As the holiday season invites reflection, family, and hope, this special episode of Dreaming Big, Working Hard asks a deeper question: what does faith really look like when times are hard?

David Alvarez sits down with Father Scott Santarosa, SJ, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Barrio Logan, for a powerful conversation about faith, immigration, and human dignity at the border. While many celebrate the holidays with loved ones, countless immigrant families are living in fear and uncertainty—feeling hunted, unseen, and unsafe.

Together, they reflect on the story of the Holy Family—a young couple forced to flee to protect their child—and how that story feels strikingly present today. Father Scott shares how the church has become a place of refuge, community, and action, and why faith during the holidays isn’t just about tradition or celebration, but about showing up for one another.

Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, observing the season quietly, or simply searching for meaning at the end of the year, this conversation offers a reminder that faith is not just something we believe—it’s something we live, especially when it matters most.

📌 Topics include:
Immigration fear and trauma during the holidays


The Holy Family and modern-day migration


Jesuit spirituality, discernment, and hope


Faith in action vs. faith as words


Finding light and dignity in dark times



✨ If this conversation brings you hope this season, share it with someone who may need it.

Some notable moments from this episode:

00:00 – Immigrants living in fear: “We feel hunted”

02:00 – Faith as something you live, not just believe

03:30 – Father Scott’s journey to the priesthood

06:00 – Discernment, calling, and Jesuit spirituality

09:20 – Spiritual Exercises & finding peace in decisions

15:00 – Fear, trauma, and dignity in immigrant communities

18:00 – Church as refuge and “vacation from fear”

21:00 – Finding God in all things (Ignatian spirituality)

27:00 – Saints, struggle, and human imperfection

33:00 – Immigration trauma and generational fear

35:30 – Vigil at the federal building & hope in action

40:00 – What it means to be a Jesuit parish at the border

45:00 – Dignity, dehumanization, and resistance

48:00 – Walking with people in suffering

51:00 – What “faith in action” really means

54:30 – Advent, hope, and surviving January

59:00 – Final reflections: Faith is something you do

 

#FaithInAction #ImmigrationJustice #JesuitSpirituality #HopeInHardTimes

#HumanDignity #BorderStories #SocialJustice #CatholicVoices

#FaithAndPolitics #DreamingBigWorkingHard #AdventReflection

#CommunityOverFear #SanctuaryChurch #ImmigrantStories

As the holiday season invites reflection, family, and hope, this special episode of Dreaming Big, Working Hard asks a deeper question: what does faith really look like when times are hard?
David Alvarez sits down with Father Scott Santarosa, SJ, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Barrio Logan, for a powerful conversation about faith, immigration, and human dignity at the border. While many celebrate the holidays with loved ones, countless immigrant families are living in fear and uncertainty&mdash;feeling hunted, unseen, and unsafe.
Together, they reflect on the story of the Holy Family&mdash;a young couple forced to flee to protect their child&mdash;and how that story feels strikingly present today. Father Scott shares how the church has become a place of refuge, community, and action, and why faith during the holidays isn&rsquo;t just about tradition or celebration, but about showing up for one another.
Whether you&rsquo;re celebrating Christmas, observing the season quietly, or simply searching for meaning at the end of the year, this conversation offers a reminder that faith is not just something we believe&mdash;it&rsquo;s something we live, especially when it matters most.
📌 Topics include:
<ul>
<li>Immigration fear and trauma during the holidays </li>
<li>The Holy Family and modern-day migration </li>
<li>Jesuit spirituality, discernment, and hope </li>
<li>Faith in action vs. faith as words </li>
<li>Finding light and dignity in dark times </li>
</ul>
✨ If this conversation brings you hope this season, share it with someone who may need it.
Some notable moments from this episode:
00:00 &ndash; Immigrants living in fear: &ldquo;We feel hunted&rdquo;
02:00 &ndash; Faith as something you live, not just believe
03:30 &ndash; Father Scott&rsquo;s journey to the priesthood
06:00 &ndash; Discernment, calling, and Jesuit spirituality
09:20 &ndash; Spiritual Exercises &amp; finding peace in decisions
15:00 &ndash; Fear, trauma, and dignity in immigrant communities
18:00 &ndash; Church as refuge and &ldquo;vacation from fear&rdquo;
21:00 &ndash; Finding God in all things (Ignatian spirituality)
27:00 &ndash; Saints, struggle, and human imperfection
33:00 &ndash; Immigration trauma and generational fear
35:30 &ndash; Vigil at the federal building &amp; hope in action
40:00 &ndash; What it means to be a Jesuit parish at the border
45:00 &ndash; Dignity, dehumanization, and resistance
48:00 &ndash; Walking with people in suffering
51:00 &ndash; What &ldquo;faith in action&rdquo; really means
54:30 &ndash; Advent, hope, and surviving January
59:00 &ndash; Final reflections: Faith is something you do
&nbsp;
#FaithInAction #ImmigrationJustice #JesuitSpirituality #HopeInHardTimes
#HumanDignity #BorderStories #SocialJustice #CatholicVoices
#FaithAndPolitics #DreamingBigWorkingHard #AdventReflection
#CommunityOverFear #SanctuaryChurch #ImmigrantStories

When Faith Meets Fear: Father Scott on Immigration, Trauma, and Hope

In this powerful episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard, Assemblymember David Alvarez sits down with Casey Castillo, CEO of the San Diego Food Bank, to expose the real face of hunger in San Diego — a crisis affecting 848,000 people, including teachers, seniors, nurses, military families, and children.

Casey reveals what hunger actually looks like today, why 1 in 4 San Diegans can’t reliably afford food, and how the Food Bank stepped up when 400,000 SNAP recipients and 150,000 federal/military workers were left without support during the 43-day federal shutdown — the longest in U.S. history.

You’ll hear stories from the front lines, including the emotional $1 donation from a woman who had been helped by the Food Bank before, reminding us why every dollar matters. 

We also dive into:
The rising cost of living, food inflation & credit card debt crushing families
How seniors are among the hardest hit and why demand for support is skyrocketing
How 450+ nonprofit partners help distribute 53 million pounds of food a year
Volunteer opportunities, food drives, and the Food Bank’s 45th annual holiday campaign
What California can do at the policy level to close the food insecurity gap

 

If you want to support, volunteer, donate, or find food resources, visit SanDiegoFoodBank.org.

 

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 – The $1 donation that changed everything 

00:28 – 848,000 San Diegans facing hunger: who they really are 

01:21 – Casey’s background & why he joined the Food Bank 

04:34 – Why collaboration is the only way to solve hunger 

05:53 – Serving 1 in 4 people in San Diego: the scale of the crisis 

07:24 – Partnerships with 450+ nonprofits across the county 

08:41 – How 11,000 turkeys were distributed this year 

10:19 – Why hunger is getting worse despite the COVID rebound 

12:07 – The shutdown: 400,000 SNAP recipients lose benefits 

15:34 – Why recovery isn’t instant after the government reopens 

23:22 – Seniors: the forgotten population hit hardest by hunger 

31:57 – How volunteers power the Food Bank (107,000 hours!) 

35:26 – The 45th annual Holiday Food Drive & how to help 

38:20 – Final message: Hunger is solvable — if we choose to solve it

 

HASHTAGS:

#DreamingBigWorkingHard #SanDiegoFoodBank #FoodInsecurity #HungerCrisis #DreamingBigWorkingHard #DavidAlvarez #CaseyCastillo #EndHunger #CaliforniaNonprofits #SANDiegoCommunity #FoodBank #GiveBack #VolunteerSD #HolidayFoodDrive #Podcast

 

In this powerful episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard, Assemblymember David Alvarez sits down with Casey Castillo, CEO of the San Diego Food Bank, to expose the real face of hunger in San Diego &mdash; a crisis affecting 848,000 people, including teachers, seniors, nurses, military families, and children.
Casey reveals what hunger actually looks like today, why 1 in 4 San Diegans can&rsquo;t reliably afford food, and how the Food Bank stepped up when 400,000 SNAP recipients and 150,000 federal/military workers were left without support during the 43-day federal shutdown &mdash; the longest in U.S. history.
You&rsquo;ll hear stories from the front lines, including the emotional $1 donation from a woman who had been helped by the Food Bank before, reminding us why every dollar matters.&nbsp;
We also dive into:
<ul>
<li>The rising cost of living, food inflation &amp; credit card debt crushing families</li>
<li>How seniors are among the hardest hit and why demand for support is skyrocketing</li>
<li>How 450+ nonprofit partners help distribute 53 million pounds of food a year</li>
<li>Volunteer opportunities, food drives, and the Food Bank&rsquo;s 45th annual holiday campaign</li>
<li>What California can do at the policy level to close the food insecurity gap</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
If you want to support, volunteer, donate, or find food resources, visit SanDiegoFoodBank.org.
&nbsp;
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 &ndash; The $1 donation that changed everything&nbsp;
00:28 &ndash; 848,000 San Diegans facing hunger: who they really are&nbsp;
01:21 &ndash; Casey&rsquo;s background &amp; why he joined the Food Bank&nbsp;
04:34 &ndash; Why collaboration is the only way to solve hunger&nbsp;
05:53 &ndash; Serving 1 in 4 people in San Diego: the scale of the crisis&nbsp;
07:24 &ndash; Partnerships with 450+ nonprofits across the county&nbsp;
08:41 &ndash; How 11,000 turkeys were distributed this year&nbsp;
10:19 &ndash; Why hunger is getting worse despite the COVID rebound&nbsp;
12:07 &ndash; The shutdown: 400,000 SNAP recipients lose benefits&nbsp;
15:34 &ndash; Why recovery isn&rsquo;t instant after the government reopens&nbsp;
23:22 &ndash; Seniors: the forgotten population hit hardest by hunger&nbsp;
31:57 &ndash; How volunteers power the Food Bank (107,000 hours!)&nbsp;
35:26 &ndash; The 45th annual Holiday Food Drive &amp; how to help&nbsp;
38:20 &ndash; Final message: Hunger is solvable &mdash; if we choose to solve it
&nbsp;
HASHTAGS:
#DreamingBigWorkingHard #SanDiegoFoodBank #FoodInsecurity #HungerCrisis #DreamingBigWorkingHard #DavidAlvarez #CaseyCastillo #EndHunger #CaliforniaNonprofits #SANDiegoCommunity #FoodBank #GiveBack #VolunteerSD #HolidayFoodDrive #Podcast
&nbsp;

How the San Diego Food Bank Saved Families During the Government Shutdown

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/868a979e-5d8c-4a67-90a2-b3ae01764840/transcript

In this episode of Dreaming Big, Working Hard, host David Alvarez sits down with three incredible first-generation college students from Southwestern College in San Diego. Hear their real stories of resilience, hope, and community as they navigate higher education — from immigrant beginnings and foster care to transferring to top universities like UC San Diego and San Francisco State.

Discover how mentorship, community college programs like EOPS, Guardian Scholars, and First Year Experience (FYE) helped them overcome fear, financial hardship, and self-doubt to achieve success.

David also sits down with Southwestern College President Dr. Mark Sanchez to explore how rising housing costs are pushing U.S. students to seek opportunities in Mexico. Learn about innovative binational education programs, affordable tuition options, and how Southwestern College is breaking down barriers for students on both sides of the border.

Subscribe for more conversations about education, opportunity, and what it really means to dream big and work hard.

Here some notable moments from the show:

00:00 – 00:00:27 | Opening Reflection — Overcoming the Odds

00:00:38 – 00:01:04 | Host Introduction — Welcome to “Dreaming Big, Working Hard”

00:01:04 – 00:02:05 | Why First-Gen Stories Still Matter

00:02:05 – 00:02:24 | Meet the Guests

00:02:24 – 00:05:15 | Jose’s Journey — From Tijuana to UC San Diego

00:05:15 – 00:06:23 | Building a Supportive College Community

00:06:23 – 00:07:04 | Mentorship and Guidance — Finding the Right Path

00:07:04 – 00:08:44 | Oscar’s Story — Balancing Online Learning and Double Majors

00:08:44 – 00:09:06 | Introducing Hosea — The Foster Youth Perspective

00:09:06 – 00:10:33 | Finding Purpose Through Adversity

00:10:33 – 00:11:11 | The Power of Mentorship and Pivotal Moments

00:11:11 – 00:17:18 | The “Click” Moment — Deciding to Go to College

00:17:18 – 00:20:29 | Oscar’s Turning Point — Inspired by Teachers and Parents

00:20:29 – 00:22:02 | Diana’s Motivation — From Fear to Ambition

00:22:02 – 00:24:07 | Challenges of Today’s Students

00:24:07 – 00:27:06 | Support Systems That Make a Difference

00:27:06 – 00:30:27 | Giving Back Through Mentorship

00:30:27 – 00:36:59 | Hosea’s Story — Finding Faith and Opportunity

00:36:59 – 00:38:58 | Investing in Students — Why Programs Matter

00:38:58 – 00:39:56 | Final Thoughts — Hope, Gratitude, and Paying It Forward

00:39:56 – 00:40:04 | Break Time

00:52:49 – 00:53:27 | Closing Message from David Alvarez

00:53:27 – 00:53:55 | Outro & Credits

39:15 – Outro & Call to Action: Dream Big, Work Hard

 

HASHTAGS:

#FirstGen #CommunityCollege #EducationInspiration #DreamBigWorkHard #DavidAlvarez #SouthwesternCollege #HigherEducation #SanDiego #Tijuana #BorderEducation #SouthwesternCollege #CommunityCollege #BilingualEducation #CaliforniaEducation #BorderCommunity #AD80 #SanDiegoEducation #ChulaVista #NationalCity #BarrioLogan #DreamingBigWorkingHard #TeamAlvarez #CrossBorderEducation #MexicoEducation #GlobalEducation #BiNationalRegion

 

In this episode of Dreaming Big, Working Hard, host David Alvarez sits down with three incredible first-generation college students from Southwestern College in San Diego. Hear their real stories of resilience, hope, and community as they navigate higher education &mdash; from immigrant beginnings and foster care to transferring to top universities like UC San Diego and San Francisco State.
Discover how mentorship, community college programs like EOPS, Guardian Scholars, and First Year Experience (FYE) helped them overcome fear, financial hardship, and self-doubt to achieve success.
David also sits down with Southwestern College President Dr. Mark Sanchez to explore how rising housing costs are pushing U.S. students to seek opportunities in Mexico. Learn about innovative binational education programs, affordable tuition options, and how Southwestern College is breaking down barriers for students on both sides of the border.
Subscribe for more conversations about education, opportunity, and what it really means to dream big and work hard.
Here some notable moments from the show:
00:00 &ndash; 00:00:27 | Opening Reflection &mdash; Overcoming the Odds
00:00:38 &ndash; 00:01:04 | Host Introduction &mdash; Welcome to &ldquo;Dreaming Big, Working Hard&rdquo;
00:01:04 &ndash; 00:02:05 | Why First-Gen Stories Still Matter
00:02:05 &ndash; 00:02:24 | Meet the Guests
00:02:24 &ndash; 00:05:15 | Jose&rsquo;s Journey &mdash; From Tijuana to UC San Diego
00:05:15 &ndash; 00:06:23 | Building a Supportive College Community
00:06:23 &ndash; 00:07:04 | Mentorship and Guidance &mdash; Finding the Right Path
00:07:04 &ndash; 00:08:44 | Oscar&rsquo;s Story &mdash; Balancing Online Learning and Double Majors
00:08:44 &ndash; 00:09:06 | Introducing Hosea &mdash; The Foster Youth Perspective
00:09:06 &ndash; 00:10:33 | Finding Purpose Through Adversity
00:10:33 &ndash; 00:11:11 | The Power of Mentorship and Pivotal Moments
00:11:11 &ndash; 00:17:18 | The &ldquo;Click&rdquo; Moment &mdash; Deciding to Go to College
00:17:18 &ndash; 00:20:29 | Oscar&rsquo;s Turning Point &mdash; Inspired by Teachers and Parents
00:20:29 &ndash; 00:22:02 | Diana&rsquo;s Motivation &mdash; From Fear to Ambition
00:22:02 &ndash; 00:24:07 | Challenges of Today&rsquo;s Students
00:24:07 &ndash; 00:27:06 | Support Systems That Make a Difference
00:27:06 &ndash; 00:30:27 | Giving Back Through Mentorship
00:30:27 &ndash; 00:36:59 | Hosea&rsquo;s Story &mdash; Finding Faith and Opportunity
00:36:59 &ndash; 00:38:58 | Investing in Students &mdash; Why Programs Matter
00:38:58 &ndash; 00:39:56 | Final Thoughts &mdash; Hope, Gratitude, and Paying It Forward
00:39:56 &ndash; 00:40:04 | Break Time
00:52:49 &ndash; 00:53:27 | Closing Message from David Alvarez
00:53:27 &ndash; 00:53:55 | Outro &amp; Credits
39:15 &ndash; Outro &amp; Call to Action: Dream Big, Work Hard
&nbsp;
HASHTAGS:
#FirstGen #CommunityCollege #EducationInspiration #DreamBigWorkHard #DavidAlvarez #SouthwesternCollege #HigherEducation #SanDiego #Tijuana #BorderEducation #SouthwesternCollege #CommunityCollege #BilingualEducation #CaliforniaEducation #BorderCommunity #AD80 #SanDiegoEducation #ChulaVista #NationalCity #BarrioLogan #DreamingBigWorkingHard #TeamAlvarez #CrossBorderEducation #MexicoEducation #GlobalEducation #BiNationalRegion
&nbsp;

Breaking Barriers: First-Generation Students Share Their Path to Success and Interview with Southwestern College President Dr. Mark Sanchez

For over three decades, Macedonio Arteaga has been using laughter as a weapon of empowerment. In this inspiring episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard , he shares how Chicano comedy, art, and storytelling became powerful tools to preserve culture, uplift youth, and spark social change.

From humble beginnings to creating a movement, Macedonio opens up about the challenges, victories, and unforgettable moments that defined his mission to keep the Chicano spirit alive through humor and creativity.

Expect real stories. Deep laughs. And a heartfelt reminder that our culture’s power lies in its ability to adapt, resist, and rise.

Here are some notable moments from this episode:

00:00 – Introduction: The Power of Laughter and Culture

02:15 – Who is Macedonio Arteaga? His Journey into Art & Comedy

06:40 – The Birth of Chicano Comedy and Cultural Storytelling

11:25 – Using Humor as a Tool for Empowerment

16:10 – Building a Movement: 30 Years of Community Impact

21:45 – Challenges of Keeping Chicano Culture Alive

27:30 – From Pain to Laughter: Healing Through Art

33:15 – The Role of Youth in Preserving Our Legacy

38:20 – How Representation Shapes the Next Generation

43:00 – Macedonio’s Advice to Young Creators and Activists

47:50 – Legacy, Love, and the Future of Chicano Art

51:30 – Closing Reflections & Thank You

#MacedonioArteaga #ChicanoCulture #LatinoStories #ChicanoComedy #LatinoEmpowerment #CulturalLegacy #RepresentationMatters #ArtAndActivism #LatinxPodcast #ComedyAndCulture

For over three decades, Macedonio Arteaga has been using laughter as a weapon of empowerment. In this inspiring episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard , he shares how Chicano comedy, art, and storytelling became powerful tools to preserve culture, uplift youth, and spark social change.
From humble beginnings to creating a movement, Macedonio opens up about the challenges, victories, and unforgettable moments that defined his mission to keep the Chicano spirit alive through humor and creativity.
Expect real stories. Deep laughs. And a heartfelt reminder that our culture&rsquo;s power lies in its ability to adapt, resist, and rise.
Here are some notable moments from this episode:
00:00 &ndash; Introduction: The Power of Laughter and Culture
02:15 &ndash; Who is Macedonio Arteaga? His Journey into Art &amp; Comedy
06:40 &ndash; The Birth of Chicano Comedy and Cultural Storytelling
11:25 &ndash; Using Humor as a Tool for Empowerment
16:10 &ndash; Building a Movement: 30 Years of Community Impact
21:45 &ndash; Challenges of Keeping Chicano Culture Alive
27:30 &ndash; From Pain to Laughter: Healing Through Art
33:15 &ndash; The Role of Youth in Preserving Our Legacy
38:20 &ndash; How Representation Shapes the Next Generation
43:00 &ndash; Macedonio&rsquo;s Advice to Young Creators and Activists
47:50 &ndash; Legacy, Love, and the Future of Chicano Art
51:30 &ndash; Closing Reflections &amp; Thank You
#MacedonioArteaga #ChicanoCulture #LatinoStories #ChicanoComedy #LatinoEmpowerment #CulturalLegacy #RepresentationMatters #ArtAndActivism #LatinxPodcast #ComedyAndCulture

How Laughter Saved Chicano Culture | 30 Years of Empowerment Through Art & Comedy

In this inspiring two-part conversation, Assemblymember David Alvarez sits down with Fresno State President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval and Chico State President Steve Perez to explore the power of public higher education in California. From stories of immigrant families and farmworker roots to building world-class universities, they reflect on leadership, legacy, and the role of education in shaping opportunity.

The discussion also dives into the importance of U.S.–Mexico academic partnerships, the Central Valley’s agricultural impact, wildfire resilience, and preparing the next generation of leaders. Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply someone who cares about the future of California, this episode is full of lessons on service, perseverance, and community.

Some notable moments from this episode: 

00:00:00 - Family Roots, Farm Life, and First-Gen Stories
00:03:01 - From Student to Fresno State President: A Homegrown Journey
00:06:30 - Leadership, Legacy, and the Call to Serve
00:09:13 - Agriculture as California’s Backbone and National Security
00:11:19 - Fresno State’s Cross-Border Vision: Education, Culture, and Community
00:14:21 - Partnerships in Agriculture, Health, and Cheesemaking
00:15:17 - Chico State President’s Path: From UC Davis to CSU Leadership
00:18:20 - Chico’s Unique Role: Rural Education, Agriculture, and Community
00:21:02 - Building Lasting Partnerships: Student Exchanges and Faculty Collaboration
00:24:07 - Innovation at Chico State: Workforce, Research, and Hidden Strengths

In this inspiring two-part conversation, Assemblymember David Alvarez sits down with Fresno State President Sa&uacute;l Jim&eacute;nez-Sandoval and Chico State President Steve Perez to explore the power of public higher education in California. From stories of immigrant families and farmworker roots to building world-class universities, they reflect on leadership, legacy, and the role of education in shaping opportunity.
The discussion also dives into the importance of U.S.&ndash;Mexico academic partnerships, the Central Valley&rsquo;s agricultural impact, wildfire resilience, and preparing the next generation of leaders. Whether you&rsquo;re a student, educator, or simply someone who cares about the future of California, this episode is full of lessons on service, perseverance, and community.
Some notable moments from this episode:&nbsp;
00:00:00 - Family Roots, Farm Life, and First-Gen Stories 00:03:01 - From Student to Fresno State President: A Homegrown Journey 00:06:30 - Leadership, Legacy, and the Call to Serve 00:09:13 - Agriculture as California&rsquo;s Backbone and National Security 00:11:19 - Fresno State&rsquo;s Cross-Border Vision: Education, Culture, and Community 00:14:21 - Partnerships in Agriculture, Health, and Cheesemaking 00:15:17 - Chico State President&rsquo;s Path: From UC Davis to CSU Leadership 00:18:20 - Chico&rsquo;s Unique Role: Rural Education, Agriculture, and Community 00:21:02 - Building Lasting Partnerships: Student Exchanges and Faculty Collaboration 00:24:07 - Innovation at Chico State: Workforce, Research, and Hidden Strengths

Education, Legacy & Opportunity: Conversations with Fresno & Chico State Leaders

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/da94c613-d66f-45de-a5e2-b368014a7eb3/transcript

In this episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard, host David Alvarez, sits down with former California Speaker Emeritus John A. Pérez and U.S. Consul General in Tijuana Christopher Teal to explore the powerful intersection of education, diplomacy, and economic opportunity between California and Mexico. From dual-degree programs to binational workforce development, this conversation highlights how cross-border collaboration is reshaping the future of higher education.

Together, they discuss the importance of supporting first-generation students, expanding access to affordable education, and creating innovative pathways that prepare young people for a global economy.

With stories of resilience, policy insights, and a shared vision for the future, this episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about education, opportunity, and building stronger U.S.–Mexico ties.

Some notable moments from this episode: 

00:23 – Welcoming Speaker Pérez to the Conversation

01:29 – A New Model: Dual Enrollment and Binational Education

02:55 – Beyond Bridges: Building True Integration Across Borders

05:14 – California’s Higher Education as a Path to Mobility

06:29 – From Study Abroad to Dual Degrees

08:23 – First-Generation Students and Access to Opportunity

11:23 – Geographic Inequality in Higher Education

13:38 – Merced’s Surprising PhD Pipeline

15:47 – The Middle Class Scholarship and Affordability

18:06 – Signing MOUs and Building Momentum for the Future

In this episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard, host&nbsp;David Alvarez, sits down with former California Speaker Emeritus John A. P&eacute;rez and U.S. Consul General in Tijuana Christopher Teal to&nbsp;explore the powerful intersection of education, diplomacy, and&nbsp;economic opportunity between California and Mexico. From dual-degree programs to binational workforce development, this&nbsp;conversation highlights how cross-border collaboration is reshaping the&nbsp;future of higher education.
Together, they discuss the importance of supporting first-generation&nbsp;students, expanding access to affordable education, and creating&nbsp;innovative pathways that prepare young people for a global economy.
With stories of resilience, policy insights, and a shared vision for the&nbsp;future, this episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about&nbsp;education, opportunity, and building stronger U.S.&ndash;Mexico ties.
Some notable moments from this episode:&nbsp;
00:23 &ndash; Welcoming Speaker P&eacute;rez to the Conversation
01:29 &ndash; A New Model: Dual Enrollment and Binational Education
02:55 &ndash; Beyond Bridges: Building True Integration Across Borders
05:14 &ndash; California&rsquo;s Higher Education as a Path to Mobility
06:29 &ndash; From Study Abroad to Dual Degrees
08:23 &ndash; First-Generation Students and Access to Opportunity
11:23 &ndash; Geographic Inequality in Higher Education
13:38 &ndash; Merced&rsquo;s Surprising PhD Pipeline
15:47 &ndash; The Middle Class Scholarship and Affordability
18:06 &ndash; Signing MOUs and Building Momentum for the Future

Breaking Barriers: U.S.–Mexico Education & Opportunity

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/55997fa4-fabc-4806-8106-b35c0006c5bb/transcript

California’s housing crisis impacts everyone, from skyrocketing rents and long commutes to rising homelessness. In this episode, Assemblymember David Alvarez sits down with Shane Phillips, housing policy expert and author of The Affordable City, to break down the “Three S’s” every community needs for real solutions: supply, stability, and subsidy. They discuss why building more homes isn’t enough, the importance of protecting existing residents, and how targeted subsidies can bridge the gap. Drawing on personal experiences and real-world policy challenges, David and Shane explore what it will take to make housing affordable and sustainable for future generations.

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com for more episodes and shows

Key moments from this episode:
00:00:00 - Welcome and why housing matters
00:01:21 - Shane Phillips’ journey into housing policy
00:03:22 - Personal housing experiences
00:07:11 - What communities are saying
00:11:27 - The Three S’s explained
00:15:55 - Balancing supply, stability, and subsidy
00:19:26 - Zoning, equity, and displacement
00:21:13 - The “community character” debate
00:31:26 - State vs. local action
00:38:34 - Final thoughts and takeaways

California&rsquo;s housing crisis impacts everyone, from skyrocketing rents and long commutes to rising homelessness. In this episode, Assemblymember David Alvarez sits down with Shane Phillips, housing policy expert and author of The Affordable City, to break down the &ldquo;Three S&rsquo;s&rdquo; every community needs for real solutions: supply, stability, and subsidy. They discuss why building more homes isn&rsquo;t enough, the importance of protecting existing residents, and how targeted subsidies can bridge the gap. Drawing on personal experiences and real-world policy challenges, David and Shane explore what it will take to make housing affordable and sustainable for future generations.
Don&rsquo;t forget to follow and subscribe at <a href="olasmedia.com">olasmedia.com</a> for more episodes and shows
Key moments from this episode: 00:00:00 - Welcome and why housing matters 00:01:21 - Shane Phillips&rsquo; journey into housing policy 00:03:22 - Personal housing experiences 00:07:11 - What communities are saying 00:11:27 - The Three S&rsquo;s explained 00:15:55 - Balancing supply, stability, and subsidy 00:19:26 - Zoning, equity, and displacement 00:21:13 - The &ldquo;community character&rdquo; debate 00:31:26 - State vs. local action 00:38:34 - Final thoughts and takeaways

The Housing Crisis Explained: 3 Keys to Affordability, Stability & Supply — A conversation with Shane Phillips

Josie Talamantez, lifelong activist and founding member of the Chicano Park Steering Committee, joins Assemblymember David Alvarez to share the story of how Barrio Logan residents stopped bulldozers and reclaimed land for the community.

From forming human chains in 1970 to protect Chicano Park, to creating the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center, Josie reflects on five decades of activism, preserving cultural heritage, and why murals are more than art — they’re living history.
This is a conversation about resilience, art, and what it takes to turn a neighborhood’s fight into a national landmark.

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com for more episodes and shows
Chapters:

 00:00:00 - Introduction: Dreaming Big, Working Hard
 00:00:48 - Meet Josie Talamantez: Daughter of Logan Heights
 00:02:33 - Growing Up Around Community Organizers
 00:07:52 - Chicano Park Takeover: The Day It All Started
 00:13:16 - Building the Chicano Park Steering Committee
 00:16:19 - Lessons on Long-Distance Activism
 00:23:26 - Preserving Murals and Working with Government
 00:29:01 - The Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center
 00:35:40 - Advice for the Next Generation of Activists
 00:37:38 - Looking Ahead: Celebrations and New Exhibits

 

<a href="https://chicanoparkmuseum.org/josephine-talamantez-chair/">Josie Talamantez</a>, lifelong activist and founding member of the Chicano Park Steering Committee, joins Assemblymember David Alvarez to share the story of how Barrio Logan residents stopped bulldozers and reclaimed land for the community.
From forming human chains in 1970 to protect Chicano Park, to creating the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center, Josie reflects on five decades of activism, preserving cultural heritage, and why murals are more than art &mdash; they&rsquo;re living history. This is a conversation about resilience, art, and what it takes to turn a neighborhood&rsquo;s fight into a national landmark.
Don&rsquo;t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com for more episodes and shows Chapters:
&nbsp;00:00:00 - Introduction: Dreaming Big, Working Hard &nbsp;00:00:48 - Meet Josie Talamantez: Daughter of Logan Heights &nbsp;00:02:33 - Growing Up Around Community Organizers &nbsp;00:07:52 - Chicano Park Takeover: The Day It All Started &nbsp;00:13:16 - Building the Chicano Park Steering Committee &nbsp;00:16:19 - Lessons on Long-Distance Activism &nbsp;00:23:26 - Preserving Murals and Working with Government &nbsp;00:29:01 - The Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center &nbsp;00:35:40 - Advice for the Next Generation of Activists &nbsp;00:37:38 - Looking Ahead: Celebrations and New Exhibits
&nbsp;

Power, Protest & Preserving Our Culture a conversation with Josie Talamantez

In this episode, Assemblymember David Alvarez interviews Ulizes Sanchez, a firefighter at San Diego’s Station 12 and Vice President of Bomberos de San Diego. Ulizes shares his inspiring journey from Barrio Logan to public service, reflecting on representation in the fire department, the power of mentorship, and how his nonprofit is building safer, stronger communities through outreach, scholarships, and CPR training.

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com

Key moments from this episode: 

 00:00:00 - Firefighter Dreams in Barrio Logan

00:03:37 - Getting the Cadet Call at 17

00:06:08 - The Birth of Bomberos de San Diego

00:09:28 - Representation and Role Models

00:11:22 - Giving Back: Holiday Meals & Toys

00:13:26 - Investing in Youth Through Scholarships

00:16:56 - Free CPR & Emergency Training for All

00:19:43 - How Communities Can Be Prepared

00:24:08 - Public Service as a Way of Life

00:27:34 - Advice for the Next Generation

 

In this episode, Assemblymember David Alvarez interviews Ulizes Sanchez, a firefighter at San Diego&rsquo;s Station 12 and Vice President of Bomberos de San Diego. Ulizes shares his inspiring journey from Barrio Logan to public service, reflecting on representation in the fire department, the power of mentorship, and how his nonprofit is building safer, stronger communities through outreach, scholarships, and CPR training.
Don&rsquo;t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com
Key moments from this episode:&nbsp;
&nbsp;00:00:00 - Firefighter Dreams in Barrio Logan
00:03:37 - Getting the Cadet Call at 17
00:06:08 - The Birth of Bomberos de San Diego
00:09:28 - Representation and Role Models
00:11:22 - Giving Back: Holiday Meals &amp; Toys
00:13:26 - Investing in Youth Through Scholarships
00:16:56 - Free CPR &amp; Emergency Training for All
00:19:43 - How Communities Can Be Prepared
00:24:08 - Public Service as a Way of Life
00:27:34 - Advice for the Next Generation
&nbsp;

We See People on Their Worst Day: A Conversation with Ulizes Sanchez

In the premiere episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard, California Assemblymember David Alvarez explores the transformative power of education—through policy, personal experience, and community leadership. Joined by his first guest and wife, Xochitl Alvarez, Director of Graduate Support at Nativity Prep Academy, the two reflect on their own journeys as first-generation college students and the shared mission to expand educational opportunities for all.

This episode dives into the role of early college and career conversations, the challenges and cultural barriers first-gen students face, the impact of social media and technology in the classroom, and the innovative policies California is pursuing to meet the needs of a changing workforce—including the bold vision of a new university in Chula Vista.

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe at olasmedia.com

Key moments from this episode: 

00:00 – David’s personal connection to education
02:05 – Xochitl Alvarez explains the 11-year support model
04:35 – Importance of early career exposure for middle schoolers
08:04 – Lifelong learning and competency-based education
10:22 – Cell phones, social media, and student well-being
17:40 – Cultural barriers to going away for college
21:09 – Success through structured academic planning
28:01 – Investing in career conversations at younger ages
30:47 – Expanding bachelor’s degrees at community colleges
39:44 – Why nursing was chosen for Chula Vista university

In the premiere episode of Dreaming Big Working Hard, California Assemblymember <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvarezsd/">David Alvarez </a>explores the transformative power of education&mdash;through policy, personal experience, and community leadership. Joined by his first guest and wife, Xochitl Alvarez, Director of Graduate Support at Nativity Prep Academy, the two reflect on their own journeys as first-generation college students and the shared mission to expand educational opportunities for all.
This episode dives into the role of early college and career conversations, the challenges and cultural barriers first-gen students face, the impact of social media and technology in the classroom, and the innovative policies California is pursuing to meet the needs of a changing workforce&mdash;including the bold vision of a new university in Chula Vista.
Don&rsquo;t forget to follow and subscribe at <a href="olasmedia.com">olasmedia.com</a>
Key moments from this episode:&nbsp;
00:00 &ndash; David&rsquo;s personal connection to education 02:05 &ndash; Xochitl Alvarez explains the 11-year support model 04:35 &ndash; Importance of early career exposure for middle schoolers 08:04 &ndash; Lifelong learning and competency-based education 10:22 &ndash; Cell phones, social media, and student well-being 17:40 &ndash; Cultural barriers to going away for college 21:09 &ndash; Success through structured academic planning 28:01 &ndash; Investing in career conversations at younger ages 30:47 &ndash; Expanding bachelor&rsquo;s degrees at community colleges 39:44 &ndash; Why nursing was chosen for Chula Vista university

Education Is Opportunity: A Conversation with Xochitl Alvarez

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/d57f2f8a-7bab-4064-9571-ae7c0139f8ec/clips/64133f74-9bb1-44e4-9f16-b2dc01465b0a/transcript

Dreaming Big | Working Hard with David Alvarez is a podcast about people, policy, and the power of opportunity. Hosted by California Assemblymember David Alvarez, each episode dives into the issues shaping our communities, from housing and education to economic and environmental justice. Through candid conversations with policymakers, community leaders, and everyday changemakers, David explores how dreaming big and working hard can create real, lasting progress.

Dreaming Big | Working Hard with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvarezsd/">David Alvarez</a> is a podcast about people, policy, and the power of opportunity. Hosted by California Assemblymember David Alvarez, each episode dives into the issues shaping our communities, from housing and education to economic and environmental justice. Through candid conversations with policymakers, community leaders, and everyday changemakers, David explores how dreaming big and working hard can create real, lasting progress.

Dreaming Big | Working Hard

Dreaming Big | Working Hard with David Alvarez is a podcast about people, policy, and the power of opportunity. Hosted by California Assemblymember David Alvarez, each episode dives into the issues shaping our communities, from housing and education to economic and environmental justice. Through candid conversations with policymakers, community leaders, and everyday changemakers, David explores how dreaming big and working hard can create real, lasting progress.

To know more visit: http://davidalvarez.com/

Dreaming Big | Working Hard with David Alvarez is a podcast about people, policy, and the power of opportunity. Hosted by California Assemblymember David Alvarez, each episode dives into the issues shaping our communities, from housing and education to economic and environmental justice. Through candid conversations with policymakers, community leaders, and everyday changemakers, David explores how dreaming big and working hard can create real, lasting progress.
To know more visit: http://davidalvarez.com/

Dreaming Big | Working Hard

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