themes. Through her "Cultivating JOY" project—part of the Far South Border North initiative—Thelma empowers writers and audiences to explore their relationships with nature. Thelma shares her journey growing up in Paradise Hills, where her close-

Oct 23, 2024 • 1:01:37

Carol Dedrich: Fun is a critical component of mental health

Carol Dedrich: Fun is a critical component of mental health

Carol Dedrich, CEO of Girl Scouts San Diego, joins host Grant Oliphant to explore the evolving role of Girl Scouts in shaping the next generation of leaders. Drawing from her rich experiences as a U.S. Army captain and Girl Scout alumna, Carol shares how her journey is intricately connected to the mission of empowering young women in today’s complex world. She reflects on the similarities between military service and Girl Scouts, where camaraderie, resilience, and community play vital r

Oct 9, 2024 • 1:01:21

Omar Blaik: Downtowns should be for everyone

Omar Blaik: Downtowns should be for everyone

In this episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant sits down with visionary urban planner Omar Blaik, CEO of U3 Advisors, to explore the future of downtown spaces and their potential to serve all community members. Drawing from his extensive experience revitalizing cities like Philadelphia, Omar discusses the role of thoughtful design in fostering connection, empathy, and vibrancy in urban environments.Key to the conversation is San Diego's Civic Center—a six-block area around City Hall—which O

Sep 25, 2024 • 1:04:17

Live Episode - Sindy Escobar Alvarez: The Intersection of Medical Research and Philanthropy

Live Episode - Sindy Escobar Alvarez: The Intersection of Medical Research and Philanthropy

In this special live episode of Stop & Talk, Dr. Sindy Escobar Alvarez, Program Director for Medical Research at the Doris Duke Foundation, joins host Grant Oliphant. This interview was recorded at a community forum hosted by the Prebys Foundation that explored the evolving landscape of medical research funding and its impact on community health. They discuss the many important issues facing the field, including equity in research, the role of philanthropy in driving innovation, and many others.

Sep 11, 2024 • 51:25

Dr. Isabel Newton: Centering humanity in all aspects of healthcare

Dr. Isabel Newton: Centering humanity in all aspects of healthcare

In this episode, host Grant Oliphant sits down with Dr. Isabel Newton, a distinguished physician-scientist and passionate mentor, whose work is transforming how patients and medical professionals engage with the healthcare system. Her multifaceted career spans research, clinical care, education, and community connection, all rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to the same quality of care. The conversation delves into Dr. Newton’s work in patient advocacy, where she empowe

Aug 28, 2024 • 1:00:37

Amina Sheik Mohamed: Health equity, cultural awareness, and belonging are key to well-being

Amina Sheik Mohamed: Health equity, cultural awareness, and belonging are key to well-being

Amina Sheik Mohamed is a dedicated advocate for health equity and cultural inclusivity. Her incredible work led her to be awarded one of Prebys Foundation’s inaugural Leadership Awards.  As the Founder and Director of the Refugee Health Unit at UC San Diego, Amina has been instrumental in championing initiatives that empower immigrant communities in San Diego County. In this episode, she joins host Grant Oliphant to explore the intricate connections between community health and cultural identity

Aug 14, 2024 • 59:32

Dan Yates: The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership

Dan Yates: The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership

In this episode, Stop & Talk host Grant Oliphant engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dan Yates, board chair of the Prebys Foundation and co-founder/CEO of Endeavor Bank. A true San Diego native, Dan's journey from Paradise Hills to becoming a leading civic figure in San Diego reveals a profound commitment to community and service.Dan shares his experiences growing up in a diverse and complex environment, which instilled in him a deep sense of empathy and a drive to uplift his c

Jul 31, 2024 • 1:00:30

Dr. Benjamin Maxwell: Community can help youth thrive psychologically and flourish

Dr. Benjamin Maxwell: Community can help youth thrive psychologically and flourish

Dr. Benjamin Maxwell, Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Rady Children’s Hospital, joins host Grant Oliphant to discuss enhancing youth psychological well-being, challenges to mental and behavioral health, and comprehensive solutions that go beyond the clinic. He shares the importance of early intervention and the vital role the community plays in creating environments that help young people flourish. His collaborations with organizations like Sapien Labs, YMCA of San Diego, an

Jul 17, 2024 • 1:00:29

Mary Walshok: When the world wants to see the future, they look at California

Mary Walshok: When the world wants to see the future, they look at California

In this episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant sits down with Dr. Mary Walshok, an influential thinker and powerhouse in the San Diego community. Recently retired from her role as Vice Chancellor at UC San Diego, Mary spearheaded the creation of Park and Market, a facility designed to support serendipitous interactions and collaboration across sectors. She shares her deep insights into the intersection of innovation, community, and economic development.Mary reflects on her vibrant life sto

Jul 3, 2024 • 59:26

Dr. Constance Carroll: The incredible impact of community colleges

Dr. Constance Carroll: The incredible impact of community colleges

In this episode, Dr. Constance Carroll, Chancellor Emerita of the San Diego Community College District, joins host Grant Oliphant to share her extraordinary journey in the realm of higher education and her lasting impact on the San Diego community. From her early days as the youngest black woman college president in the United States to her pivotal role in expanding community college baccalaureate programs, Constance’s story is one of resilience, vision, and unwavering dedication to student succ

Jun 18, 2024 • 1:03:19

Irwin Jacobs: Using What We Have to Strengthen San Diego County

Irwin Jacobs: Using What We Have to Strengthen San Diego County

Irwin Jacobs, joins host Grant Oliphant to reflect on his extensive, impactful philanthropic work in the San Diego region and beyond. He shares an inspiring journey of philanthropy deeply intertwined with personal values and community impact. Irwin speaks candidly about the challenges and triumphs of these endeavors, emphasizing the importance of resilience, vision, and community engagement. A lifelong donor and scholarship recipient in his younger years, Irwin’s philanthropic philosop

Jun 5, 2024 • 1:26:49

Ramel Wallace: Creativity as Care, Reflection, and Connection

Ramel Wallace: Creativity as Care, Reflection, and Connection

In this episode, Stop & Talk host Grant Oliphant talks with Ramel Wallace, a multifaceted artist, activist, and community builder deeply embedded in the San Diego creative scene. Ramel's journey, rooted in hip-hop storytelling and community engagement, provides a unique lens into the city's history, culture, and social dynamics.Ramel discusses his viral "We’re San Diegans" video series, which humorously and poignantly captures the essence of San Diego life, touching on local pride,

May 22, 2024 • 1:02:40

Preeti Bhattacharji: Using all a foundations assets to impact social change

Preeti Bhattacharji: Using all a foundations assets to impact social change

Preeti Bhattacharji &Impact Investing: Shaping Communities Through Sustainable InvestmentsPreeti Bhattacharji, Head of Sustainable Investing at J.P. Morgan Chase Private Bank, has a fascinating journey that began as a journalist. Her passion for covering historically marginalized communities around the world eventually intersected with the financial crisis. As she witnessed people losing their homes and entire towns being affected, she realized that she lacked the tools to fully com

May 8, 2024 • 1:02:03

Diane Moss: Removing Barriers to Good Food Is a Community Effort

Diane Moss: Removing Barriers to Good Food Is a Community Effort

On the latest episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant engages in a dynamic conversation with Diane Moss, the CEO of Project New Village. Founded in 1994, Project New Village spearheads a transformative initiative in Southeastern San Diego, leveraging neighborhood-based agriculture to ensure widespread access to nutritious food. Diane shares insights from her journey and highlights the power of collaboration with community partners to tackle food accessibility challenges.Emphasiz

Apr 24, 2024 • 58:55

Micah Parzen: It's About ALL of Us

Micah Parzen: It's About ALL of Us

Welcome back, friends! We’ve missed you. In this first episode of season 2, host Grant Oliphant and Micah Parzen, CEO of the Museum of Us, delve into efforts to preserve historic border wall murals in partnership with Friends of Friendship Park. Amidst the introspection triggered by George Floyd's murder, they discuss the Museum's transformative journey toward greater inclusion in the museum. This includes rebranding the museum and forging a meaningful partnership with the Kumeyaay Nation, all a

Apr 10, 2024 • 1:02:26

Minisode: Bolstering Child Care

Minisode: Bolstering Child Care

A quick update from our host on a new program‐related investment (PRI) supports Mission Driven Finance’s care access real estate operations in San Diego County.

Mar 14, 2024 • 0:57

Minisode: We Want to Know What You Think

Minisode: We Want to Know What You Think

As we prepare to launch season 2, we would like to know what you think of Stop & Talk. What do you like? What should we explore? Please complete the listener survey by the end of March to help us prepare for the new season. And as always thank you for listening! We will be back April 10!Complete the listener survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/StopandTalkSurvey

Mar 14, 2024 • 0:42

Season 1 Wrap Up

Season 1 Wrap Up

In this installment of "Stop & Talk," we take a journey through the highlights of Season 1, revisiting the wisdom and insights shared by each guest. Grant delves into the core themes that emerged, focusing on how these influential figures draw upon their personal journeys, foster robust networks, and maintain a deep-rooted sense of fulfillment in their professional endeavors. Tune in to uncover the shared experiences and valuable lessons that define their success and strengthen San

Dec 20, 2023 • 22:15

Calling All Musicians: We Need Your Help with the Season 2 Music

Calling All Musicians: We Need Your Help with the Season 2 Music

At Stop & Talk, we want to show our love of local music. For Season 2 of the podcast, we want to hire a San Diego County musician (or musicians) to create our theme music.  Interested? Send a sample of your music that you think fits the style of our podcast to info@prebysfd.org. If we think you're a fit, we'll pay you to create the theme music for next season. We will be back shortly with the Season 1 wrap up!

Dec 13, 2023 • 0:57

Cara Dessert: At the Center of Our Advocacy is Joy

Cara Dessert: At the Center of Our Advocacy is Joy

Hailing from El Centro, CA, Cara Dessert has always been an organizer and powerful galvanizer of community and equality. She has nearly two decades of experience in non-profit and social justice work, making her the ideal CEO of the San Diego LGBT Community Center.  In this episode of Stop and Talk, Cara discusses the history and role the LGBT Community Center plays in the San Diego community, the power a sense of belonging brings to not just herself but also those who feel they have no place an

Nov 29, 2023 • 54:02

Macedonio Arteaga Jr: Taking Time to Help People Heal is a Basic Human Function

Macedonio Arteaga Jr: Taking Time to Help People Heal is a Basic Human Function

As the Executive Director of Izcalli, a long-standing non-profit organization that works with at-risk youth, Macedonio Arteaga has a keen eye for the needs of future generations. If you combine that with his past advocacy experience in the San Diego region and his evident sense of humor, it's clear San Diego has a special and needed resource in hand.   In this episode of Stop and Talk, Macedonio discusses how to strengthen communities through art and culture, how being a comedian and us

Nov 22, 2023 • 48:31

Roxana Velásquez San Diego is a Cultural Center

Roxana Velásquez San Diego is a Cultural Center

Roxana Velásquez is the Maruja Baldwin Executive Director and CEO at the San Diego Museum of Art. Since taking over the role in 2010, Roxana has used passion and commitment to art for all to share, invite, and inspire our region. She chooses beauty and wants each San Diegan to feel pride over the richness of our cultures and the art residing in our communities, museums, and archives.   In this episode of Stop & Talk, Roxana discusses the delicate balance between the past and future in Balboa Par

Nov 15, 2023 • 57:42

Sidd Vivek: We Build Resilience By Fostering Youth Empowerment and Economic Stability

Sidd Vivek: We Build Resilience By Fostering Youth Empowerment and Economic Stability

In this episode of Stop & Talk, we're joined by Sidd Vivek, the President and CEO of Junior Achievement (JA) in San Diego County. Originally hailing from Boston, MA, Sidd now calls San Diego home and plays a crucial role in empowering young people to secure a stable and hopeful future. Sidd dives into the pressing challenges confronting today's youth, the significance of fostering inclusivity for the younger generation, and the benefits of building a network of public and private institutions wo

Nov 8, 2023 • 46:59

Megan Thomas: San Diego Philanthropy and Nonprofits Collaborate for Positive Impact

Megan Thomas: San Diego Philanthropy and Nonprofits Collaborate for Positive Impact

Megan Thomas is the President & CEO of Catalyst of San Diego and Imperial Counties. Hailing from San Diego, Megan has traveled the country and discovered just how much San Diego has to offer compared to other cities. Because of this, her passion for philanthropic endeavors is strong. In this episode of Stop & Talk, Megan discusses the landscape of philanthropy in San Diego, the pulse of nonprofits in a post-pandemic world and society, the impressive collaborative efforts of funders in San Diego

Nov 1, 2023 • 50:38

Rafael Payare: The Symphony Orchestra is Integral to a Modern Community and Teaches Us How to Work In Harmony

Rafael Payare: The Symphony Orchestra is Integral to a Modern Community and Teaches Us How to Work In Harmony

Rafael Payare is the Music Director for the San Diego Symphony. Born in Venezuela and having studied in the acclaimed El Sistema music program, Rafael soon found himself traveling the globe playing the horn before eventually becoming a conductor himself and finding a home here in San Diego. In this episode, Rafael discusses the role of the conductor as a storyteller and program director, how a symphony orchestra is an integral part of any modern community and how it can teach us a lot a

Oct 25, 2023 • 41:43

Rosy Vasquez: Broken Crayons Can Still Color and Cultivate Hope Through Our Experience and Dedication

Rosy Vasquez: Broken Crayons Can Still Color and Cultivate Hope Through Our Experience and Dedication

Rosy Vasquez is the CEO and Founder of Community Through Hope, a South Bay organization providing innovative, trauma-informed services for the unsheltered that honor equity and offer hope. When Rosy was sentenced to 90 days in jail for a white-collar crime she was compelled to work with her community to provide nutrition, support, and care for individuals who often did not have a network of support. In this episode, Rosy makes the case for pushing beyond what services are currently available to

Oct 18, 2023 • 45:56

john powell: Belonging is Co-Creation

john powell: Belonging is Co-Creation

In this episode of Stop & Talk with Grant Oliphant, john powell discusses how to apply the concept of belonging without othering. Dubbed the father of belonging, john encourages San Diego County to become a "region of belonging" to further a future where everyone belongs. This episode is a precursor to the community panel where local leaders discuss how they are building belonging within their organizations.  john a. powell (who spells his name in lowercase in the belief that we should be "part

Oct 11, 2023 • 57:46

David Miyashiro: Personalized Education and Community Engagement are Opportunities to help students chart their own success

David Miyashiro: Personalized Education and Community Engagement are Opportunities to help students chart their own success

David Miyashiro is the Superintendent of Cajon Valley Union School District. The district consists of more than 17,000 students in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Under David’s leadership, The White House recognized Cajon Valley School District as one of the “Top 35 District Leaders in Personalized Learning.” As a self-described educator and public servant, David and his team identify opportunities and adapt them for schools in partnership with people across the region. He works to build the buy

Oct 4, 2023 • 50:38

Felicia Shaw: Artists Make Our Communities Safer and More Vibrant

Felicia Shaw: Artists Make Our Communities Safer and More Vibrant

Felicia Shaw is the Executive Director of the San Diego Regional Arts and Culture Coalition (SDRACC). In this episode of Stop & Talk, Felicia uplifts the labor of artists and how they make our communities safer and more dynamic while contributing to a more robust economy. She makes the case that artists deserve to be a line item in any budget. She believes artists express the human experience and push boundaries, making San Diego a vibrant region. Felicia dispels the myth and the validity of the

Sep 27, 2023 • 45:58

Dr. Dan Calac: Community Clinics Provide Front Door Access to Healthcare

Dr. Dan Calac: Community Clinics Provide Front Door Access to Healthcare

Dr. Daniel “Dan” Calac is the Chief Medical Officer at the Indian Health Council. As a boy, he grew up on the Pauma Indian Reservation, the community he serves today. In this episode of Stop & Talk, Dan recalls waiting in the car while his mother, a nurse, performed exams for residents of the reservation before returning to the Indian Health Clinic. With a dad who was a community health representative and an uncle who was one of the last medicine men in the area – Dan had ample opp

Sep 20, 2023 • 39:13

Svasti Haricharan: Diversity Yields Better Outcomes

Svasti Haricharan: Diversity Yields Better Outcomes

Dr. Svasti Haricharan is a scientist at the Sanford Burnham Prebys in La Jolla. Her lab focuses on the role of DNA damage repair in inducing resistance to endocrine therapy in breast cancer. Early in her career, she would have to present her research over IPA beers in the UK. (She learned to love beer as she connected with her scientific community.) While completing her postdoctoral training in Texas, her boss asked her to help him write a grant application on cancer disparities and how race aff

Sep 13, 2023 • 34:43

Stop and Talk: Teaser - Why a Podcast?

Stop and Talk: Teaser - Why a Podcast?

Stop and Talk is a new weekly, placed-based, podcast hosted by Grant Oliphant (CEO of the Conrad Prebys Foundation). A veteran of both podcasting and philanthropy – Grant invites us on a journey to explore building an intentional culture of deeper connection to advance wellness in the greater San Diego region. In this introductory teaser, Grant discusses how the foundation will use the podcast as a tool for learning, connection, and envisioning our shared future.

Sep 6, 2023 • 4:09

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