Hosted by Cinnamon Alvarez, co-founder of World Changemaker, alongside her co-founders Desiree Musselman and Darlene Hawley, the World Changemaker Podcast offers engaging conversations, stories, insights, and journeys of remarkable changemakers who are driving impactful change in their communities and the world. From entrepreneurs to visionaries, each episode showcases their vision to create a meaningful difference. Join us and be inspired to create your own impact. Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you listen to podcasts to stay connected with the World Changemaker movement.
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33 recent
July 20, 202623 min
Jackie Roby: When Success Keeps You in Survival Mode
Success isn’t always a sign that you’re thriving. Sometimes it’s a sign that you’ve become really good at surviving. In this episode, Cinnamon sits down with executive leadership advisor Jackie Roby to unpack the hidden cost of high performance. Together they explore why so many accomplished professionals—especially those who have built careers by over-delivering, overworking, and people-pleasing—find themselves stuck in burnout, self-silencing, and survival mode. Jackie shares why organizations often reward behaviors that eventually lead to exhaustion, how our nervous system influences leadership, and why sustainable success requires more than simply working harder. In this conversation you’ll discover: - Why high performers often become trapped in survival mode - The hidden cost of people-pleasing and self-silencing at work - How organizations unintentionally reward burnout behaviors - Why your nervous system may be driving your leadership decisions - How leaders can create healthier, people-first workplaces If you’ve ever felt successful on paper but exhausted behind the scenes, this episode is for you. Connect with Jackie Roby Website: inspiredjourneyconsulting.com Email: jackie@inspiredjourneyconsulting.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jackie-roby Sign up for the "Palatable, Profitable, & Dying Inside" book updates: https://links.actionincubator.com/widget/form/iFf8KRamPObxVfH9geBE A powerful look at the hidden cost of becoming “acceptable” at work, and why so many high performers shrink themselves to stay safe—until their mind and body can no longer sustain it.
June 24, 202631 min
Better Than SMART Goals—From Big Ideas to Books That Matter with Debra Eckerling
What if the thing you’ve been putting off is actually the thing you’re meant to do? In this episode of the World Changemaker Podcast, Cinnamon sits down with author, speaker, book proposal expert, and creator of The DEB Method, Debra Eckerling , for an insightful conversation about goal setting, overcoming overwhelm, building confidence, and turning big ideas into books that matter. Debra shares her journey from writer and community builder to becoming one of the few specialists focused exclusively on helping thought leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, and experts create compelling book proposals that attract agents and publishers. Together, they explore why traditional SMART goals often fall short, how to create goals that align with your purpose, and what it really takes to move from inspiration to action. You’ll learn: • Why knowing your mission matters more than setting SMART goals • The DEB Method: Determine Your Mission, Explore Your Options, Brainstorm Your Path • How to overcome the “Who am I to do this?” mindset • Why most aspiring authors start in the wrong place • The difference between self-publishing, hybrid publishing, and traditional publishing • What makes a winning book proposal • How to identify the audience for your message and your book • Practical strategies for staying motivated when goals feel overwhelming • Debra’s powerful “Three Wins” practice for building momentum and confidence Whether you’re considering writing a book, launching a business, making a career pivot, or pursuing a goal you’ve been postponing, this conversation will help you move from intention to action. Services: • Book proposal consulting and coaching • Workshops on book proposals, networking, and goal-setting • Speaking engagements on publishing, productivity, networking, and achieving meaningful goals Learn More: • The DEB Method: TheDEBMethod.com • Book Proposal Resources: TheBookProposalExpert.com • Email: deb@thedebmethod.com • Follow: @TheDEBMethod on social media • Listen: Book Proposal Podcast If you’ve ever thought, “I should write a book someday,” this episode is your sign to stop waiting and start creating. Follow, subscribe and stay connected with us on our website , Instagram and Facebook for updates and future episodes.
June 2, 202635 min
Steve Henderson: Beyond Zero—When Work Is a Matter of Life and Death
In this episode of the World Changemaker Podcast, I sit down with civil engineer Steve Henderson — a leader in an industry where mistakes aren’t just inconvenient, they can be life or death. Steve shares what it means to operate under a “Beyond Zero” standard — a commitment that no one should ever be injured or die just for coming to work. We explore leadership accountability, building a culture of safety, and why setting nearly impossible goals can transform how teams operate. But this conversation goes deeper. We talk about why work is more than a paycheck, how business is fundamentally about service, and what happens when we disconnect from the impact our daily efforts have on real human lives. Whether you design infrastructure or manage a small team, this episode will challenge you to ask: Who is affected by what I do? And am I showing up fully in that responsibility? Guest Information & Resources Email: stevehenderson976@gmail.com Follow, subscribe and stay connected with us on our website , Instagram and Facebook for updates and future episodes.
May 7, 202630 min
Monica Robles: Empowering Entrepreneurs to Build Income and Impact
Cinnamon sits down with Monica Robles , founder and president of Asociación de Emprendedor@s, an organization created by Hispanics for Hispanics to educate, motivate, and empower entrepreneurs, especially within the monolingual Spanish-speaking community. Monica shares how her work is helping individuals build more than income. She is helping people build confidence, leadership, opportunity, and generational impact so families can thrive and communities can grow stronger. Together, we discuss: ✨ Entrepreneurship as a path to dignity and empowerment ✨ Navigating barriers with limited resources and support ✨ Balancing profit and purpose without losing either ✨ The transition from doing everything alone to building a sustainable team ✨ Why representation, access, and community matter in business growth This episode is a reminder that entrepreneurship is not only about making money. It is about creating options, changing lives, and building something bigger than yourself. If you have ever questioned whether you can create income and meaningful impact at the same time, this conversation will encourage you to think bigger. 🎧 Listen now and share this episode with an entrepreneur, leader, or dreamer who needs the reminder that their vision matters. To never miss an episode, make sure to follow and subscribe to the World Changemaker Podcast. For additional information, visit our website and stay updated on our Instagram and Facebook pages.
April 23, 202628 min
Ashley Glenn Nance: On a Mission To Make More Happy Homes
What does it really mean to change the world? In this episode, we sit down with Ashley Glenn Nance —speaker, educator, and advocate—to explore how meaningful impact often begins much closer to home than we think. Grounded in her lived experience and work in communication and neurodiversity, Ashley shares how the way we listen, respond, and show up for others can reshape relationships in powerful ways. Through honest reflection on family, parenting, and human connection, this conversation unpacks what it looks like to support different ways of communicating, how our early experiences shape our worldview, and why the smallest everyday moments carry the greatest potential for change. This is a thoughtful reminder that transforming your perspective—and your presence—is already a step toward changing the world. Guest Information & Resources Ashley Glenn NanceReVoice, LLC Website: revoicecommunication.com Email: Ashley@ReVoiceCommunications.com Phone: (517) 798-1960 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ashleynance Follow, subscribe and stay connected with us on our website , Instagram and Facebook for updates and future episodes.
March 20, 202629 min
Service, Systems & Continuous Improvement with Dennis Sonney
In this episode, we sit down with Dennis Sonney , a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and longtime advocate for American manufacturing. With a background spanning organizational leadership, supply chain management, robotics, automation, and advanced technology systems, Dennis has spent more than two decades helping manufacturers strengthen their operations and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving global market. Through a nonprofit supported by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Dennis has worked with more than 1,500 manufacturers across California , guiding companies through modernization, process improvement, and operational strategy. Known as a trusted advisor in the manufacturing community, he brings a practical and collaborative approach to helping organizations build stronger systems and embrace continuous improvement. Beyond industry, Dennis is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of innovators and makers . He serves on the boards of two STEM-focused nonprofit organizations that spark curiosity and hands-on learning for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. His work bridges industry, education, and workforce development to ensure that future generations are prepared to carry forward the legacy of American manufacturing. In this conversation, we explore: • The role of service and leadership in manufacturing • How systems thinking strengthens organizations • Practical insights into continuous improvement and Lean thinking • The importance of supporting workforce development and STEM education • Why collaboration between industry, education, and community matters more than ever Dennis also shares valuable resources for manufacturers, educators, and leaders who want to strengthen their organizations and support future innovators. Resources & Organizations Mentioned Science & Technology Education Partnership (STEP STEM) Inspiring students and educators in the Inland Empire toward STEM careers. Website: step-stem.org Conference: stepconference.org Address: P.O. Box 21100, Riverside, CA 92516 Phone: (714) 925-9062 Garner Holt Foundation Inspiring youth to explore robotics, animatronics, and STEAM careers. Website: garnerholtfoundation.org Address: 1255 Research Drive, Redlands, CA 92374 Phone: (909) 799-3030 Email: info@garnerholtfoundation.org Phenix Fire Helmets / Phenix Technology, Inc. Manufacturer of firefighting helmets led by President & CEO Angel Sanchez, Jr. Website: phenixfirehelmets.com Address: 3453 Durahart Street, Riverside, CA 92507 Phone: (951) 272-4938 Email: contactus@phenixfirehelmets.com California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) Statewide workforce development system supporting 45 local workforce boards. Website: cwdb.ca.gov Address: 800 Capitol Mall, Suite 1022, Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (916) 657-1440 National Manufacturing Day / Creators Wanted An annual event held on the first Friday in October where manufacturers open their doors to the community. Website: mfgday.com National Veterans Chamber of Commerce (NVCC) Supporting veteran-owned businesses, workforce development, and families. Website: vccsd.org Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GoBiz) California’s business support office providing assistance with permits, incentives, and economic programs. Website: business.ca.gov Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce Regional chamber serving all 52 cities in the Inland Empire. Website: iechamber.org Continuous Improvement Resources • Free 5S / 6S Checklists and Audit Forms (search online for printable templates) • Value Stream Mapping guides available through Lean.org • Free Lean templates such as “5S template” or “value stream map PDF” • Webinars and educational resources from the Lean Enterprise Institute and ASQ
February 19, 2026Episode 2525 min
Full Circle Leadership: A Life of Purpose, Service, and Impact
In this inspiring conversation, we sit down with Mauricio Arellano , Superintendent of the San Bernardino City Unified School District, to explore leadership, purpose, and the power of community-rooted service. Mauricio shares his full-circle journey — from growing up in San Bernardino as the son of immigrant parents, to starting his career as a bilingual teacher, to now leading the very district that shaped his life. Appointed Superintendent in April 2023, his role is more than a title — it’s a homecoming and a mission. We talk about equity in education, rebuilding communities through strong school systems, creating cultures of belonging, and leading with humanity. From his vision for student success to his philosophy of seeing, hearing, valuing, and loving people (Sawubona), this episode is a powerful reminder that real leadership is rooted in connection, service, and purpose. ✨ A conversation about vision, impact, and building a future where every student and every community can thrive. To never miss an episode, make sure to follow and subscribe to the World Changemaker Podcast. For additional information, visit our website and stay updated on our Instagram and Facebook pages.
December 15, 202530 min
From Surviving Work to Thriving Together: Inside-Out Hospitality at Work
What if we treated the inside of our organizations with the same care we give our best customers? In this conversation, Melissa Fackler of One Team Partners shares how an inside-out hospitality mindset creates cultures of trust, belonging, and aligned teams. We talk about culture by design (not default), why “when people thrive, so do the businesses that we work with,” and how a hospitable workplace can be the difference between surviving and truly thriving. Tune in to learn how a hospitality mindset can help your people feel seen, supported, and ready to do their best work from day one. Follow, subscribe and stay connected with us on our website , Instagram and Facebook for updates and future episodes.
October 31, 2025Episode 2429 min
Ashley Nance: Connecting with Our Children Beyond Words
What does it mean to raise children—neurodivergent or not—who feel truly seen, heard, and happy? In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Ashley Nance , autism education teacher, communication strategist, and founder of ReVoice , a consultancy helping autistic professionals, founders, and parents communicate with confidence and compassion. Drawing from her experience teaching in China and Taiwan and working closely with non-speaking individuals, Ashley offers practical, compassionate tools that help parents connect beyond words. As a mother of five, Ashley brings warmth, honesty, and hard-earned wisdom to the conversation—exploring how curiosity, empathy, and presence can transform everyday interactions. Ashley’s approach will help you create a happy home where communication fosters confidence, understanding, and joy. Tune in to learn how to speak so your children feel heard—and listen so they feel loved. To never miss an episode, make sure to follow and subscribe to the World Changemaker Podcast. For additional information, visit our website and stay updated on our Instagram and Facebook pages.
October 24, 2025Episode 2327 min
David Mix: Understanding Bias and Belonging
How do we move from awareness of bias to building true belonging? In this episode, we sit down with David Mix , Director of Development at Anthesis , a lifelong advocate, educator, and community builder whose journey from the Inland Empire to Indigenous communities across the U.S. reveals the power of empathy, equity, and action. David’s work spans housing justice, cultural preservation, and urban sustainability—each rooted in the belief that every person deserves to be seen, valued, and included. From his early days organizing for the unhoused to his years learning from Native elders and leading sustainability initiatives on Lakota/Dakota/Nakota treaty land, David’s life is a testament to what it means to serve across difference. He brings deep insight into how personal transformation and cultural understanding can shape collective change. Tune in for a conversation that challenges assumptions, invites reflection, and explores how we can create communities grounded not just in fairness but in true belonging. To never miss an episode, make sure to follow and subscribe to the World Changemaker Podcast. For additional information, visit our website and stay updated on our Instagram and Facebook pages.
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