

How to Change the World
Catherine Alonzo
Welcome to our podcast, How to Change the World, where we dive deep into the world of changemaking leadership! Whether you're leading an organization, a political campaign, or a community cause, this podcast is your go-to resource for creating impactful change.
We'll bring you engaging stories and actionable tips from our team and inspiring guests who are making waves in their communities. Tune in for clear takeaways and practical advice to elevate your impact through powerful storytelling. Stories change the world - let's help you tell yours.
We'll bring you engaging stories and actionable tips from our team and inspiring guests who are making waves in their communities. Tune in for clear takeaways and practical advice to elevate your impact through powerful storytelling. Stories change the world - let's help you tell yours.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 17min
Ep. 169 - Changing the World in 2025: 5 Bold Predictions
Explore the exciting trends that will shape social change in 2025. Discover the power of hopeful narratives that engage communities. Learn how Gen Z is leading the charge for progress through intergenerational collaboration. Dive into the rise of hyper-local solutions like community gardens and participatory budgeting. Plus, uncover how AI can enhance social impact by promoting ethical use and addressing biases. It's time to prioritize depth over breadth and focus on what truly matters for a brighter future!

Dec 30, 2024 • 3min
2024: A Year in Changemaking Podcast Guests
2024 has been an incredible year for How to Change the World! Hosted by Catherine Alonzo, each episode brought powerful stories and insights from remarkable changemakers working to create a better world. From bold leadership and advocacy to reimagining systems and inspiring action, Catherine's incredible conversations with our change-making guests reminded us what's possible when we work together. Revisit your favorite moments or catch up on episodes you missed wherever you listen to podcasts or watch on YouTube now! Thank you for listening and watching, and we'll be back with more incredible stories of change in 2025!

Dec 18, 2024 • 51min
Ep. 168 - 2024: A Year in Changemaking Books with Maggie Bauer & Eric DeMarco
In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with Maggie Bauer and Eric DeMarco, members of the How to Change the World book club, to reflect on the thought-provoking reads of 2024. Together, they delve into themes of unexpected consequences, exploring how small choices can ripple into significant impacts. They discuss the complexities of repairing broken relationships, and how to approach these challenges with intention and humility. The conversation also dives into the critical topic of consuming less, examining what it means to live more sustainably in a world driven by excess. Tune in for insights, reflections, and inspiration to carry into the new year. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now! Check out the How to Change the World book club's 2024 reading list below: Consumed by Aja Barber Where the Line is Drawn by Raja Shehadeh Same as Ever by Morgan Housel How Infrastructure Works by Deb Chachra On Repentance and Repair by Danya Ruttenberg Strangers to Ourselves by Rachel Aviv The Debt Trap by Josh Mitchell The Originalism Trap by Madiba Dennie Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer On Censorship by James LaRue A Renaissance of Our Own by Rachel Cargle The Right Call by Sally Jenkins

Dec 4, 2024 • 1h 9min
Ep. 167 - What the 2024 Election Reveals About Community Action with John Webster
In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo engages in a thought-provoking conversation with John Webster, a seasoned leader with a remarkable career spanning national security, politics, and community engagement. John brings a unique perspective with a diverse background that includes serving as a US Air Force officer, an intelligence planner for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the owner of Executive Millwork & Cabinetry. They delve into John's role in the Republicans for Harris campaign in Arizona, exploring how he navigated political divides to foster unity and collaboration. The discussion expands to how politics influences every aspect of our lives and actionable ways to get involved—whether by running for office, joining committees, or canvassing for candidates. John's extensive experience—from advising the US Ambassador to Finland on defense trade to teaching at the US Air Force Academy—highlights his dedication to enabling organizations and individuals to succeed. With advanced degrees from institutions like Oxford University and Arizona State University, John combines deep expertise with practical insight to inspire positive change. This episode is packed with lessons on leadership, the power of civic action, and the importance of building bridges in an increasingly divided world. Tune in to learn how to step up, get involved, and make a difference in your community. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

Nov 20, 2024 • 47min
Ep. 166 - The Year That Changed Us: Lessons for Social Impact from 2024
In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with Javelina's own Justin Plumb, Political Strategist, and Elizabeth Davis, Marketing Strategist, to unpack lessons learned from a year of social change. From the results of the 2024 election to the change-making sector on the local level, they explore how the outcomes are shaping the political landscape and discuss their implications for Javelina's diverse clients—from political campaigns to businesses and nonprofits. Listen as they share key insights from 2024, including shifts in voter behavior, trends that defined the year, and lessons learned that will help changemakers navigate the road ahead. Whether you're in politics, marketing, or community building, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to inspire your work to shape a better world.

Nov 6, 2024 • 53min
Ep. 165 - Strengthening Indigenous Communities and Leading with Core Values with Leroy "Buster" Silva
In this episode of How to Change the World, Catherine Alonzo welcomes Leroy "Buster" Silva, a dynamic leader and advocate for Indigenous empowerment from the Pueblo of Laguna. Leroy is the Executive Director of the Laguna Community Foundation, where he spearheads initiatives to generate resources and support for the community. He is also the visionary behind Family+Indigenize+Thrive, an intergenerational movement revitalizing community wellness through partnerships and connection. With a wealth of experience and deep-rooted commitment to his community, Leroy brings inspiring insights into how core values and active partnerships can transform lives. As a celebrated leader, he has received numerous honors, including being named a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Culture of Health Leader and a Native American 40 Under 40 honoree. Join us as we explore Leroy's journey, his dedication to creating lasting change, and his vision for thriving Indigenous communities. Plus, learn why family, wellness, and meaningful connections fuel his personal mission to build a better future for generations to come. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

Oct 16, 2024 • 53min
Ep. 164 - Ensuring Mental Health Support Across State Lines with Brandie Reiner and Terri Waibel
On this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with two remarkable leaders in social work, Brandie Reiner and Terri Waibel, to share the incredible story of passing SB 1036 through the Arizona Legislature. This groundbreaking bill adopts the Social Work Licensure Compact, which allows social workers to obtain licensure across multiple states, improving access to vital services for patients and reducing the hurdles of holding multiple licenses for practitioners. Brandie Reiner, Executive Director of the National Association of Social Workers, Arizona Chapter, and Terri Waibel, founder and clinical director of Center for Compassion, share the significance of this legislation in addressing workforce shortages, expanding telehealth, and supporting patients and families. With Terri's deep expertise in grief and trauma and Brandie's leadership in public policy and behavioral health, the conversation highlights the impact of the Compact on both the social work profession and the communities it serves. Together, they explore the bill's potential to transform social work practice and improve public access to care. Join Catherine, Brandie, and Terri as they delve into how this legislation is not only changing lives but shaping the future of social work in Arizona and beyond - and what lessons about driving change we can draw from their journey. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

Oct 2, 2024 • 22min
Ep. 163 - Social Shift Short: How to Break Through the Noise in Election Cycles
In a world where countless worthy causes compete for attention, how do effective changemakers break through the noise to inspire action? In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo shares powerful insights on how to craft stories that move people, motivate communities, and create real change. Tune in to learn: The three essential elements of impactful storytelling for changemakers How to define and understand your priority audiences Tailoring your message to connect with those who matter most Simple strategies to make your communications stand out Whether you're a campaigner, advocate, or leader of a mission-driven organization, this episode will help you transform your communication and amplify your impact. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

Sep 18, 2024 • 56min
Ep. 162 - Creating Trust-Based Philanthropy and Filling Your Own Cup with Senator T'wina Nobles
In this inspiring episode of How to Change the World, Catherine Alonzo sits down with Washington State Senator T'wina Nobles, whose incredible journey from a homeless teen in the foster care system to becoming a state senator and CEO is a testament to her resilience, determination, and the power of community service. Senator Nobles shares her story of overcoming adversity, becoming a teacher and young mother, and eventually leading as the CEO of the Tacoma Urban League. As the co-founder and CEO of the Black Future Co-op Fund, T'wina continues to dedicate her life to supporting and uplifting her community. Join us as we delve into her passion for service, the importance of self-care in maintaining success, what it looks like to change the face of Black philanthropy, and her unique definition of what it means to be truly successful. This episode is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, you can achieve greatness by staying true to your purpose and giving back to those around you. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!

Sep 4, 2024 • 40min
Ep. 161 - Centering Young Immigrants in Advocacy with Reyna Montoya
In this episode of How to Change the World, host Catherine Alonzo sits down with Reyna Montoya, a passionate advocate for undocumented immigrants and a DACA recipient herself. Reyna shares her powerful journey, the challenges she faces, and her tireless work to help others in their fight for citizenship. She invites listeners to reflect on their own family migration stories, offering a unique perspective that challenges us to rethink what it means to belong. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of personal narrative and social change. Tune in on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube now!


