Let's Talk Social Innovation

Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast
Let's Talk Social Innovation

At Let's Talk Social Innovation, we believe in the power of transformative conversations to drive meaningful change in our communities. Our podcast serves as a platform for University of Pittsburgh members and community leaders to come together and discuss the inspiring work they are doing in the realm of social innovation. Join us on this transformative journey as we explore the frontiers of social innovation, share remarkable stories, and unlock the potential within each of us to create a more equitable and sustainable world.

  1. MAR 24

    Episode 7 (ft. Dr. John Brigham) - Engineering, Diversity, and the Importance of Travel

    Welcome to Season 4, Episode 7 of the Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. John Brigham, professor at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Brigham talks about his upbringing in Vermont and shifting to a more diverse culture with age, and how that shaped his career. In the second half, we talk about the importance of travel and how it can impact your worldview.Join us for an inspiring discussion about passion, purpose, and the importance of creating a more sustainable and equitable world.Dr. Brigham's LinkedIn page:https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-brigham-b3bb5b48/Haven Artist Spotlighthttps://havenvenue.com/Westinghouse Atom Smasher Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westinghouse.atom.smasher/?hl=enWestinghouse Atom Smasher Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@westinghouseatomsmasherAll our links: httpsinktr.ee/socialinnovationpodGenEd Task Force- Aspire and Inspire: Chart the Future of Student Learning at PittThe Office of the Provost invites you to share your vision for general education reform at our upcoming student engagement event, Aspire and Inspire: Chart the Future of Student Learning at Pitt. This event will take place in the University Club Ballroom B (second floor), from 5pm-7pm on Monday, March 24th. Dinner will be served, and we will be raffling off Panther Pride baskets! Students can receive OCC credit for participating. Please RSVP at this link in bio.Ideas to Action: Creating Social ChangeThe leap from social media posts and chats with friends to effective social action feels like it is ever growing. Join Dr. Daniel Mikecz on March 25th at 6:00 pm in Cathedral of Learning 2017 as we explore how we can find meaningful steps towards social engagement and change. Dr. Mikecz is a current Fulbright Scholar at Pitt and a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Political Science of the HUN-REN Centre for Social Sciences in Budapest. He is also a guest lecturer at the Eötvös Loránd University Budapest. His research interests include social movements, civil society and political participation.Meghana Dodda Book CelebrationEnjoy an exclusive interview with current Frederick Honors undergraduate Meghana Dodda as she discusses the inspiration behind her recent children’s book publication There is Color Everywhere on Thursday, March 27 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in Room 630 in the William Pitt Union! Moderated by Ron Idoko, this celebratory gathering will take a look into how a children’s book is made where the author will discuss how Reci teaches us the importance of empathy, fairness, and embracing the many colors of the world around us. The discussion will end with a formal Q&A session and time afterwards to meet the author herself! Register here.

    57 min
  2. MAR 17

    Episode 6 (ft. Dr. Leah Fabiano)- Cultural Awareness, Anti-Machismo, and Sticking in Academia

    Happy Women's History Month!Welcome to Season 4, Episode 6 of the Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Leah Fabiano, professor at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Fabiano talks about growing up in a homogenous community and shifting to a more diverse culture with age, and how that shaped her career and worldviews. In the second half, we discuss how minorities can get ahead in academia.Join us for an inspiring discussion about passion, purpose, and the importance of creating a more sustainable and equitable world.The Bilingual Phonology LabDepartment of Communication Science and Disorders: https://sites.google.com/pitt.edu/bpl/homeIG: @bilingual_fablabDr. Fabiano's LinkedIn page:https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-fabiano-0a7995b/Dr. Fabiano's Consulting Company: https://thebilingualchild.org/IG: @the.bilingual.childPittsburgh-based organizations to donate to:The Latino Community Centerhttps://www.latinocommunitycenter.org/Casa San Joséhttps://www.casasanjose.org/Hello Neighborhttps://www.helloneighbor.io/Haven Artist Spotlighthttps://havenvenue.com/Hollow North Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollownorthofficial/Hollow North Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HollowNorthOfficialAll our links: httpsinktr.ee/socialinnovationpodOn Writing the Body Join Cole Arthur Riley New York Times bestselling author of Black Liturgies and This Here Flesh Cole Arthur Riley and FHC Writer-in-Residence Damon Young on Wednesday, March 19 at 11:30 a.m. ! This will be an intimate writing workshop about writing the bodies we inhabit. It will be a hands-on experience. The first 5 students at the event will receive a free copy of Black Liturgies. Register here.  An Evening with Cole Arthur Riley FHC's Writer-in-Residence, Damon Young, is bringing Cole Arthur Riley to campus for a special conversation on Wednesday, March 19 at 6 p.m. at Heinz Chapel! Cole Arthur Riley is a Pitt alum and New York Times best-selling author of Black Liturgies and This Here Flesh. Claim your spot at the link in the bio. https://forms.monday.com/forms/1900f56ca576494971202d08b69f881a?r=use1 The first 15 FHC students at the event will receive a free copy of Black Liturgies. Women’s History Month Join the Community and Governmental Relations Committee of the Student Government Board on March 19th at 7pm in Nordy's Place for their annual Women in Politics Panel. The goal of this panel is to celebrate women’s history month and promote civic engagement on Pitt’s campus. No registeration neededThe panelists are Dr. Kris Kanthak, Morgan Overton, Kipp Dawson, and Olivia Pinocci- Washington. GenEd Task Force- Aspire and Inspire: Chart the Future of Student Learning at Pitt The Office of the Provost invites you to share your vision for general education reform at our upcoming student engagement event, Aspire and Inspire: Chart the Future of Student Learning at Pitt. This event will take place in the University Club Ballroom B (second floor), from 5pm-7pm on Monday, March 24th.  Dinner will be served, and we will be raffling off Panther Pride baskets!  Students can receive OCC credit for participating. Please RSVP at this link in bio. Ideas to Action: Creating Social Change The leap from social media posts and chats with friends to effective social action feels like it is ever growing. Join Dr. Daniel Mikecz on March 25th at 6:00 pm in Cathedral of Learning 2017 as we explore how we can find meaningful steps towards social engagement and change. Dr. Mikecz is a current Fulbright Scholar at Pitt and a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Political Science of the HUN-REN Centre for Social Sciences in Budapest. He is also a guest lecturer at the Eötvös Loránd University Budapest. His research interests include social movements, civil society and political participation.

    1 hr
  3. MAR 10

    Episode 5 (ft. Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch) - Period Zero, Imposter Syndrome, and Finding Motivation

    Happy Women's History Month!Welcome to Season 4, Episode 5 of the Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast. In this episode, we talk with Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch, founder of Period Zero. Dr. Audra touches on her journey from her homeless upbringing, to founding nonprofits and owning 2 homes. In the second part of the episode, we dive into the topics of motivation, imposter syndrome, and overachieving.Join us for an inspiring discussion about passion, purpose, and the importance of creating a more sustainable and equitable world.Dr. Lewis-Hoesch's linktree: https://linktr.ee/dr_lewis_hoeschPeriod Zero creates equitable access to opportunities, providing a dynamic space where learners can launch businesses, practice in-demand competencies, and engage in professional networking. Through human-centered design, equity-driven solutions, and immersive experiences, we aim to close opportunity gaps, inspire innovation, and empower communities to thrive.Email: info@periodzero.aiHaven Artist Spotlighthttps://havenvenue.com/Townsppl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/townsppl_Debut Album: https://www.townsppl.com/beyond-the-garden-wallAll our links: httpsinktr.ee/socialinnovationpodSir Lewis w/ Dr. Michael SawyerFHC students, join acclaimed author and FHC Electus-Faculty-Fellow, Dr. Michael Sawyer, as he discusses his newly released book, Sir Lewis, on March 11 at 11 a.m.. This authoritative biography traces Lewis Hamilton's journey from his early days karting on local tracks to the high-stakes world of Formula One. Food, Beverages and 80 HOCC points provided! Sign up at the link in Bio: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084FA9A923ABF4C16-54915071-pittsburgh#/Dean's Stirring Stories Afternoon TeaThe social season is upon us, and campus is abuzz as The David C. Frederick Honors College welcomes Artist in Residence, Morgan Overton, as the keynote speaker to the Annual Dean's Stirring Stories Afternoon Tea on Tuesday, March 12,from noon to 1:30 p.m.. It promises to be the most splendid afternoon once more as attendees regard an inspirational narrative from the keynote on those who have empowered and contributed to their success. Prior reservation is absolutely essential to avoid disappointment, so secure your spot to be a part of this delightful occasion.https://forms.monday.com/forms/29ddbb05b80735bcfb6d7e7eb352d665?r=use1An Evening with Cole Arthur RileyFHC's Writer-in-Residence, Damon Young, is bringing Cole Arthur Riley to campus for a special conversation on Wednesday, March 19 at 6 p.m. at Heinz Chapel! Cole Arthur Riley is a Pitt alum and New York Times best-selling author of Black Liturgies and This Here Flesh. Claim your spot at the link in the bio. https://forms.monday.com/forms/1900f56ca576494971202d08b69f881a?r=use1The first 15 FHC students at the event will receive a free copy of Black Liturgies.GenEd Task Force- Aspire and Inspire: Chart the Future of Student Learning at PittThe Office of the Provost invites you to share your vision for general education reform at our upcoming student engagement event, Aspire and Inspire: Chart the Future of Student Learning at Pitt. This event will take place in the University Club Ballroom B (second floor), from 5pm-7pm on Monday, March 24th. Dinner will be served, and we will be raffling off Panther Pride baskets! Students can receive OCC credit for participating. Please RSVP at this link in bio.

    33 min
  4. FEB 24

    Episode 4 (ft. Kyle Wyche) - Ecotone Renewables, Track, and Male Vulnerability

    Happy Black History Month! Welcome to Season 4, Episode 4 of the Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast. In this episode, we interview Kyle Wyche, Chief Operating Officer of Ecotone Renewables. Kyle shares his unique journey from growing up in Wynmore, PA, to pursuing a double major at the University of Pittsburgh and ultimately finding his passion in sustainable food systems. We explore his entrepreneurial spirit, his experience building terrariums, and how these early interests led him to his current work at Ecotone. In the second part of the episode, we delve into a powerful conversation about emotional vulnerability and the experiences of Black men. Join us for an inspiring discussion about passion, purpose, and the importance of creating a more sustainable and equitable world.Kyle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-wyche?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profileEcotone Renewables: https://www.ecotonerenewables.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ecotonerenew/?hl=en Haven Artist Spotlighthttps://havenvenue.com/Sunny Daze & The Weathermen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moontownpghSpotify: https://linktr.ee/moontownbandAll our links: httpsinktr.ee/socialinnovationpodApply to Present at the 2025 FHC Research & Creative Expression Symposium The 2025 FHC Research & Creative Expression Symposium will be held on Friday, March 28 at the University Club on the Pittsburgh Campus. . Apply at the link in the description below to present your work by February 26! here FHC Summer 2025 Research, Creative & Community Fellowships Applications are now open through Wednesday, February 26tth for paid summer fellowships & internships with FHC's Offices of Research and Community Engaged Learning. Programs include Frederick & Keefe Public Service Internships along with these Fellowships: Brackenridge, Community Research, Creative Arts, Health Sciences, and more. Check out the link in the bio to learn more. Deadline: Wednesday, February 26 Visit Brew house Arts with FHC Join FHC in a special visit to Brew House Arts in Southside on February 27 from 4 to 5:30 p.m.! This will be a unique chance for a behind the scenes look at the art center with Executive Director Natalie Sweet, and current exhibition: When the Lights Come on... curated by Hannah Turpin. Food and 40 HOCC points will be available for those in attendance! ONLY 20 SPOTS AVAILABLE! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084FA9A923ABF4C16-54979626-visit#/ August Wilson House Visit with FHC Join the Frederick Honors College for a visit to the August Wilson House on Friday, February 28th. This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Pittsburgh poet and playwright legend, August Wilson. Most of his work is based in Pittsburgh and is informed by his experiences in the Hill District. There has been transportation arranged to and from the August Wilson House. You will meet FHC staff in front of the Oaklander at 2:00pm and return back to campus by 4:30pm. Claim your spot here! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0849A4AF2FA1FDC25-55151312-august Human Flourishing Symposium The Human Flourishing Symposium: Exploring Pathways to Thriving, taking place March 24, invites you to showcase your research, projects, or creative scholarship through poster presentations. This is a unique opportunity to share your work with an interdisciplinary audience of scholars, practitioners, and community members who are passionate about fostering resilience, equity, and well-being. Submissions are due by February 28th.

    56 min
  5. FEB 17

    Episode 3 (ft. Alivia Pierce) - Zines, Vietnam, and Black Queerness

    Happy Black History Month! Welcome to Season 4, Episode 3 of the Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast. In this episode, we interview Alivia Pierce, double major at the University of Pittsburgh and author of "Can I Kick It?". Alivia talks about their experience growing up in Erie PA, and reveals hidden secrets about the research process. In the second portion of the episode, we discuss the intersectionality of being both black and queer in America. Join us for an insightful discussion on identity, belonging, and the importance of creating inclusive environments.Alivia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alivia-pierce-6252a4267/Alivia's Email: agp44@pitt.eduAlivia's Bibliography: https://aliviabibliography.tiiny.site/Haven Artist Spotlighthttps://havenvenue.com/Sunny Daze & The Weathermen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnydazepgh/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/6rPiATEJxGjiTVFlVyAjeR?si=XXP8Y8JNQdW9yJRU3WNaPw&context=spotify%3Aalbum%3A7kV52MtJ3xv8JIcmvdUjq3All our links: https://linktr.ee/socialinnovationpodBlack History Month Film ScreeningJoin FHC on February 18th for a special screening of the 2002 film Drumline in celebration of Black History Month. This comedy-drama film follows a naturally gifted drummer from Harlem as he helps his Atlanta College marching band defeat their long-time rival. More updates to come, 80 HOCC will be points provided. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084FA9A923ABF4C16-54309065-black#/Intermission ft. Envisioning a Just PittsburghJoin us for the Envisioning A Just Pittsburgh Exhibition and Reception, held as part of the August Wilson African American Cultural Center’s monthly "artful networking" series Intermission. It will be a celebration of creativity, diversity, and the vision of a more just and equitable Pittsburgh. This will be a Pitt Free Arts Encounter and there will be a bus leaving Oakland at 6:10 pm for the August Wilson Center. The bus will leave the August Wilson Center at 9:00pm. More details will be provided regarding where to meet the bus. Link to sign up for bus:https://wkf.ms/4aOllp2 Apply to Present at the 2025 FHC Research & Creative Expression SymposiumThe 2025 FHC Research & Creative Expression Symposium will be held on Friday, March 28 at the University Club on the Pittsburgh Campus. . Apply at the link in the description below to present your work by February 26!hereFHC Summer 2025 Research, Creative & Community FellowshipsApplications are now open through Wednesday, February 26tth for paid summer fellowships & internships with FHC's Offices of Research and Community Engaged Learning. Programs include Frederick & Keefe Public Service Internships along with these Fellowships: Brackenridge, Community Research, Creative Arts, Health Sciences, and more. Check out the link in the bio to learn more.Deadline: Wednesday, February 26

    1h 7m
  6. FEB 10

    Episode 2 (ft. Jarrod Lovelace) - Food, Teaching, and Navigating PWIs

    Happy Black History Month! Welcome to Season 4, Episode 2 of the Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Jarrod Lovelace, the manager of Recruitment at the Office of Admissions and FHC. Jarrod gives insight on his experiences growing up as a mixed child in his community and takes us through the cultivation of his relationship with food. In the second portion of the episode, we discuss how to survive and thrive in a predominantly white institution. Join us for an insightful discussion on identity, belonging, and the importance of creating inclusive environments.Jarrod's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrod-lovelace-4bbb14243/Jarrod's email: JML312@pitt.eduHaven Artist Spotlighthttps://havenvenue.com/Mr.Dr's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/its.mrdr/Mr.Dr's Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/0nxNUQkeKCTKDpKX18BFnN?si=64ff652ee98b43bc&nd=1&dlsi=5849de06bf474f0cAll our links: https://linktr.ee/socialinnovationpod"Late Night Stories" An Evening featuring Ray Angry, Louis Cato, Will Lee, and Joe SaylorStep into the world of late-night television with fellow FHC students on February 15th at 7:40pm in an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling as seen on The Tonight Show, The Late Show, and more. Highlighting the rich connection between music and storytelling, shared from their unique perspective, they'll offer a rare glimpse into the magic behind late-night TV's most iconic moments. Transportation will be provided!https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084FA9A923ABF4C16-54307929-late#/Black History Month Film Screening Join FHC on February 18th for a special screening of the 2002 film Drumline in celebration of Black History Month. This comedy-drama film follows a naturally gifted drummer from Harlem as he helps his Atlanta College marching band defeat their long-time rival. More updates to come, 80 HOCC will be points provided. Apply to Present at the 2025 FHC Research & Creative Expression SymposiumThe 2025 FHC Research & Creative Expression Symposium will be held on Friday, March 28 at the University Club on the Pittsburgh Campus. It is an opportunity for FHC students and recipients of FHC administered research, creative arts, and community research fellowships to present their work to peers and faculty from a variety of fields across the university. Apply at the link in the description below to present your work by February 26!https://upitt.infoready4.com/#freeformCompetitionDetail/1956482FHC Summer 2025 Research, Creative & Community FellowshipsApplications are now open through Wednesday, February 26tth for paid summer fellowships & internships with FHC's Offices of Research and Community Engaged Learning. Programs include Frederick & Keefe Public Service Internships along with these Fellowships: Brackenridge, Community Research, Creative Arts, Health Sciences, and two specialized Brackenridge options for projects including Sustainability or work with the Dick Thornburgh Archive.

    1h 7m
  7. FEB 3

    Episode 1 (ft. Roger Briscoe II) - DEI, Professionalism, and Code Switching

    Happy Black History Month! Kick off Season 4 of Let's Talk Social Innovation with a powerful conversation with Roger Briscoe II, Executive Director of Student Inclusion at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. In episode 1, Roger shares his experiences growing up as one of the few Black children in his community, offering a unique perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion. We delve into the complexities of navigating predominantly white spaces and explore the art of effective code-switching. Join us for an insightful discussion on identity, belonging, and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Dr. Briscoe's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbriscoe2 Student Inclusion at IUP: https://www.iup.edu/studentlife/student-inclusion/index.html Haven Artist Spotlight https://havenvenue.com/ King Blue Heron's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kingblueheron/ King Blue Heron Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4KnbNS8rZ6vhCPD1AjNRkj All our links: https://linktr.ee/socialinnovationpod Ten Evenings with Antonia Hylton Join Pittsburgh Arts and Lectures for Ten Evenings on February 10 at 7:30 p.m. at Carnegie Music Hall featuring Antonia Hylton to discuss her book Madness. There will be a Q&A following her presentation with FHC Writer-In-Residence, Damon Young. 10 free tickets are available for FHC students! Claim yours now with the link in the description! "Late Night Stories" An Evening featuring Ray Angry, Louis Cato, Will Lee, and Joe Saylor Step into the world of late-night television with fellow FHC students on February 15th at 7:40pm in an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling as seen on The Tonight Show, The Late Show, and more. Highlighting the rich connection between music and storytelling, shared from their unique perspective, they'll offer a rare glimpse into the magic behind late-night TV's most iconic moments. Transportation will be provided! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084FA9A923ABF4C16-54307929-late#/ Black History Month Film Screening Join FHC on February 18th for a special screening of the 2002 film Drumline in celebration of Black History Month. This comedy-drama film follows a naturally gifted drummer from Harlem as he helps his Atlanta College marching band defeat their long-time rival. More updates to come, 80 HOCC will be points provided. Apply to Present at the 2025 FHC Research & Creative Expression Symposium The 2025 FHC Research & Creative Expression Symposium will be held on Friday, March 28 at the University Club on the Pittsburgh Campus. It is an opportunity for FHC students and recipients of FHC administered research, creative arts, and community research fellowships to present their work to peers and faculty from a variety of fields across the university. Apply at the link in the description below to present your work by February 26! https://upitt.infoready4.com/#freeformCompetitionDetail/1956482 FHC Summer 2025 Research, Creative & Community Fellowships Applications are now open through Wednesday, February 26tth for paid summer fellowships & internships with FHC's Offices of Research and Community Engaged Learning. Programs include Frederick & Keefe Public Service Internships along with these Fellowships: Brackenridge, Community Research, Creative Arts, Health Sciences, and two specialized Brackenridge options for projects including Sustainability or work with the Dick Thornburgh Archive.

    40 min

    About

    At Let's Talk Social Innovation, we believe in the power of transformative conversations to drive meaningful change in our communities. Our podcast serves as a platform for University of Pittsburgh members and community leaders to come together and discuss the inspiring work they are doing in the realm of social innovation. Join us on this transformative journey as we explore the frontiers of social innovation, share remarkable stories, and unlock the potential within each of us to create a more equitable and sustainable world.

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