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We The Community

We The Community

Written by: wethecommunitypod
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 Welcome to ’We the Community’, the podcast that dives deep into the pressing human and social issues shaping our world today. If you’re passionate about civic engagement, societal challenges, and changemaking, this show is for you. Each week, we bring you thought-provoking interviews with experts who are tackling real-world problems—from nonprofit leaders to community organizers, government workers, and individuals with lived experiences. These are the boots-on-the-ground changemakers who know firsthand what it takes to create meaningful change. Whether you’re a civically engaged individual, someone who wants to make a difference, or simply curious about how we can build stronger, more inclusive communities, ’We the Community’ has something for you. Expect to leave each episode feeling informed, inspired, and ready to take action—whether that’s volunteering, advocating, or simply understanding how you can contribute to societal change. Our guests share invaluable insights, offering tangible ways to get involved in civic action and bridge the gaps in our communities. From tackling poverty and inequality to exploring the intersection of government and nonprofit work, we cover a range of issues that affect us all. What You Can Expect: - In-depth interviews with experts working in human and social services - Real-world stories from those on the front lines of societal change - Tangible ways you can get involved in civic engagement and changemaking - Insights on how to address systemic issues and build stronger communities If you’re ready to take action and make a difference, this is the show for you. Follow ’We the Community’, subscribe, and join us as we explore how we can come together to address the challenges facing our society. Stay connected and find us on social media @wethecommunitypod.Copyright 2025 All rights reserved. Economics Management Management & Leadership Social Sciences
Episodes
  • We The Community Talks Food Insecurity, Food Banks, and SNAP with Jordan Vernoy

    We The Community Talks Food Insecurity, Food Banks, and SNAP with Jordan Vernoy
    Nov 1 2025
    Episode Summary

    In this powerful and timely episode, host Amanda Zahorak sits down with Jordan Vernoy, a national leader in hunger relief and founder of See What I Mean LLC, to unpack the real stories, systems, and stigma behind food insecurity in America.

    From the classroom to the food pantry, Amanda and Jordan dive deep into how hunger impacts working families, older adults, and immigrant communities—and what it really looks like when people have to choose between paying bills and putting food on the table. They also break down how large-scale food banks operate, what SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) actually does, and how proposed federal cuts could devastate families and local economies alike.

    Together, they explore the intersection of policy, compassion, and community action—and leave listeners with tangible ways to make an impact.

    Key Topics

    • Defining “food insecurity” and busting common myths

    • What hunger looks like in rural, suburban, and urban America

    • How food banks and pantries work behind the scenes

    • The critical role of SNAP and why cutting it hurts everyone

    • The ripple effect of federal policy on local communities

    • How individuals can take action to fight hunger

    • Jordan’s journey as a changemaker and his work with See What I Mean LLC

    Notable Quotes

    “For every one meal food banks provide, SNAP provides nine.”

    “If we’re serious about protecting taxpayer money, we need to look at the real problem—not families just trying to eat.”

    “Storytelling is one of the most powerful ways we can create change.”

    About Our Guest

    Jordan Vernoy is a seasoned nonprofit leader, policy advocate, and the founder of See What I Mean LLC, a consultancy focused on elevating mission-driven organizations through strategy, storytelling, and systems thinking. Jordan’s career has been dedicated to tackling food insecurity and empowering communities to build long-term solutions to hunger.

    Connect with Jordan: 🔗 See What I Mean LLC 📱 Follow on LinkedIn: Jordan Vernoy

    Call to Action

    SNAP cuts are going into effect today—and the impact will be felt immediately in homes, schools, and neighborhoods across the country. 👉 Listen now to understand what’s happening, why it matters, and what you can do to help ensure no family goes hungry.

    🎧 Stream We the Community wherever you get your podcasts.

    #WeTheCommunity #FoodSecurity #SNAP #EndHunger #PolicyMatters #CommunityImpact #Podcast

    SWIM Consulting

    SWIM Book: Activating Moments for Change
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • We The Community Talks Storytelling, The Underground Railroad, and Juneteenth with Author Extraordinaire, Glennette Tilley Turner

    We The Community Talks Storytelling, The Underground Railroad, and Juneteenth with Author Extraordinaire, Glennette Tilley Turner
    Jul 1 2025
    Summary In this episode of the We the Community podcast, host Amanda Zahorak speaks with Glennette Tilley Turner, a renowned storyteller and historian focused on the Underground Railroad. They discuss the significance of names, the role of storytellers in communities, and the courage it takes to share uncomfortable truths. Glennette shares her extensive research on the Underground Railroad, the surprises she encountered, and the importance of lesser-known historical figures. The conversation also touches on the significance of Juneteenth, the journey to making it a national holiday, and reflections on the 4th of July. Glennette emphasizes the need for community, collaboration, and the importance of understanding history to navigate current challenges. Purchase Ms. Turner's Books, here! Takeaways -Names tell a story and hold significance. -Storytellers are essential for sharing knowledge. -Courage in storytelling often involves uncomfortable truths. -Researching history can reveal surprising gaps. -The Underground Railroad had a significant presence in Illinois. -Juneteenth represents a crucial moment in American history. -Understanding history helps us navigate current challenges. -Community collaboration is vital for progress. -The 4th of July has different meanings for different people. -Legacy is about striving for justice and love. Chapters 00:00 The Significance of Names 06:55 Influences of Family on Storytelling 10:13 The Journey to Authorship 13:28 The Role of Storytellers in Communities 15:34 Courage in Storytelling 16:03 Courageous Characters and Stories 17:56 Lessons from Pivotal Stories 19:56 Researching the Underground Railroad 22:07 The Quest for Knowledge 24:24 Challenges in Researching History 26:58 The Importance of Historical Context 28:57 Pathways of Freedom Seekers 32:33 Advice for Today's Generation 35:58 Understanding Chicago's Underground Railroad History 39:20 The Legacy of Freedom and Community 42:34 The Legacy of Housing Ordinances 44:40 Historical Figures in African American History 46:51 Indigenous Peoples and the Underground Railroad 49:23 Harriet Tubman's Bravery and Stories 52:22 The Emancipation Proclamation and Its Delays 54:33 The Journey to Juneteenth as a National Holiday 56:50 Understanding the Significance of Juneteenth 57:56 Complex Feelings Around the 4th of July 59:45 Reflections on Justice and Hope 01:00:39 Advice for Future Generations 01:02:30 The Arc of Justice in American History 01:04:11 Personal Stories of Leadership and Legacy 01:07:41 Upcoming Underground Railroad Tours 01:10:06 Introduction to We The Community Podcast
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • We The Community Talks Working Across the Aisle and Defining Progress with Lifelong Change Agent Jen Guzman

    We The Community Talks Working Across the Aisle and Defining Progress with Lifelong Change Agent Jen Guzman
    Jun 13 2025
    Keywords: change work, community engagement, authenticity, leadership, listening, political conversations, core values, humanity, social justice, personal identity Takeaways
    • Change work requires authenticity and vulnerability.
    • Listening is crucial for effective change making.
    • Building relationships is key to working across party lines.
    • Core values should never be compromised for progress.
    • Personal stories can bridge gaps in understanding.
    • Navigating tension requires empathy and patience.
    • The future of leadership lies in shared humanity.
    • Progress can be incremental and still meaningful.
    • Community engagement is essential for lasting change.
    • Leadership is about serving others, not seeking power.
    Summary: In this conversation, Amanda Zahorak and Jen Guzman explore the intricacies of change work, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, listening, and building relationships across political divides. They discuss personal identity, core values, and the role of humanity in leadership, while also sharing insights on navigating tension in conversations and the significance of community engagement. The dialogue culminates in a message of hope for the future, highlighting the power of collective action and understanding in creating meaningful change. Links: Bestola Collective PODER RISE Chicago Titles:
    • Bridging Divides: The Art of Change Making
    • Authenticity in Leadership: A Personal Journey
    Sound Bites
    • "Your power is in your humanity."
    • "Don't be your own villain."
    • "Change work is an act of love."
    Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jen Guzman and Her Background 08:56 Embracing Intersectionality: The Mexiju Experience 13:25 The Power of Authenticity in Leadership 17:22 The Essence of Change Making 21:13 Listening and Understanding in Leadership 24:32 Working Across Party Lines and Building Bridges 29:31 The Challenge of Change 31:27 Building Relationships for Progress 33:42 Listening to Your Body 37:29 Core Values and Boundaries 40:33 Defining Progress 44:00 The Importance of Bipartisanship 47:17 Leadership Standards and Accountability 49:48 Dealing with Opposition and Self-Care 56:17 Navigating Life's Messy Paths 57:33 Understanding Different Perspectives 01:00:02 Bouncing Back from Power Loss 01:02:42 The Importance of Resilience 01:05:08 Building Relationships Across Sectors 01:07:40 Embracing Diverse Opinions 01:08:44 Inquiry as a Tool for Change 01:09:25 Lessons from Leadership 01:11:14 Using Voice for Good 01:12:09 Legacy of Humanity and Love 01:13:31 Finding Hope in Humanity 01:14:31 Engaging with Community Initiatives 01:15:52 Introduction to We The Community Podcast
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    1 hr and 16 mins
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