Urban Beginnings Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Tony Lopez, an environmental planner at AECOM, to discuss his diverse experience in environmental planning and the importance of collaboration in urban development. Tony shares insights on his APA Distinguished Contribution Award, his efforts in mentoring young planners, and the impact of social mixers and educational events. We also explore tactical urbanism, a s...

In this episode, we recap our first year! and briefly talk about our goals for UB next year. #UrbanPlanning #AffordableHousing #FaithLands #CommunityDevelopment #SustainableCities #Policy #LandUse #EquityInPlanning Support the show: https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings Our Website: ⁠ urbanbeginningspodcast.com Instagram: @urban.beginnings Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the...

In this episode, we’re joined by Eli Cruz-Rodriguez to discuss the social determinants of health and how they relate to and intersect with urban planning. Eli shares insights from his work in nutrition and community health, exploring how urban environments can support—or hinder—well-being in underserved communities. #greengentrification #foodanxiety #foodelitism #UrbanPlanning #AffordableHousing #...

In this episode, we briefly talk about SB 4, the Affordable Housing on Faith Lands Act, and discuss some of the challenges and opportunities it can create. #UrbanPlanning #AffordableHousing #FaithLands #CommunityDevelopment #SustainableCities #Policy #LandUse #EquityInPlanning Support the show: https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings Our Website: ⁠ urbanbeginningspodcast.com Instagram: @urban.beginnings...

Affordable housing is a big issue today. With rising home prices and stagnant wages, many families are struggling to find homes they can afford. But there’s a solution! Community Land Trusts (CLTs) can help keep homes affordable for generations. CLTs are nonprofit groups that own land for the community’s benefit. This means the land is not for sale in the market, so it stays affordable. Homeowners...

In this episode, we give an update on our podcast, we discuss Pedestrian Safety Month, and discuss LatinLabic #PedestrianSafety #UrbanPlanning #ActiveParticipation #ActiveEngagement #EmbeddedPlanning #LatinoUrbanism #Community #SocialInnovation Support the show: https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings Our Website: ⁠ urbanbeginningspodcast.com Instagram: @urban.beginnings Subscribe, like, tell people abo...

In this episode, we chat it up with Ortopedia Urbana a cultural collective based in Mexico that focuses on urban renewal and community engagement through innovative projects. Ortopedia Urbana is dedicated to revitalizing public spaces by encouraging local participation and collaboration among different community stakeholders, including government entities, academic institutions, and private sector...

Tune in to Episode 5: "Active Transportation and Tactical Urbanism with Isaac Gonzalez." This episode delves into urban transportation, focusing on active transportation, tactical urbanism, and community initiatives. Explore the challenges and successes of infrastructure improvements, advocating for safer streets, and engaging with city policies. Discover the importance of community involvement, t...

Join us as we launch our new series, Pathways, featuring Amy Nguyen, a private sector planner transitioning into the public sector. Amy shares insights into her career shift and her passion project, Elements of Sacramento. #community #urbanplanning #communityempowerment #communityimpact #pathways Support the show Our Website: ⁠ urbanbeginningspodcast.com Instagram: @urban.beginnings Subscribe, lik...

Welcome to another Episode of Urban Beginnings, featuring our esteemed guest, Enoc Mendoza, Transportation Planner for Kern County in Central Valley California. Join us for Episode 3. Let's Make Transportation Cool Again as we explore some elements of the world of transportation planning and chat about our varied personal and professional experiences in the public transit space. This episode cover...

In this episode, we briefly touch on the backgrounds of Christopher Livingston, Director at the Historical Research Center (HCR) at California State University Bakersfield, and Donato Cruz, Research Analyst at the HRC and how their education and lived experiences have served as a foundation for the remarkable contributions to The exhibit, America's New Cities: Housing and 'Redlining' in California...

In Episode 1, we dive deep into equitable food systems with Ryan Thayer, a passionate advocate from the Bay Area. With an MA in Urban Affairs and a BA in Urban Studies and Planning, Ryan's career is dedicated to empowering communities and bridging the gap at the local level. 🍏 Ryan believes in the transformative potential of community food systems to break down systemic barriers and foster thrivi...

We're thrilled to announce the early release of Episode 0 – our debut podcast titled "Who Are We?" Join us on February 15th for an early glimpse of our podcast, Urban Beginnings, as we introduce ourselves and let you know what's in store. Don't miss out! Urban Beginnings is a podcast co-hosted by practicing planners Blair Czarecki and Rogelio Martinez. Influenced by their love for spaces and place...