The Round Table: A YVote Podcast

At this week's Round Table, Ava, Jack, Kenisha, Madeline, Maya, and Skyla had a really special conversation: with each other. That’s right, no guests which gave us the opportunity to REALLY dig in with one another. We discussed a lot of things: Systemic racism and how it plays out; what we learned through Black@ accounts; whether we are unified between our home self and school self–and where does our true identity lie; how to teach beyond issues that are ingrained in society, and in us; How schools are part of larger systemic issues; if and how it’s possible to create integrated education given segregated neighborhoods; and what we can do to ensure more equitable education that provides youth with a strong foundation to build on beyond that.  We had a great time recording this and hope you’ll have an equally great time listening!

At this week’s Round Table, Inica and Madeline spoke with Jade Zaroff, founder of Entertainment for Change. Jade was raised as a performer and from an early age recognized that being an artist is being an observer of life. She’s long asked herself questions like “why don’t we care about the planet? Why do we treat people differently? How can we use art intentionally to tell stories using the 17 Sustainable Development Goals to help people work for change?”  This led Jade to found Entertainment for Change, blending the arts, business, and entrepreneurship, and to trademark the term “Impact Artist,” which she was shocked to discover didn’t exist. Last year Jade launched the Impact Artist curriculum for 100 youth ages 9-17 at French Woods summer camp to great acclaim and she’s continuing to grow it. We loved hearing about the innovative programming she’s created and talking about change and success more broadly. Change is very personal for Inica these days. This week’s podcast was her last, after three great years being with you weekly as a podcast host. As she heads off to Barnard College this fall, she look forward to joining you as a fellow listener of The Round Table. Thank you for joining us!

At this week's Round Table, Inica and Madeline spoke with Bhawani Venkataraman, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Chair and Departmental Faculty Advisor for Natural Sciences and Mathematics at The New School.  Professor Venkataraman focuses on how chemistry can be made relevant to students and to issues of social justice and equity, and to how to get students thinking deeply and becoming informed voters—pretty cool, right? Connect macro with molecular with social Making sense of the world today requires integrating multiple disciplines, and so she strives to connect the molecular world with macro social issues. More specifically, Professor Venkataraman’s work tackles challenges around safe drinking water. We all have an intimate relationship w water and know it is essential to keeping us alive but what is it about the properties of good old H2O that makes it so? Water dictates so much about public health, safety, educational opportunities and is a POWERFUL medium for exploring the interconnections of human existence yet we rarely examine its centrality to our way of life, until after a tragedy like Flint, Michigan occurs. Professor Venkataraman works to make the invisible, visible–and visceral! She encourages us not to look at individual issues discreetly but rather to connect dots and look at systems, and to always hold issues of justice and equity at the forefront. She has a book coming out in February that connects the chemistry of water to the policies and management issues around drinking water, a connection we found fascinating and think you will as well.  Life cycles should be at the forefront of policy making, esp for vulnerable populations. As such, Professor Venkataraman’s work also focuses on how best to communicate basic scientific research on issues such as water quality, air pollution, and climate change to non-scientists–something we non-scientists really appreciated. Thank you for listening!

At this week's Round Table, Madeline and Kenisha did something a bit different for the podcast, along with Elijah from the Department of Youth & Community Development and Caroline from NYCVotes We Power NYC: interviewed Danny Frost, Senior Advisor and Director of Communications for the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office for an episode of We Got Issues on Facebook Live. We Got Issues is a monthly partnership of YVote/Next Generation Politics, DYCD, and NYCVotes that illuminates what different elected officials do, seeking to build voter and citizen knowledge AND to humanize the office and officials. In this episode, we talked about the role of the District Attorney  (spoiler alert: it’s NOT to nail em and jail em), Danny’s responsibilities as the chief spokesperson and Public Information Officer of such a high stakes office, what’s different working as an attorney for government vs a private firm, and how the DA’s office works to engage youth and leverage Community Partnerships. We also talked about pressing current events, like how the District Attorney’s office dealt with arrests of protesters during the Black Lives Matter Protest in 2020 and how Danny has seen criminal justice in New York change over the course of his tenure. The role of the DA isn’t to win, it’s to seek justice--which aligns with our ethos at Next Generation Politics as well--so it was an exciting episode for us. Thank you for listening!

Pranjal Jain, founder of Global Girlhood, discusses the organization’s goals to ensure every woman is portrayed in the most authentic ways possible and to encourage a new vision of what global citizenship is

Welcome back to The Round Table! This week, our hosts Kassandra and Preena are joined by Shennell McCloud, a visionary leader redefining civic engagement. Together, they dive into a conversation that bridges two worlds we rarely talk about together: wellness and infrastructure and how their intersection is essential to building lasting justice. Too often, civic leadership is measured by rallies, votes, and policy wins. But what about the systems that support the people doing the work?What if true, sustainable change means protecting not just rights, but rest? Not just momentum, but mental health? In this episode, we explore why burnout and overwork are not sustainable models for engagement and how movements can thrive when wellness is treated as a core part of organizing.We also examine how neglecting mental health and community care weakens civic infrastructure. From physical spaces to digital platforms like The Sanctuary, we spotlight ways to intentionally build systems of care that fuel resilience and action.Shennell’s work offers powerful insight into what it means to build structures that support both freedom and function, especially in communities that have been over extracted and under-resourced for generations. Together, this conversation reminds us that justice work isn’t just about fighting back, it's also about building up, and that starts with caring for ourselves and each other.Thanks For Listening!

Welcome back to The Round Table! In this week’s all host episode, Kassandra, Daniella, Preena and Viola dive into the current state of U.S. democracy, how it’s shifted over time, the changing roles and behaviors of public officials, and the corruption that threatens to shake the system at its core.From the NYC mayoral race to Trump’s digital fundraising tactics to ICE detention practices, the hosts break down the latest headlines. They explore the growing public disillusionment with government, education, and immigration and the apathy that seems to be everywhere. Drawing a powerful comparison to the musical Cabaret, they ask: how do we get people to care? How do we hold leaders accountable? And what unique role do young people play in all of this?The conversation also looks at digital political activism, the importance of real, human connection in movements, the danger of performative politics, and whether rebuilding trust in government is even possible. Rebuilding trust won’t be easy; it'll take transparency, accountability, and real systemic change. But it’s possible. And more than that, it’s necessary. Now is the time to speak up, take action, and push for a democracy that actually reflects and respects the people it serves.Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to The Round Table! This week, our hosts Kassandra, Preena, and Sauda sit down with Dr. Paul Zeitz a physician, public health expert, and democracy advocate whose work spans from global health to civic transformation. With decades of experience leading responses to the HIV/AIDS crisis and now focusing on constitutional renewal and citizen empowerment, Dr. Zeitz brings a unique blend of medical insight, political strategy, and community action to the table.In this episode, we dive deep into what it means to radically rethink democracy in the 21st century. Dr. Zeitz talks about his mission to help everyday people reclaim power, build inclusive systems, and take bold action to heal what's broken in our society. From citizens' assemblies to new approaches to constitutional reform, he offers not only critique, but clear strategies for reimagining civic life and amplifying youth voices.We also explore how young people can be powerful agents of change despite the challenges of polarization, disengagement, and injustice. This conversation is about possibility, action, and the future we can build together.Thanks for listening.

Welcome back to The Round Table! This week, our hosts Daniella, Kassandra, and Preena sat down with two time Emmy Award winning filmmaker Kayona Ebony Brown, whose work bridges art and activism. Known for her powerful storytelling in both sports and female centered narratives, Kayona shares how her creative journey from radio DJ to filmmaker has been fueled by resilience, purpose, and a deep belief in the power of storytelling.In this episode, Kayona opens up about the setbacks that shaped her career and how failure can be a tool for growth, leadership, and social impact. She reflects on her work on high profile projects like Before Jackie, a Super Bowl feature starring Viola Davis, and her current fictional sports series Coach Quinn, which challenges gender norms in the NFL.If you’ve ever wondered how creators balance big dreams with real world discipline, this one’s for you. Kayona shares the daily routines that keep her grounded, including meditation and gratitude practices, and how emotional discipline helps her thrive in a fast paced industry. With big plans to fund her first feature film and expand her company, Siingle, Kayona continues to use her platform to inspire, empower, and spark civic engagement. Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to The Round Table! This week, our hosts Daniella and Sauda speak with Corinne Lerma, a Youth250 Bureau member. She is one of 100 young adult fellows who not only advise, but also collaborate with nonprofit organizations. But, Corinne’s commitment to helping young learners doesn’t just stop there. In addition to this, she is also a preschool educator, a Cincinnati Museum Center instructor, an artist, and a writer. Together, Corinne and the hosts dive into her passions, her journey, and how she manages to balance so many roles at once.Starting with the roots of Corinne’s interests in history, the arts, civic engagement, and education, the hosts explore how her rural upbringing shaped her perspective, her thoughts on the future of art, and her personal creative process. Corinne shares how she realized college wasn’t the right path for her, how working with 4-5 year olds helped her define her core values, and why civic education at an early age matters. She also reflects on the challenges she’s faced and the achievements she’s proud of despite them.The conversation wraps up with a look at Corinne’s role in the Youth250 Bureau and how that opportunity came to be, before she turns the tables and asks the hosts to share their own favorite ways to stay civically engaged. Tune in to hear what Corinne and the hosts strive to make time for and why it’s essential to nurturing civic minded communities.

Welcome back to The Round Table! This week, our hosts Kassandra, Daniel, and Zarina sit down with Alice Sheehan, CFO of AllSides Technologies. Alice is passionate about promoting media literacy and works closely with teachers and students across all 50 states to encourage understanding of opposing viewpoints on important civic issues. She believes strongly in teaching young people “how to think,” not “what to think.”During the episode, Alice shares her journey into civic engagement and explains how her early involvement in local issues shaped her passion today. She talks about the value of focusing efforts where they can have the biggest impact, starting within one’s own community. Alice also reflects on the challenges young people face when trying to prioritize so many civic and political issues at once.The conversation highlights growing concerns around civil discourse and the decline of respectful dialogue between opposing sides. Alice discusses the role of social media in deepening political divides, pointing out how platforms are often separated into “liberal” and “conservative” spaces. This separation, she explains, makes it harder for individuals to truly understand different perspectives.Throughout the episode, Alice offers thoughtful insights on media literacy, political discourse, and active civic engagement. Her experiences show why developing critical thinking skills and engaging thoughtfully with others is more important than ever. Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to The Round Table! This week, our hosts Kassandra, Sauda, and Viola sit down with Christopher Albert De La Roa, Web Producer and Content Manager at DoSomething.org. Christopher shares his personal background in art and activism as an independent broadcaster, media and content producer, storyteller, and self proclaimed “student of the absurd.”Reflecting on his upbringing, witnessing injustice and facing family struggles Christopher discusses how he found both escape and empowerment through art. He shares his take on the evolving role of social media as a “double-edged sword,” offering thoughtful advice on how to navigate content creation and consumption. He also highlights the artists who have broken through societal barriers to bring forward stories that reflect the experiences of often overlooked communities.Together, the group dives into media films, books, and more that portray marginalized groups with care, as well as those that miss the mark. Christopher emphasizes the importance not just of which stories get told, but who gets to tell them, and how that shapes the broader cultural narrative. The conversation rounds out with a powerful discussion on the role of humor in healing, the impact of activism on education and careers, and the need to move beyond fear, seek support, and speak your truth. Listen in to find out why that matters and how to begin.

Welcome to another episode of The Round Table! This week, Daniel, Preena, and Viola sit down with C. Evan Stewart, author of The Worst Supreme Court Decisions Ever! and a professor at Cornell University. Stewart delves into America’s legal history, examining cases like Dred Scott v. Sanford and the importance of addressing the uncomfortable truths of the legal system. Stewart discusses the role of lawyers, explaining that their job is to represent clients rather than determine guilt or innocence, which is the responsibility of the jury and judge. He underscores how this distinction is vital to maintaining fairness and integrity in the legal system, even when cases involve contentious or morally complex issues. As a professor, Stewart highlights the need to teach history in its entirety, including its darker moments. He emphasizes that avoiding uncomfortable truths risks creating a distorted view of history, which hinders society’s ability to learn from past mistakes. Stewart also stresses the significance of civic engagement, encouraging people to get involved in local elections and explore a variety of sources to understand history and legal cases. Informed voting and critical thinking, he argues, are crucial for shaping a more equitable and effective legal system. Despite its flaws, there's optimism about America’s legal system and its potential for positive change. The system’s resilience, he believes, comes from its ability to evolve through democratic processes and active participation from citizens.

Welcome to another episode of The Round Table! This week, Daniella, Kassandra and Kassandra sit down with Kelly Davis, the Vice President of Peer and Youth Advocacy at Mental Health America. In her role, Kelly focuses on expanding peer support mental health programs and championing policies driven by lived experiences. In our conversation, Kelly sheds light on how peer support functions and emphasizes the critical need to break down barriers that limit access to mental health assistance. While acknowledging the challenges that remain in addressing youth mental health, we also highlight the range of treatment options available through schools and how they can serve as a foundation for progress. Our discussion takes a deep dive into the multifaceted nature of mental health. We explore generational stigmas, the influence of social media and online mental health spaces, and the persistent disparities in mental health support for men and women. Additionally, we examine the unique challenges faced by immigrants and first-generation children, offering insight into how cultural backgrounds shape their relationship with mental health. Kelly shares practical ways for youth to engage in mental health advocacy through local and national organizations, highlighting how passionate young people are driving much of today’s progress. We close by reflecting on our hopes for the future: greater accessibility to support, more open conversations breaking mental health taboos, and leaders prioritizing this critical issue. Thank you for listening!

At this week’s Round Table, Inyoo and Kassandra engage in a captivating conversation with Dr. William T. Armaline, a Professor in the Department of Sociology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences at San José State University. Dr. Armaline is the founder of the Human Rights Minor at SJSU, a dedicated educator, and the author of several influential works on human rights and politics. Drawing from his working-class roots and extensive experience in academia and activism, Dr. Armaline offers a unique and insightful perspective on the evolving political landscape. The discussion explores the potential for a Great Realignment in the U.S. party system, the critical role of organized labor, and the impact of state-level violence on society. Together, they examine the United States' historical engagement with violence, particularly state-sanctioned violence, and how various demographics perceive and experience these issues today. Dr. Armaline also highlights how both major political parties have often fallen short in addressing the concerns of the American people, missing crucial opportunities to connect with voters on a deeper level. Throughout the episode, he shares heartfelt advice for young activists, expressing his unwavering belief in their ability to drive meaningful change. He underscores the importance of self-education, staying informed, and organizing to create social and political transformation. Dr. Armaline’s message is clear: the future belongs to those who are committed to shaping it through action and education. Thank you for listening!

At this week’s Round Table, Heba, Inyoo, Kassandra, and Preena unpack the results of the 2024 elections. They analyze the surprising performance of Donald Trump and the strong showing of down-ballot Republicans, exploring the factors that contributed to these outcomes. The hosts also dissect the strategies employed by various campaigns, with a particular focus on where Kamala Harris may have fallen short in reaching key voter groups. The conversation shifts to the ongoing impact of race and gender in American politics, examining how these issues continue to shape election outcomes and influence public perception. The hosts then explore the economic concerns that dominated the election, such as inflation, the rising cost of living, and immigration. They evaluate how candidates communicated their positions on these issues and consider the effects of these messages on voter behavior. The hosts also discuss how voters’ economic struggles may have influenced their choices at the polls. They go on to reflect on the media’s role in shaping public opinion during the election cycle. The hosts assess how misinformation and a lack of media literacy may have impacted voters’ decisions, highlighting the need for a more informed electorate that can navigate political narratives with greater discernment.  Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of media literacy, civic engagement, and cross-partisan dialogue. They encourage listeners to focus on understanding diverse viewpoints instead of dismissing those who disagree.  Thanks for listening.

At this week’s Round Table, Inyoo, Kassandra, and Preena were joined by Ken W. Good, a legal expert and member of the Board of Directors for the Professional Bondsmen of Texas, to explore the complex and often contentious world of bail reform. With a law degree from Texas Tech and years of experience arguing cases before the Supreme Court of Texas and the U.S. Court of Appeals, Ken brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion. Throughout the episode, we delve into the critical role the bail industry plays within the criminal justice system, discussing the real-world implications of zero-bail policies and their impact on public safety and recidivism. Ken offers a balanced perspective on the conflicting studies surrounding bail reform—some of which show alarming re-offense rates among those released on zero-bail, while others, such as those from New Jersey, suggest that eliminating cash bail does not necessarily lead to an increase in violent crime. We also explore the methodology behind these studies, questioning the validity of their conclusions and what they mean for future policymaking. With the continued rise of bail reform across the U.S., understanding the full scope of its impact has become crucial for lawmakers, law enforcement, and the public alike. Ken provides important insights into how these studies shape the conversation, and what is at stake for communities across the nation. As bail reform continues to be a hotly debated topic, Ken offers valuable insights into potential alternatives and compromises that might bridge the divide between differing viewpoints. His thoughts on how to ensure both public safety and fairness within the justice system provide a fresh perspective on how these issues could be addressed in the future. Tune in for an engaging conversation with Ken W. Good as we tackle the complexities of bail reform and its impact on our society. Thanks for listening!

Welcome back to another episode of The Round Table! This week, Daniella, Hannah, Heba, Inyoo and Preena come together for an all-host discussion on the role of the media in political campaigning. With the 2024 Presidential Election fast approaching and weighing heavily on everyone’s minds, understanding how media shapes voting behavior, staying informed, and remaining civically engaged has never been more crucial. In this episode, the hosts explore how misinformation and disinformation impact candidates' campaigns and influence voting outcomes, diving into the ways media shapes political conversations, especially in such a polarized climate. They also discuss the role of peer influence on voting decisions and the effect of our inherent biases on the news we choose to consume. The conversation extends to the pros and cons of America’s two-party system, Gen Z’s perspectives on critical issues, and the tough question of how much one vote really matters—especially when faced with candidates who both may support causes you find deeply troubling. The hosts share practical strategies to strengthen your media literacy and tips on effectively cross-checking information.  Thanks for listening!

Welcome to another episode of The Round Table! This week, our hosts Heba, Kassandra, and Daniella welcome Taina B. Wagnac, Senior Manager of State and Local Policy at the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC). Taina shares her inspiring journey from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to becoming a powerful advocate for immigrant rights in New York State. With her extensive experience in legislative strategy and policy analysis, Taina has been at the forefront of initiatives that enhance language access, expand civic participation, and ensure equitable protections for immigrant communities. During our conversation, we dive deep into critical topics such as the influence of pop culture on political views, the importance of youth voter mobilization, and the role of immigrant voices in politics. Taina provides insightful perspectives on the Trump-Haiti dynamic and discusses the significance of breaking down language barriers in elections, particularly for Black immigrants. We also explore the vibrant intersection of Caribbean culture and New York identity, highlighting what it truly means to be a "true New Yorker." Tune in as we unpack the complexities of politics through the lens of current TV shows and movies, and discuss how they shape the beliefs and activism of younger generations. Thank you for listening!

Welcome to another episode of The Round Table! This week, Daniel, Hannah, and Kassandra welcomed Lindsey Grossman, a distinguished expert in technology and public policy with a remarkable career spanning nearly two decades. Lindsey has left an indelible mark across the globe through her leadership roles at major companies including Intuit, Stripe, Netflix, Wise, and Block. Her career has been driven by a commitment to improving access to financial tools for small businesses and families, showcasing her talent for developing innovative products and forging strong partnerships. Lindsey's journey began with a solid foundation in public policy and government affairs, which has profoundly influenced her approach to technology and product development throughout her career. During our conversation, Lindsey explores the crucial intersection of technology and public policy, discussing the importance of collaboration between companies and governments and sharing examples of successful and challenging outcomes in these partnerships. She delves into how her global and local experiences have shaped her perspective, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in addressing both international and community-level issues. Recently, Lindsey has taken a sabbatical, engaging in volunteer work with local Democratic initiatives in upstate New York and consulting with a startup company. This period of reflection and community involvement has reignited her passion for public service, particularly in enhancing women's reproductive care. Lindsey also reflects on her personal and professional experiences as a woman in international policy and tech circles, including her efforts to support women's leadership and navigate various challenges. Additionally, Lindsey shares how her time studying and working in India and London has been pivotal in shaping her career and worldview, and how her early experiences in Washington, DC laid the groundwork for her subsequent achievements. Join us for a compelling discussion with Lindsey Grossman as she offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of technology and public policy, and how her diverse experiences continue to inspire and influence her work. Thanks for listening!