Let's Talk Social Innovation is a podcast that brings together University of Pittsburgh members and community leaders to discuss their work. The podcast believes in the power of conversations to drive change in communities. Ian Kehinde is the producer and host of the podcast.
Season 4 of Let's Talk Social Innovation explores what it means to live, lead, and learn within complex and often inequitable systems -- starting with the everyday realities of Black Americans, then moving into discussions of empathy, education and leadership in public life.
We begin with the theme of Breaking Down the Black Experience, a series recorded during Black History Month that highlights personal stories of identity, creativity and resilience.
In Episode 1, we hear from Roger Briscoe II, who speaks about navigating predominantly white spaces and fostering inclusive environments through his leadership in student affairs.
In Episode 2, Jarrod Lovelace shares his experiences growing up as a mixed child, the centrality of food in his life, and how he supports students of color while working in recruitment at the University of Pittsburgh.
In Episode 3, Alivia Pierce explores Black queer identity, the power of zines, and how intersectionality shapes both resistance and healing.
We round out this theme with Episode 4, where Kyle Wyche discusses sustainability, emotional vulnerability and redefining masculinity through entrepreneurship and food justice.
Next, we shift into Education, Empath & Equity, where our guests examine how learning environments can be transformed through inclusive practices and human-centered leadership.
Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch opens the theme in Episode 5, sharing her journey from homelessness to nonprofit leadership while reflecting on imposter syndrome and personal growth.
Dr. Leah Fabiano joins in Episode 6 to discuss cultural sensitivity, anti-machismo in the classroom, and advocacy or marginalized students.
In Episode 7, Dr. John Brigham talks about engineering and global citizenship, reflecting on how travel and cross-cultural engagement expand our capacity for innovation.
Finally, in Episode 8, educators Robert Scherrer and Nick Haberman discuss empathy in education, community engagement, and storytelling as a pedagogical tool.
We close out the season with the theme Reflections & Revelations, featuring two dynamic leaders who challenge us to think boldly about the future of higher education.
In Episode 9, we record a live studio episode with Dr. Clyde Wilson Pickett. Dr. Pickett speaks candidly about Black fatherhood, academic leadership, and cultivating justice within university systems.
Our season finale, Episode 10, is a special recording with Dean Nicola Foote, who shares her journey through Latin American studies, her leadership in academia, and her vision for inclusive and equitable universities.
Join us on this transformative journey as we uncover remarkable stories and the potential within each of us to shape a better future.
The podcast is available on Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, and Google Podcasts.
Episode 1 (ft. Roger Briscoe II) - DEI, Professionalism, and Code Switching
Kick off Season 4 of Let's Talk Social Innovation with a powerful conversation with Roger Briscoe II, Executive Director of Student Inclusion at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. In episode 1, Roger shares his experiences growing up as one of the few Black children in his community, offering a unique perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion. We delve into the complexities of navigating predominantly white spaces and explore the art of effective code-switching. Join us for an insightful discussion on identity, belonging, and the importance of creating inclusive environments.
Episode 2 (ft. Jarrod Lovelace) - Food, Teaching, and Navigating PWIs
In this episode, we sit down with Jarrod Lovelace, the manager of Recruitment at the Office of Admissions and FHC. Jarrod gives insight into his experiences growing up as a mixed child in his community and takes us through the cultivation of his relationship with food. In the second portion of the episode, we discuss how to survive and thrive in a predominantly white institution. Join us for an insightful discussion on identity, belonging, and the importance of creating inclusive environments.
Episode 3 (ft. Alivia Pierce) - Zines, Vietnam, and Black Queerness
In this episode, we interview Alivia Pierce, FHC double major at the University of Pittsburgh and author of "Can I Kick It?". Alivia talks about their experience growing up in Erie, PA, and reveals hidden secrets about the research process. In the second portion of the episode, we discuss the intersectionality of being both Black and queer in America. Join us for an insightful discussion on identity, belonging, and the importance of creating inclusive environments.
Episode 4 (ft. Kyle Wyche) - Ecotone Renewables, Track, and Male Vulnerability
In this episode, we interview Kyle Wyche, Chief Operating Officer of Ecotone Renewables. Kyle shares his unique journey from growing up in Wynmore, PA, to pursuing a double major at the University of Pittsburgh and ultimately finding his passion in sustainable food systems. We explore his entrepreneurial spirit, his experience building terrariums, and how these early interests led him to his current work at Ecotone. In the second part of the episode, we delve into a powerful conversation about emotional vulnerability and the experiences of Black men. Join us for an inspiring discussion about passion, purpose, and the importance of creating a more sustainable and equitable world.
Theme 2: Education, Empathy, & Equity
Episode 5 (ft. Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch) - Period Zero, Imposter Syndrome, and Finding Motivation
In this episode, we talk with Dr. Audra Lewis-Hoesch, founder of Period Zero. She touches on her journey from her homeless upbringing to founding nonprofits and owning two homes. In the second part of the episode, we dive into the topics of motivation, imposter syndrome, and overachieving. Join us for an inspiring discussion about passion, purpose, and the importance of creating a more sustainable and equitable world.
Episode 6 (ft. Dr. Leah Fabiano) - Cultural Awareness, Anti-Machismo, and Sticking in Academia
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Leah Fabiano, professor at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Fabiano talks about growing up in a homogenous community and shifting to a more diverse culture with age, and how that shaped her career and worldviews. In the second half, we discuss how minorities can get ahead in academia.
Episode 7 (ft. Dr. John Brigham) - Engineering, Diversity, and the Importance of Travel
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. John Brigham, professor at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Brigham talks about his upbringing in Vermont and shifting to a more diverse culture with age, and how that shaped his career. In the second half, we talk about the importance of travel and how it can impact your worldview.
Episode 8 (ft. Robert Scherrer and Nick Haberman) - Intermediate Units, Teaching, and Empathy
In this episode, we talk with Robert Scherrer, Executive Director of the AIU, and Nicholas Haberman, founder of the LIGHT initiative. We discuss their backgrounds in teaching, what an intermediate unit is, and how to make the world a better place through spreading empathy.
Theme 3: Reflections and Revelations
Special Edition Episode 9 (with Dr. Clyde Wilson Pickett)- A Conversation on Black Fatherhood
In this special recording of the Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Clyde Wilson Pickett, the chief diversity officer at the University of Pittsburgh, in front of a live studio audience. We talk about his Kentucky upbringing, his work in the university, and discuss several topics in the world of Black Fatherhood.
Episode 10 (ft. Dean Nicola Foote) - Frederick Honors, Latin History, and Equity in Universities
This is the season finale of the Let's Talk Social Innovation Podcast. In this episode, we talk with Nicola Foote, the Dean of the Frederick Honors College at the University of Pittsburgh. We talk about her British upbringing, her journey to America, and how we can level the playing field for all college students at universities.