Alvina Talks Shift

Latest Episodes:

Endometriosis, Healthcare, and Policy Change: Jessica Grennan's Story on Alvina Talks Shift Jun 12, 2024

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In this week's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez welcomes old colleague and friend Jessica Grennan, winning political strategist with over two decades of experience and one of the nation’s top experts on statewide ballot measures. She has also worked on federal campaigns, as a targeted legislative campaigner and builder of powerful alliances. Jessica shares her journey from working on end-of-life options in Montana to advocating for reproductive health in Colorado.

She discusses the challenges she faced due to severe endometriosis, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy in the medical system. Jessica emphasizes the need for flexible, inclusive workplace policies and the importance of building strong community relationships. They also talk about the political landscape of Arizona, noting its restrictive ballot measure laws and the significance of progressive victories in a competitive environment. She is now bringing all of her passion and creative strategy to her own firm Simple Majority.

https://www.simplemajority.org/

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7wREL8pDeSI

Get ready to tune in and shift gears with Alvina Vasquez in Alvina Talks Shift, a thought-provoking podcast that dives into the ever-changing world of politics and life. Join Alvina as she engages with people who give a sh*t, empowering listeners to take a front-row seat in shaping our nation's future. Be part of the conversation, and let's create a life and country we are proud of, together. With valuable insights and real-life experiences, Alvina Talks Shift will make you rethink everything you thought you knew – shake up the status quo and evolve alongside Alvina. It's time to flip the script with Alvina Talks Shift.

Women Leading Agriculture: Taylor Szilagyi on Policy, Education, and Change Jun 05, 2024

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Welcome back to Alvina Talks Shift! Host Alvina Vasquez welcomes guest Taylor Szilagyi. As the Executive Vice President of Colorado Farm Bureau, Taylor is the first woman to lead staff and the first Colorado Native in 57 years. Taylor discusses her inspirations, including her mother and the evolving role of women in agriculture. She reflects on growing up in the racially diverse San Luis Valley and navigating educational challenges.

Taylor emphasizes the importance of hiring leaders with personal life experiences and the need for diverse stakeholders to create effective policies. She shares insights on the agricultural industry's sustainability, the importance of local food movements, and the public's perception of big agriculture. Taylor also talks about her career progression, managing postpartum anxiety, and the significance of workplace flexibility for parents.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UqoeAelWnYg

Politics, Motherhood, and Running for County Commissioner with Julie Duran Mullica May 01, 2024

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In this episode of Alvina Talks Shift, Alvina welcomes Julie Duran Mullica, who is running for Adam's County Commissioner. During their conversation, she shares the personal challenges she faces as a Latina mother running for Adams County commissioner. Julie also discusses the significant pressures of balancing family life with the demands of a political campaign, highlighting the threats to her family due to her decisions on the tri-county board of health and the gender biases she encounters. She points out the stark scrutiny compared to her husband, underscoring the persistent inequality in perceptions about parenting responsibilities between men and women in politics. Julie emphasizes teaching her children to distinguish valid criticism from baseless negativity and uses music, like Carrie Underwood’s "Champion," as a motivational tool. Throughout the episode, both Julie and host Alvina Vasquez explore the slow progress toward gender equality, the importance of support for women in politics, and maintaining personal fulfillment despite the daunting challenges.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YhD2rYOUlYE

Reproductive Health Care Access for Communities of Color Apr 10, 2024

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In this powerful episode of Alvina Talks Shift, hosts Alvina Vasquez welcomes Adrienne Mansanares. CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains. They explore the challenges and opportunities within philanthropy and leadership for people of color. Adrienne highlights the underrepresentation of young people of color in philanthropic spaces and the importance of creating paths for their advancement. She emphasizes incorporating equity into organizational practices, drawing from civil rights movements. Additionally, the conversation touches on the role of nonprofit boards in overseeing organizational vision and health, encouraging diverse participation and aligning with leadership.

The episode also delves into issues within the healthcare system, focusing on the importance of sexual and reproductive health care for communities of color. Political attacks and legal barriers in Colorado and beyond, including the Texas abortion ban, underscore the urgency of this topic. The distinction between adoption and abortion is discussed, advocating for the respect of personal decisions in parenthood. Action points like volunteer work, board service, and donations are suggested for supporting reproductive health organizations.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2FB8xQSDSl4

From the White House to the Community : The Impact of Denise Maes Apr 03, 2024

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In this episode of Alvina Talks Shift, Alvina Vasquez welcomes Denise Maes, who shares her inspiring journey from a Mexican American growing up in New Mexico to a high-ranking position at the White House. Denise reflects on the significance of providing a supportive space for women in the Mexican American community and the importance of mentorship. They discuss systemic changes through policy-making and the challenges within the legal system. Denise highlights USA Jobs as a key resource for finding federal employment and stresses the need for more women and minorities in government roles.

The episode explores recruitment efforts and the benefits of federal work. Additionally, Denise introduces her dog, Frida, who provided a lot of entertainment for her friends during Covid! The Cafecito group's supportive nature for Latina women in government is also acknowledged. Denise's past roles at a large Denver law firm and the White House are examined, including working with then Vice President Biden. Currently, as a regional administrator for the GSA, she oversees sustainability in federal buildings, focusing on creating opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses in the process.

To find jobs within the United States government: https://www.usajobs.gov/

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/aP9JFE_vbbQ

Driving Progress through Genuine Leadership with Grace Ramirez Mar 27, 2024

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In this week's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez chats with long-time friend and esteemed guest Grace Ramirez. The discussion delves into the nuances of effective leadership and the paramount importance of fairness, transparency, and communication. Grace shares her rich experience in political engagement and Latino community advocacy, detailing her journey from working on campaign operations to her role with the Hispanic Federation advocating for comprehensive immigration reform.

Her efforts in lobbying for the McCain-Kennedy bill and spearheading voter initiatives in Colorado exemplify her dedication to public service. The episode also touches on the complexities of Puerto Rican representation in the U.S. and Grace's work for the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration. Throughout the conversation, in-person connection, role clarity within teams, and the power of authentic leadership are emphasized, underscoring Grace's belief in the significance of building strong, professional, and emotional bonds to foster effective communication and achieve communal goals.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ihSMl2bnHAw

Breaking Barriers: Women's Journeys in the Professional World Mar 20, 2024

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In today's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez welcomes back guest and business partner Susan Morrisey to discuss their experiences as women in the business world. They reflect on the challenges they faced, such as harassment and being pigeonholed, both as women and as a Latina in business. Alvina shares her journey from the male-dominated broadcasting industry to working in a women-dominated environment, while Susan opens up about facing harassment in the workplace and balancing work and parenting. They also touch on the evolving nature of celebrating women's achievements and the ongoing struggles faced by women, especially those who identify as non-binary or transgender.

The conversation delves into the future of their company, SE2, and the shifting dynamics of working with communities, incorporating their voices and stories into campaigns. Finally, the women contemplate the significance of Women's History Month and stress the importance of reflecting on its implications in their own lives and experiences.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nE14jNOASy0

Women's Rights, Policy Battles, and Mentorship with Susan Morrisey Mar 13, 2024

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In this episode of Alvina Talks Shift, Alvina Vasquez interviews guest and business partner Susan Morrisey. Susan shares her experiences working with the late Pat Schroeder, a champion for women's rights and family issues. She reflects on the lengthy battles for policy change, especially in the context of advancing women's rights and childcare. Susan emphasizes the importance of commitment to long-term advocacy and the significant impact of mentorship in her career, including the influence of her mother and male colleagues. She also discusses the challenges and misconceptions faced by women in the political and business spaces. Beyond the professional sphere, Susan shares her love for horseback riding and outdoor activities.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CiRiPbxHNms

Affordable Housing and Equality with Kathleen Van Voorhis Mar 06, 2024

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In this week's episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez speaks with Kathleen Van Voorhis, CEO of the Community Investment Alliance, about Colorado's Bill 1311, which aims to reduce child poverty by 50% and assist middle-income families through a child tax credit. They examine the bill's potential to affect over 133,000 children, especially with the high costs of daycare and housing. The conversation then addresses the broader housing crisis gripping Colorado due to factors like inflation, underscoring the nation's failure to provide adequate affordable housing.

Solutions like tax credits and development near transit areas to facilitate access to jobs are discussed, as well as the importance of community conversations in tackling housing issues. Van Voorhis emphasizes teaching children about social inequalities and their capacity to inspire change. The episode also explores the challenges surrounding family-based shelter systems, the migrant crisis in Colorado, and the work of the Community Investment Alliance in advocating for change and supporting the unhoused and migrants.

Get involved > www.communityinvestmentalliance.org

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MYNOQ-uq6Ms

The Unseen Forces Shaping Colorado Politics with Scott Wasserman Feb 28, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Alvina Talks Shift, host Alvina Vasquez welcomes back guest Scott Wasserman as they discuss the intricate and often overlooked influences shaping local and state politics. They delve into the collusion of major conservative organizations in Colorado, the impact of their ballot measures on local government funding, and the complexities of public perception regarding taxation and government spending.

The discussion reveals the manipulative tactics used to sway public opinion and obscure issues of income inequality and essential service workers' undercompensation. Through their dialogue, the conversation sheds light on the need for effective storytelling to reframe public discourse and remind people of the role of communal investment in shaping a better future for all.

This episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pJu4tx3EGfg

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