The Cultivating Connections Podcast from SCI Social Capital Inc. highlights creative initiatives to bring communities together and strategies you can use to build bridges across differences. We will also highlight the latest research and news about the importance of social connection and trends on the topic. Hosted by SCI President & Founder David Crowley.
In this episode of the SCI Podcast, David Crowley speaks with longtime supporter and volunteer Beth Llewellyn-Lavoie about why supporting Social Capital Inc. is so important.
Beth shares how her involvement with SCI began during the COVID-19 pandemic through a local food drive — an experience that addressed food insecurity while also strengthening connections among neighbors. She also reflects on her role as a judge for SCI's Youth Grant Pitch Contest, and the confidence, leadership, and real-world skills young people develop as they pitch solutions to community challenges.
The episode closes with a reflection on charitable giving and community investment. Beth shares why she has consistently prioritized supporting SCI over the past several years, and why organizations like SCI that strengthen one's home community can have lasting impact — not just for today, but for the next generation.
5 Oct 2025
Wine Connect Us - Gustazo Wine & Food Event
How can something as simple as sharing a glass of wine help strengthen our sense of community? In this episode, SCI President David Crowley talks with Stephen Nasiatka, Founder & Chief Wine Officer of Stephen Uncorked, about the power of food and wine to bring people together and spark meaningful conversations.
Stephen shares how he designs wine experiences that do more than delight the palate — they help people connect, build trust, and create lasting memories. Together, David and Stephen discuss their collaboration on the upcoming Social Capital Inc. wine and food fundraiser at Gustazo in Waltham on October 14, 2025, which blends great wine, Cuban cuisine, and community connection in support of SCI’s mission to strengthen social ties across differences.
Topics include:
How wine serves as a “social connector” across cultures and communities
Creating events that encourage genuine conversation and shared experiences
The inspiration behind the SCI Wine & Food Fundraiser at Gustazo Waltham
Tips for making gatherings more inclusive and relationship-focused
How proceeds from the event will support SCI’s work cultivating connection and belonging
Join us for this conversation that pairs perfectly with SCI’s mission — showing how intentional social experiences can help bridge divides and build stronger, more connected communities.
🔗 Learn more or get tickets for the event: socialcapitalinc.org/network
24 Apr 2025
Working Together for Long-Term Change
Turahn Dorsey joins the Cultivating Connections podcast to discuss his extensive work in the nonprofit, public, and private sectors to promote economic mobility and equity. He outlines the Eastern Bank Foundation’s mission to bridge gaps in prosperity by investing in small business ecosystems, early childhood development, affordable housing, and workforce development. Rahn notes their long term investments in areas where sustained commitment is necessary to address deep-rooted inequities. Rahn also discusses Eastern Bank’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) despite the changing climate.
The conversation also touches on Rahn’s previous roles, including his time as Boston’s education chief under Mayor Marty Walsh, where he helped launch the Boston pre-K initiative. He reflects on the importance of collaboration and strong relationships in achieving lasting policy change. Additionally, Rahn shares insights from his research at ABT Associates on social capital, recounting a project in rural South Dakota where community bonds and local agency led to innovative economic development. He connects these lessons to his current work in Boston’s Nubian Square, underscoring the power of community-driven efforts and the importance of investing in places such as Roxbury with deep cultural and historical significance.
Rahn will be recognized on May 7th as one of the 2025 SCI Idealist Award recipients. Join SCI on May 7th to celebrate Rahn!
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 49 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
75
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
60
Contact Cultivating Connections
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Cultivating Connections?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
