the roots of change podcast
By: the roots of change agency
Language: en
Categories: Society, Culture, Technology, News, Politics
🧑🌾 Cultivating Connections, Empowering Change - We talk about navigating heart-first activism & decolonizing storytelling (media & tech). Host Sam Chavez connects with organizations, movement leaders, & social change communicators who are boldly creating change in today's social, political, tech & media landscape with heart, hope, & a grounded nervous system. Become a Seedling Member to access all of our episodes. Learn more and access our private podcast feed
Episodes
🎙️ Winterizing Your Organizing with Taryn Tally
Dec 15, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 For our last public podcast of the year, we root into the winter with collaborator Taryn Tally. We recorded on Trans Day of Remembrance and addressed the hate against the trans community as a fear of freedom. As two spirit people, we balanced trans hate with indigenous community care. We share ideas to deepen your community organizing, concrete steps for addressing food insecurity, and the necessity of self-care in activism. Watch today’s episode.
This winter is a time to reflect and build resilient organizing practices for the year to come. We can build revolution...
Duration: 00:54:04🎙️ 2026 State of Tech with Sam & Joe! | The Future is Human
Dec 09, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 Joe Cardillo (they/them) and Sam Chavez (she/they/he) are back to tackle the big topic of Big Tech as we close 2025 and the 1st year of Trump's 2nd term. We cover how tech has changed drastically and how activists, organizers, & organizations can navigate the uncertainty with grace and humanity. We bring in some of our old school love of the internet as we envision a hopeful tech future without the bros at the helm. Watch today’s episode.
"We need to invest in people, not AI."🌱 Become a Seedling Member Today! Get more behind-t...
Duration: 00:48:20🎙 [Unlocked] Building Resilient Communities with Lisa & Sharon Hurley
Nov 24, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 This week, we unlock our 1st ever private podcast episode with guests Lisa Hurley and Sharon Hurley Hall to talk about rooted community that outlasts white supremacy. To commemorate the winter as a time of gathering, we get real about community and why many white spaces struggle with building the deeper layers of connection. Watch today’s podcast.
We look back on our chat from February just after Trump's inauguration. Both sisters are storytellers and use their power of words to imagine a liberated world.
It was a thoughtful conversation that confronts things hea...
Duration: 00:42:27🎙️ [Free] Chavez Foundation, Latino Justice, & the Government Shutdown
Nov 10, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 This week, we had double the Chavez! Host Sam Chavez (she/they/he) spoke with Andres Chavez (he/him) from the Chavez Foundation about the foundation's work, the impact of the government shutdown on their programs, and the legacy of Cesar Chavez. Watch today’s episode.
"You only lose when you give up."We explore the importance of storytelling and media in shaping narratives for Latino communities and how the foundation is directly supporting Latino families and immigrants amidst the ongoing attacks on Latinos. Like Cesar, we led with heart and hope, emphasizing resilience, community...
Duration: 00:35:16🎙️ [Free] Astrology as Movement Medicine with Jessica Lanyadoo
Nov 03, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 This week, host Sam Chavez (she/they/he) speaks with astrologer Jessica Lanyadoo (she/her) about meeting fascism with care, community, & constellations. We dig into the intersection of astrology and activism, discussing how astrology can empower ourselves as individuals and in communities to navigate social change. Watch today's episode and join our Signal chat for resources, clips, & actions.
"Grief is a part of the process."🌱 Become a Seedling Member Today! Get more behind-the-scenes action from our trip and go deeper with activists & organizers at just $2/month.
02:00 The Role of Astrology in Social Change05:00Jessica's P... Duration: 00:32:39🎙️ [Free] Humanizing Water Rights & Climate Impacts with Daniella Sherrill | Arizona | Day 3 Cont.
Oct 24, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 This week, host Sam Chavez (she/they/he) speaks with community organizer, Daniella Sherrill (she/her) about the critical issues surrounding water access and rights in the Southwest, particularly in Arizona. She shares her experience with Arizona Water for All, a program to support water-insecure communities to improve water security and agency. Watch today's episode.
"Water is life, it unites us."
I love how Daniella helps to humanize water access issues and how decisions by elites in big cities impact real people on the ground. We also discuss why empowering leadership in communit...
Duration: 00:35:37🎙️ [Free] Desert Beauty vs. Concrete Jungles | Arizona | Day 3
Oct 20, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, we officially land in Arizona after a looong drive through California. Arizona has so much beauty and nature to offer when we stop and listen. Watch on YouTube and PeerTube.
At our camp spot, we reflect on driving without Google Maps, the settler/indigenous divide in Arizona, being vegan on the road, and learning lessons from our animal friends. Most of today's episode is for Seedling members. Join today at $2/month to get full access to our private podcast at activist resources and to support independent media.
00:00 - Waking Up in the Dese... Duration: 00:09:21🎙️ [Free] Who Get to Be People? | Cesar Chavez Monument | Day 2
Oct 13, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 Our 2nd roadtrip stop aligns well with Indigenous People's Day. We stumbled on César E. Chávez National Monument outside of Bakersfield, California. It's a perfect time to get into the history of labor organizing, migration, and Latino rights. We are seeing Latinos dehumanized by ICE and the impacts of the government shutdown. So it's time to ask, who gets to be defined as people? This is a deeply personal episode talking about my own Latino identity and how it's impacted me. Watch this week's episode. I hope you enjoy!
00:00 - Leaving & Camping in San Luis R... Duration: 00:19:11🎙️ [Preview] AI, Big Tech, & the GOP's Worldview | California | Day 1 Cont.
Oct 06, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 This week, we dig into the sloppy AI news and why artificial intelligence will never be supportive for our movements. The latest news out of Big Tech and AI keep showing us who they are and what we do about it.
🌱 Become a Seedling Member Today! Get more behind-the-scenes action from our trip and go deeper with activists & organizers at just $2/month.
This Week, Seedling Members get a deeper conversation about GOP messaging and why Democrats are flailing right now. I show off some of the GOP flyers from the 2024 election an...
Duration: 00:26:01🛻 Water is Life, Politics, & Liberation | San Luis Reservoir, CA - Day 1
Sep 30, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 We officially embark on our Road Trippin' for Change series. Our 1st stop in Central California dives into food sovereignty, water rights, the 2024 election, & Latino voters.
To watch today's episode join us on YouTube or PeerTube. Explore the episode:
00:00 - Traveling 6 Months into Trump's Tenure02:07 - Our 1st Stop: Climate, Fruit Stands, & Sun03:27 - Mapping California's Ecology 07:10 - Walking the Reservoir, Seeing the Climate Crisis09:08 - Water Rights Are Migrant Rights12:50 - The Trope of Latino's Voting Against Our Interest13:30 - Understanding Republican's 2024 Messaging14:46 - Breaking Through Republican Messaging15:30 - Stories, Film, & Society16:20 - Forget... Duration: 00:19:42🎙️ You've Got to Be Kimmel-ing Me! | Part 1 - Unmasking Tech & Media
Sep 22, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 On Friday, Sam Chavez (she/they/he) sat down with Joe Cardillo (they/them) to discuss the media & tech drama from the fallout of Kirk's murder. As always, we offer organizing action and a lens behind what the mainstream media is saying. In the free version, we discuss:
04:41 - Navigating Overwhelming Times09:21 - The Kimmel firing and Media Control16:29 - Chicago, Collective Action and Community Responses20:47 - Creative Strategies for Organizing24:28 - The Importance of Independent MediaBecome a Seedling Member starting at $2/month to listen to the full conversation.
Deep Dives Duration: 00:38:55
🎙️ Breaking Big Tech's Algorithmic Bubble | Bay Area, Califonia - Day 0
Sep 16, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, I reflect on the 61 day journey that took my corgi and I criss-crossing the United States to understand the deeper history of the country and our larger world. We especially dig into how Big Tech and billionaire-owned media are keeping us trapped. I share my thoughts on:
Back in the Bay reflecting on Big Tech across the U.S. & western worldDe-teching our road trip footprintEvolving media & tech for liberatory changeAllowing us all to tell our storiesSharing resources from grassroots organizationsDeep Dives
Join the full road trip by becoming a Seedling... Duration: 00:17:22🛻 Announcing Roadtrippin' for Change!
Sep 08, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, I am excited to announce our Roadtrippin' for Change series! This fall, come out on the road with my corgi and I to learn the deeper layer of U.S. history that's not taught in schools and what it's really like to live in Trump's America in 2025. We've been right in the action covering:
🏜️ Land and Water rights in the Southwest🏛️ The Occupied Capitol City (& Trump's National Guard deployment!)🤠 Cowboys & Queer Culture🗽 The Big Apple & It's Big Wealth Gap🗞️ The history of media & tech🥾 The long history of rural life in the U.S.🐢 Indigenous & Migrant rights... Duration: 00:07:07🎙️ Breaking Platformization | Disrupting Substack's Dominance on Writers with Sharon Hurley Hall
Aug 25, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 Before I left on my roadtrip, Sharon Hurley Hall and host, Sam Chavez, hopped on a Live! to dig into the harms of Substack for creators and movement leaders who work for liberatory change.
🌱 Become a Seedling Member to get access to the full conversation.
After Substack platformed & monetized Nazi's in 2022, we both signed on to an open letter of fellow creators & journalists and left. The companies stance on privacy, progressive values, & creator independence has only gotten worse. Get a preview of our exclusive hours-long conversation for our members, we spoke about:
The Harm... Duration: 00:34:43🎙️ It's Trumps Economy & We're Just Surviving In It! | The Economic Reality
Aug 19, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, I tease our Fall Roadtrip Series to shine a light on what the media won’t cover in the United States. As the Trump regime gains steam, the economic realities are beginning to settle in.
Break Down Trump's Decisions & The Economic RealityWhat Jerome Powell & The Fed Doesn’t GetWhy Democrats Can't ActWhat Does All of This Mean for Activism Right Now?I’ve seen it firsthand on the road, which is why we’re re-airing our March podcast on the economic reality of a Trump presidency. I worked with Wells Fargo and other top fi...
Duration: 00:23:43🎙 De-Googling Our Lives & Movements: A Digital Revolution with Stone Cairns
Jul 14, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 For this week's podcast, we release part of my conversation with organizer, Stone Cairns, on de-Googling our lives amidst a digital coup led by U.S.-based Big Tech companies. We offer practical tips to transition, better alternatives, and why it's important for social change.
Become a member to listen to the full conversation: www.rootschangemedia.com/private-podcast/#/portal/account/plans
The growing user-friendly alternatives to big tech.Enshitification & the decline in user experience on platforms.Allowing the apps to shape our reality and thus our organizingHow do we do activism away from capitali... Duration: 00:35:32🔓 [Unlocked] Global Resistance as Strategic Lessons with Joe & Sam
Jul 07, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 I unlock our private episode from April with Joe Cardillo. We share actionable tips and lessons from global organizing. We can use old and new tactics both online and IRL to build a mass movement of resistance. Listen to Part I of our conversation.
🔐 Become a Member to access Private Podcast Feed: https://www.rootschangemedia.com/#/portal/signup
Learning from Hungary’s dissent into illiberal democracySuccessful messaging against authoritarian regimesConcrete examples of what organizing looks like nowRejecting Democrats vs. Republicans binary thinkingAction against anxiety - how to work with anxietyLessons from the Civil Rights EraWhat... Duration: 00:25:42🎙 White Supremacy: the Water not the Shark with Sharon Hurley Hall
Jun 23, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, I re-air one our 1st ever podcasts. My conversation with Sharon Hurley Hall in February 2024. We get real about white supremacy and how we as individuals can push back and be anti-racist activists in this current world.
Elevating voices and being a conduit of truth in this moment of racial and social awakeningFinding hope at the micro and local level, while looking at the global impactPushing back against algorithms and techGoing beyond skin color to find “our people”Envisioning a new way forwardExplore the roots of change agency
Read our Wee... Duration: 00:28:20🔐 [Preview] De-Googling Our Lives & Non-Profits: A Digital Revolution with Stone Cairns
Jun 20, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 In this week's private podcast feed, we discuss de-Googling our lives amidst a digital coup led by U.S.-based Big Tech companies with organizer, Stone Cairns. The hour-long conversation delves into practical tips to transition, better alternatives, and why it's important for social change.
Become a member: www.rootschangemedia.com/private-podcast/#/portal/account/plans
The growing user-friendly alternatives to big tech.Enshitification & the decline in user experience on platforms.Allowing the apps to shape our reality and thus our organizingHow do we do activism away from capitalist thinking around work?Share our personal... Duration: 00:06:58🎙️ Avoiding the MAGA Narrative Trap & Staying Safe While Protesting
Jun 16, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 On Friday, I hoped on YouTube Live to address MAGA's narratives surrounding recent events in California. We need to shift the narrative and know what traps we are falling into.
"We are powerful. We are the people. Let's start telling that story."
Stop falling into the MAGA narrative trap!Steven Miller's immigration rageWWE Smackdown as policy & distractionAlex Padilla's arrest and where we go from hereUnderstanding ICE tactics & digital securityPreparing for Protests: safety & cyber securityProtest Aftercare for Mental HealthI also dig into the influence of big tech and disinformation with practical tips at...
Duration: 00:28:19🎙 Nothing Funny About MAHA! Social Wellbeing with Janelle Johnson
Jun 09, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, I speak with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Janelle Johnson, to get to the roots of the MAHA movement, disability justice, neurodiversity, and the societal perceptions surrounding disability. Naturally, we touch on joy and rest as essential components of resistance and resilience.
Explore the impact of COVID-19 on today’s health landscapeDisability can be a bridge builderThe historical roots of ableism and racismThe role of trauma in political corruptionNavigating frontline activism in always “Unprecedented Times”Humanity, resilience, and community building in the face of fascism"Hate is too heavy to carry." — Janelle Johnson
Refer... Duration: 00:45:00
🌈🎙️ Make the Revolution Queer-resistible
Jun 02, 2025Hi y’all! Happy Pride! 🌈 Today, I reflection on trans hate in law, how we combat rising fascism, and bringing agape love to a broader movement. I share exactly what I think about the TERF who writes wizard books, RFK Jr, and white liberals’ role right now.
Deep Dives
Tracking the Rise of Fascism and MisinformationTrans Rights and the PatriarchyBreaking Down Barriers and BoxesRe-imagining Masculinity and Systems of PowerHope as essential in times of rising fascismRe-indigenizing perspectives to reshape our understanding of communityReferences / Resources
Understanding Gender, Sex, and SexualityWho's Afraid of Gender? | Colonial... Duration: 00:31:35🌈🎙️ Make the Revolution Queer-resistible - the roots of change podcast [Private Feed]
Jun 02, 2025Hi y’all! Happy Pride! 🌈 Today, I reflection on trans hate in law, how we combat rising fascism, and bringing agape love to a broader movement. I share exactly what I think about the TERF who writes wizard books, RFK Jr, and white liberals’ role right now.
Deep Dives
Tracking the Rise of Fascism and MisinformationTrans Rights and the PatriarchyBreaking Down Barriers and BoxesRe-imagining Masculinity and Systems of PowerHope as essential in times of rising fascismRe-indigenizing perspectives to reshape our understanding of communityReferences / Resources
Understanding Gender, Sex, and SexualityWho's Afraid of Gender? | Colonial... Duration: 00:31:35🎙 Finding Indigeneity & Decolonizing Marketing with Taryn Talley
May 26, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 In this week's private podcast feed, we dig deeper into indigenous knowledge, digital suppression, and decolinizing how we do marketing with our guest Taryn Talley.
Indigeneity and Cultural ConnectionsLeadership Lessons from Indigenous TraditionsThe Impact of Colonization on Our LivesUnderstanding Time and the Long Fight for JusticeThe Impact of Digital Suppression (private)Navigating Algorithmic Challenges (private)Building Community in a Fragmented World (private)References / Resources
Understanding Gender, Sex, and SexualityDark Winds TV Show with Zahn McClarnonHow the West Was Lost TV Mini SeriesBuilding Our Own Leadership Skills to 'Get Free'Reservation Dogs TV ShowMadison Butler... Duration: 00:32:37🎙 Andor & Star Wars as Lessons in Activism
May 12, 2025Hey y’all, 👋🏽 to celebrate Star Wars Day, we hosted a Live panel discussion with Get Free about Andor and Star Wars as a place for organizing lessons.
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Sam Chavez (she/they/he) chats with Natalie (she/her) and Anthony Torres (he/him) from...
Duration: 00:47:41🌍 Growing Social Resilience in Times of Crisis ❤️🔥
Apr 28, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 Earth Day doesn't feel very celebratory this year. To help us all move through the discomfort of living amidst climate collapse, while organizing for a better world, Taj Smith and I hosted a movement gathering on April 24th. In the live conversation, we dove into:
Social media, tech, & the climate crisisHow social media has changed usNavigating The Late Stage Social Media EraGrounding exercises in times of peak needPractices for self & community careExplore the roots of change agency
Read our Weekly Activist DigestFollow us on YouTube, Bluesky & MastodonHealthy Tech & Communica... Duration: 01:03:45🔐 [Preview] Project Planning for Long-Term Movement Building
Apr 25, 2025Progressive organizing is being targeted and threatened to intentionally overwhelm our movements and ability to act against rising fascism.
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Rather than lean into the overwhelm, we can build healthy practices for how we work and build towards our long-term visions for change.
Task List Template for long-term planningManaging your time across multiple projectsAchieving Short-term and long-term visionsLearning from my ad agency daysDecolonizing project management for slow growthBuilding your workflow around your body's rhythmsThis month's template for 🌺 Flowering Members is a Task List template to revolutionize your project and...
Duration: 00:04:18🔓 [Unlocked] Our Digital Montgomery Bus Boycott
Apr 21, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 I'm unlocking our latest private podcast to directly speak to our digital futures. In the podcast, I react to Carole Cadwalladr’s TED talk 🎬 This is what a digital coup looks like and offer a new perspective on our digital power and activism.
Become a member: www.rootschangemedia.com/private-podcast/#/portal/account/plans
Who is Carole Cadwalladr and why should we be listening to herThe history of Cambridge Analytica Facebook scandal and the 2016 electionThe global scale of Putin’s economic mechanisms of controlRed Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man's Fight for J... Duration: 00:24:57🎙 AI’s Overhype & Social Harms with Dr Linda Berberich
Apr 14, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽
I host my friend and AI expert, Dr Linda Berberich, directly address AI overhype, Big Tech harms, and what we do about it. Watch on YouTube
We dove into the intersectionality of AI and its impacts on society, especially marginalized communities. We spoke of the real harms that AI poses to society, but also how technology can be used to augment human behavior and learning. Our discussion delved into:
What is AI behind the hype and media's misconceptionsThe challenges of consent and regulation in the digital spaceThe repercussions of AI on creativi... Duration: 00:33:23[Preview] Strategic Lessons from Global Resistance
Apr 11, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 Joe Cardillo and I share actionable tips and lessons from global organizing on our private podcast page. We can use old and new tactics both online and IRL to build a mass movement of resistance.
🔐 Become a Member to access Private Podcast Feed: https://www.rootschangemedia.com/#/portal/signup
Learning from Hungary’s dissent into illiberal democracySuccessful messaging against authoritarian regimes across the globeConcrete examples of what organizing looks like right nowShifting away from Democrats vs. Republicans binary thinkingAction against anxiety - how to work with anxiety in this timeLessons on organizing and community from... Duration: 00:04:57🎙 Organizing Against the Global Right with Sam & Joe
Apr 07, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 This week on the roots of change podcast, Joe and I are back! We dig into the news with a social change lens best understand how to move in this moment against the right-wing authoritarian forces.
🔐 Become a Member to access Private Podcast Feed: https://www.rootschangemedia.com/#/portal/signup
How propaganda makes its way into the mainstream media ecosystemWisconsin Supreme Court race proves they aren’t invincibleThe “pay to play” economic policy and how it’s impacting real peopleGlobal negotiations and mafia-style behavior from the Trump AdministrationHow we can learn to organize in this moment from... Duration: 00:19:34[Preview] 🤠 Surviving the Social Hellscape | April's Tech News Round Up
Apr 04, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 This week's Tech News Round Up is about how we can navigate the unregulated social landscape including building up your video reach, watching for data regulation, and avoiding AI brain rot on Instagram.
Become a member: www.rootschangemedia.com/private-podcast/#/portal/account/plans
News of the Month:
🌱 YouTube Tops Disney in Streaming - 🤓 🌱 23andMe Files for Bankruptcy - 🤓🌱 AI Brainrot on Instagram - 🤓Grow with Healthy Media:
Explore healthy media & techBecome a Seedling MemberSupport independent media & assist an activistAmplify Grounded Activism
🎬 Watch on YouTube or PeerTubeSubscribe to our weekl... Duration: 00:03:14Capital ‘M’ Moments of Trans Visibility with Taj & Stone
Mar 31, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, we speak to Taj Smith and Stone Cairns about trans visibility, trans magic, and spirituality. We dove into:
Our unique experiences with the gender binaryHow TERFs have influenced feminist movementsThe liminal space of spirituality and social fearsChristianity, Millennials, and the rise of Mega ChurchesThe intersection of our spiritual journey and genderBeing seen in a societyGrow with Healthy Media:
Explore healthy media & techBecome a Seedling MemberSupport independent media & assist an activistAmplify Grounded Activism
🎬 Watch on YouTube or PeerTubeSubscribe to our weekly digest(s)Follow us on Mastodon, P... Duration: 00:58:14[Preview] Securing the Group Chat & Expanding Capacity
Mar 28, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 In this week's private podcast feed, we get into the Signal chat heard 'round the world and what it means for our privacy and security. We the People are under threat by our own government. We talk about how we take back our power. Become a Seedling Member to get access to the full conversation.
Become a member: www.rootschangemedia.com/private-podcast/#/portal/account/plans
As social change communicators, it’s our role to help shift the narrative away from the Big Tech-dominated stories. We offer four tips to help build your capacity i...
Duration: 00:02:56S3E9 Re-Segregation, The Economy, & Living in Reality
Mar 24, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, you just have me on, because we have A LOT to catch up. We dove into this month's news events and level-set on reality:
Break Down Trump's Decisions & The Economic RealityJerome Powell's Statement & The FedWhy Democrats Can't Act What Does Activism Mean Right Now?Explore the roots of change agency
Read our Weekly Activist DigestFollow us on YouTube, Bluesky & MastodonHealthy Tech & Communications ResourcesAccess Our Private ChatsBecome a Seedling MemberDeep Dives
AI's Social Impact Series
The Evolving Face of Racism in the U.S. Ser...
Duration: 00:21:39[Unlocked] The Big Tech as Big Brother Government with Sam & Joe
Mar 10, 2025Joe and I recorded an episode in February to address the growing stakes and get real about Big Tech’s Big Brother Government takeover.
We are dug into what it means for the U.S. Government to be run like Big Tech. Since it's our private feed, we go there and aren't shy about our tech industry experience (we've seen things) and what we think about our dear friend Elon. Listen to this unlocked episode and upgrade to listen to our past and future private conversations with communicators, activists, & organizers.
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Duration: 00:46:54[Preview] S3E7 Leadership & Organizing in Uncertain Times
Feb 27, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, we speak with leaders from Get Free, the youth led organization. In our private conversation, we discuss their leadership conference and how they are strategizing in this moment:
A look into Get Free's organizing leadership forum from last monthHow to build leadership during a difficult time organizingThe art of pre-planning and opportunities for open discussionNew York Freedom Beacon work that’s been successfulBuilding movement visibility during digital suppressionUpgrade to Listen to the Full Conversation: www.rootschangemedia.com/private-podcast/#/portal/account/plans
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Weekly Act...
Duration: 00:04:31S3E6 The 1st 100 Days | We 'Get Free' When We Are All Free
Feb 24, 2025Hi y’all! 👋🏽 this week, we speak to Executive Director, Nicole Carty (she/her) and Communications Director, Anthony Vidal Torres (he/him) about Get Free, the youth led organization. We dove into what organizing means in 2025:
Why Get Free, a youth-led organization, is not freaking out right now?Building movements while learning from past organizingReckoning with current harmsThe MAGA Mandate is a mirageHow we take action in a moment of overwhelmGet Free
Sign the Get Free First 100 Day Pledgegetfreetogether.orgInstagramBlueskyAnthony Vidal Torres (he/him)
Anthony Vidal Torres is the Communicat...
Duration: 00:22:49[Preview] S3E5 Joe & Sam on Big Tech as Big Brother Government
Feb 20, 2025Joe and I are back on to get real about Big Tech’s Big Brother Government takeover.
Become a Member to access Private Podcast Feed: https://bit.ly/SeedlingPlan
We are digging into what it means for the U.S. Government to be run like Big Tech. Since it's our private feed, we go there and aren't shy about our tech industry experience (we've seen things) and what we think about our dear friend Elon.
What does it mean to run U.S. government like a Tech Company?Bringing Unaccountable ‘Founder Energy” to the White... Duration: 00:10:10[Preview] Building Resilient Communities with Lisa & Sharon Hurley
Feb 13, 2025I'm so honored to have Lisa and Sharon as my first guests on our private podcast. This Thursday, we go deeper on our public conversation.
Upgrade to listen to the full conversation.
Sharon, Lisa, and I speak to building intentional community and why it's much harder for white folks. It was a thoughtful conversation that confronts things head-on, while also being joyful and inviting.
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Duration: 00:03:33🌱 Radical Joy, Community, & Movement Resilience with Lisa Hurley and Sharon Hurley Hall
Feb 10, 2025On February 1st, I kicked off the month and a restorative weekend with two amazing sisters: Lisa Hurley (she/her) and Sharon Hurley Hall (she/her)!
We had the juiciest conversation about Black joy, community building, and doing the hard work of human-ing to rebuild our world. ❤️🔥🌍🫂
🥳 Be sure to upgrade to a Seedling Membership to listen get the full conversation on our private podcast feed.
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About Lisa Hurley
Lisa Hurley is an Anthem Award-winning activist, writer, and community builder. She is the author of Space to Exhale and the...
Duration: 00:25:16🌱 TikTok Ban: a Harbinger for the Social Future
Jan 27, 2025Hey y’all! Welcome back. We have tech & disinformation expert, Joe Cardillo, on to dig into TikTok's eventful January and how it's a harbinger for more social media uncertainty to come.
Upgrade by Friday for 25% off to get access to our a private podcast feed. We'll go deeper on navigating this tech, media, political, and economic landscape including actionable steps for organizing & communications and how we stay human.
Upgrade: https://www.rootschangemedia.com/25for25activist
We're speaking directly to the issues at hand, how we support ourselves in this moment, and wh...
Duration: 00:27:47🌱 We Are the Message
Jan 06, 2025Hey y’all! Welcome back and welcome to season 3 of the roots of change podcast!
In our 2025 kickoff, host Sam Chavez (she/they/he) shares a quick update about our visions for 2025 and reflect on Modern Hollywood’s impact on society with a voiceover of our December newsletter series. As a film school geek, I had a lot of fun playing with sounds to deepen the story I tell. I hope you enjoy!
If you aren’t familiar with this podcast, I am a queer, Latine, and white activist who founded the roots of cha...
Duration: 00:28:58Reflecting on Elections & the Future of Organizing
Nov 12, 2024It’s been one week since the 2024 U.S. election and many are still processing, while others are acting and building (I’m moving through both). I want to speak to you no matter where you find yourself. I had planned a different podcast about celebrating volunteers. Not many listeners are in a celebratory mood, so I want to talk about organizing and moving forward in this moment. In my first solo pod, I reflect on:
Some of my experiences in the Southwest that signaled the resultsHow grassroots organizing worked when superficial branding didn’tHow the roots of change... Duration: 00:15:45Elevating Real People in Down Ballot Elections
Oct 28, 2024I’ve been on the road in Southwest swing states for almost a month! I’ve been lucky enough to meet some amazing local and state candidates who are just real people who are working hard and caring for their communities. It has been refreshing to find when the pundits want us to believe they’re all crooked!
I was lucky enough to have a casual sit-down conversation with Dallas Harris, Nevada State Senator, at her office at the Nevada Nevada Legislature building. You can find our awesome tees on YouTube if you want to watch the in...
Duration: 00:21:52Creating Change One Voter Conversation At a Time with Elizabeth Chur
Sep 30, 2024I was so happy to have my friend and voter outreach extraordinaire, Elizabeth Chur, on the podcast to talk about her latest book just in time for the election. 'The Joy of Talking Politics with Strangers: How to Save Democracy, One Conversation at a Time' is a practical and beautifully written book to help folks use the power of conversation to create lasting change.'
As the first crisp of fall weather graced us, we gathered for a casual conversation about motivational interviewing and how we can shift our culture through individual conversations.<...
Duration: 00:35:36The Margin of Effort | 2024 Voting & Activism
Sep 09, 2024I had an amazing chat with political organizer, Natalie Burdick, where we discussed the upcoming election, Democratic messaging, and the importance of strategic campaign efforts in Arizona and the California Central Valley.
Focusing on Impactful Campaign EffortsThe 3 Messaging Strategies to Remember: Don’t repeat MAGA talking points, Talk about us and our vision, & Repetition, repetition, repetitionEconomic Messaging & Democratic Party StrategyUnprecedented Victories in Local and State ElectionsStrategies for Political EngagementI love talking to Natalie because she can share complex electoral stakes in the simplest of terms. I hope you enjoy the conversation!
Disrupting Misogynoir at Top of the Ticket
Aug 26, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽
As soon as enthusiasm grew around VP Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for President, mysogynoir and racism in media accelerated. I spoke with Dr. Heliana Ramirez about the impact of racial trauma, the concept of misogynoir, its impact on Black women, and how non-Black folks can support Black women now and after the election. I hope you enjoy the rest of our conversation!
The Art of Crafting Voter Outreach
Aug 13, 2024Hey y'all! Through my activism, I have met many incredible people. Charlie Varon has brought joy and art to political activism along with his decades of performance and story building. We carry that same joy and humor into our conversation about voter outreach! Come for the Bernie Sanders impression and stay for the helpful tips on how you can get involved in this election. Charlie demystifies phonebanking, donation asks, and talking to voters to help more folks feel comfortable doing the uncomfortable! 📋 Learn more or sign up for a volunteer shift with grassroots organizations like Swing Left San Francisco, Nor...
Duration: 00:36:58🎙BONUS: Can AI Be Ethical?
Jul 22, 2024I'm excited to share our 1st ever Bonus podcast episode for Seedling members! Each month, we'll have a bonus episode that either goes into an after party with one of our guests or a brand new conversation. Upgrade and subscribe on the roots of change newsletter: www.rootschangemedia.com/#/portal/account/plans
I'm honored to have Dr. Linda Berberich as our first Seedling After Party! We dove into more details around AI and if we can use it ethically. We talked about:
Where to start with your own AI journeyHow do we find good AI... Duration: 00:03:29Combatting Big Tech’s AI OverHype: The Social Impacts of AI
Jul 15, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽 I am so excited to host my friend and AI expert, Dr Linda Berberich, on the podcast this month! We dove into the intersectionality of AI and its impacts on society, especially marginalized communities. We spoke of the real harms that AI poses to society, but also how technology can be used to augment human behavior and learning. Our discussion delved into:
What is AI behind the hype and media's misconceptions The challenges of consent and regulation in the digital spaceThe repercussions of AI on creativity and authenticity in societyEthical implications of technology – facial recognition technology... Duration: 00:31:37The People’s March for a Rallying Call
Jul 01, 2024I was lucky enough to catch organizer, Olivia DiNucci, just before the People's March in Washington D.C. this past weekend. We spoke about the escalating importance of rallying the nation in the struggle against racism, poverty, ecological devastation, and militarism and how activists can find hope in these moments. It was a quick 15-minute conversation packed with good insights!
I hope you enjoy the conversation! 🎬 Prefer video? You can also watch on our YouTube channel!
Learn more and read the transcript: www.rootschangemedia.com/peoples-march-july-2024/
Mentioned in this episode:
<... Duration: 00:19:50Purposeful Public Speaking & Wellbeing
Jun 17, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽
Today, I'm excited to share my conversation with Celia Alario from Vision to Voice Academy, an immersive training in the sacred art of public speaking. We talked about her experience with burnout from her years in social movement communications and her dedication to helping others find balance and sustainability in their work. We explored:
The challenges of aligning purpose with livelihoodThe impact of capitalism on activismThe struggle with not feeling like enough in purpose-driven workCreating self-awareness and self-compassion for social changeSustainable wellness practices in the face of complex interlocking crises<...
Duration: 00:24:29Indigenous Queer history & Gender Joy
Jun 03, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽
🥳 Happy Pride Month! 🏳️🌈 We kick off my second favorite month with a coffee shop chat with Honey Mahogany. We spoke at Mercury Cafe on the unceded lands of the Ramaytush Ohlone people to reflect on Indigenous queer history, the root of the right's gender hysteria, what we can learn from Indigenous queer culture, and how Honey uses gender joy to stay resilient amidst today's anti-trans backlash.
Learn more and read the transcript: https://www.rootschangemedia.com/our-podcast/
We respectfully acknowledge that the Roots of Change Agency lives and grow...
Duration: 00:33:50Evolving Marketing for Regenerative Communications
May 21, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽 Last December, I chatted with Jan Camille about regenerative communications and how we move away from the extractive side of marketing. We discuss the importance of language and intention while communicating. I loved her celestial reframing of 🪐 Transformative Strategy and Quantum Branding.
In the episode, we ideated about:
What is regenerative communications?How can we move away from the extractive side of marketing?How can we communicate within extractive systems?How can we reframe through language?How can we holistically support and manage our teams and selves while communicating?Reminders for “how we be in the... Duration: 00:23:02Online Activism In An Angry World with Taj & Em
May 06, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽
2020 was the year of protests, but the summer of 2024 is shaping up to be just as electric. Campus’ are filled with young folks speaking out for justice and liberation despite the violent crackdown by police and counter protestors.
My conversation with Taj Smith and Emily Weltman about digital activism is more relevant today then when we had it in March! The ceasefire comments are even more prescient today. As we gear up for a hot summer of activism, this listen is a nice balm for the skin before we get out there. The...
Duration: 00:39:33Speak Up Online & Support Your Peace
Apr 22, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽
Last month, I spoke on a LinkedIn Live discussion with Taj Smith and Emily Weltman about digital activism today and what it takes to speak up and protect yourself while doing it. I loved the depth that we all brought to the conversation and thank you to Alyssa and Tristan who pop in for questions.
How did we each get into activism and how has activism shaped our livesWhat does leading with purpose mean in a 2024 digital world with fewer guardrails and more exposure?Why speak up about issues online in the f... Duration: 00:29:37Future Visioning for a Humanized Tech World
Apr 02, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽 I am back with social change communicator, Joe Cardillo (they/them)! We pick up on our conversation about social movements in today’s tech world by looking forward to what we can intentionally build and how we as people interact with social media and platforms and take care of our wellbeing.
Future visioning for a humanized tech and worldWhy decentralized platforms can a big shiftTalking about our own inner growth and journeyThe unique challenges of being white & queer anti-racist activistsCan Marketing Be Anti-Capitalist? with Joe Cardillo
Mar 19, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽 I am back to talk with social change communicator, Joe Cardillo (they/them), to talk about navigating social change and communications in our
Joe has an amazing perspective about communications and branding and how we can reshape our world through those mediums. As our tech landscape has incentivized inauthentic behavior, we discussed how organizations and movements can overcome disintermediation, disinformation, and the enshitification of the Internet.
“When we think about communicating organization to audience, we also need to think about it as just being in a relationship. Communication is important in any relatio...
Duration: 00:27:40The Margin of Effort | 2024 Election with Natalie Burdick
Mar 04, 2024I had an amazing chat with political organizer, Natalie Burdick, where we discussed the upcoming election, Democratic messaging, and the importance of strategic campaign efforts in Arizona and the California Central Valley.
Focusing on Impactful Campaign Efforts The 3 Messaging Strategies to Remember: Don’t repeat MAGA talking points, Talk about us and our vision, & Repetition, repetition, repetition Economic Messaging & Democratic Party Strategy Unprecedented Victories in Local and State Elections Strategies for Political EngagementI love talking to Natalie because she can share complex electoral stakes in the simplest of terms. I hope you en...
Duration: 00:32:02Racism is the Water not the Shark
Feb 12, 2024Hi Y’all! 👋🏽 We pick up our conversation with Sharon Hurley Hall. We get real about white supremacy and how we as individuals can push back and be anti-racist activists in this current world. We discuss the audiobook release of her book, I’m Tired of Racism, and how racism is the waters that we swim in, not just the shark. Our conversation held both hope and reality and how
Elevating voices and being a conduit of truth in this moment of racial and social awakeningFinding hope in the micro and local level, while looking at the global impactPushi... Duration: 00:29:54Mission Equality | Practicing Equalism in Organizations
Feb 06, 2024In our first podcast of 2024, we spoke with Sharon Hurley Hall, Mission Equality founder, about her organization’s mission to build an anti-capitalist approach to organizations. Sharon recounted her journey from freelance writer to anti-racism advocate and co-founder of Mission Equality.
We explored the impact of the 2020 uprisings had on her shift to being more publicly vocal about her experiences of racism. Eventually leading to her collaboration with co-founder Lea Jovy. We explored the differences between equity and equality and what that means in the work of Mission Equality. Mission Equality works with start-ups, non-profits and pro...
Duration: 00:26:16Israel-Palestine & Its Impacts on U.S. Organizing in the 2024 Election
Dec 18, 2023Hi Y’all! We pick up from my conversation with organizer, Nadia Rahman.
In the second half of our conversation, we focused on the implications for progressives in the U.S. and how we can approach the 2024 election to better hold lawmakers accountable and see the change we deserve. What I loved most was the message of hope that kept emerging. We can stay empowered in the fight for liberatory change. I hope you enjoy our conversation!
About Nadia Rahman
Nadia is a skilled communicator, activist, and organizer. She ha...
Duration: 00:21:42Israel-Palestine | The Global Context & Our Role in the U.S.
Dec 11, 2023Hi Y’all! Last week, I had an amazing conversation with communications expert and organizer, Nadia Rahman. We talked about her lived experience of visiting Israel and Gaza in 2022, what has shifted for her as an organizer in this moment, how people in the U.S. can take action, and what this means as organizers going into the 2024 election.
Before we jump into the podcast, I want to acknowledge the emotions and grief surrounding the events in Israel and Gaza. My heart is with everyone who is suffering in this moment. At Roots of Change, we le...
Duration: 00:26:48