The Gap Minders

Cloudcast

The show taking the lead on catalytic conversations spurring listeners to think critically about some of our world’s most pressing issues and be compelled to take action. We have plenty of gaps in America and right here in San Diego—educational, racial, wealth, health, literacy, and more. Welcome to The Gap Minders, the podcast taking on these GAPS—one conversation at a time. To tackle these gaps and lift lives, United Way of San Diego County and the San Diego Council on Literacy have joined forces. The Gap Minders weekly episodes will inform, inspire, and illuminate the gaps and the solutions. Through insightful conversations with a range of notable and engaging guests, including education experts, political figures dedicated to improving our region, and influential changemakers passionate about equity for all children and families, we will make a difference. Thank you for your time, attention, heart, and mind.

  1. 21H AGO

    Season 4: Episode 10 | Rafael Parra, Executive Director, RafaBids

    GAPTIVISTS LIVE HERE Jose Cruz hosts "The Gap Minders" podcast, focusing on addressing various gaps in San Diego, including education, racial, and economic disparities. Guest Rafael Parra, executive director of RafaBids, discusses the lack of African American and Latino participation in city contracts, often due to the large scale of projects. RafaBids aims to bridge this gap by promoting smaller projects and leveraging AI to simplify the bidding process. Rafael emphasizes the importance of economic opportunities for minority communities and encourages young people to persist and utilize available tools like AI to succeed in government contracting. Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community. About The San Diego Council On Literacy Since 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community. To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.org About LIFE: San Diego Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.   About Cloudcast Media   "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.   This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mekund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.

    38 min
  2. MAY 4

    Season 4: Episode 9 | Jacqueline Luna Reynoso, Founder & CEO, Quisqueya

    GAPTIVISTS LIVE HERE Jacqueline Reynoso, founder and CEO of Quisqueya, discusses her journey from National City to becoming a public policy advocate. She highlights her work on the binational trolley crossing project, which aims to extend the San Diego trolley into Tijuana, and her role in community development and economic growth. Reynoso emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement and bridging opportunities between different sectors. She also shares her transition to Quisqueya, a binational, bilingual consulting firm, and her current projects, including a binational rail study and urban greening initiatives. Reynoso encourages youth to get involved in their communities and stresses the value of community partnerships. Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community. About The San Diego Council On Literacy Since 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community. To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.org About LIFE: San Diego Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.   About Cloudcast Media   "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.   This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mekund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.

    39 min
  3. APR 20

    Season 4: Episode 8 | Rebecca Mendiola, CEO, Collective Impact Solutions

    GAPTIVISTS LIVE HERE Dr. Rebecca Mendiola, CEO and founder of Collective Impact Solutions, discusses her nonprofit's mission to bridge systems and communities, focusing on marginalized families and youth. She emphasizes the importance of systems change and transformation, working with school districts, city and county departments, and community-based organizations. Mendiola highlights her extensive experience in education and social work, including her role as an assistant superintendent. She shares success stories, such as a recent conference in Vista that brought together parents, educators, and community partners to co-design solutions. Mendiola stresses the need for leaders to trust the process and the importance of community involvement in achieving systemic change. Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community. About The San Diego Council On Literacy Since 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community. To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.org About LIFE: San Diego Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.   About Cloudcast Media   "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.   This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mekund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.

    38 min
  4. APR 6

    Season 4: Episode 7 | Liz Bui, CEO, Yulex Brands Corp

    GAPTIVISTS LIVE HERE Liz Bui, CEO of Yulex Brand Corporation, discusses her journey from a Vietnamese refugee to a patent lawyer and entrepreneur. She highlights the importance of education and role models, particularly for underrepresented groups. Yulex focuses on natural rubber alternatives to synthetic materials, addressing environmental concerns and health risks associated with synthetic products. Bui emphasizes the need for innovation and adaptation, sharing her experiences in biotech, pharma, and natural rubber production. She advocates for curiosity and continuous learning, particularly in STEM fields, to inspire future generations. Yulex's products, including natural rubber foam and spandex replacements, aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve sustainability. Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community. About The San Diego Council On Literacy Since 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community. To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.org About LIFE: San Diego Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.   About Cloudcast Media   "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.   This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mekund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.

    44 min
  5. MAR 23

    Season 4: Episode 6 | Bob Lehman, Executive Director, San Diego ARTS Matters

    GAPTIVISTS LIVE HERE Jose Cruz hosts the "Gap Minders" podcast, focusing on addressing various gaps in society, including education, racial wealth, health, and literacy. In this episode, he interviews Bob Lehman, Executive Director of San Diego Arts Matters, about his journey from Indiana to San Diego, his work in the arts, and his role in advocating for arts funding and support. Lehman discusses the importance of collaboration among arts organizations, the need for self-sufficiency in nonprofits, and the impact of the arts on the local economy. He emphasizes the significance of marketing and community engagement in promoting the arts and fostering a thriving cultural ecosystem. Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community. About The San Diego Council On Literacy Since 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community. To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.org About LIFE: San Diego Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.   About Cloudcast Media   "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.   This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mekund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.

    45 min
  6. MAR 16

    Season 4: Episode 5 | Fred Buggs, Regional Director, California Department of Education

    GAPTIVISTS LIVE HERE The "Gap Minders" podcast, hosted by Jose Cruz, discusses the various educational, racial, wealth, health, and literacy gaps in America, particularly in San Diego. In this episode, Jose interviews Fred Buggs, a Regional Director from the California Department of Education, who oversees expanded learning programs in San Diego, Orange, and Imperial Counties. Fred emphasizes the importance of creating safe and quality after-school programs that address academic, physical, and recreational needs. He highlights the significant investment in expanded learning programs in California, with a $5 billion budget, and shares personal anecdotes about the impact of mentorship and community involvement. Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community. About The San Diego Council On Literacy Since 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community. To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.org About LIFE: San Diego Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.   About Cloudcast Media   "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.   This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mekund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.

    39 min
  7. FEB 23

    Season 4: Episode 4 | Sarah Tuakli-Cooper, Executive Director, Elementary Institute of Science

    GAPTIVISTS LIVE HERE The "Gap Minders" podcast, hosted by Jose Cruz, discusses the work of Sarah Tuakli-Cooper, Executive Director of the Elementary Institute of Science (EIS). EIS, a 61-year-old organization, focuses on STEM education for children from grades 1 to 12, particularly in high-need communities. The program serves 11 schools in the Lincoln cluster, providing intensive science education for fourth and fifth graders and outreach for younger students. EIS also offers after-school programs, including a Girls Take Flight initiative for high school girls interested in drone piloting. The conversation highlights the importance of hands-on learning, community engagement, and the role of AI in education. Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community. About The San Diego Council On Literacy Since 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community. To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.org About LIFE: San Diego Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.   About Cloudcast Media   "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.   This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mekund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.

    36 min
  8. FEB 9

    Season 4: Episode 3 | Margaux Stack-Babich, Director, Community Outreach, UCSD Moores Cancer Center

    GAPTIVISTS LIVE HERE The "Gap Minders" podcast, hosted by Jose Cruz, discusses the various gaps in society, including educational, racial, wealth, health, and literacy disparities. In this episode, Jose interviews Margaux Stack-Babich, Director of Community Outreach at UCSD Morris Cancer Center. Margaux emphasizes the importance of health equity and addressing cancer disparities through data-driven outreach. Her team focuses on communities with higher rates of infection-related diseases and lower screening rates, particularly in underserved areas like the northern and eastern parts of San Diego County. They also stress the need for clear, accessible information to combat misinformation and improve health  Thank you so much for listening to this episode of The Gap Minders. If you enjoyed this podcast, please feel free to learn more about our GAPtivist movement at www.TheGapMinders.org where we believe that regardless of age, anyone can be a GAPtivist for their community. About The San Diego Council On Literacy Since 1986, The San Diego Council On Literacy has been dedicated to the mission of "Literacy For All." Central to the literacy effort in San Diego County is the work of the 35 programs that are affiliated with the San Diego Council on Literacy. Annually, they serve over 100,000 residents of all ages, at no cost. We are honored to work in partnership with dedicated organizations that provide tutoring, literacy resources, and support to the community. To learn more about The San Diego Council On Literacy, please visit www.literacysandiego.org About LIFE: San Diego Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE): San Diego is a privately funded program to venture test small scale new ideas for increasing literacy for young adults ranging from reading and math to science and media.   About Cloudcast Media   "The Gap Minders" is part of Cloudcast Media's line-up of powerful local podcasts, telling the stories, highlighting the people, and celebrating the gravitational power of local.   For more information on Cloudcast and its shows and cities served, please visit www.cloudcastmedia.us. Cloudcast Media | the national leader in local podcasting.  Listen Where You Live.   This episode was produced by Shreyasi Mekund, Associate Producer and Brandon Joe, Senior Producer.

    44 min

About

The show taking the lead on catalytic conversations spurring listeners to think critically about some of our world’s most pressing issues and be compelled to take action. We have plenty of gaps in America and right here in San Diego—educational, racial, wealth, health, literacy, and more. Welcome to The Gap Minders, the podcast taking on these GAPS—one conversation at a time. To tackle these gaps and lift lives, United Way of San Diego County and the San Diego Council on Literacy have joined forces. The Gap Minders weekly episodes will inform, inspire, and illuminate the gaps and the solutions. Through insightful conversations with a range of notable and engaging guests, including education experts, political figures dedicated to improving our region, and influential changemakers passionate about equity for all children and families, we will make a difference. Thank you for your time, attention, heart, and mind.