Episodi

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

    Season 4: Episode 4 | Sarah Tuakli-Cooper, Executive Director, Elementary Institute of Science
    Feb 23 2026
    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.
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    36 min
  • Season 4: Episode 3 | Margaux Stack-Babich, Director, Community Outreach, UCSD Moores Cancer Center

    Season 4: Episode 3 | Margaux Stack-Babich, Director, Community Outreach, UCSD Moores Cancer Center
    Feb 9 2026
    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.
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    44 min
  • Season 4: Episode 2 | Cheryl Morrow, CEO, California Curls, Founder, San Diego Monitor News Network

    Season 4: Episode 2 | Cheryl Morrow, CEO, California Curls, Founder, San Diego Monitor News Network
    Jan 26 2026
    The "Gap Minders" podcast, hosted by Jose Cruz, discusses the concept of the wealth gap, emphasizing that it is not a natural gap but a manufactured one. Cheryl Morrow argues that the wealth gap is a barrier created by historical and systemic issues, not a simple disparity in wealth. She advocates for self-reliance and entering industries where black people can outperform, as her father did. The conversation highlights the importance of redefining wealth beyond financial metrics and the need for a holistic approach to addressing these gaps. The episode aims to inspire listeners to become gaptivists, taking small steps towards closing these gaps.

    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.
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    49 min
  • Season 4: Episode 1 | Casey Castillo, CEO, San Diego Food Bank

    Season 4: Episode 1 | Casey Castillo, CEO, San Diego Food Bank
    Jan 12 2026
    The "Gap Minders" podcast, hosted by Jose Cruz, discusses the San Diego Food Bank's efforts to address food insecurity. Casey Castillo, CEO, highlights the food bank's role in providing nutritious food, distributing over 50 million pounds last year, with 45% being fresh fruits and vegetables. The food bank serves over 400,000 people monthly, aiming to reach 800,000. They emphasize the importance of community involvement, virtual food drives, and connecting people to other resources. The conversation also touches on the role of youth in addressing societal issues and innovative solutions like virtual shopping and partnerships with delivery services.

    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.
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    45 min
  • Episode 123 | Nancy Sasaki, CEO, United Way of San Diego County; Jose Cruz, CEO, San Diego Council on Literacy

    Episode 123 | Nancy Sasaki, CEO, United Way of San Diego County; Jose Cruz, CEO, San Diego Council on Literacy
    Sep 18 2024
    The Gap Minders is proudly reposting this excellent episode features a riveting discussion between Nancy Sasaki, the CEO of United Way of San Diego County, and Jose Cruz, CEO of the San Diego Council on Literacy. Throughout this episode, Nancy and Jose reflect on their journey during the collaboration on closing gaps, celebrating their milestones and reminiscing on their favorite moments.

    The discussion covers a wide range of subjects, including the effects of dyslexia on learning and the difficulties in addressing juvenile mental health, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. They share their aspirations for the podcast's future, stressing the value of problem-solving conversations and encouraging cooperation across various agencies and organizations.

    Additionally, Nancy and Jose discuss the expanding role of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it can affect problem-solving and communication. They convey their appreciation for the chance to interact with enthusiastic people committed to improving their areas of passion and expertise.

    An excellent episode on filling gaps in the community with Nancy Sasaki and Jose Cruz. Here are some other takeaways from the interview:
    • Nancy and Jose remember notable conversations with influential figures in education, like Shirley Weber, Tony Thurmond, Cindy Martin, and Kelly Sam Ann Hurley.
    • The hosts share their ambitions for the podcast's future, highlighting the need for groups to work together and explore solutions.
    • Going forward, Nancy and Jose hope to keep talking about important topics, forming deep connections, and igniting change in the world.
    • The answers to the warm-up questions.

    An excellent interview from a passionate gap minder. Thank you, Nancy and Jose, for your contributions in San Diego, and for joining us on The Gap Minders.

    Enjoy this episode and be sure to subscribe to the show.

    If you have any questions or want to contact Nancy or Jose, please send an email to podcast@uwsd.org. Thank you for listening.

    To learn more about the two social impact organizations making The Gap Minders possible, please visit www.TheGapMinders.org.
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    31 min
  • Episode 122 | Ryan Norr, Owner, San Diego Audio Visual

    Episode 122 | Ryan Norr, Owner, San Diego Audio Visual
    Sep 10 2024
    In this excellent episode, Nancy and Jose are joined in the studio by Ryan Norr, the Owner of San Diego Audio Visual, the recording studio for each and every episode of The Gap Minders. Ryan has been there listening to each and every guest, so this is a very reflective episode on what he has heard through 121 prior episodes!

    What we hear right out of the gate from this husband, father of two young children, and native San Diegan is his love for and appreciation of his family and the family business. Started in 1987 by his parents, Ryan talks about the passion for taking care of his family and continuing the legacy by running and growing San Diego Audio Visual. And, since this show is The Gap Minders, it's a great conversation to be having as starting and owning a small family business is one of the best ways to close the wealth gap in America.

    Listeners will also hear a few words from Ryan as to what he has learned from sitting in on 100+ episodes and how he has new perspective on literacy. Really great to hear how parents can learn from this show and apply with their own children.


    An excellent interview from a passionate gap minder, family business owner, and an important part of all our conversations. Thank you, Ryan, for your contributions and for joining us on The Gap Minders.

    Enjoy this episode and be sure to subscribe to the show.

    If you have any questions or want to contact Nancy or Jose, please send an email to podcast@uwsd.org. Thank you for listening.

    To learn more about the two social impact organizations making The Gap Minders possible, please visit www.TheGapMinders.org.
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    42 min
  • Episode 121 | Catharine Kaufman, Author, Columnist and "The Kitchen Shrink"

    Episode 121 | Catharine Kaufman, Author, Columnist and "The Kitchen Shrink"
    Aug 30 2024
    In this excellent episode, Nancy and Jose are joined in the studio by Catharine Kaufman, an author, columnist, and educator. Listeners are treated to an oral charcuterie board of thoughts, discussion on healthy eating, books she's written and even bone health from "The Kitchen Shrink" (and recovering attorney!).

    We hear right out of the gate through her voice that Catharine is uber-passionate about reading, writing, and helping everyone learn more about food and its healing powers. Whether it is foods that are good for bone health or hydration, Catharine serves up one antipasto after another! She also discusses her upcoming book "The Honeybee Sorcerer," co-written with San Diego's internationally renowned chef, the one and only Bernard Guillas.

    An excellent and fun episode on filling in some knowledge gaps about food with Catharine. Here are some other takeaways from the interview:
    • The importance of serendipity in life
    • Some thoughts on foods that might good or bad for bone health!
    • The value of having an attitude of gratitude
    • The "C" method for helping young adults become great writers in lieu of AI tools
    • The answers to the rapid-fire questions.

    An excellent interview from a passionate gap minder. Thank you, Catharine, for your contributions to helping humanity and for joining us on The Gap Minders.

    Enjoy this episode and be sure to subscribe to the show.

    If you have any questions or want to contact Nancy or Jose, please send an email to podcast@uwsd.org. Thank you for listening.

    To learn more about the two social impact organizations making The Gap Minders possible, please visit www.TheGapMinders.org.
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    35 min
  • Episode 120 | Sue Parks, President & CEO, Orange County United Way

    Episode 120 | Sue Parks, President & CEO, Orange County United Way
    Aug 20 2024
    In this excellent episode, Nancy and Jose are joined in the studio by Sue Parks, the President and CEO of Orange County United Way. Parks has a long history with Orange County United Way, having served as a board member and a founding member of the Orange County United Way’s Women’s Philanthropy Fund. Prior to leading Orange County United Way, Parks was an executive at several Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 companies such as US West, Gateway, and Kinko's. She has also had experience as an entrepreneur for many years, bringing a very well rounded perspective to serving the needs of Orange County.

    Under her leadership, the nonprofit organization has launched three key initiatives (United to End Homelessness, United for Financial Security, and United for Student Success), which tackle the Orange County community’s most critical issues and seek to provide long-term solutions that break cycles of inequity. Parks also spearheaded the organization's acquisition of 2-1-1 Orange County (211OC), an essential service that connects thousands of the community's most vulnerable residents with health and human service resources via a free, 24-hour emergency contact center (over 500,000 contacts last year alone).

    An excellent episode on filling gaps in the community with Sue. Here are some other takeaways from the interview:
    • The importance of taking a research-driven approach to identifying needs and solutions
    • Focusing on prevention as a strategy when it comes to homelessness
    • "Sparkpoint" and a collaboration with United Way of San Diego County
    • The answers to the rapid-fire questions.

    An excellent interview from a passionate gap minder. Thank you, Sue, for your contributions to helping humanity and for joining us on The Gap Minders.

    Enjoy this episode and be sure to subscribe to the show.

    If you have any questions or want to contact Nancy or Jose, please send an email to podcast@uwsd.org. Thank you for listening.

    To learn more about the two social impact organizations making The Gap Minders possible, please visit www.TheGapMinders.org.
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    34 min