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.

• 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

“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.”

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

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

• 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.

• Bridging Divides: The Art of Change Making
• Authenticity in Leadership: A Personal Journey

• "Your power is in your humanity."
• "Don't be your own villain."
• "Change work is an act of love."

• Kelly Wynne's journey began with a viral blog post on anxiety.
• She transitioned from journalism to therapy to help others.
• Leadership in therapy is about guiding clients, not saving them.
• Listening is a powerful form of leadership.
• Community needs vary; understanding them is crucial.
• Self-care is essential for advocates and change-makers.
• Rituals can ground us in times of uncertainty.
• Boundaries are about how we respond, not changing others.
• Finding good in the world can combat feelings of fear.
• Legacy is about helping others find their worth.

Links:

Micro Activism by Omkari Williams

Find Mental Health Resources at: Psychology Today

Summary

In this episode of the We The Community podcast, Amanda Zahorak interviews Dexter Mason, the executive director of the Change Collective. They discuss Dexter's journey to leadership, the mission of the Change Collective, and the importance of investing in local leaders. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement, the selection process for changemakers, and the curriculum designed for local leaders. Dexter shares insights on humility in leadership, the role of local solutions in addressing societal issues, and the importance of building diverse networks. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions about leadership inspirations and future aspirations.

Takeaways

• Dexter Mason emphasizes the intertwining of service and leadership.
• The Change Collective aims to redefine civic life in the 21st century.
• Investing in local leaders is crucial for long-term systemic change.
• Local leadership impacts daily life significantly.
• The selection process for the Change Collective values diverse experiences.
• Curriculum for local leaders includes both hard and soft skills.
• Humility is essential in leadership roles.
• Building community is vital for changemakers.
• Ego can hinder effective leadership and collaboration.
• Hope for the future lies in the next generations' commitment to change.

Chapters

00:00 Dexter's Journey to Leadership 04:57 The Change Collective: Mission and Vision 07:40 Career Path and Finding Change Collective 14:52 Advice on Career Paths and Change Making 18:36 Investing in Local Leaders 22:14 The Importance of Local Politics 24:52 Getting Involved Locally 26:41 The Change Collective Selection Process 31:41 Diversity in Leadership and Community Building 35:07 Curriculum for Local Leaders 39:48 The Importance of Local Solutions 45:02 Gatekeepers in Community Politics 53:06 Networking with Community Gatekeepers 01:01:13 Promoting a Flexible Work Culture 01:02:31 The Importance of Transparency in Leadership 01:03:18 Ego and Leadership: A Stoic Perspective 01:05:54 Working Across the Aisle: Checking Ego for Collaboration 01:07:40 Pathways to Public Office: From Local Change Makers to Leaders 01:11:09 Finding Community: Overcoming Loneliness in Activism 01:12:48 Inspiring Leaders: Role Models in Public Service 01:14:29 Future Aspirations: Balancing Change Making and Personal Dreams 01:16:36 Staying Hopeful: Humanity's Capacity for Positive Change 01:18:25 Connecting with Change Collective: Opportunities for Engagement 01:22:54 Introduction to We The Community Podcast

Links:

Learn More about Change Collective

Read King: A Life

We the Community is a podcast hosted by Amanda Zahorak, focused on social justice, civic engagement, and community-driven solutions. Each episode spotlights real people making real change—from local leaders to national advocates. Subscribe/follow to stay informed, inspired, and engaged. Let’s build stronger, more inclusive communities—together. Find us on instagram @wethecommunitypod.