Urban Beginnings is a podcast co-hosted by practicing planners Blair Czarecki and Rogelio Martinez. Influenced by their love for spaces and places and the people helping shape them, Urban Beginnings explores urban planning topics and their impact on communities. By uncovering noteworthy people, places, and events, Urban Beginnings elevates projects, issues, and initiatives shaping the field. Through interviews with community members and planning enthusiasts, Urban Beginnings explores real issues and stories that are fun, engaging, personal, and organic.
Support the show: https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings (https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings)
Our Website: (https://urbanbeginningspodcast.com/)urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com)
Instagram: @urban.beginnings
Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning.
We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes.
Have an episode idea, tell us about it.
Email us at: urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
Ep. 11 - Digital Communications, Volunteering, the Power of Social Capital, and a Sneak Peak at an Upcoming Project with Tony Lopez
In this episode, we sit down with Tony Lopez, an environmental planner at AECOM, to discuss his diverse experience in environmental planning and the importance of collaboration in urban development. Tony shares insights on his APA Distinguished Contribution Award, his efforts in mentoring young planners, and the impact of social mixers and educational events. We also explore tactical urbanism, a sneak peak of the development of a public space audit tool, and his vision for UrbanStrat as a platform for knowledge-sharing in urban planning.
#socialcapital #podcast #cities #urbanplanning #publicspaces #tacticalurbanism #community #equitable
16 Dec 2024
Ep. 10 End Of The Year Recap! One Year Anniversary!
Urban Beginnings hosts discuss their first year anniversary and goals for next year, highlighting key takeaways on affordable housing, community development, and sustainable cities.
13 Nov 2024
Ep. 9 Social Determinants Of Health and Urban Planning with Eli Cruz Rodriguez
In this episode, we’re joined by Eli Cruz-Rodriguez to discuss the social determinants of health and how they relate to and intersect with urban planning. Eli shares insights from his work in nutrition and community health, exploring how urban environments can support—or hinder—well-being in underserved communities. #greengentrification #foodanxiety #foodelitism #UrbanPlanning #AffordableHousing #Redlinings #CommunityDevelopment #SustainableCities #Policy #LandUse #EquityInPlanning Support the show: https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings (https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings) Our Website: urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com) Instagram: @urban.beginnings Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning. We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes. Have an episode idea, tell us about it. Email us at: urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
31 Oct 2024
Ep. 8 Quick Chat on SB4 Affordable Housing on Faith Lands Act
In this episode, we briefly talk about SB 4, the Affordable Housing on Faith Lands Act, and discuss some of the challenges and opportunities it can create. #UrbanPlanning #AffordableHousing #FaithLands #CommunityDevelopment #SustainableCities #Policy #LandUse #EquityInPlanning Support the show: https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings (https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings) Our Website: urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com) Instagram: @urban.beginnings Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning. We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes. Have an episode idea, tell us about it. Email us at: urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
5 Oct 2024
Community Land Trusts: Affordable Housing for Everyone!
Affordable housing is a big issue today. With rising home prices and stagnant wages, many families are struggling to find homes they can afford. But there’s a solution! Community Land Trusts (CLTs) can help keep homes affordable for generations.CLTs are nonprofit groups that own land for the community’s benefit. This means the land is not for sale in the market, so it stays affordable. Homeowners lease the land and own their houses, allowing them to build equity without worrying about rising land costs. When they sell, homes are sold at below-market prices, making sure future buyers can afford them too!CLTs are run by a group of community members who make decisions together, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard. They can work with nonprofits to create various housing options to meet local needs. Together, we can build stronger communities where everyone has a place to live! 💪❤️ A model to help fight displacement and gentrification!#CommunityLandTrust (https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/communitylandtrust/) #AffordableHousing (https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/affordablehousing/) #HousingForAll (https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/housingforall/) #StrongerCommunities (https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/strongercommunities/) #HomeForEveryone (https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/homeforeveryone/) #urbanplanning (https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/urbanplanning/) #community (https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/community/)
25 Sept 2024
Ep. 7 We Are Back! Pedestrian Safety and LatinLabic
In this episode, we give an update on our podcast, we discuss Pedestrian Safety Month, and discuss LatinLabic
#PedestrianSafety #UrbanPlanning #ActiveParticipation #ActiveEngagement #EmbeddedPlanning #LatinoUrbanism #Community #SocialInnovation
Support the show: https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings (https://linktr.ee/UrbanBeginnings)
Our Website: (https://urbanbeginningspodcast.com/)urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com)
Instagram: @urban.beginnings
Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning.
We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes.
Have an episode idea, tell us about it.
Email us at: (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
21 Aug 2024
Ep. 6 Ep. 6 Active Community Participation and Engagement with Ortopedia Urbana
In this episode, we chat it up with Ortopedia Urbana a cultural collective based in Mexico that focuses on urban renewal and community engagement through innovative projects. Ortopedia Urbana is dedicated to revitalizing public spaces by encouraging local participation and collaboration among different community stakeholders, including government entities, academic institutions, and private sectors.
We discuss their field experiences and their latest initiative, Latin Labric. Latin Labric's first community intervention along with the Florence-Firestone Community Organization on September 14th in the Florence Firestone community in Los Angeles County, featuring workshops and creative activities that celebrate Latino traditions and foster community engagement. The event includes a Placeit workshop by James Rojas, decoration workshops, and a creative piñatas intervention, all aimed at mapping community leadership and encouraging active participation in urban planning.
Ortopedia Urbana's work emphasizes the importance of community input and participation in shaping urban environments, particularly in underrepresented and marginalized communities. By incorporating art, storytelling, and hands-on activities, they aim to make urban planning more accessible and inclusive, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment among residents.
#UrbanPlanning #ActiveParticipation #ActiveEngagement #EmbeddedPlanning #LatinoUrbanism #Community #Guadalajara #Tepatitlan #SocialInnovation
Support the show
Our Website: (https://urbanbeginningspodcast.com/)urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com)
Instagram: @urban.beginnings
Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning.
We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes.
Have an episode idea, tell us about it.
Email us at: urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
6 May 2024
Ep. 5 Active Transportation and Tactical Urbanism with Isaac Gonzalez
Tune in to Episode 5: "Active Transportation and Tactical Urbanism with Isaac Gonzalez." This episode delves into urban transportation, focusing on active transportation, tactical urbanism, and community initiatives. Explore the challenges and successes of infrastructure improvements, advocating for safer streets, and engaging with city policies. Discover the importance of community involvement, the impact of grassroots campaigns, and the potential for positive change through advocacy and collaboration. From bike lanes to public transportation, gain insights into urban development, safety improvements, and the power of community activism in shaping cities for the better. Join us for Isaac's invaluable insights and perspectives, debunking misconceptions and highlighting its prevalence in cities like Paris.
Support the show
Our Website: (https://urbanbeginningspodcast.com/)urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com)
Instagram: @urban.beginnings
Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning.
We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes.
Have an episode idea, tell us about it.
Email us at: urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
30 Apr 2024
Ep. 4 Pathways: From Private to Public Sector With Amy Nguyen
Join us as we launch our new series, Pathways, featuring Amy Nguyen, a private sector planner transitioning into the public sector. Amy shares insights into her career shift and her passion project, Elements of Sacramento. #community #urbanplanning #communityempowerment #communityimpact #pathways
16 Apr 2024
Ep 3. Let's Make Transportation Cool Again
Welcome to another Episode of Urban Beginnings, featuring our esteemed guest, Enoc Mendoza, Transportation Planner for Kern County in Central Valley California. Join us for Episode 3. Let's Make Transportation Cool Again as we explore some elements of the world of transportation planning and chat about our varied personal and professional experiences in the public transit space. This episode covers zero emission goals, transit service between and within rural communities, intercity and regional fixed routes, urban transit systems, equitable transit, micromobility, and much MORE!!
If you're eager to learn more about what it's like to be a transportation planner or are curious about what types of projects a transportation planner works on day-to-day, this episode is for you! Please have a listen and let us know what you think. We love hearing feedback from our community of planning enthusiasts!
And remember...keep doing the work, keep showing up, and keep being awesome! And as always, sending you good vibes.
**Just a heads up, we encountered some technical issues with our video file, so this week's content will be audio-only.**
Support the show
Our Website: (https://urbanbeginningspodcast.com/)urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com)
Instagram: @urban.beginnings
Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning.
We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes.
Have an episode idea, tell us about it.
Email us at: urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
27 Mar 2024
Ep 2. From Exhibit To Empowerment: A Journey Through City Oral History!
In this episode, we briefly touch on the backgrounds of Christopher Livingston, Director at the Historical Research Center (HCR) at California State University Bakersfield, and Donato Cruz, Research Analyst at the HRC and how their education and lived experiences have served as a foundation for the remarkable contributions to The exhibit, America's New Cities: Housing and 'Redlining' in California's Central Valley.
Livingston openly discusses his efforts in social justice and emphasizes the potential for rectifying social injustices through oral history practice and research. He highlights how communities of color have historically been marginalized or overlooked in traditional archives, leading to significant gaps in the historical record. Livingston underscores the importance of addressing these archival silences to ensure that the full histories of these communities are acknowledged and documented.
Influenced by historian Paige Glotzer, a researcher focusing on 19th and 20th-century housing segregation, Cruz identifies himself as an Urban Historian. He explores the evolution of cities over time and the role of racial segregation within urban development. Collaborating with Livingston on archival projects, Cruz developed his Master's thesis titled "America’s Newest City”: 1950s Bakersfield and the Making of the Modern Suburban Segregated Landscape". Together, they pursue their shared goal of researching their community.
13 Mar 2024
Ep 1. Community Food Systems and Participatory Planning with Ryan Thayer
In Episode 1, we dive deep into equitable food systems with Ryan Thayer, a passionate advocate from the Bay Area. With an MA in Urban Affairs and a BA in Urban Studies and Planning, Ryan's career is dedicated to empowering communities and bridging the gap at the local level.
🍏 Ryan believes in the transformative potential of community food systems to break down systemic barriers and foster thriving communities. His work is centered on linking health and wellness directly to sustainable land practices, aiming to deepen community relationships, promote ecological sustainability, and drive economic empowerment.
🌇 As a lead community organizer in San Francisco, his advocacy extends to policy, with appointments to the San Francisco Food Security Task Force and the Sugary Sweetened Beverages Tax Advisory Committee.
🌾 Currently serving as the Executive Director for Spaces of Opportunity in Arizona, Ryan continues his passionate journey towards inclusive economies, leadership development, and resilient community food systems.
🏹 Join us in this inspiring conversation with Ryan, where we explore his belief that “…our relationships with the earth and our food can be used as a lens for how we can build healthy communities and sustain sociopolitical equity”. 🌿🎙️ #EquitableFoodSystems #CommunityEmpowerment #PodcastPreview #UrbanPlanning #UrbanBeginnings #Community
Support the show
Our Website: (https://urbanbeginningspodcast.com/)urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com)
Instagram: @urban.beginnings
Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning.
We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes.
Have an episode idea, tell us about it.
Email us at: urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
15 Feb 2024
Ep. 0 Who Are We
We're thrilled to announce the early release of Episode 0 – our debut podcast titled "Who Are We?" Join us on February 15th for an early glimpse of our podcast, Urban Beginnings, as we introduce ourselves and let you know what's in store. Don't miss out!
Urban Beginnings is a podcast co-hosted by practicing planners Blair Czarecki and Rogelio Martinez. Influenced by their love for spaces and places and the people helping shape them, Urban Beginnings explores urban planning topics and their impact on communities. By uncovering noteworthy people, places, and events, Urban Beginnings elevates projects, issues, and initiatives shaping the field. Through interviews with community members and planning enthusiasts, Urban Beginnings explores real issues and stories that are fun, engaging, personal, and organic.
Support the show
Our Website: (https://urbanbeginningspodcast.com/)urbanbeginningspodcast.com (http://urbanbeginningspodcast.com)
Instagram: @urban.beginnings
Subscribe, like, tell people about us, and help us spread the word about Urban Planning.
We hope you are having a great day! And, like always, sending ya’ll good vibes.
Have an episode idea, tell us about it.
Email us at: urbanbeginnings@gmail.com (mailto:urbanbeginnings@gmail.com)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
612
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 23 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
6
Social presence
0
YouTube
66
Engagement
32
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