BROKEN OFFICE CHAIR 

Welcome to “Broken Office Chair,” the podcast where we dismantle the creaky structures of injustice and build a seat at the table for everyone. Join us as we explore the intricate web of social issues, unraveling the threads that bind us to outdated norms and challenging the status quo.

Hosted by a passionate advocate for change and Alternatives’ Executive Director, Bessie Alcantara, “Broken Office Chair” delves deep into the heart of social justice, aiming to amplify the voices often drowned out by the noise of inequality. Through insightful conversations and personal stories, we navigate the complexities of the modern world, shining a light on the broken systems that need fixing.

In each episode, we tackle a diverse range of topics, from racial injustice and gender inequality to the nonprofit industrial complex and the impacts of white supremacy. Our goal is not just to expose the fractures in society but to collaboratively explore solutions and inspire actionable change.

Why “Broken Office Chair”? It symbolizes the discomfort many endure within systems that are outdated, discriminatory, and in desperate need of repair. The squeaks and wobbles of a broken chair mirror the cries for justice in a society that often ignores or dismisses those who need their voices heard the most. It also represents the way our sector, the nonprofit sector, has a systemic scarcity mentality to the point where we keep our broken office chairs as a badge of honor for how little funds they spend.

As advocates for inclusivity, our podcast fosters a space where every listener can pull up a chair and engage in meaningful dialogue. “Broken Office Chair” is not just a podcast; it’s a call to action, a platform for change, and a community united in the pursuit of a fair and equitable world

LIKE WHAT YOU HEAR?

Season 3 Episodes:

Season 3, Episode 2: Rebekah Levin

In this episode, Bessie sits down with Dr. Rebekah Levin to discuss her experience as an American Jew advocating for Palestinian Liberation. Rebekah shares stories from her experiences in Palestine and her own path of deconstructing her beliefs and identity.

Season 3, Episode 1: Are you voting? Girl, I Guess. Featuring Stephanie Skora and Raeghn Draper 

In this episode, Bessie is joined by Stephanie Skora and Raeghn Draper to talk about the upcoming local elections in Chicago. They cover topics ranging from our right to vote or not vote as we see fit, voting based on personal values, single-issue voting, the importance of local elections, and so much more!

Stephanie Skora is a writer, educator, speaker, organizer, and non-profiteer based in Chicago, Illinois. She lives as a Stone Top hard femme trans Lesbian and working-class anti-Zionist Ashkenazi Jew, and mobilizes her identities to work in solidarity with Palestinians, to queer Jewish spaces, and to fight for justice and liberation for all trans people. Stephanie is the Co-Founder and Chief Development Officer of Brave Space Alliance, serves as Board Treasurer for the Midwest Institute for Sexuality and Gender Diversity, and is the author and editor of the “Girl, I Guess” Progressive Voter Guide. When not working or organizing, Stephanie can be found enjoying the pleasures of life for a Virgo: food, love, and being right.

Raeghn Draper is a Chicago storyteller, digital strategist, and organizer. They craft compelling copy that brings brands to life through powerful language. They are passionate about advocating for hospitality workers and challenging toxic cultures in the industry. With 12+ years of experience, they draw inspiration from diverse perspectives and utilize the world around them to bring dreams to life through words.

To check out the Girl I Guess voter guide, visit: www.stephanieskora.com/voter-guide

**Please Note: As a 501c3 organization, we do not endorse or support any political candidates or parties. The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Alternatives. We aim to provide a platform for diverse perspectives and encourage critical thinking and informed discourse.

Season 2, Episode 1: Jamyle Cannon (September 1st)

In this episode, Bessie sits down with Jamyle Cannon, Executive Director and Founder of The Bloc, to discuss walking in your values with conviction, the philanthropic landscape from a POC perspective, and what nonprofit heartbreak looks like for them. Jamyle is the 2009 National Collegiate Boxing Champion and a Teach for America Alumni member. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky and a Masters in Education from Arizona State University. In 2016, after building a popular boxing program in his classroom, Cannon combined his love for youth development, boxing, and education to form The Bloc.

He has been recognized as a CNN Hero, a 4-Star Chicagoan by Windy City Live, an Economic Game Changer by the New Covenant Community Development Corporation, profiled as one of the Hardest Working Voices in Sports by Chicago Sun-Times, awarded the Rich O’Leary Community Sports Award at Notre Dame University, and is generally considered by the fighters in The Bloc to be the baddest man alive. He has sincere plans to change the after-school landscape of Chicago’s West Side and provide community-building resources to his neighbors. **Please note** guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Bessie or Alternatives.

Season 2 Episode 2: Sufyan Sohel (September 5th)

In this episode Bessie chats with Sufyan Sohel, Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel at Resilience Force and Host of the show Change Agents. They discuss international politics, racism, immigration, and how their personal experiences shape their views on the topics.

Sufyan is a civil rights lawyer, mediator, and facilitator who has dedicated his career to strengthen community organizations and to be an advocate for our most vulnerable. Sufyan currently serves as Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel at Resilience Force, a nonprofit that advocates for the rights of the workforce that rebuilds our communities after climate disasters. Sufyan is also Chair of the Cook County Human Rights Commissioner, the co-chair of the DePaul Law Diversity Council, and on the board of directors for the Chicago Access Network Television (CAN-TV), and the ACLU of Illinois, where he serves as the organization’s Affiliate Equity Officer. Sufyan also hosts a weekly cable talk show, Change Agents, where he spotlights critical issues impacting Chicagoans, and amplifies the voices and efforts of leaders and organizations working to create positive change in Chicago’s communities. **Please note** guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Bessie or Alternatives.

Season 2 Episode 3: ángela munguía (September 8th)

In this episode, Bessie sits down with ángela munguía, Executive Director at AMPT, to discuss everything from privilege and power in leadership to the importance of capacity building, managing organizational growth, and more.

ángela has a passion for social justice, racial equity and community development – specifically, for Black and Brown communities. She was chief dream director for The Future Project, where she handled organizational and fundraising strategies, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and staff development. Currently, munguía is a board member of the Chicago Freedom School where she sustains systems and structures to strengthen organizational capacity. Her prior experience includes tenures with City Year Chicago and Mikva Challenge, and assignments that include policy development focused on educational equity for historically marginalized identities within the Chicago Public Schools, cultural competency training, policies and program design, and youth and adult training programs.

Season 2 Episode 4: Tim Jones (September 12th)

In this episode, Bessie sits down with TIm Jones to discuss finding purpose, motivations to work in the nonprofit sector, faith driven work, and much more.

Tim Jones is a thought leader, communicator, and author. Mr. Jones has found success in providing a context, different from the expectation. He provides influence and perspective on leadership, motivation & inspiration. He currently keynotes, hosts, and facilitates discussions throughout the city of Chicago and the nation. Born into a heritage of community leaders on the south side of Chicago, Tim also provides leadership addressing the social issues plaguing the city of Chicago and Urban America in the areas of Economic Development, Public Safety/Violence, & Education Equality.

He holds a Master of Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resource Management from Northern Illinois University. He specializes in challenging and persuading audiences, to live by the mantra he created and lives by: “Leave No Potential On The Table”.

He is the author of Leave No Potential On The Table: Your Best Contribution to the World; a book to help individuals navigate and narrate their journey to their goals and dreams. 

Season 2 Episode 5: Xavier Ramey (pt. 1) 

In this episode, Bessie sits down with Xavier Ramey, CEO of Justice Informed, to discuss DEI backlash, hypercapitalism, anti-racism, pay equity, and so much more.

Xavier Ramey is the Founder and CEO of Justice Informed, a Chicago-based consultancy. He collaborates with a wide range of organizations, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and institutions. Xavier’s expertise lies in shaping inclusive workplaces, improving services, and addressing legal and reputational challenges. Notable clients include Ingredion, Emerson, Northwestern University, and more.

Xavier is a global keynote speaker, activist, and sought-after lecturer on racial justice and social impact. He hails from Chicago’s west side and has held leadership roles at the University of Chicago, United Way, and other organizations. He’s also a founding member of The #LetUsBreathe Collective and serves on various boards.

Season 2 Episode 6: Xavier Ramey (pt. 2) 

In this episode, Bessie sits down with Xavier Ramey, CEO of Justice Informed, to discuss, his experience of leadership in the social impact sector as a Black man.

Xavier Ramey is the Founder and CEO of Justice Informed, a Chicago-based consultancy. He collaborates with a wide range of organizations, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and institutions. Xavier’s expertise lies in shaping inclusive workplaces, improving services, and addressing legal and reputational challenges. Notable clients include Ingredion, Emerson, Northwestern University, and more.

Xavier is a global keynote speaker, activist, and sought-after lecturer on racial justice and social impact. He hails from Chicago’s west side and has held leadership roles at the University of Chicago, United Way, and other organizations. He’s also a founding member of The #LetUsBreathe Collective and serves on various boards.

Season 2 Episode 7: Dr. Cynthia Treadwell

Bessie sits down with Dr. Cynthia Treadwell, Executive Director of Social Emotional Learning at Chicago Public Schools to discuss Chicago Public Schools, social and emotional learning, suspension rates, student-centered classrooms, and how to create positive change in CPS.

Dr. Cynthia Treadwell, currently serving as the Executive Director for the Office of Social and Emotional Learning, brings 22 years of experience in Chicago Public Schools, including roles as a Principal, Assistant Principal, District Reading Coordinator, classroom teacher, and Adjunct Instructor at Chicago State University and DePaul University. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from National Louis University and is the author of “30 Days of Encouragement for the Educator.” Dr. Treadwell is dedicated to promoting education’s transformative power and aims to create engaging, socially and emotionally supportive school communities.

Season 2 Episode 8: analía rodríguez

In this episode of Broken Office Chair, Bessie is joined by analía rodríguez to discuss the future of philanthropy, and what transitioning from Executive Director at a nonprofit to Philanthropic Program Officer looked like.

analía rodríguez (they/them/elle) is a longtime community organizer and immediate former executive director of the Latino Union of Chicago, a grassroots community organization that fights wage theft and advocates for improved temporary worker conditions.

analía lives in Little Village. In their role as Leadership Investment Program Officer at Field, rodríguez (who does not capitalize their name) is primarily responsible for managing Field’s signature Leaders for a New Chicago program, an innovative partnership between the Field and MacArthur Foundations, which recognizes past accomplishments and promotes leaders and their organizations, and whose influence informs decision-making in Chicago.

Please note guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Bessie or Alternatives

Season 2 Episode 9: Vu Le

In this episode of Broken Office Chair, Bessie sits down with Vu Le, writer of the blog NonprofitAF.com to talk about funding ethics, progressive vs conservative funders, zodic signs in nonprofit leadership, advocacy, and much more.

Vu Le (“voo lay”) writes the blog NonprofitAF.com. He is the former executive director of RVC, a nonprofit in Seattle that promotes social justice by supporting leaders of color, strengthening organizations led by communities of color, and fostering collaboration between diverse communities. Vu is a founding board member of Community-Centric Fundraising, a movement that aims to ground fundraising practices in racial equity and social justice. Vu was born in Vietnam. He and his family came to the US when Vu was eight. He spent several years in Seattle, attending elementary and middle school, before moving to Memphis, Tennessee for high school and St. Louis for college and graduate school. He has a BA in Psychology and a Master in Social work. He is a vegan, a father of two kids (ages eight and five), and a staunch defender of the Oxford Comma.

Season 2 Episode 10: Cocktails and Complicity

This special episode of Broken Office Chair was recorded in front of a live audience at Alternatives’ Cocktails and Complicity event.

In this episode, host Besie Alcantara is joined by Leslé Honoré and Ayoka Samuels to discuss everything from racist standards of professionalism to unfair expectations placed upon women of color in leadership.

Season 1 Episodes:

Episode 1: Ayoka Samuels (April 14th)

What it Means to be a Woman of Color in Leadership

In this episode, our host Bessie Alcantara sits down with Ayoka Knoell Mota Samuels to discuss their journeys of rising the ranks in nonprofits and the challenges that they faced as women of color in nonprofit leadership.

Episode 2: Ayoka Samuels (April 21st)

What it Means to be a Woman of Color in Leadership (pt. 2)

In this episode, our host, Bessie Alcantara, and Ayoka Knoell Mota Samuels continue their conversation about being women of color in nonprofit leadership. They discuss what it looks like to do work through an equitable lens and what it’s like to be role models for other women of color working in the nonprofit sector.

Episode 3: Hilesh Patel (April 28th)

What’s the Problem With Philanthropy?

In this episode, Hilesh Patel sits down with host Bessie Alcantara to discuss the Philanthropy sector, the nonprofit industrial complex, organizational DEI work, and creating a more equitable work culture

Episode 4: Leslé Honoré (May 5th)

The Cost of Being Poor

In this episode of Broken Office Chair, Bessie Alcantara and Leslé Honoré chat about the cost of being poor, how their lived experiences influence their careers, and how society dehumanizes people facing poverty.

*Disclaimer: In this episode, Bessie and Leslé chat about their experiences facing poverty and how those experiences shaped their perceptions of what it’s like to fall below the poverty line. Since the recording of the podcast, we have learned that the use of the word “poor” further marginalizes and places blame on individuals. At Alternatives, we recognize poverty as a systemic issue and not the fault of any individual and want this opportunity to reflect our learning and how we are consistently working to be better.

Episode 5: Diana Castaneda (May 12th)

Anti-Blackness in the Latinx Community

In this episode of Broken Office Chair, Bessie Alcantara and Diana Castaneda share their experiences with anti-Blackness in the Latinx community. They cover everything from why they choose to say Latinx instead of Hispanic to their understanding and solutions to anti-Blackness in the latinx community.

Episode 6: Ozzie Godinez (May 19th)

Multicultural Marketing and Empowering Other People of Color in the Workforce

In this episode, our guest Ozzie Godinez and host, Bessie Alcantara, discuss performative activism in marketing, what genuine DEI looks like, how social change shifts marketing strategies, and much more.

SEASON 2 CREDITS:

Bessie Alcantara- Host

Catherine Best- Producer, Editor

Deanna Phillips – Producer, Intro/Outro voice

Miguel Rodriguez- Artwork

Undfindbeats- Musician

INTERESTED IN BEING A GUEST?

One of the purposes of Broken Office Chair is to amplify the voices of folx of color in our community. If you are interested in joining the conversation, please fill out the form below to be considered.