The Bottom-Up Revolution

Gioia Calabretta, a graphic design intern at Strong Towns and active member of Livable Lynchburg, shares her fresh perspective on community engagement. She discusses her enlightening experience at a walk audit, underscoring the need for collaboration in advocating for pedestrian-friendly environments. Gioia contrasts the walkable lifestyle of her college days with the realities of car-centric neighborhoods, urging for impactful local changes. Her journey emphasizes the power of community leadership and collective action in transforming urban spaces.

Will Gardner, founder of South Coast Places For People and former creator of Alma del Mar Charter Schools, discusses pivotal community initiatives in Massachusetts. He shares insights on three working groups tackling parking reform, backyard cottages, and street safety. Will emphasizes the significance of local advocacy in urban design, reflecting on how thoughtful planning shapes community engagement. Additionally, he highlights the charm of Fairhaven and New Bedford, weaving personal stories into the push for more people-oriented public spaces.

Jess and Dan Sollaccio, community leaders from Warrenton, Oregon, share their vision for revitalizing their town. Jess focuses on developing a vacant building into a vibrant community hub, while Dan brings insights into budget management for local projects. They discuss the importance of an asset-based approach to strengthen community ties and enhance engagement. The couple highlights the role of communal spaces in fostering social connections and supporting local economies, emphasizing the potential of revitalizing main streets to transform small towns.

Kelsey Huse, a safe streets advocate and graduate student at the City University of Memphis, dives into the pressing issues of urban safety in one of America's most dangerous cities. She discusses her grassroots efforts in analyzing car crash sites and launching advocacy coalitions to promote safer streets. Kelsey also shares insights on personal experiences with urban planning, the role of social media in raising awareness, and the community's push for improved pedestrian and bike infrastructure. Her dedication exemplifies the impact of local advocacy on urban design.

Eva López Chávez, a city council member in Salt Lake City, brings her rich background in local government to the forefront as she shares her journey of public service. She discusses her commitment to preserving housing affordability and empowering families in the city. The conversation dives into the significance of community engagement in urban development. Eva passionately advocates for safer, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods while tackling economic challenges. Her inspiring vision emphasizes the importance of inclusive solutions that benefit all residents.

Ashley Thornton, founder of Waco Walks, focuses on enhancing walkability in Waco, Texas, inspired by her own experiences navigating the city on foot. She discusses the design flaws that make Waco challenging for pedestrians and shares how local walking initiatives foster community engagement. The conversation highlights the significant role that walkability plays in urban inclusivity and the challenges of advocating for pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Listeners can also discover charming local spots to enjoy while exploring the city on foot.

Mark Hoppen, a former city manager and Strong Towns member, shares his insights on local governance and community leadership. He discusses the importance of community involvement in urban planning while balancing growth and local character. Mark highlights transformative projects like the Gig Harbor Boatshop that enhance public engagement and preserve history. He also emphasizes collaborative community efforts and the ideal traits for local leaders, blending progressive thinking with practical solutions for stronger communities.

Kat Vellos, an author and connection coach, explores the complexities of adult friendships and the impact of urban design on social connections. She shares insights on building community, emphasizing how our environments can either foster or hinder relationships. Kat discusses innovative strategies to combat loneliness, such as reimagining public spaces for spontaneous interaction and promoting local engagement. Through personal anecdotes and local initiatives, she inspires listeners to cultivate meaningful connections and enrich their communities.

Explore how Edmonton is tackling derelict properties through innovative solutions and a groundbreaking Derelict Tax Subclass. Ashley Salvador shares insights on promoting safer neighborhoods and the importance of accountability for property owners. Discover the role of local governance in community revitalization and how grassroots involvement leads to transformation. Learn about proactive initiatives that engage residents and foster sustainable practices in urban planning, encouraging a vibrant, safer community.

Jeral Poskey, the founder and CEO of Swyft Cities, discusses his groundbreaking approach to urban transportation. With a rich background at Google, he dives into how his company is tackling major city challenges like traffic jams and parking woes. The conversation explores innovative on-demand transport systems that prioritize user needs over traditional routes, while emphasizing the importance of integrating new technologies for sustainable urban development. Jeral's vision could redefine how cities navigate transportation and connectivity.