ReImagining Community with Garland

"ReImagining Community with Garland" is a weekly podcast that amplifies Black and Brown voices driving social, cultural, and organizational transformation in their communities locally and globally. Each episode explores personal journeys, pivotal moments, and actionable insights from trailblazers and changemakers across a variety of organizations. Our mission with this podcast is to connect leaders like you to honor the past while shaping the future of changemakers. Garland Fuller will share her experience and perspectives and also invite members of her growing community and network to join her to share their experiences and origin stories with the audience.

Words of the Year Check-in with Allison S. Weiss and Marissa Garza 06/25/2025

Words of the Year Check-in with Allison S. Weiss and Marissa Garza We’re back for our quarterly check-in! This episode, Garland, Marissa, and Allison get real about how 2025 is treating them—emotionally, creatively, and professionally. The crew dives into the words of the year they each picked, how those intentions are holding up (or, in some cases, getting a remix!), and the rituals keeping them grounded in these all-over-the-place times. From Topple-inspired metaphors for emotional balance to morning walks and “letting go” as a radical act, you’ll find sharp honesty and truly relatable reflections. We chat about how consuming less (media, content, even responsibilities) can actually help you do more of what matters. Plus, we cover what books, podcasts, and TV shows are getting us through—and why comfort viewing totally counts as self-care. If you’re managing teams, scaling impact, or just trying to stay steady as the world wobbles, you’ll walk away with a healthy dose of community wisdom—and a reminder that you are so not alone. Key Conversation Highlights Quarterly Check-in Energy: Honest reflections on how “the 2025 of it all” is landing—balancing gratitude and struggle, creativity and overwhelm. Words of the Year Recap: The group revisits their chosen guiding words (like "anchor," "weave," "elevate," "impact," "release") and checks in on where those intentions are now. Emotional Grounding Rituals: Walks (headphone-free!), family time, and quiet routines that help anchor you amidst chaos. Letting Go as Power: Why releasing the need to control everything (including your kid’s forgotten shoes!) is the real flex. Input Diets: Reducing information overload; choosing lighter books, comfort TV, and creative projects over “shoulds.” Current Reads & Recos: History nerd alert, Gilded Age deep dives, rom-com reads, and nostalgia watches like ER and Survivor. Song of the Year: Musical mantras like “Defying Gravity,” “This Is Me,” and “Show Yourself”—and why the right anthem gives you courage to leap, even when your word of the year says otherwise. Community & Collaboration: The power of support, witnessing each other’s growth, and the magic that happens when you have people in your corner. Resources & Mentions Books: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron (plus real talk on the “input deprivation diet”) Gilded Age histories (Allison’s pick: a book on the Rothschild women) Buy Back Your Time (mentioned by Garland) TV: ER (classic comfort watch) White Lotus The Pit (on HBO) Survivor Righteous Gemstones Media Approach: Intentional reduction in podcasts/news—prioritizing rest, fiction, and lighter entertainment as self-care. Songs That Set the Vibe “Defying Gravity” (from Wicked) “This Is Me” “Show Yourself” (from Frozen II) Check out the episode playlist—songs are linked in the show notes! Connect & Keep the Conversation Going How’s your year unfolding? Share your own words, mantras, or check-ins with us! Ready to go deeper? Join the Community Impact Collective and sign up for Garland’s newsletter https://prodigious-designer-8603.kit.com/2998145cf6 Tag us with your reflections or what’s keeping you grounded right now: Allison: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonsweiss/ Marissa: https://www.itsmemarissag.com Garland:https://www.linkedin.com/in/garlandfuller/ #Changemakers #CommunityImpact #ImpactDriven Don’t forget to subscribe and invite a friend who needs a community pick-me-up! Stay Inspired “You don't have to choose between passion and progress. Together, we create change that lasts.” — The ReImagining Community Team Building legacies, together. /episode/index/show/15c3bd73-bca5-4114-b78f-cca5cba65fa7/id/36939785

Community-Owned, Community-Fed: The SoLA Food Co-Op Story with Bahni Turpin 06/11/2025

Community-Owned, Community-Fed: The SoLA Food Co-Op Story with Bahni Turpin In this energizing episode, Garland Fuller dives into a radically authentic conversation with Bahni Turpin—acclaimed actress, community leader, and founder of the SoLA Food Co-Op in South L.A. Bahni shares her journey from artist to changemaker, breaking down how lived experience and community theater opened her eyes to food injustice and inspired tangible solutions. From her roots in New York to establishing a home and purpose in South L.A., Bahni reveals what it really takes to build a member-owned food co-op in a city shaped by food deserts and systemic inequities. She opens up about the co-op building process, the setbacks and surprises, and the incredible community momentum fueling SoLA Food Co-Op today. Key Themes & Takeaways Turning Challenges Into Action: Bahni’s journey is all about not waiting for "someone else" to fix the gaps you see. When big chains refused to invest in her neighborhood, she imagined something bolder: a store owned by—and for—the people. Power of the Cooperative Model: A co-op isn’t just a store—it’s a movement. Every household member gets a vote and a say in how the business serves the community, from the products on the shelves to profit sharing and long-term decisions. Building From the Ground Up: Bahni shares honest reflections on how long the process can take and why showing up at farmer’s markets, collaborating with local growers, and hustling for grants matter. This is grassroots, solutions-first work. Disrupting Food Deserts by Design: The episode unpacks how systemic issues shape food access in Black and Brown communities—and how local, collective ownership can change the narrative for future generations. Collaboration in Action: The SoLA Food Co-Op journey is packed with stories of partnership—working with local farmers, coffee roasters, and organizations birthed from the Black Panther legacy—to ensure the co-op reflects and uplifts the neighborhood. Memorable Quotes “If you’re noticing [a problem], that’s all that needs to happen for something to start changing.” — Garland Fuller “What if the community owned the store—what if I didn’t have to be the owner?” — Bahni Turpin “A co-op isn’t for sale to the highest bidder. It’s about legacy, voice, and staying power for our communities.” — Bahni Turpin Get Involved Interested in joining SoLA Food Co-Op? $200 membership per household—for a lifetime of ownership, voting power, and community impact. Visit to join or donate. Connect in person: Meet the team at their booth at the farmer’s market on the first and third Saturdays at Slauson & Crenshaw (5730 Crenshaw, 10am–3pm). Support their fundraising goal: They’re working toward $5M to open their doors debt-free and keep the power in the community. Every donation and membership matters. Bring your creativity: Volunteers, connectors, and cheerleaders are always needed! If you’re passionate about food justice, this is your space. Shout-Outs & Resources Community Services Unlimited – Local partner and organic produce provider California Center for Cooperative Development – Check out their annual conference for anyone interested in building co-ops Aura Cafe & Life in a Bottle – Supporting local food entrepreneurs Bonus: Playlist Picks Bahni’s go-to community soundtrack? “Love Train” and Marvin Gaye’s hits—because building together is always better with a soundtrack. Want more actionable inspiration? Subscribe to ReImagining Community for more stories that move you to act. Let’s reimagine what’s possible. Together. Tag us with your thoughts or questions! #Changemakers #CommunityImpact #CollaborationOverCompetition Links & Contact Info: SoLA Food Co-Op Membership/Donation page: https://www.solafoodcoop.com/join Garland Fuller Newsletter & Community Impact Collective: https://prodigious-designer-8603.kit.com/2998145cf6 Social: @solafoodcoop, @bahni_turpin, @garlandfuller Building legacies. Together. See you in the community! /episode/index/show/15c3bd73-bca5-4114-b78f-cca5cba65fa7/id/36939375

Season 1, Looking Back 03/05/2025

Season 1, Looking Back We’ve reached the end of an incredible first season of ReImagining Community! In this special finale, Garland Fuller and Marissa Garza look back on the moments that shaped the season, the conversations that challenged and inspired us, and the powerful ways our community is growing. More than just a recap, this episode is about honoring the stories, connections, and impact that have come from building this space together. What’s Inside This Episode? 🔥 Kicking Things Off (00:01:07) Garland and Marissa reflect on what it took to launch this podcast, the energy behind each episode, and the deep sense of purpose fueling this work. 🌟 Season Highlights A look back at the moments that sparked big ideas, new perspectives, and real action—from leadership lessons to the power of storytelling in community building. 💡 Lessons from Our Guests We revisit key takeaways on cultural intelligence, navigating change, and balancing personal and professional growth. 💭 Personal Growth & Big Reflections Garland and Marissa open up about how this season has shaped their own understanding of leadership, creativity, and the evolving nature of community work. 🚀 Looking Ahead to Season 2 What’s next? We’re building on this momentum with fresh conversations, deeper engagement, and even more ways for you to be part of the journey. Get Involved & Stay Connected 🎶 Season Playlist Drop Here's a playlist of all of the songs that moved and inspired our guests this season: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/74GIZUo0A7R0atmcPmvEz7?si=R6XQu5hqTZ-jN_WuH5uv1g 📩 Join the Movement Be part of the Community Impact Collective—a space for changemakers building lasting impact. https://communityimpactcollective.mn.co/ Subscribe to Garland's newsletter for insights on leadership, strategy, and community-driven action. https://prodigious-designer-8603.kit.com/2998145cf6 💬 Your Turn: What Stuck With You? What moments from Season 1 resonated most with you? Let us know—we’d love to hear your takeaways! Thank You for Being Part of This Journey To every listener, guest, and supporter—thank you. This podcast is about reimagining what’s possible when we come together with intention, and we’re just getting started. See you in Season 2! /episode/index/show/15c3bd73-bca5-4114-b78f-cca5cba65fa7/id/35538825

ReImagining Workplaces: Empathy and Belonging with Farzana Nayani 02/26/2025

Building Community and Empowering Entrepreneurs with Ronda Jackson 02/19/2025

Navigating Multicultural Spaces with Jennifer Taylor 02/12/2025

Facing Fear & Finding Strength in Community 02/05/2025

Facing Fear & Finding Strength in Community In this solo episode of ReImagining Community, host Garland Fuller takes on a topic that’s all too real: fear. Whether it’s fear of failure, ridicule, uncertainty, or even success, these invisible barriers keep too many of us from stepping into our power. Garland shares her own journey of pushing past these fears, breaking down how embracing community and collaboration can make all the difference. She also dives into her love of reading and how books can create shared experiences—shouting out The Solidarity Shelf, a flexible book club model started by her friend Marissa Garza. This conversation is a reminder that success isn’t just about what you know, but who you build with. Tune in to explore: ✅ How to identify and work through the “four horsemen of fear” ✅ Why fear of success is real—and how to embrace it ✅ The impact of shared knowledge, community, and collaboration ✅ Why giving credit and working with others can help you thrive If you’ve ever felt like fear is holding you back, this episode is here to remind you: you don’t have to do this alone. Sign up for Garland's Mailing List: Resources Mentioned in the episode: The Four Horseman of Fear - https://coreywilkspsyd.com/the-four-horsemen-of-fear/ Who Not How by Dan Sullivan - https://bookshop.org/p/books/who-not-how-the-formula-to-achieve-bigger-goals-through-accelerating-teamwork-dan-sullivan/14640523?ean=9781401960582&next=t&next=t 10x Is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan - https://bookshop.org/p/books/10x-is-easier-than-2x-the-formula-to-expand-entrepreneurial-freedoms/18867850?ean=9781401969950&next=t&next=t The Solidarity Shelf - https://www.instagram.com/p/DCmQRV6R61R/ 🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward reimagining what’s possible. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to ReImagining Community 00:59 Solo Episode Intro 01:26 The Four Horsemen of Fear 05:05 Navigating Fear of Failure 06:12 Facing Fear of Ridicule 07:32 Pushing Through Uncertainty 09:26 Embracing Success Without Guilt 11:04 Why Community is the Key to Courage 14:53 Let’s Talk Book Clubs 15:19 The Solidarity Shelf—A New Approach 18:09 Why Reading Builds Connection 22:30 Self-Improvement & Growth 23:17 The Power of 'Who Not How' 24:44 Finding Your Unique Strengths 27:39 Vision Holders vs. Implementers 30:16 Scaling with Integrity 34:18 The Magic of Collaboration 38:43 Celebrating the Wins 42:00 Closing Thoughts & Call to Action 📌 Loving the show? Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review—because building stronger communities starts with us. /episode/index/show/15c3bd73-bca5-4114-b78f-cca5cba65fa7/id/35140170

Building Community Connections Through Digital Storytelling 01/29/2025

Building Community Connections Through Digital Storytelling In this episode of ReImagining Community, host Garland Fuller sits down with Eugenia Chien, a strategic planning powerhouse with over a decade of experience shaping how communities connect and engage online. From launching Muni Diaries to leading initiatives at PopSugar and Meta, Eugenia has seen firsthand how digital storytelling can strengthen communities, amplify voices, and foster meaningful partnerships. Together, Garland and Eugenia break down the evolution of online engagement—from throwing ideas at the wall to refining strategies that create real impact. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in fostering connection post-pandemic and share actionable insights on how to build digital spaces that bring people together in powerful ways. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: 00:00 | Welcome to ReImagining Community 00:55 | Meet Eugenia Chien: Strategic Planning & Digital Storytelling Expert 01:40 | College Days & Career Beginnings 02:50 | From Engineering to Journalism: A Career Pivot 05:34 | The Birth of Muni Diaries: Storytelling as Community Building 08:27 | Creating & Sustaining Digital Communities 14:09 | Career Growth & The Rise of Influencer Marketing 16:47 | Navigating the Ever-Changing Digital Landscape 21:47 | The Future of Community-Building in a Hybrid World 28:46 | Expanding the Boundaries of Digital Storytelling 30:10 | The Power of Testing, Experimentation & Adaptation 31:37 | A Surprise Success Story: The Art Market & Digital Connection 36:41 | Finding the Right Partners for Sustainable Growth 41:01 | Reimagining Community Engagement Post-Pandemic 48:20 | Building Intentional Connections That Last 51:07 | Final Takeaways & Next Steps If you're looking to deepen your understanding of digital storytelling, build stronger communities, or refine your online engagement strategies, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Connect with Garland: Connect with Eugenia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugeniachien 🔗 Tune in and join the conversation! #Changemakers #CommunityImpact #DigitalStorytelling /episode/index/show/15c3bd73-bca5-4114-b78f-cca5cba65fa7/id/35059280

Embracing Transformation: Words of the Year and Building Community in 2025 01/22/2025

Embracing Transformation: Words of the Year and Building Community in 2025 Embracing Transformation: Words of the Year and Building Community in 2025 In this episode of Reimagining Community, host Garland Fuller dives into a vibrant and thought-provoking conversation with Marissa Garza, her systems strategist and podcast producer, and Allison Weiss, founder of CRE Recruiting. Together, they explore the transformative power of words, rituals, and intentional community-building for 2025. From their chosen Words of the Year to their professional goals, the discussion unpacks how reflection and connection pave the way for personal and collective growth. Tune in as they share plans to amplify women's voices in commercial real estate, create sanctuary spaces for introspection, and inspire intentional living. This episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt reflections to help you reimagine what community and transformation can look like in the year ahead. Episode Highlights: 00:00 | Welcome to Reimagining Community 00:58 | Introducing Marissa and Allison 03:01 | New Year Reflections and Rituals 04:02 | Words of the Year: Anchor, Weave, Elevate 06:19 | Words of the Year: Impact and Transformation 09:32 | Words of the Year: Release 13:18 | Creative Practices for the New Year 23:13 | Easing into the New Year 23:57 | Manifesting Projects and Goals 24:37 | Addressing Gender Disparity in Real Estate 26:45 | Empowering Women in Commercial Real Estate 29:12 | Personal Reflections and Career Transitions 32:10 | Building Community and Connection 35:54 | Exploring New Ventures and Passions 42:15 | Reimagining Community and Personal Growth 46:33 | Theme Songs for 2025 48:15 | Wrapping Up and Call to Action Follow the Conversation Garland Fuller: Newsletter - // Website: www.garlandfuller.com Marissa Garza: Website - www.marissagarza.com Allison Weiss: @allisonweiss on LinkedIn and Instagram Join us on this journey to redefine community and inspire transformation! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who’s ready to embrace their 2025 vision. Let’s build something meaningful together. /episode/index/show/15c3bd73-bca5-4114-b78f-cca5cba65fa7/id/34899350

Navigating Leadership with Kim Brown 01/15/2025

Navigating Leadership with Kim Brown Building Bridges and Creating Impact: A Conversation with Kim Brown In this episode of Reimagining Community, host Garland Fuller dives into an inspiring conversation with Kim Brown, Managing Partner at Housing Impact Partners and President of AAREP LA. Together, they explore Kim’s remarkable career in commercial real estate and her transformative leadership journey within AAREP LA. From tackling affordable housing challenges to creating third spaces that empower Black professionals, Kim shares invaluable insights on servant leadership and community advocacy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about reshaping communities and driving meaningful impact. Join us as we uncover the foundational role of land use, the power of professional relationships, and the future of community building in Los Angeles. Episode Highlights 00:00 Welcome to Reimagining Community 01:00 Meet Kim Brown and AAREP LA 03:05 Kim’s Journey in Community and Real Estate 08:40 Evolving Leadership: AAREP's Impact on Black Professionals 16:33 Creating Third Spaces and Member-Led Meetups 20:52 Professional Relationships: Catalysts for Community Change 24:59 The Power of Connection and Sponsorship 26:51 Celebrating Wins and Building Networks 28:42 Real Talk: Land Use, Wealth, and Legacy 30:22 Empowering Communities Through Action 32:28 AAREP’s Legacy and Vision for the Future 38:18 Housing Impact Partners: Innovating for Affordability 44:17 Advocacy at the Grassroots Level 45:58 Gratitude and Looking Ahead Stay Connected Follow Garland Fuller: | Instagram: @garlandfuller | www.garlandfuller.com Connect with Kim Brown: | www.housingimpactpartners.com Learn more about AAREP LA: https://www.aarepla.org/ Discover Housing Impact Partners: www.housingimpactpartners.com Tune in for a candid and uplifting conversation that will leave you inspired to take action in your own community. #ReimaginingCommunity #Leadership #CommunityImpact #GenerationalWealth /episode/index/show/15c3bd73-bca5-4114-b78f-cca5cba65fa7/id/34802580

ReImagining Community: The Start of Something New 01/08/2025

ReImagining Community: The Start of Something New Welcome to the premiere episode of ReImagining Community! Host Garland Fuller and guest Marissa Garza reunite to relaunch the podcast, sharing stories that spark connection and inspire action. Dive into the backstory of their friendship, how the pandemic shaped their lives, and why building intentional communities is more important than ever. Garland reflects on her journey in diversity, equity, and inclusion, including her work with the African American Real Estate Professionals of Los Angeles. Together, they explore the power of storytelling and community involvement, laying the foundation for the episodes ahead. This episode also introduces Garland’s new project, the Community Impact Collective—a vibrant space for changemakers to connect, collaborate, and create lasting impact. With the official launch party just around the corner, now is the perfect time to join the movement. Don’t Miss the CIC Launch Party! Think of it as a virtual housewarming to celebrate the start of something big. Here's what you need to know: Date: January 16, 2024 Time: 12 PM PT Where: What to Expect: Live networking, an interactive session, and plenty of music 🎶 Bring your favorite virtual beverage, meet other changemakers, and get an exclusive first look at CIC’s features. Founding members will enjoy special perks, so don’t miss out! Episode Highlights 00:00 - Welcome to Reimagining Community 00:56 - Meet Marissa Garza 01:35 - The Power of Community Connections 05:06 - Reviving the Podcast: Garland's Journey 06:06 - The Impact of Community Involvement 11:03 - ReImagining Community: New Vision and Goals 14:15 - Creating Spaces for Connection 26:39 - Introducing the Community Impact Collective 33:39 - How to Get Involved 35:13 - Final Thoughts and Call to Action Ready to be part of a community that empowers, inspires, and takes action? RSVP for the launch party and stay connected as we grow together. Let’s build stronger, together. 🌟 Garland's newsletter is your inside track to everything she's building, creating, and sharing. It's the easiest way to stay connected and never miss a moment of her journey! Connect with Garland on , , or at her . Connect with Marissa on , , or on her . /episode/index/show/15c3bd73-bca5-4114-b78f-cca5cba65fa7/id/34757455