Best Interfaith Community Services Podcasts (2025)

1
2025 - 1 2025 Begins with Eaton Fire Destruction: 1st Podcast of the Year 16:53

15d ago16:53

16:53

Welcome to 2025! Sadly, it didn't start well for folks in Southern California, including Altadena/Pasadena, where Friends In Deed is located. In this first episode of the year, Rabbi Joshua returns with an update on programs and operations post-Eaton fire. Listen to learn how FID is continuing to serve the most vulnerable in our community, and what…

1
Tamera Kohler 46:40

16d ago46:40

46:40

Today we're talking with Tamera Kohler, Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness (RTFH). With 19 years of experience in addressing poverty and homelessness, Tamera provides invaluable insights into the complex landscape of homelessness in our region. We discuss her leadership at the RTFH since 2018, her role as a trusted e…

1
How Yoga Transformed a Brooklyn Kid into a Global Spiritual Leader 1:49:55

23d ago1:49:55

1:49:55

In this heartfelt and reflective conversation, Swami Asokananda shares his incredible life journey—from his Brooklyn upbringing in a non-religious Jewish family to his path of spiritual awakening and leadership. He recounts transformative moments, including early struggles with identity, his experiences with yoga and meditation, and the pivotal inf…

1
Think of Yourself Less | Freddy Jackson 1:15:57

1M ago1:15:57

1:15:57

Freddy Jackson, founder of the Love No Ego Foundation, shares his mission to help youth aged 10-18 develop self-awareness and emotional resilience by overcoming societal pressures and the influence of ego. Freddy explores the distinction between thinking less of oneself and thinking of oneself less, advocating for a balance between self-awareness a…

1
Kenneth Straight 35:24

1M ago35:24

35:24

On this episode of Homeless in San Diego, hear Kenneth Straight’s remarkable journey. After his service in the US Army ended in 2013, Kenneth struggled to regain stability upon returning to San Diego. Support from Veterans Village of San Diego during his recovery was a turning point. Interfaith's Veterans Employment and Training Services Program th…

1
2024 - 16 Families with Babies Living in Cars, Homeless Seniors Needing Dialysis: Short Update from Street Outreach and Housing 12:37

2M ago12:37

12:37

Today, Rabbi Joshua spends a few minutes talking with some members of the Street Outreach and Housing team to find out the latest goings on. We hear about increasing numbers of families without homes, people starting to suffer from the cold, and, in some positive news, how there are new permanent supporting housing units becoming available. Support…

1
2024 - 15 Intersection between Homelessness and Domestic Violence 25:45

2M ago25:45

25:45

Today, Rabbi Joshua sits down with Tunisia Offray, Co-Director of Shepherd's Door, a domestic violence resource center in Pasadena. In a wide-ranging conversation, they discuss not only how domestic violence affects homelessness, but Tunisia shares her own story, and how it led to the creation of the organization, by her mother, 25 years ago. Learn…

1
Tara Eschenroeder: Reclaiming Childlike Wonder | Integral Yoga Podcast #121 56:08

2M ago56:08

56:08

In this episode, Tara Eschenroeder delves into the concept of "rewilding" as a return to our natural, instinctual state of being. She defines rewilding as reconnecting with the innate wisdom within us, much like how trees grow or fireflies communicate effortlessly. Tara shares her practices for rediscovering this inner compass, including journaling…

1
2024 - 14 State of FID 2024 1:17:46

3M ago1:17:46

1:17:46

This week, Rabbi Joshua shares the full recording of the State of FID, which was a live event recorded on 11/20/24. You will hear from each of the program directors and leadership of Friends In Deed about all of the goings on for the past year, and how things have been going for the past few months. It also includes some initial insights into the n…

1
Sunny Soto-Brisco 58:21

3M ago58:21

58:21

In this episode of Homeless in San Diego, we sit down with Sunny Soto-Brisco, the heart and soul of Sunny Street Outreach, a 501(c)(3) organization providing restaurant quality meals to the houseless and underserved communities in Oceanside. Sunny Soto-Brisco is a dedicated activist born and raised on the ancestral lands of the Luiseño/Juaneño band…

1
Balancing Humility and Self-Worth | Līlā Śakti Mayī 54:18

3M ago54:18

54:18

In this episode Līlā Śakti Mayī, and Avi dive into the profound connection between humility, self-care, and the power of Sanskrit. The discussion focuses on how language can embody intention and emotion, highlighting that every language carries sacredness. They emphasize that true humility is about recognizing one's inherent value without harsh sel…

1
Katie Holden 36:43

4M ago36:43

36:43

On this episode of Homeless in San Diego, we interview Katie Holden, a former Occupational Therapist Intern at our Abraham & Lillian Turk Recuperative Care Center. As an intern at the Turk Center, she conducted a study on pet ownership during transitional housing. Join us to learn about the benefits of keeping owners and their pets together, the ch…

1
2024-13 All Things FID! A Update with Ryan Greer 29:31

4M ago29:31

29:31

On this episode, Rabbi Joshua checks in with FID's Senior Director of Programs, Ryan Greer, to hear about the latest in each program and to discuss the Measure A initiative that will be on the ballot in LA County this November. Learn more about Friends In Deed Learn more about Measure A Closing music: Eric Clapton https://friendsindeedpas.org…

1
Bridging Worlds: Science, Spirituality, and Service | Swami Karunananda 1:02:52

4M ago1:02:52

1:02:52

In this insightful episode, Swami Karunananda reflects on her extraordinary life journey, beginning with her childhood in Brooklyn where she demonstrated remarkable early abilities, such as speaking at six months old and reading at three. She shares a pivotal moment from her sixth grade when she asked herself what she wanted to do with her life, de…

1
2024-12 Public Libraries and Estevez film 'The Public': Interview with Tim McDonald, Library Director for City of Pasadena 36:30

5M ago36:30

36:30

In this special episode, Rabbi Joshua speaks with Tim McDonald, the Library Director for Pasadena. They discuss not only the value and importance of libraries in our communities and society, but also talk about the film The Public, and how libraries are central to the lives of people experiencing homelessness. FID is showing this film at their fall…

1
2024-11 Grants Pass City Council Meeting Debrief and Annual Report Highlights 23:40

5M ago23:40

23:40

In this episode, Rabbi Joshua shares an update on what transpired at the recent city council meeting around the Grants Pass decision and how it might affect those experiencing homelessness in Pasadena. If you want to learn more about the whole issue, visit the previous episode. And, we also share some highlights from our brand new FY24 Annual Repor…

1
2024-10 Preparing for City Council Discussion on Encampments 18:15

5M ago18:15

18:15

In this short episode, Rabbi Joshua shares Friends In Deed's 'keynotes and solutions' study sheet that was submitted to city council in advance of the meeting on 9/9/24. Unfortunately, after requesting to be included in the official presentation to the council, and hearing an initial positive reception to the idea, in the end none of the local serv…

1
2024-9 Grants Pass v. Johnson, Part II--Conversation with Tish Inong, Director of Street Outreach and Housing 22:21

6M ago22:21

22:21

In this episode, Rabbi Joshua continues the conversation about the Grants Pass decision, and specifically how this might start directly affecting our city of Pasadena. He welcomes Friends In Deed's Director of Street Outreach and Housing, Tish Inong, MPA, MSW, LCSW. https://friendsindeedpas.org https://friendsindeedpas.org…

1
Tom McDaniel 37:58

6M ago37:58

37:58

Join us this week on Homeless in San Diego to listen to Tom McDaniel’s story. Tom went through both our residential and outpatient programs, worked hard in college, and two months ago graduated with his degree in air conditioning & refrigeration from Palomar College. He was recently accepted into the Davidson Honors College at the University of Mon…

1
Practicing the Yoga Sutras | Carroll Ann Friedmann 1:13:01

6M ago1:13:01

1:13:01

In this podcast episode, Carroll Ann Friedmann shares the story behind her book "Practicing the Yoga Sutras," which stemmed from a decade-long journey of chanting and studying the sutras. Friedmann recounts her initial inspiration in India, where she was taught the art of chanting. This practice continued back home in Charlottesville, where she for…

1
2024-8 Grants Pass v. Johnson, Part I 15:51

6M ago15:51

15:51

In this episode, Rabbi Joshua discusses the recent ruling by the Supreme Court, which overruled the 9th circuit in saying that 'camping' on the streets if you are homeless, even if you don't have anywhere else to go, does not constitute cruel and unusual punishment, and can be punished with citations or arrest. This first discussion is with one of …

1
Societal Pressures and Heartfelt Living | Dominique Aramati 48:18

7M ago48:18

48:18

The discussion centers on the concept of Dharma, or life purpose, and explores how individuals can discover and align with their true calling. The conversation delves into the importance of listening to the heart rather than the mind, emphasizing activities that bring joy and love, such as community engagement and connecting with nature. Dominique …

1
2024-7 2024 Homeless Count, Initial Thoughts from the Report 16:35

8M ago16:35

16:35

In this episode, Rabbi Joshua shares the highlights and findings from the recently released Pasadena 2024 Homeless Count report. In the next episode, he will bring on other folks to discuss the report and talk about what it means for the state of homelessness in our city. A link to the full report is included below. More about Friends In Deed: http…

1
Mike Smack 34:03

8M ago34:03

34:03

Tune in to Interfaith’s Homeless in San Diego podcast as we feature local artist Mike Smack. Mike joins us to speak about his inspiring journey and the beautiful mural he created in our Escondido shelter. Inspired by conversations with detox clients, he incorporated serene clouds and even added a citrus design after seeing fresh oranges and lemons …

1
Cultivating Compassion and Creativity | Siva Fiske 1:11:26

8M ago1:11:26

1:11:26

Concept of Peace: Siva discusses peace as a profound state of consciousness that goes beyond the absence of conflict. It involves a sense of awe and connection with the beauty of creation and the presence of the divine in the world. Path to Peace and Creativity: Siva shares that his journey to inner peace began in childhood through imaginative play…

1
Brandon O'Connell 51:04

8M ago51:04

51:04

Welcome to this special episode of Homeless in San Diego. Today, we are honored to have Brandon O'Connell as our guest. Brandon, a Job Coach at Vantage Point for three years, is now pursuing his own company to help people coming out of incarceration. His journey from Skid Row to a stable and fulfilling life highlights his remarkable resilience, inn…

1
Eddie Walker 25:46

9M ago25:46

25:46

In this episode of Homeless in San Diego, we welcome our first-ever property manager, Eddie Walker. With over a hundred episodes behind us, we're excited to bring you a new perspective on the challenges and solutions surrounding homelessness. Eddie has been working with us for several years at Quince Park Apartments, providing invaluable partnershi…

1
2024-6 Older Americans Facing Eviction is on the Rise 31:43

9M ago31:43

31:43

In this episode, Rabbi Joshua speaks with Stacey McCarroll, the Director of our Eviction Prevention and Rental Assistance program, about the overall state of evictions in our community, and the rising rate of older Americans in particular. There is a link to the report that we discuss below. https://friendsindeedpas.org/ https://endhomelessness.org…

1
Beyond Borders: Exploring the Ancient Sounds | Daniel Scruggs 1:19:53

9M ago1:19:53

1:19:53

Daniel Scruggs shares his mission with Peace Culture Music, focusing on educating and inspiring through rare musical instruments and artifacts. He reflects on his personal journey, including struggles with dysgraphia and attention issues, which fueled his passion for music and culture. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing uniquen…

1
Jason Ritchie 42:53

9M ago42:53

42:53

This week on Homeless in San Diego, we welcome filmmaker Jason Ritchie, a storyteller driven by the struggles of his own life. Ritchie was incarcerated for over 17 years in the California prison system and has overcome drug and alcohol addiction. He used education for his personal rehabilitation and believes it to be a crucial contributing factor f…

1
2024-5 Mental Illness is Real and Needs Our Attention: Conversation with Dr. Julie Moore 35:17

9M ago35:17

35:17

On this episode, Rabbi Joshua speaks with therapist and psychologist, Dr. Julie Moore, who has a private practice, but has been volunteering her services at Friends In Deed, offering twice a month walk-in sessions for both Street Outreach and TWR clients. This conversation covers a wide-range of topics around the area of mental health and how it re…

1
David Fitzgibbons 31:54

10M ago31:54

31:54

In honor of Volunteer Appreciation month we have a remarkable podcast episode for you. Our guest today is none other than David Fitzgibbons, a dedicated volunteer and donor at Interfaith. David has been serving as an intake volunteer every Tuesday and Thursday for over four years, helping to meet the basic needs of our community. He assists with ob…

1
Living in the Golden Present | Mataji 1:31:24

10M ago1:31:24

1:31:24

In this episode of the Integral Yoga Podcast, Mataji shares insights into her life journey and spiritual path. Born in Washington DC on April Fool's Day, she considers her birth a blessing. Reflecting on her childhood, Mataji recalls her cheerful disposition and love for quiet introspection and learning. She discusses her upbringing in a household …

1
2024-4 Living in Your Car at Age 70 33:38

10M ago33:38

33:38

On this episode, Rabbi Joshua talks with Suzanne, a woman who has seen a great many challenges in her life, including cancer and the loss of her parents and siblings in just a few short years. Before getting sick, she was a successful paralegal with a solid career and a stable life. She tells her story of going from that place to living in her car …

1
Tales of the Spirit | Snehan Born 58:31

10M ago58:31

58:31

The podcast delves into the profound spiritual journey of Snehan Born, tracing his path from early experiences in church to a lifelong quest for truth and enlightenment. Through encounters with various religious traditions, philosophical explorations, and travels worldwide, Snehan embarks on a quest to understand the deeper meaning of existence. Sn…

1
Let's Do Less | Rachel Jensen 1:05:02

11M ago1:05:02

1:05:02

Rachel discusses her philosophy of "Let's Do Less," advocating for slowing down in today's fast-paced world. She emphasizes the power of doing less for self-care and healing, particularly in trauma work. Rachel explores the intersection of presence, genuine connection, and identity in self-care practices. She highlights the importance of being mind…

1
2024-3 My Dog is My Home: Emotional Support Animals Save Lives 44:37

11M ago44:37

44:37

It is often said that "dogs are a person's best friend." This is certainly true, and perhaps more so, for our unsheltered neighbors experiencing homelessness. On this episode, Rabbi Joshua speaks with Christine Kim, founder of a non-profit called My Dog is My Home, which does advocacy work around the issues of emotional support animals specifically…

1
Tuning In | Narada Williams 1:01:54

11M ago1:01:54

1:01:54

The conversation delves into the profound impact of communal singing and the healing power of sound vibration, emphasizing the significance of discovering one's authentic voice. It explores experiences in group singing settings, highlighting the importance of encouragement and support for individuals to overcome fear and judgment. Reflections on pr…

1
Dr. Kadri Webb & Dr. Nate Sessoms 47:47

12M ago47:47

47:47

"I think one of the things I'm most proud of about the organization and obviously your leadership is a huge part of that, is that the organization has taken this bold stance to say we are going to stand up against injustice, we are going to serve the most vulnerable, be proud of it, and we're not going to be quiet about it." Dr. Nate Sessoms This w…

1
2024-2 Anthony and His 7 year-old Chess Champion Son Get Housed! 44:12

12M ago44:12

44:12

In this special episode, Rabbi Joshua talks at length with Anthony, a man our Street Outreach team worked with and helped get permanently housed. He has a pretty inspiring story, albeit difficult, which includes his incredible son winning chess tournaments while sometimes living in a motel with his dad. This is one you won't want to miss--and will …

1
Healing from Within | Heather Mason 55:50

12M ago55:50

55:50

Heather Mason, the founder of the Minded Institute, shares her compelling journey from personal mental health challenges to becoming a leading advocate for yoga therapy integration into healthcare systems. Drawing from her own experiences and the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness meditation, Mason emphasizes the need for alternative appr…

1
Point In Time Count 2024 33:10

12M ago33:10

33:10

Joining CEO of Interfaith Community Services, Greg Anglea, are 3 employees each with their own diverse careers and their take on the Point In Time Count. Throughout the podcast, we tackle essential questions, such as the motivation behind participating in the PITC, the personal experiences of those involved, and the impact of the count on our commu…

1
Lisa Halverstadt 45:25

12M ago45:25

45:25

Interfaith's podcast, 'Homeless in San Diego,' is making a grand return! Not only are we launching the first episode back with senior investigative reporter Lisa Halverstadt, but going forward each episode will have a video version. Lisa Halverstadt is a senior investigative reporter for Voice of San Diego who has been digging into the region’s hom…

1
Challenging the Norms | Michelle Jacobi 54:54

1y ago54:54

54:54

In this enlightening episode, Michelle Jacobi shares her captivating journey into the world of yoga. Starting as a professional dancer in New York with a keen interest in philosophy, Michelle stumbled upon yoga for its profound background rather than its physical aspect. During this conversation she recalls a transformative experience at the Uptown…

1
2024-1 Bad Weather Shelter Reopening! 26:31

1y ago26:31

26:31

Welcome to 2024! In this first episode of the new year, Rabbi Joshua talks about the Bad Weather Shelter as this is the first time we will be operating in 3 years! There is a new location, Trinity Lutheran Church, and so Rabbi Joshua has a conversation with Pastor Sharon Richter, who shares her faith journey and why the church is so supportive and …

1
Holistic Horizons | James Knight 53:31

1y ago53:31

53:31

This dialogue between James and Avi takes a deep dive into the states of unified consciousness and the challenges of maintaining an expanded awareness amidst the daily nuances of life. Explore the concept of 'inner yes' as a guiding force in decision-making, where the body's sensations become a compass for mindful choices. Witness James' reflection…

1
2023-16 FID 2023 Recap 17:52

1y ago17:52

17:52

For this final episode of the year, Rabbi Joshua shares some of the numbers and highlights of how our services were provided this past year. It was a record year in all of our programs, both in number of people attending and in the new ways we have been able to serve. Our staff has grown, our budget has grown, our visibility has grown, our voluntee…

1
Spiritual Strength | Govind Das 1:02:39

1y ago1:02:39

1:02:39

In this episode, Govind Das shares profound reflections on his recent visit to India, marking his 21st journey to the country. He emphasizes the spiritual richness of sacred places like Rishikesh and Vrindavan, contrasting them with the materialistic focus of big cities. The conversation delves into the significance of rituals and practices in conn…

1
Peter Seidler- A Commitment to Help 31:01

1y ago31:01

31:01

Join us for a reflective journey in this special episode of "Homeless in San Diego: Real People, Real Stories" as we pay tribute to the late Peter Seidler. Your host, Greg Anglea, CEO of Interfaith Community Services, guides us through a poignant exploration of a past episode featuring Peter Seidler, Managing Partner of the San Diego Padres. In thi…

1
Living Yoga Principles | Prakash Capen 56:02

1y ago56:02

56:02

Prakash explores yoga as unity, emphasizing its role in bringing people together. She delves into Raja yoga, focusing on the study of yoga sutras, advocating for individual reflection and practical application of yogic principles. Capen addresses the challenge of self-judgment, advocating for a sense of humor in the pursuit of balance. She discusse…

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