Thelma Virata de Castro: Expressing Yourself is a Powerful Thing

Season 2 of Stop and Talk brought us stories of resilience, creativity, and community action across San Diego. Hosts Grant Oliphant and Crystal Page welcomed guests who are tackling complex challenges, from reimagining public spaces to strengthening community mental health and fostering economic equity. Each conversation offered a glimpse into the powerful work happening in San Diego County—and the people behind it.In this special season wrap-up, Grant and Crystal revisit standout moments and reflect on the inspiring themes that emerged. They share insights on the importance of narrative, the impact of place, the role of economics, and what drives collective wellness. Whether you’re new to Stop and Talk or have followed every episode, this recap offers a glimpse into the profound insights shared this season and a look at what’s possible when communities work together for a brighter future.Thank you to all of our fantastic guests this season! Revisit all of Season 2:Episode 1: Micah Parzen - It's About ALL of UsEpisode 2: Diane Moss - Removing Barriers to Good Food Is a Community EffortEpisode 3: Preeti Bhattacharji - Using all a foundations assets to impact social changeEpisode 4: Ramel Wallace - Creativity as Care, Reflection, and ConnectionEpisode 5: Irwin Jacobs - Using What We Have to Strengthen San Diego CountyEpisode 6: Dr. Constance Carroll - The incredible impact of community collegesEpisode 7: Dr. Mary Walshok - When the world wants to see the future, they look at CaliforniaEpisode 8: Dr. Benjamin Maxwell - Community can help youth thrive psychologically and flourishEpisode 9: Dan Yates - The Power of Vulnerability in LeadershipEpisode 10: Amina Sheik Mohamed -  Health equity and belonging are key to well-beingEpisode 11: Dr. Isabel Newton - Centering humanity in all aspects of healthcareEpisode 12: Dr. Sindy Escobar Alvarez - The Intersection of Medical Research and PhilanthropyEpisode 13: Omar Blaik - Downtowns should be for everyoneEpisode 14: Carol Dedrich - Fun is a critical component of mental healthEpisode 15: Thelma Virata de Castro - Expressing Yourself is a Powerful ThingCredits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast Studio.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. 

In this episode, host Grant Oliphant sits down with Thelma Virata de Castro, a Filipinx artist, playwright, and community teacher based in San Diego. Thelma's work delves deep into the human experience, with a unique blend of humor and profound themes. Through her "Cultivating JOY" project—part of the Far South Border North initiative—Thelma empowers writers and audiences to explore their relationships with nature. Thelma shares her journey growing up in Paradise Hills, where her close-knit Filipino community shaped her creative spirit. Her work spans a range of challenging topics, from grief and loss to domestic violence, all explored through plays such as "Where We Lay Our Sorrows Down" and "The Fire in Me." Using unexpected elements like puppetry and humor, Thelma invites audiences to confront difficult emotions while also finding space for healing and connection.The conversation also touches on her dedication to uplifting other writers and the incredible value of collaboration. Thelma’s belief in the power of community, creativity, and noticing the world deeply drives her art, making her a significant voice in San Diego’s vibrant arts scene.Listen to how Thelma’s fearless approach to storytelling and her commitment to fostering creativity serve as a bridge for empathy and understanding, while offering a window into the cultural and personal nuances that shape our shared human experience.Credits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. 

Carol Dedrich, CEO of Girl Scouts San Diego, joins host Grant Oliphant to explore the evolving role of Girl Scouts in shaping the next generation of leaders. Drawing from her rich experiences as a U.S. Army captain and Girl Scout alumna, Carol shares how her journey is intricately connected to the mission of empowering young women in today’s complex world. She reflects on the similarities between military service and Girl Scouts, where camaraderie, resilience, and community play vital roles in both environments.Carol delves into the impactful programs offered by Girl Scouts, from outdoor adventures and STEM education to addressing youth mental health. With a focus on fostering courage, confidence, and character, she discusses how Girl Scouts are equipped to navigate challenges like bullying, social media pressures, and isolation. Supported by partnerships, including the Prebys Foundation, Carol reveals how Girl Scouts are nurturing the mental well-being of girls, ensuring they thrive not just as future leaders but as individuals.Throughout the conversation, Carol emphasizes the importance of mentorship, fun, volunteerism, and adapting to the changing needs of girls in diverse communities. Her vision for Girl Scouts includes expanding access and developing a model that builds valuable skills for the future while fostering well-being.Listen to Carol Dedrich explain how Girl Scouts are helping young girls discover their potential, lead with purpose, and enjoy the journey along the way.Credits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. 

In this episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant sits down with visionary urban planner Omar Blaik, CEO of U3 Advisors, to explore the future of downtown spaces and their potential to serve all community members. Drawing from his extensive experience revitalizing cities like Philadelphia, Omar discusses the role of thoughtful design in fostering connection, empathy, and vibrancy in urban environments.Key to the conversation is San Diego's Civic Center—a six-block area around City Hall—which Omar sees as a golden opportunity to reshape the heart of the city. He and Grant delve into how reconnecting the downtown grid, breaking down physical and social barriers, and creating multi-use spaces can transform this site into a dynamic hub that reflects the city's diversity and greatness. Omar emphasizes the importance of designing cities "for us," ensuring that public spaces feel inclusive and welcoming to all, rather than being tailored for tourists or single-use purposes.The episode touches on the lessons learned from cities around the world, including Omar's native Cairo, and offers a compelling vision for how American cities can evolve to meet the needs of their people, creating spaces that encourage interaction, inclusivity, and sustainability. Join Grant and Omar as they envision a future for San Diego that not only serves its residents but sets a national example for urban renewal and community engagement.Credits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. 

In this special live episode of Stop & Talk, Dr. Sindy Escobar Alvarez, Program Director for Medical Research at the Doris Duke Foundation, joins host Grant Oliphant. This interview was recorded at a community forum hosted by the Prebys Foundation that explored the evolving landscape of medical research funding and its impact on community health. They discuss the many important issues facing the field, including equity in research, the role of philanthropy in driving innovation, and many others.Additionally, community members were invited to ask questions, illuminating some of the factors that drive San Diego County’s health clinicians and medical researchers.Listen in to hear how philanthropy can help create better science, elevate important but traditionally undervalued areas of research, and change our focus from sick care to healthy care. You can read more about the event and watch the full video of this episode here.Credits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyVideo Production by Edgar Ontiveros MedinaRecorded at the Salk Institute Special Thanks to the Science Philanthropy AllianceThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Download episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. 

In this episode, host Grant Oliphant sits down with Dr. Isabel Newton, a distinguished physician-scientist and passionate mentor, whose work is transforming how patients and medical professionals engage with the healthcare system. Her multifaceted career spans research, clinical care, education, and community connection, all rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to the same quality of care. The conversation delves into Dr. Newton’s work in patient advocacy, where she empowers individuals to take an active role in their health decisions. As co-founder and chair of the Interventional Initiative, she provides education on Minimally Invasive, Image-guided Procedures that can significantly improve recovery times. She talks about their numerous resources, including the docu-series Without a Scalpel, which provides an in-depth look into the direct impact of these procedures on patients and efforts to make them available worldwide.Dr. Newton's commitment to equity in healthcare also focuses on healthcare workers. She and Grant discuss the profound impact of mentorship. She shares how mentors influenced her journey, how she is mentoring aspiring medical professionals, and how diverse voices lead to more innovation. Learn how Dr. Isabel Newton is making strides in healthcare by championing equity, nurturing future leaders, and advocating for the universal right to high-quality care. Credits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. 

Amina Sheik Mohamed is a dedicated advocate for health equity and cultural inclusivity. Her incredible work led her to be awarded one of Prebys Foundation’s inaugural Leadership Awards.  As the Founder and Director of the Refugee Health Unit at UC San Diego, Amina has been instrumental in championing initiatives that empower immigrant communities in San Diego County. In this episode, she joins host Grant Oliphant to explore the intricate connections between community health and cultural identity.Amina is committed to improving positive health outcomes for the refugee community in San Diego by promoting health equity and making sure that community members have a voice in how their needs are met. She shares her experiences in developing collaborative programs that not only address immediate health needs but also foster long-term well-being and agency. Amina emphasizes the importance of trust and relationship-building in healthcare, advocating for systems that genuinely reflect the needs and values of the communities they serve.This episode examines how we can bridge gaps in healthcare access through cultural competence and community engagement. Learn how Amina Sheik Mohamed is leading efforts to create a healthier, more inclusive future in San Diego County. Credits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, 

In this episode, Stop & Talk host Grant Oliphant engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dan Yates, board chair of the Prebys Foundation and co-founder/CEO of Endeavor Bank. A true San Diego native, Dan's journey from Paradise Hills to becoming a leading civic figure in San Diego reveals a profound commitment to community and service.Dan shares his experiences growing up in a diverse and complex environment, which instilled in him a deep sense of empathy and a drive to uplift his community. His story highlights the significant role of his upbringing, particularly the influence of his parents, in shaping his values of kindness, service, and inclusion.Throughout the episode, Dan discusses his path to banking, driven by a desire to connect business with community. His work at Endeavor Bank exemplifies this, blending entrepreneurial spirit with a strong focus on civic leadership. Dan emphasizes the importance of listening to, understanding, and supporting the diverse fabric of San Diego, from his efforts with Second Chance to his ongoing engagement with Morse High School students.Dan's unique blend of professional acumen, vulnerability, and heartfelt community involvement is making a lasting impact on San Diego. Listen in to hear his insights on how local business can serve as a force for good, and his vision of a more connected and inclusive community.Credits:This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. 

Dr. Benjamin Maxwell, Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Rady Children’s Hospital, joins host Grant Oliphant to discuss enhancing youth psychological well-being, challenges to mental and behavioral health, and comprehensive solutions that go beyond the clinic. He shares the importance of early intervention and the vital role the community plays in creating environments that help young people flourish. His collaborations with organizations like Sapien Labs, YMCA of San Diego, and Outdoor Outreach showcase how collective efforts can tackle the root causes of mental health struggles, fostering resilience and thriving communities.They also examine the impacts of social isolation, screen time and social media, and fragmented family connections on the rise of youth mental health crises. Dr. Maxwell reminds us of our ability to take on huge challenges and offers practical ways parents can address these issues.This episode offers a profound look at how we can collectively support the resilience and growth of the next generation, ensuring they thrive in an increasingly complex world.This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening. 

 In this episode of Stop & Talk, host Grant Oliphant sits down with Dr. Mary Walshok, an influential thinker and powerhouse in the San Diego community. Recently retired from her role as Vice Chancellor at UC San Diego, Mary spearheaded the creation of Park and Market, a facility designed to support serendipitous interactions and collaboration across sectors. She shares her deep insights into the intersection of innovation, community, and economic development.Mary reflects on her vibrant life story, from her unique upbringing in Palm Springs to her pivotal contributions to the local academic and civic landscape. She discusses San Diego County’s abundant geographic, cultural, and demographic features, emphasizing how these elements can drive creativity and opportunity. Grant and Mary explore Mary’s vision for a diverse and inclusive community where unexpected encounters foster new ideas and opportunities.Listen to Mary’s reflections on the role of diversity in innovation, the importance of place, and the value of bringing local and global wisdom together.  This episode is a deep dive into how a community can use its unique assets to become a hub of creativity and forward-thinking progress. This is a production of the Prebys Foundation.Hosted by Grant OliphantCo-Hosted by Crystal PageCo-produced by Crystal Page and Adam GreenfieldEngineered by Adam GreenfieldProduction Assistance by Tess KareskyThe Stop & Talk Theme song was created by San Diego’s own Mr. Lyrical Groove.Recorded at the Voice of San Diego Podcast StudioDownload episodes at your favorite podcatcher or visit us at StopAndTalkPodcast.orgIf you like this show, and we hope you do, the best way to support this show is to share, subscribe, and review our podcast. Thank you for your support, ideas, and listening.