Best Interfaith Community Services Podcasts (2024)

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

3d 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

9d 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

19d 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…

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

20d 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

3M 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

1
Tom McDaniel 37:58

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

4M 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

4M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

6M 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

6M 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

6M 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

6M 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

6M 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

7M 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

6M 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

7M 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

7M 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

8M 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

8M 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

8M 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

8M 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

9M 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

8M 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

9M 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

9M 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

9M 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

10M 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

10M 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

11M 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

11M 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

12M 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

12M 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…

1
2023-15 It's Not Just a Job, it's a Spiritual Calling: Interview with TWR's Jane Armbruster 41:45

1y ago41:45

41:45

We are back! After a bit of a hiatus, we are thrilled to post a brand new episode. After sharing some updates and highlights from the past few weeks, Rabbi Joshua has a wonderful interview and conversation with Jane Armbruster, The Women's Room Program Manager and Case Counselor. Jane shares deeply about her life story, which includes being a profe…

1
The Power of Pausing | Jess Frey 49:53

1y ago49:53

49:53

This podcast episode features a conversation with Jess Frey about her recent silent retreat experience and the idea of "coming home" to oneself. Jess and Avi delve into finding a balance between self-improvement and helping others. They discuss the concept of emotional armor and authenticity, highlighting the practice of pausing. The conversation a…

1
From Rebellion to Yoga and Service | Lakshmi Barsel 1:08:19

1y ago1:08:19

1:08:19

Lakshmi has dedicated 16 years to the prison project, using Gurudev's teachings to help incarcerated individuals transform their lives. She speaks about the punitive U.S. prison system, its role in drug issues, and stresses the importance of kindness. The U.S. prison system's flaws are discussed, with the need for rehabilitation highlighted, given …

1
We Seek the Flow of the Heart | Graham Schweig 44:59

1y ago44:59

44:59

Graham Schweig sits down with Avi Gordon in a conversation that covers the importance of yoga, gratitude, and selflessness in reconnecting with one's heart and embracing life's conditioning forces. They discuss the transformative power of yoga in turning inward to confront inner conflicts and suffering, ultimately leading to self-awareness and grow…

1
2023-14 A Conversation with Los Angeles Times Columnist Steve Lopez 59:01

1y ago59:01

59:01

In this very special episode, Rabbi Joshua has a wide-ranging interview with Steve Lopez, an award-winning journalist and best-selling author, who has been a columnist with the Los Angeles Times for nearly two decades. Mr. Lopez is the author of the book, The Soloist, which chronicles his journey with a man he met on the streets, Nathaniel Ayers, w…

1
2023-13 "It's Like Heaven" A Personal Story of a Guest in The Women's Room in Her Own Words 14:26

1y ago14:26

14:26

In this episode, Rabbi Joshua talks with Ondina, a guest in The Women's Room who worked with our staff first to find a domestic violence shelter for safety, and then locate permanent housing. Ondina is an inspiring and energetic woman who shares her story with passion, emotion and immense gratitude. You can't help but be moved listening to her shar…

1
Turning the Mind Into an Altar to God | Govind Das 55:08

1y ago55:08

55:08

Renowned kirtan artist Govind Das speaks with Avi Gordon about turning the mind into an "altar to God", making the transition to heart-centered living, the importance of understanding and accepting one's humanness while striving for spiritual progress, and much more. In his freshman year of college, in 1989, Govind Das was introduced to the practic…

1
2023-12 Renting in California? Either make $44/hr or work 3 minimum wage jobs! 28:03

1y ago28:03

28:03

In part 2 of the conversation about the National Low Income Housing Coalition's report, 'Out of Reach," Rabbi Joshua dives into the wage rate needed to live in and around Pasadena, which is 3x the rate of the minimum wage! The statistics aren't pretty, but they are real. During the break, learn about FID's upcoming movie night fundraiser, Stories f…

1
045 Ed Presnillo: Founder Honoring USA Heroes 11:45

1y ago11:45

11:45

For Those who served and sacrifice their lives for our country should Never Be Forgotten. Unfortunately, they are. Honoring USA Heroes has come up with a solution to keep the Fallen Heroes alive allowing the family to move on with life. Contact Ed Website: https://honoringusaheroes.org/ Phone: 619-227-4571…

1
2023-11 Don't Make $24/hr? Good Luck Renting a 1-bedroom home in America 21:43

1y ago21:43

21:43

In the first of a multi-part series, Rabbi Joshua begins to unpack a report called 'Out of Reach,' published annually by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, which tracks the cost of rentals in every state, and compares them with the wage rate need to afford a modest one or two bedroom home. This episode focuses nationally, hence the title of…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Interfaith Community Services Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide